Unity Lake

Unity Lake sits just outside Witney, a proper slice of Oxfordshire countryside that catches most visitors by surprise. It's a peaceful stretch of water lined with mature trees, the sort of place where you can actually hear yourself think - a rarity these days. The lake itself is popular with anglers, and on a calm morning you'll see them dotted along the banks, but it's equally good for a straightforward walk or a spot of birdwatching if that's your thing.

Families tend to do well here, though there's not much in the way of facilities, so pack a picnic if you're planning to stay longer than an hour. The paths around the water are well-trodden and manageable for pushchairs, though muddy patches appear after rain. It's the kind of place that works brilliantly as a morning stop between Hardwick Parks and Lincoln Farm Park Partnership - both within walking distance - rather than a destination in itself.

The real appeal is the quiet. You won't find crowds or noise, just trees, water, and the occasional heron. If you're after drama or heritage, look elsewhere. But if your holiday involves a caravan or tent at one of the nearby parks and you want somewhere to stretch your legs without driving anywhere, Unity Lake does the job without fuss. Worth 45 minutes of your time, no more.