Gibraltar Point & Visitors Centre

The lighthouse at Gibraltar Point is one of those proper Lincolnshire Coast landmarks that actually justifies the short drive from Skegness. You're looking at a distinctive red and white tower that's been guiding ships since 1787 - genuinely one of the oldest lighthouses still standing along this stretch of the North Sea.

What makes it worth stopping for is the visitors centre, which fills in the gaps about maritime history and the geology of this particular bit of coastline. The tower itself sits at the end of a nature reserve, so you get a decent walk out to it through saltmarsh and dunes. Allow a good hour if you're doing the full experience - it's not a quick tick-box job. The walk's flat and straightforward, which means families with younger kids won't grind to a halt halfway, though toddlers might find the distance a stretch.

Historically minded types will dig the industrial heritage side of things, and anyone who cares about birds will spot plenty of waders and wildfowl depending on the season. Autumn and spring migrations are particularly good. The whole setting - marshland, sea views, that solid old tower - has genuine appeal, even if it's not exactly dramatic.

Stay at Haven Skegness or Skegness Seaview Caravan Park nearby and you're only minutes away. Best to time it for low tide if you want to explore the foreshore properly, and bring a windproof jacket because it gets breezy out there. Free to visit, though check opening hours for the centre itself.