Middle Beach

The shingle beach at Harwich stretches out in that proper understated way Suffolk does best - no promenade, no kiss-me-quick hats, just pebbles, sea, and the industrial hum of the port in the distance. Middle Beach is the local name for the central stretch, and it's exactly what you get: a working seafront where fishing boats still operate and the character feels lived-in rather than polished.

You're looking at a beach that rewards people who actually like beaches, not theme park versions of them. Walkers will find the shingle manageable enough, and the views across to Essex and along the Suffolk coast are proper atmospheric, especially when the light's low. Families with small children might find the lack of facilities a bit limiting - no ice cream van, nowhere obvious to buy a drink - but older kids who like fossicking about in shingle and exploring the industrial heritage will be fine here.

It's free, obviously, and you can park up near Harwich seafront without fuss. Allow an hour if you're just stretching your legs, longer if you're a serious beachcomber. The best time is either early morning before the town wakes up, or late afternoon when the light's golden and the crowds have gone elsewhere.

If you're staying at Suffolk Sands or Felixstowe Beach Holiday Parks nearby, this is a bracing counterpoint to manicured caravan parks - a reminder that this coastline earned its living from the sea, not from holidaymakers. It's not going to thrill everyone, but it's genuine.