The Rush Pool - Watermeadows

Wild geese circle overhead as you walk the gravel paths around this shallow lake tucked into the Lincolnshire countryside. The Rush Pool sits quietly among the watermeadows, a proper peaceful spot that feels miles from the seaside bustle of Skegness just down the road.

Birdwatchers will have a field day here. I counted at least six species during my morning visit - mallards paddling about, a heron standing motionless by the reeds, and plenty of smaller birds flitting through the surrounding grassland. The water's edge gets muddy after rain, so decent boots are a must.

Families with young children might find it a bit limited - there's lovely countryside walking but not much else to keep restless kids occupied for long. Give it an hour, maybe two if you're really into the wildlife. Dog walkers seem to love the place, and it's free to wander around.

Location-wise, you're well placed for the Skegness holiday parks. Butlins is only twenty minutes away, while Haven Skegness Holiday Park and the various smaller sites like Creekside Family Camping make this an easy detour. It's the sort of place that works best as a morning escape when you fancy something different from the beach.