Upper Lake

Water stretches out calm and flat, edged with trees that lean right down to the bank - Upper Lake is one of those proper Nottinghamshire spots that locals know better than visitors ever do. It's a reservoir, essentially, but calling it that undersells what's actually here: a substantial body of water with walking routes threading round the perimeter, good for a gentle hour or so if you're staying at one of the nearby parks like Fairview Farm Log Cabins or Silverhill Woodland Retreats.

The walk itself is straightforward and dead flat, which matters if you've got younger kids or anyone who finds hills a drag. You'll spot waterfowl - the usual mallards and coots, but occasionally something more interesting if you're quiet about it. The banks aren't dramatic, no steep drops or dramatic vistas, but there's something quite meditative about being out here. On a grey Midlands afternoon with nobody much about, it feels properly peaceful.

It works best as part of a wider day out rather than a destination in itself. You're only twenty minutes or so from Nottingham town centre, so this slots nicely into a park holiday where you want a morning walk without mucking about. Bring binoculars if you're into birds; bring a camera if light's good. Come early or late in the day when it's quieter - midday can get a bit busy with dog walkers and joggers.

Free access, no facilities to speak of that I could find, but honest work for a restless afternoon.