Holyhead Pavilion

The Holyhead Pavilion sits right on Anglesey's coast, a proper working nature reserve where you can actually spot something rather than just walk around an empty field. The main draw is the bird watching - waders, terns, and if you're lucky, the occasional rare migrant. There's a viewing area with binoculars and information boards that don't patronise you, which is refreshing. The wetland habitat attracts decent numbers year-round, though spring and autumn are peak seasons when passage migrants swing through.

This is squarely for the keen birders and wildlife photographers, to be honest. Kids might manage half an hour if they're properly into spotting things, but it's not the sort of place for aimless rambling. The walking is minimal - you're mostly stationed at viewpoints, scanning the water and mudflats. Allow an hour if conditions are good and the birds are cooperating.

It works well as part of a broader Anglesey coast visit, especially if you're staying at one of the caravan parks nearby - Coastal Pods and Two Peas in a Pod are just a couple of miles away. Couple it with a walk around Holyhead itself or a trip inland to see what else the island offers. Admission appears to be free, which is generous given the upkeep involved. Pop down at high tide when the birds are pushed closer to the viewing platforms. Low tide often means they're too far out to see properly.