Swan Down Lake

The water here is properly clear on a decent day, and the whole thing feels remarkably tranquil given that Crewkerne sits just a few miles away. Swan Down Lake is a straightforward spot - a natural freshwater lake where you can walk the perimeter, bring binoculars if you're into birdwatching, or just sit and watch the reflections shift across the water as the light changes through the afternoon.

It's the kind of place that works best if you're not expecting drama. No fairground rides, no visitor centre, just a lake and the Somerset countryside rolling around it. Families with young kids will get an hour, maybe two if you're lucky and there's a picnic involved. Walkers and bird enthusiasts will find it more rewarding - the paths are manageable and there's genuine peace here, which is rare enough these days.

If you're based at Wytch Wood Camping nearby, it's absolutely worth the short drive as a half-day outing. The water's good for spotting wildfowl, and the banks aren't so crowded that you'll feel hemmed in. Bring a decent pair of walking shoes because the ground can be boggy after rain. There's no café or facilities that I'm aware of, so plan accordingly. It's free to visit, which tips the scales in its favour - you're not paying premium prices for what is essentially a very nice country walk with water views. Go on a weekday if you can. Weekends bring the usual crowd.