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Brent Reservoir is a good place to escape the urban nature of London, especially on the Welsh Harp Open Space, or north side of the water. There are trails that go through the woods, and the reservoir is often busy with canoeists and small sailboats. There are plenty of ducks and swans to look at too, as well as lots of benches to rest on. The north shore is also part of the Capital Ring, a circular walking trail of around 78 miles (125 km) in length that circles London.

Love seeing the woodlands and lido in winter colours

Gilbert's Lake is currently being run dry as an invasive species was found in the water. Hopefully all will be well next year

A sandy beach in London, Ruislip Lido is a popular place for recreation, be that running, swimming or walking. The lido spent nearly 80 years in a state of disrepair but was restored and reopened in 2010. It was originally built as a reservoir for the Grand Union Canal.

The lake has a far more intriguing story to it than might meet the eye. It lies within the old estate of Grim's Dyke, former home to W. S. Gilbert of Gilbert and Sullivan fame – the creators of Pirates of Penzance and H.M.S. Pinafore amongst many other plays. Gilbert drowned in the lake when he was 74, during a rescue attempt of a young woman.

Chipperfield Common is a 117-acre (47 ha) area of former heathland that has developed into beautiful woodland since grazing stopped here in the 1930s. There are a quintet of ponds on the common, as well as eight ancient sweet chestnut trees. Evidence of a Neolithic history can be seen in the form of two Bronze Age burial mounds.

starting and ending point. just follow the path to walk around the Lido. if you have small children use the miniature train and hop on and off

You can cycle round the Lido but it gets very busy at the weekend and in the summer is packed during holidays on sunny days. Beware of dog walkers with extending leads. It is great to cycle through Ruislip Woods to the Lido if you have a trail bike, but horses use the paths and churn it up after rain so it is almost impassable. The best time to go is very early in the morning in the summer, beautiful, especially if the mist is around.