the Pond

The Pond sits right on Wigton's doorstep - a straightforward body of water that does exactly what it says on the tin. It's the kind of place locals walk past without a second thought, but for families with young children or anyone after a gentle half-hour stroll, it works. The water itself isn't dramatic. There's no Alpine backdrop or tourist infrastructure, just open ground around the edges where you can watch ducks and the odd fisherman casting a line.

You'll want to come here if you're based at Caldbeck Camping - literally three tenths of a mile away - or one of the other parks scattered around the Wigton area. It's a break between pitches, not a destination in itself. The walk takes twenty minutes maximum, which makes it useful when cabin fever hits on a rainy Cumbrian afternoon. Kids will entertain themselves with sticks and stones for a bit. Adults might find it peaceful, or might think it's too basic and drive on to somewhere with proper facilities.

There's no visitor centre, no café, no admission charge that I'm aware of. Just bring yourself and a pair of wellies if the ground's been wet. The real appeal is proximity to Caldbeck Camping and the other holiday parks - you're not coming to Wigton specifically for a pond. But if you're already staying nearby, it's worth the walk. Spring and early summer are prettiest, when the banks aren't waterlogged.