Avalon Marshes Visitor Centre

The Avalon Marshes Visitor Centre sits on the edge of one of Somerset's most important wetland reserves, just outside Wedmore. It's the proper gateway to understanding what makes this landscape tick - thousands of acres of water meadows, reedbed and open water that attract everything from migrating birds to otters if you're lucky enough.

Inside you'll find displays about the ecology and history of the marshes, plus big windows overlooking the wetland itself. On a good day you can spot water voles, dragonflies and dozens of bird species without leaving the building. There's a small gift shop and it serves as a launch point for the walking trails that crisscross the reserve.

Walkers get the most from this place. Bring binoculars and plan a couple of hours minimum - the boardwalks and paths are well-maintained and flat, so families with pushchairs can manage sections of it. Spring and autumn migrations are best for birdwatchers; summer's good for dragonfly spotting. Winter can be quiet but atmospheric.

It's free to visit the centre and use the trails, which is rare value. The nearest camping is Castle Farm Campsite, only three miles away, making it an easy morning or afternoon stop if you're based in the area. Even if you're not staying locally, it's well worth a detour from Wedmore itself - gives proper context to the Somerset Levels before you head out walking them.