Walves Reservoir

The water sits there, proper still on most days, ringed by moorland that rolls back toward Bury and the industrial grit of Lancashire beyond. Walves Reservoir is the kind of place locals know but tourists miss - a genuine working water supply rather than a landscaped attraction, which is precisely what makes it worth a detour.

You can walk the perimeter path, which takes the best part of an hour depending on pace and how often you stop to watch for waterfowl. The eastern bank is the quieter side, with decent views across the water toward higher ground. It's proper reservoir walking - functional rather than showy, but that's the appeal. The surrounding moorland gets exposed when wind picks up, so go on a calm day if you want to linger.

Family groups with reasonably capable walkers will get the most from this. It's not a destination that'll grip a five-year-old for the afternoon, but school-age kids who can manage an hour or so on their feet will find it peaceful. Birdwatchers should come equipped with binoculars - herons and ducks are regular.

If you're staying at Dearden Wood, just 4.5 miles away, this works as a morning walk before heading elsewhere. It's free and open to the public, though there's nowhere to buy refreshments on site, so take a flask. Don't expect manicured paths or visitor facilities - it's a reservoir, not a country park. That's the honest charm of it.