Pett Level Beach

The shingle beach at Pett Level stretches out quiet and vast, with the Martello tower standing sentinel over the water like something from a Napoleonic fever dream. It's not dramatic - no golden sand or Instagram-ready cliffs - but there's a proper wildness to it that beats the crowded resorts further west.

You're looking at a working beach where fishermen still haul their boats up the shingle, and the sea wall tells the story of centuries of storms and floods. The walk along the shore connects to Winchelsea, which sits perched on its hill about two miles inland, so you can combine this with exploring the medieval town's narrow streets and ancient gates if you're staying in the area.

It's the sort of place that suits walkers more than sunbathers. Bring proper shoes for the shingle - it's not kind on the feet for long periods - and time your visit for when the tide's out if you want to maximise the walking space. Kids will get restless after an hour unless they're the rock-pooling type or fascinated by boats.

If you're based at Winchelsea Sands or Rye Harbour holiday parks, this is your back door to the coast. It's free, open all hours since it's a public beach, and works best on a blustery day when the light's dramatic and you've got the place almost to yourself. Not for everyone, but if moody coastal walks appeal, it's worth the short drive from wherever you're staying.