Virginia Water Café

The lake at Virginia Water is a proper stunner - all 200 acres of it, with ancient oaks and conifers pressing right up to the shoreline. You're looking at a man-made reservoir that's been here since the 18th century, and it's developed into one of the more tranquil corners of Bracknell Forest. The walk around it takes about an hour at a leisurely pace, though you can duck out early if the mood takes.

It works best for walkers and anyone who just wants peace and quiet with a bit of water to look at. Families with younger kids might find it less engaging than somewhere with more features - there's no playground or visible wildlife theatre, just you, the path, and the occasional angler. That said, the flat terrain means pushchairs are fine, and it's genuinely lovely for a ramble.

Admission is free, which helps. The nearest town is Chertsey, a few miles north, and if you're based at one of the caravan parks in the area - Chertsey Caravan Park is closest at 2.9 miles, or Chertsey Camping and Caravanning Club Site at 4.6 miles - this makes for an easy morning or afternoon outing without needing the car. Best visited early morning or late afternoon when the light's good and you've got the place more or less to yourself. Winter's actually rather nice here when there's less foot traffic.