Norfolk's National Nature Reserves

Norfolk's network of nature reserves spans some of England's most compelling wetland and coastal habitats, and they're absolutely worth exploring if you're camping in the area. The reserves protect everything from reedbed to shingle beach - you're talking proper wilderness on your doorstep, especially around King's Lynn where several reserves converge. Most are free to access, though you'll want to check individual sites for any visitor facilities or seasonal closures.

What makes these reserves special is how varied they are. Walk one morning and you might be tracking marsh harriers over flooded meadows; another day you're scrambling across shale and flint beaches where little terns nest in spring. Birdwatchers absolutely thrive here - bring binoculars and patience. The reserves also work brilliantly for family walks, though young children might flag after an hour or so unless they're genuinely into spotting wildlife. Winter can be phenomenal for wildfowl; spring brings migrant warblers that make ornithologists lose their minds.

If you're staying at Deepdale or one of the glamping sites scattered across the Norfolk coast, these reserves slot perfectly into a week's itinerary. You can easily hop between different sites - some are coastal, others inland - so variety comes naturally. Allow half a day minimum for each reserve; many folk spend three or four hours exploring. Pack binoculars, a decent field guide, and waterproof boots. The ground can be squelchy even when it hasn't rained. Summer gets busy with families; autumn and winter offer solitude and far better light for photography.