Anchorsholme Park

The Lancashire coast near Fleetwood isn't all amusement arcades and fish and chips, though you'll find plenty of both. Anchorsholme Park is a proper nature reserve tucked between the suburban sprawl, and it's the sort of place that rewards a quiet morning walk rather than a rushed afternoon visit.

You're looking at salt marsh and coastal habitat - the kind of space where wading birds actually matter and you'll spot redshanks, curlews, and if you're lucky, little egrets picking through the shallows. There's a decent footpath network that lets you wander without feeling herded, though it's flat terrain so no dramatic views to write home about. The real appeal is the stillness of it, especially out of season when you've got the place practically to yourself.

Walkers and birdwatchers will get the most from this. Kids might manage an hour or so if they're the type to enjoy spotting birds through binoculars, but it's not the sort of place with playgrounds or cafes to break things up. Bring wellies unless you've had a dry spell - the ground can be boggy.

It's ideal if you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Haven Cala Gran or Broadwater, both within a couple of miles. Gives you a proper break from the bustle of Fleetwood seafront without having to trek far. No entry fee as far as I can gather, and you can do it in an hour or make a morning of it depending on how keen you are on the birdlife.