Rutland Water Cycle Hire.

The cycle hire at Rutland Water is straightforward stuff - you rock up, grab a bike, and pedal around one of England's largest reservoirs. The whole loop is about 25 miles, though most people do a section rather than the full circuit. The water itself is genuinely impressive, all steel-grey and vast, with decent views across to the far bank and the occasional heron working the shallows.

This is proper territory for families and casual cyclists. The path is flat, well-maintained, and you're never far from the water, which keeps things interesting for kids who'd otherwise get bored on a long ride. Serious cyclists will find it a bit tame - there's no real challenge here, just rhythm and scenery. Allow a half-day minimum if you're doing more than a gentle loop; the full circuit takes the best part of five hours at a comfortable pace.

Worth knowing: it's free to access the cycle path, though you'll pay for the bike hire itself. Spring and early summer are cracking times to come - the water's busy with birdwatchers and the weather's usually cooperative. Winter can get bleak and windy.

If you're staying at Stamford Meadows Glamping, Rutland Water is barely half an hour's drive away, making it a solid half-day activity to break up a park holiday. Stamford itself is worth a wander too - Georgian townhouses and proper old England feel. The ride around the water doesn't demand anything of you except time and reasonable fitness.