Mill Dam Lake

Mill Dam Lake sits just outside Clacton-on-Sea, a proper Essex water body that punches above its weight for a quiet afternoon. The lake itself is modest - you won't mistake it for the Lake District - but it's the kind of place where you can actually hear yourself think, which counts for something in July. There's walking around the perimeter if you're after a gentle stretch of the legs, and the water attracts a decent number of birds, so bring binoculars if you're into that sort of thing. It's free to visit and access appears unrestricted, though facilities are minimal. Allow an hour, maybe ninety minutes if you're dawdling. Families with young kids might find it a bit low-key - there's no playground or café to anchor a morning around. But if you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Lee Wick Farm Cottages or Seawick Holiday Park and fancy breaking up a beach day with something different, it's worth the short drive. Walkers and birdwatchers will get more out of it than most. Winter and early spring are probably better than the height of summer, when the paths can get a bit muggy and crowded with families from the surrounding holiday parks. It's not going to be the highlight of your Essex break, but as a free local spot to stretch your legs while staying in the area, it does the job.