The Mere

The Mere is a proper Norfolk lake, the kind of place that rewards you for bothering to find it. East of Eye, it's ringed by footpaths that let you walk the perimeter without needing a boat or any special permission - though do check locally for access details, as these things shift. The water itself is darkly reflective on grey days, livelier on bright ones, and it's genuinely good for spotting waterfowl. Bring binoculars and you'll see grebes, teal, the occasional heron doing that patient hunter thing. In late spring and early autumn the bird activity ramps up during migration.

It's a walker's stop rather than a destination in itself. Allow an hour for the circuit, two if you're dawdling with a camera or waiting for kingfishers that may or may not appear. Families with younger kids might find the novelty wears thin after forty minutes - there's not much to do beyond walk and watch. But if you're the sort who enjoys a quiet loop around water with decent Norfolk countryside views, it's absolutely worth the drive from Eye.

The Mere slots well into a broader park holiday in the area. Hill Farm Suffolk and Applewood Countryside Holidays both sit within reasonable striking distance, and this kind of walk fills a morning nicely before heading back to the caravan or lodge for lunch. It's free, open year-round, and never rammed. Go early on a weekend if you want solitude. The surrounding lanes are lovely for cycling too if your accommodation offers bikes.