Fishing Lake

The water here sits proper still on most days, reflecting the Leicestershire sky like a sheet of dark glass. Fishing Lake, just outside Oakham, is exactly what it says on the tin - a working fishery where anglers come to land carp, pike and roach rather than somewhere you'd pop in for a casual stroll. That said, if you're into fishing at all, it's worth knowing about, especially if you're camping nearby.

The lake itself is unremarkable to look at. There's no dramatic landscape, no visitor centre, no cafe - just water, pegs, and blokes with their rods planted in the bank. Families won't find much here unless someone in the group is keen on angling; kids will get bored within twenty minutes. Walkers might take a loop around the perimeter if the footpaths are open, but it's not a destination in itself.

What makes it useful is the proximity to The Grange and Eye Kettleby Lakes caravan parks, both within six miles. If you're staying at either for a couple of weeks and someone wants to fish, Fishing Lake offers a decent session without travelling far. Day tickets and pegs are typically available for visiting anglers, though you'll want to ring ahead to check availability and rates.

Other than that, it's local knowledge rather than a reason to base your holiday here. Oakham itself has proper things to see - the town centre's worth a wander - but this lake is specialist interest only.