Abbey Duck Pond

The water at Abbey Duck Pond sits still and dark, ringed by trees that lean in close. It's a small affair, really - you won't spend hours here unless you're the type who finds peace in watching ducks and moorhens potter about. The pond sits just outside Glastonbury, which means it's accessible without much faffing about, and it works as a genuine break from the town's relentless tor-and-legend atmosphere.

What you're actually doing is having a quiet walk, feeding ducks if you've brought bread (though proper duck food is kinder), and maybe sitting on a bench if the weather's on your side. Kids will get ten minutes of entertainment maximum, unless they're the contemplative sort. For walkers and people who just want a proper breather rather than another spiritual experience, it's exactly right - no crowds, no entrance fees, no gift shop pressuring you to buy something.

If you're staying at Old Oaks or Bobsfield nearby, it's an easy leg-stretch without needing to drive. Pair it with a walk into Glastonbury town centre rather than treating it as a destination in itself. Go early morning if you can - the light works better and you'll have the place virtually to yourself. Late afternoon's lovely too, though the sun gets low and the water turns murky. Worth the detour if you're in the area and need quiet; skip it if you're after something with proper facilities or activities.