Swan Pool

Swan Pool sits on the outskirts of Kidderminster, a modest stretch of water that's genuinely worth a morning visit if you're camping or caravanning nearby. It's the sort of place where you'll actually see swans - hence the name - alongside the usual ducks and coots, and on a decent day the water reflects the sky properly rather than looking murky.

The walk around it takes about thirty minutes at a normal pace, which means it's long enough to feel like you've done something but short enough that restless children won't start complaining halfway round. There's a reasonable path, mostly level, and benches dotted along the way if you want to sit and watch the birds. Bring bread and you'll keep the kids entertained for ages, though technically you probably shouldn't feed them - doesn't stop anyone though.

If you're staying at Wolverley Camping and Caravanning Club Site just up the road (2.8 miles), this makes a natural morning outing before the day heats up. Pinewood Retreat and Blackstone Meadow are bit further out but still worth considering this as part of a wider Worcestershire itinerary. It's free, obviously, and there's a small car park that rarely gets rammed.

Don't expect drama or Instagram moments. Swan Pool is genuinely local, a bit tired round the edges perhaps, but the sort of place that works best on a quiet weekday when you've got the place almost to yourself. It's proper Midlands - unpretentious and honest.