Rosemead Park

Walking into Rosemead Park from central Littlehampton feels like stepping into someone's well-maintained secret. It's a nature reserve that doesn't shout about itself, which is rather the point. The paths wind through woodland and open grassland - proper habitat for birds, insects, and the odd fox if you're lucky enough to spot one early in the morning. You're looking at a couple of hours maximum here, unless you're the type who stops to identify every plant and butterfly. It's free to access and there's no faffing about with booking or opening hours - just turn up.

Families with young kids will find enough space to let them burn off energy without worrying they'll vanish into the distance. Birdwatchers rate it. Serious hikers might find it a touch tame compared to the South Downs proper, but as a morning wander before breakfast or a wind-down after a day elsewhere, it works. The reserve sits just outside Littlehampton itself, making it ideal if you're based at South Downs Caravan Park or one of the nearer sites - you could easily pop over without needing to drive far.

The real value is in what it offers as part of a wider Sussex break. It's not a headline attraction that'll dominate your itinerary, but it's the sort of place that reminds you why coastal Sussex has its appeal. Bring binoculars if you've got them. Leave the phone on silent.