The Pool

The Pool near Brewood is exactly what its name suggests - a proper body of water that's become something of a local favourite for a peaceful afternoon walk. It's not dramatic or vast, but there's something straightforward about it that works. You get a decent circuit around the water, the sort of path that takes the best part of an hour at a leisurely pace without feeling like a proper hike.

The appeal lies in its simplicity. Dog walkers come here regularly, families with pushchairs find it manageable, and anyone after a bit of fresh air without the crowds you'd encounter at bigger attractions will appreciate the relative quiet. The views aren't spectacular - it's a working landscape rather than postcard material - but that's rather the point. Real rather than resort.

No entrance fee as far as I can tell, and you can rock up whenever suits you. Car parking's straightforward if you know where to go locally. It's the sort of place you'd slot into a park holiday around Brewood rather than make the centrepiece, particularly if you're staying at Oakland Holiday Park or Worfe Camping nearby. Combine it with a walk into Brewood village itself for a pint, and you've got a proper day sorted. Kids won't be massively engaged for hours on end, but they'll burn some energy on the path without moaning, which counts for something.