Walton Dam

The water at Walton Dam catches the light in a way that makes you forget you're only a few miles from Chesterfield. It's a proper working reservoir rather than some manicured attraction, which means it has actual character - the kind of place where you can watch the light change across the water without crowds getting in the way.

There's a decent walking circuit around the perimeter if you fancy stretching your legs, and the banks are manageable for families without being boring. Anglers know this spot well, so you'll often see a few fishing rods set up along the edges. The views across the water toward the surrounding countryside are solid - nothing dramatic, but genuinely pleasant on a decent day.

It's the sort of place that works brilliantly if you're staying at Spire View Yurts or Poolsbrook Country Park Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite nearby. Rather than dragging the kids to yet another ticketed attraction, you can pop over for an hour's walk, let them burn off energy by the water's edge, and actually relax. Pack a flask and settle in for a bit.

There's no admission charge - it's free to visit - and you can spend as little or as long as you fancy here. Go midweek if you can; weekends bring out the car park crowd, and that's when the charm gets a bit squeezed.