Alston Reservoir No.1

There's a proper walk to be had around Alston Reservoir, just outside Preston, if you're the type who enjoys water and open countryside without the crowds. This isn't some showpiece attraction with visitor centres and gift shops - it's a working reservoir that happens to have a decent footpath running round it, giving you views across Lancashire's gentler landscape. The walk takes a couple of hours depending on how often you stop, and it's flat enough that older kids won't grumble too much, though pushchairs would be a nightmare on parts of it.

The draw is simple: space, air, and the occasional spot of birdwatching if you're lucky. Fishermen frequent it, so you'll see them casting from the banks. On a clear day you can see across to the hills beyond Preston, which isn't dramatic but is rather pleasant. It's the sort of place you visit because you're staying at one of the nearby parks - Beacon Fell View or Dale Hey Farm are closest - rather than making a special trip from further afield.

There's no charge that I can find, and no facilities to speak of, so come prepared with water and something to eat. Early morning or late afternoon is best if you want to avoid what little traffic the access road gets. History buffs won't find much here - it's functional rather than fascinating. But for a couple of hours' easy ramble with a caravan base nearby, it'll do the job.