Minster Recreation Ground

A short walk from Ramsgate town centre, Minster Recreation Ground is one of those local spots that rarely makes it into the guidebooks but absolutely deserves your time if you're camping or glamping in the area. It's a proper nature reserve - wetland and woodland combined - where you can actually spot something interesting rather than just tramp round manicured paths.

The reserve runs along a stream, and depending on the season you'll see wading birds, dragonflies, and if you're lucky, water voles. There's a decent walking trail that takes maybe 45 minutes without rushing, though you can dip in and out if you've only got half an hour. The boardwalk sections are genuinely good - keeps your feet dry and lets you get closer to the water without spooking everything.

It's the sort of place families with kids will either love or abandon quickly depending on the child. Younger ones enjoy the stream-spotting and mud possibilities; older ones might find it a touch quiet. Birdwatchers and nature photographers should absolutely make the trip.

If you're staying at Dog & Duck Leisure Park or Sandwich Leisure Holiday Park, it's barely a detour. The town of Ramsgate itself has the harbour and seafront if you need a change of scenery. Free to visit, no facilities to speak of so bring water. Best visited early morning when the wildlife is actually awake and the place feels less like an afterthought. Worth combining with a proper walk along the Thanet coast rather than making a day of it solo.