Larkwood Lakes

You'll find Larkwood Lakes tucked just outside Bury Saint Edmunds, a proper working nature reserve where the water matters more than the car park facilities. It's a straightforward spot - a series of lakes surrounded by woodland where you can walk, watch birds if you're into that sort of thing, and generally let the Suffolk landscape do its thing without any fancy interpretation centres getting in the way.

The walking is decent enough. You can do a gentle loop round the water without breaking a sweat, though the paths aren't always obvious and can get muddy after rain. Birdwatchers will genuinely enjoy this place - there's proper wildlife here, not just the usual ducks. Families with young kids will manage fine for an hour or so, though there's not much to keep them entertained beyond "look, a heron". If you're into photography or just need some quiet space away from Bury's town centre, this delivers.

Admission is free, which is refreshing. Allow an hour minimum if you're just doing a walk; half a day if you're serious about spotting things. Come early morning or late afternoon when the birds are most active - midday is often dead quiet.

If you're staying at West Stow Pods or Kings Forest just down the road, Larkwood makes a solid morning or late-afternoon addition to your itinerary. It's not spectacular, but it's genuine Suffolk - low-key and unpretentious. Worth the detour if you're in the area.