My husband and I moved to Barnes a year ago and while I was out and about, exploring my new and exciting surroundings, I found the loveliest place right on my doorstep – a local reservoir oddly called ‘Leg o’ Mutton’ after it’s odd shape. This secret stash of water and shrubbery takes about half and hour to stroll around and is the perfect distance to walk my little Jack Russell, Lola, and take a break from a busy working day.

Not many people know about this little haven right next to the Thames path. It’s amazingly tranquil and the only clue that gives away the London postcode are the sporadic planes that fly overhead. It’s home to a wealth of birdlife such as herons, cormorants, swans, ducks and of course the ever noisy and vibrantly green parakeets. One day, I was even lucky enough to spot an owl winking down at me from a cosy hole in a tree.

It’s a delight to watch the flora and fauna change with the seasons and to marvel at the beautiful orange skies when the sun sets in the summer months. But best of all, unlike so many other brilliant places to visit in London, it’s totally free. I find myself nearly as excited as Lola when its time for ‘walkies’ and she can chase the squirrels up the trees and I can reflect on my day or simply admire the beautiful surroundings.

Image courtesy of lens of Dan on Flickr