Chalcraft Lane Cemetery

Head to the edge of Bognor Regis and you'll find yourself in one of West Sussex's quieter corners - a nature reserve that happens to occupy an old cemetery. It sounds maudlin on paper, but Chalcraft Lane is actually rather lovely. The overgrown gravestones and established trees create a patchwork habitat that local wildlife has claimed entirely for itself. You'll spot butterflies, birds, and if you're lucky, small mammals rustling through the long grass.

It's the kind of place that appeals most to naturalists and serious walkers rather than casual tourists. Bring binoculars and a field guide if you're into that sort of thing. The reserve is small enough to cover in thirty minutes, though you could easily spend longer just sitting and watching. No formal facilities that I'm aware of, but it's freely accessible and costs nothing.

If you're staying at Butlins or the Rowan Park campsite nearby, it makes a decent diversion from beach time - somewhere to stretch your legs without the crush of the seafront. CREATIVE CAMPING up the road is a bit further afield, but worth knowing about if you want a quieter base. The reserve works best on a clear morning when the light catches the old stones and the air is still. Rain turns it into a muddy scramble, so pick your day carefully.