Lake Covert

Lake Covert sits tucked away in the forest near Freshwater, and it's one of those spots you'd miss if you weren't looking for it. The lake itself is modest - this isn't a sprawling reservoir - but that's rather the point. You get a proper woodland walk with actual atmosphere, trees closing in on both sides, and then suddenly you're at the water's edge where it opens up and gets quite peaceful.

It's ideal for families who fancy a gentle forest amble without the crowds that plague some of the Isle of Wight's more famous walking routes. Kids can run about on the paths, and there's enough to keep them interested for an hour or so without it being a massive undertaking. The walk takes you through mixed woodland, which is lovely in spring when everything's sprouting, or autumn when the light filters through differently.

If you're staying at The Bay Colwell a few miles away, Lake Covert makes a sensible half-morning adventure before or after the beach. It won't set your heart racing - don't come expecting dramatic lake vistas - but it's the sort of place that makes you remember why you came to the island rather than staying at home. No facilities that I'm aware of, so bring water if you're planning to walk further into the forest.