Spade Mill Reservoir No.2

Water laps against the concrete edges of this modest reservoir just outside Preston, and it's the sort of place you'd walk past on a countryside stroll without realising what you've stumbled upon. Spade Mill Reservoir No.2 is a functional bit of Lancashire infrastructure that's also become a decent spot for a quiet wander, particularly if you're camped at Beacon Fell View Holiday Park - it's practically on your doorstep, a mere fifteen-minute walk away.

The reservoir itself isn't dramatic. It's a working water supply, which means you won't find sand or swimming, but the perimeter offers a straightforward walk with decent views across the water. Bird watchers do reasonably well here; herons patrol the edges and you'll spot the usual waterfowl. It's the sort of place that rewards an early morning visit when the surface is glassy and the air's still.

Really this is a local's spot rather than a destination in itself. Allow thirty minutes to an hour if you're doing the full loop, less if you just want a quick leg-stretch. It works best as a circuit walk when you're staying nearby at one of the caravan parks clustered within a couple of miles - Wigwam Holidays Kidsnape Farm is another reasonable option if you're after glamping with easy access to walking territory. Kids might get restless without a more dramatic backdrop, though it's perfectly fine for a bit of fresh air between other activities. The nearest town is Preston, which has enough to keep you occupied on a rainy afternoon.