Wheal Jewell Reservoir

Water stretches out flat and still between moorland slopes - Wheal Jewell Reservoir sits tucked into the Devon landscape north of Okehampton like it was meant to be there. It's a working reservoir, so there's no swimming or messing about, but the walk round it is genuinely pleasant. The path takes you past woodland on one side and open moorland on the other, which means you get decent views without having to push yourself too hard.

This is proper territory for walkers and anyone after a straightforward couple of hours in fresh air. Families with kids will manage it fine - the terrain is manageable and there's enough space to let them burn off energy without anything too technical. History types won't find much drama here, but that's not really the point. The reservoir was built in the 1850s to supply local tin mines, which adds a bit of context if you're interested in industrial heritage, though you're not looking at visitor facilities or interpretation boards.

The real appeal is how peaceful it is. Especially if you're staying at Lydford Caravan & Camping Park nearby, it makes for a solid morning or afternoon outing. There's no entry fee and no formal opening hours - you can walk it whenever suits you. Spring and early summer are best, when the moorland's looking its best and you won't be fighting crowds. Allow a couple of hours for the circuit if you take it easy. It's not a destination on its own, but combined with walks around Okehampton and the broader Dartmoor options, it earns its spot on an itinerary.