Lagoon

The Lagoon sits just inland from Sheerness, a proper spot for a quiet afternoon if you're camping nearby. It's a shallow freshwater lake ringed with reeds and low vegetation - not dramatic, but genuinely peaceful. You get ducks, the occasional heron if you're lucky, and enough space to walk the perimeter without feeling hemmed in.

It works best for families with younger kids or anyone after a gentle stroll rather than a scenic hike. The water's too murky for swimming, and there's no formal cafe or facilities to speak of, so come prepared. Allow an hour, maybe ninety minutes if you're moving slowly and stopping to watch birds.

The real appeal is that it's walkable from Sheerness Holiday Park and the other caravan sites in the area - Shurland Dale Holiday Park especially is close enough for a no-fuss morning trip. If you're splitting time between Sheerness Holiday Park and Ashcroft Coast Holiday Park, the Lagoon gives you somewhere different without a long drive. It's free and genuinely dog-friendly, which matters if you've brought the spaniel along.

Bit of a damp spot after rain, mind you. Go when the weather's been dry for a day or two, and wear decent shoes. It's not Windermere, but for a caravan holiday on the Kent coast, it's worth the detour - especially if the seaside itself is crowded.