Abbey Park

The River Avon winds through Abbey Park like it's got nowhere else to be, and that's rather the point. This nature reserve just outside Evesham lets you do exactly what it says - walk, watch birds, spot the occasional deer if you're lucky. The grounds are open to the public and there's no entry fee, which means you can pop in for twenty minutes between other plans or stay for hours without feeling you've wasted money.

It's a proper spot for families with younger kids who tire easily - the paths are gentle and you're never far from a bench if someone needs a sit-down. Serious birdwatchers come here in season; the reserve attracts warblers and other riverside species. History types will appreciate that the abbey itself is long gone, but the bones of it remain in the landscape if you know what you're looking for.

Going in spring or early autumn catches the best wildlife activity. Summer gets warm and a bit buggy near the water. Allow an hour or so for a decent walk, though you can do a quick loop in half that if you're pressed for time.

It slots nicely into a holiday based at one of the nearby parks - Bredon-Vale and Orchard Blossom are only a couple of miles away, making this an easy morning outing before heading to Evesham proper or exploring the wider Worcestershire countryside. Not dramatic or showy, but it's the kind of place that grows on you.