Thurlows Lake

The water at Thurlow's Lake sits perfectly still on a grey morning, mirror-flat and oddly peaceful for somewhere so close to Rickmansworth. It's a proper working gravel pit turned leisure spot - the kind of place locals have known about for years while visitors drive straight past on the way to somewhere they think is more important.

You can fish here if that's your thing, and it draws a steady crowd of anglers who clearly know what they're doing. The walk around the perimeter takes about forty minutes at a leisurely pace, with rough paths that are fine in dry weather but can get boggy after rain. The bird life is decent - herons work the shallows, and in winter you'll spot visiting waterfowl.

It's not a destination that'll keep you occupied for a full day, but it works brilliantly as a stop during a park-based holiday. Highclere Caravan and Camping Park sits just six miles away, making this an easy morning outing or an evening walk before dinner. The lake has a working, unpretentious feel - no gift shops, no staged photo spots, just water and birds and the occasional fisherman's float breaking the surface.

Take it or leave it depending on what you need. For walkers wanting something gentle and undemanding, it delivers. For families hoping the kids will be entertained, you'll likely manage twenty minutes before someone asks if they can go back to the caravan. Go early in the day if you want any solitude.