Watergrove Reservoir

The water sits there, proper still on a calm day, surrounded by moorland that rolls away toward the Pennines. Watergrove Reservoir is a working water supply for the area, but that hasn't stopped it becoming a genuine draw for walkers and anyone after a bit of peace near Rossendale.

There's a decent circuit walk around the perimeter - takes you the best part of two hours depending on fitness and how often you stop to look at the views. The path is well-maintained, mostly flat, though it gets a bit boggy in places after rain. You'll see plenty of birdlife, especially if you time it right for migratory seasons. Dragonflies skim the surface in summer. It's not dramatic landscape - this is moorland, not mountains - but there's something rather settling about it.

Families with older kids will get on fine with it. Younger ones might lose interest after an hour, though there's a small car park and amenities nearby which helps. The water feels properly accessible rather than something you're staring at from a distance.

Free to visit, open access as far as most people can tell, though you should stick to the marked paths. Spring and early summer are cracking times - the moor comes alive. Winter's fine too if you don't mind the cold. It pairs well with the surrounding Rossendale area if you're staying at the local holiday cottages. Worth a morning or afternoon out, particularly if you're based nearby and want to stretch your legs without committing to a full fell walk.