Tring Reservoirs

The reservoirs themselves aren't much to look at from the road - just bodies of water serving the Grand Canal below - but the walking potential around them is genuinely excellent. You get proper water views without the faffing about that comes with some of the Chilterns' more famous beauty spots. Three main reservoirs sit in a quiet valley near Tring, and the walking routes connect them in a way that feels purposeful rather than just lapping them repeatedly.

Best suited to walkers and bird watchers, honestly. The water draws everything from grebes to great crested waders depending on season, so bring binoculars if that's your thing. Kids will manage it if they're the outdoor type - the paths are well-maintained and there's water to look at, which keeps most ages entertained for a couple of hours. It's not dramatic enough to hold fidgety toddlers.

The walk takes between two and four hours depending which reservoir circuit you fancy. Free to access, and you can start from various points around Tring town. Spring and autumn are best for both weather and bird activity. Winter's perfectly fine too, just soggy underfoot.

Stay at Chiltern Yurts just a mile away and you're sorted for a proper walking base. Hill Farm Camping is three miles out if you want something more conventional. The beauty here is how easily it slots into a wider Chilterns walking holiday without demanding you spend the whole day on one spot.