Medmerry Nature Reserve

The shingle beach at Medmerry stretches for miles with barely another soul in sight - just you, the water, and the constant chatter of wading birds. This nature reserve near Chichester is one of Sussex's best-kept coastal secrets, a working wetland that actually works because it flooded deliberately. Sounds odd, but back in 2012 they breached the sea wall on purpose to let the Solent wash in, creating a tidal lagoon that's become a proper haven for birds, insects, and anyone after some peace.

The walk itself is straightforward enough - there's a network of paths around the reserve with viewing screens where you can stand still and actually spot something. Bring binoculars if you've got them. Winter and spring are cracking for migration watching; in summer it's damp and buggy but quieter. Most people spend two to three hours here, though you can easily do it in one if you're just after a decent stomp along the shingle.

It's completely free and unmanned, which means no facilities whatsoever - no cafe, no loos, nothing. Get that sorted in Chichester first. Families with young kids might find it a bit bleak and exposed, truth be told. But serious walkers and birders will rate it highly. The nearby campsites - Stubcroft Farm and Creative Camping both have five-star ratings - put you within striking distance, and it's only half a mile from West Sands if you want a more developed holiday park setup. On a clear day, you can see all the way across to the Isle of Wight.