Promenade

The Promenade at Bognor Regis is essentially what it says on the tin - a proper seaside walk where you can actually see what's living in the shallows rather than just trudge past chip shops. This nature reserve stretch runs along the beach and foreshore, and it's genuinely one of those places where the tide determines whether you're exploring mudflats teeming with wading birds or a more conventional seafront stroll.

You'll spot curlews, oystercatchers, and if you're lucky, little egrets picking their way through the shallows. The habitat changes with the seasons, which means repeat visits actually feel different. It's not a formal visitor experience with information boards at every turn - more a case of you turning up with binoculars and patience.

Walkers and bird watchers will genuinely rate this. Families with young kids might find it a bit underwhelming unless the children are already keen naturalists. The best time to come is at low tide when the feeding grounds open up. Bognor itself is just a short stroll away if you need a coffee or ice cream afterwards.

If you're staying at Butlins Bognor Regis, this is a cracking addition to your holiday - gives you something to do that doesn't involve the main resort facilities. Admission appears to be free, and you can spend anything from thirty minutes to a couple of hours depending on what you spot and whether the light's any good for photography. No facilities on the reserve itself though, so plan accordingly.