RSPB North Warren

The RSPB reserve at North Warren sprawls across heathland and woodland just outside Leiston, and it's a genuinely brilliant spot if you care about birds at all. The trails wind through proper Suffolk countryside - gorse, heather, the lot - and you'll spot everything from nightjars to stone curlews depending on the season. Summer's best for breeding birds; winter brings in the visiting species. Allow a solid couple of hours to do the main loop without rushing, longer if you're serious with binoculars.

It's free to wander the public paths, which is refreshing. The reserve works because it's not manicured or fussy - it feels like actual wild space rather than a tamed nature park. Families with older kids will enjoy it; younger ones might find it a touch too "just walking and watching" after the first half hour. Proper walkers and bird enthusiasts will be in heaven. The nearest spots - Beach View Holiday Park is less than three miles away - make it an easy morning or afternoon outing from your base.

Go midweek in spring or early summer if you want to avoid crowds and catch the rarer visitors. The paths can get boggy in winter, so wear decent boots. There's a car park at the entrance, which saves you hunting about. It's the sort of place that rewards patience and a good field guide - don't expect instant gratification, but the payoff's there if you look carefully.