Llyn Llech Owain Reservoir

The reservoir sits in a quiet fold of Carmarthenshire countryside, about twenty minutes inland from Llanelli. It's a proper working water supply, not some manicured tourist spot, which means it keeps its edges rough and real.

You get a decent walk around the perimeter if the mood takes you - the paths are straightforward enough, nothing technical. The water itself is dark and still most days, reflecting whatever's left of the sky. On a clear morning it's worth the drive; on a grey afternoon it feels a bit bleak, honestly. There's a small car park at the main access point, and it costs nothing to visit.

Families with young walkers won't get more than an hour or so out of it unless they're the type who enjoy sitting by water and watching birds. Proper walkers and photographers will find it more rewarding, especially in autumn when the surrounding hills catch the light. It's the sort of place locals use rather than tourists, which gives it a certain appeal if you want to avoid crowds.

If you're based at one of the nearby parks - Route 47 Glamping is closest at under two miles away, or Ravenscroft Retreats if you want a bit more comfort - it makes a good half-morning activity to fill time between breakfast and lunch. Combine it with a walk in the surrounding valleys or a trip into Llanelli for something with more purpose. On its own, don't expect fireworks.