Dragonfly Lake

The water here is properly tranquil, with dragonflies skimming across the surface on summer afternoons - hence the name, though it took me a moment to work that out. Dragonfly Lake sits within easy striking distance of Nottingham, making it a solid half-day venture if you're basing yourself at one of the nearby glamping spots like Peacock Lake or the camping ground at Gunthorpe.

It's a small lake rather than a sprawling reservoir, which means you won't feel overwhelmed. The walk around it takes a leisurely hour or so, depending on how often you stop to watch the wildlife. Bird watchers will recognise this as a proper spot - herons, grebes, the usual suspects. Families with young children might manage twenty minutes before the "are we there yet" starts, but older kids who enjoy nature and a bit of a mooch about will get more from it.

The main appeal is simply the peace. No fairground noise, no gift shops - just water, reeds, and the occasional splash. It's the sort of place you go to reset your head rather than tick off a must-see. Combine it with a stay at Peacock Lake Glamping if you want proper comfort, or Gunthorpe if you're after a more traditional camping vibe. Both are close enough that you could do the lake walk in the morning and spend the afternoon elsewhere in Nottinghamshire.

Worth a visit if you're in the area and enjoy quiet corners. Not worth driving an hour out of your way for, if I'm honest.