Carman Reservoir

Carman Reservoir sits quietly on the outskirts of Alexandria, a proper working water supply that's also become a decent spot for a walk. It's not dramatic or showy - just a long stretch of calm water with woodland around it and the Dunbartonshire hills rising beyond. You'll find a track that runs alongside, good enough for pushing a buggy if you're not fussy, and it's the sort of place where you can actually hear yourself think.

Walkers will appreciate it more than anyone. The circuit is straightforward and takes a good hour without rushing, and you get far enough from the car park to feel like you've properly escaped. Birdwatchers turn up regularly - it's quiet enough that you might spot herons or the occasional osprey depending on the season. History buffs won't find much, mind you. It's just water and woodland, so if you're after ruins or castles, look elsewhere.

Family groups with young children might find it a bit thin on the ground for a full day out. An hour's walk and they're done. But it works brilliantly as a half-hour add-on when you're staying at one of the holiday parks nearby - Stoneymollan, Lomond Woods, or Loch Lomond Retreat are all within easy reach. The reservoir itself is free to access, and there's no formal visitor centre to pay for.

Go midweek if you can. Weekends bring the crowds from Glasgow, and the car park gets rammed. Early morning's lovely too - the light bounces off the water nicely, and you'll likely have it to yourself.