Landguard Nature Reserve

The shingle spit at Landguard juts out into the North Sea like a finger pointing eastward, and it's one of Suffolk's most important nature reserves - though you'd never guess it from the car park. What you get here is raw coastal habitat: rough grassland, shingle banks, and access to birdwatching that actually delivers. Spring and autumn migrations bring serious numbers of warblers, chats, and the occasional rarity that gets twitchers driving up from London.

The walk itself is straightforward - nothing demanding, just a couple of miles of flat terrain along the spit with the sea on both sides. Bring binoculars or don't bother. Families with young children will find it pleasant enough for 45 minutes, maybe an hour, but it's not a playground destination. History buffs might linger at Landguard Fort, which sits at the southern tip - a proper 18th-century fortress that's worth a look.

It's free to access, which helps. Allow two hours if you're serious about birding, less if you're just after a coastal wander. Winter's quieter but cleaner for photography. Summer brings casual visitors, and the shingle gets busy.

Staying at Suffolk Sands Holiday Park, just under a mile away, makes sense logistically - you're on the doorstep. Pair it with a walk into Felixstowe town centre or a pint at the seafront, and you've got a decent afternoon. It's not flashy or Instagram-friendly, but it works if you actually want to see birds and coastline rather than attractions.