Now that summer has finally arrived in London, finding outdoor space which isn’t full of people is a challenge. Woodberry wetlands is the ideal place to escape the city heat. A wildlife reserve hidden in North London offers a haven for those keen to spend some time outside.

The reserve consists of a collection of reservoirs which can be explored via the boardwalks and the new river path – a path that follows the aptly named ‘new’ river (constructed in 1613) all the way from Hertfordshire to Islington. Woodberry wetlands boasts an array of wildlife from birds to bats to rare moths (if rare moths are your kind of thing).

On a sunny Saturday, I go for a swim in West Reservoir Centre and then wander around the reservoir to the Coal House Café (pictured) to have a delicious full English overlooking the reservoir. Their breakfasts are delicious and you never know when you might spot a kingfisher.