Tophill Low Nature Reserve

Two reservoirs separated by a narrow causeway - that's the core of Tophill Low, and it's a proper haven for birdwatchers. The reserve sits just outside Driffield, and if you're staying at one of the nearby parks like Kingfisher Lakes or Greengrass, it's an easy morning outing before breakfast settles.

You get two distinct habitats here. The deeper southern reservoir attracts diving ducks and grebes in winter, whilst the shallower northern pool draws waders and dabbling birds year-round. Spring and autumn migrations are peak times - the variety can be genuinely impressive if you know what you're looking for. Even without binoculars, you'll spot cormorants, herons, and the occasional osprey on a good day.

There's a network of footpaths and hides scattered around both reservoirs. Allow two to three hours if you're serious about it, though you can manage a decent walk in sixty minutes flat. It's free to access, and that matters when you've got a caravan holiday budget to stretch.

Families with young kids might find it a bit quiet - there's no playground or café, so bring packed snacks. But teenagers interested in wildlife will genuinely enjoy it, and experienced birdwatchers can spend a whole day here without getting bored. The paths are well-maintained and mostly level, making it accessible even if someone in your group doesn't fancy a steep hike.

It pairs nicely with Blue Rose Country Park and Dacre Lakeside for a proper East Yorkshire nature-focused break.