Island Park

The River Avon loops around Island Park near Chippenham, creating a proper little sanctuary for wildlife and walkers alike. It's a genuine nature reserve rather than a manicured attraction - you'll find yourself on paths threading through woodland and alongside water, spotting birds and the occasional heron if you're lucky enough. The whole thing feels tucked away from the main drag, which is exactly why it works.

This is one for people who actually want to walk rather than queue. There are decent trails if you know where to go, though signage could be clearer. Birdwatchers and photographers will have a field day here, especially early morning when the reserve is quiet. Families with older kids who don't mind mud will enjoy it too - younger ones might find it a bit samey after 45 minutes without a playground to break things up.

The free admission is brilliant, and it's worth allowing at least an hour to do it properly. Best visited outside peak summer when the paths are less crowded and the light's better. Since you're staying at one of the local caravan sites - Plough Lane or Roe Deer Fields are practically on the doorstep - it makes an easy morning outing before heading into Chippenham for lunch. Blackland Lakes over towards Calne offers a different vibe if you want variety across a week's holiday.