Rye Harbour Discovery Centre

The Discovery Centre sits right at the mouth of the Rye Harbour, where the River Rother meets the sea - it's genuinely the kind of place that sneaks up on you. You'll find exhibitions focused on the natural history and wildlife of the harbour itself, with a proper emphasis on the birdwatching that makes this stretch of Sussex coast so special. The displays aren't flashy, but they're informative if you care about what's actually living in the marshes and shallows around you.

It's really for two sorts of visitor: serious birders preparing for a walk around the nature reserve, and families wanting a quick indoor break before heading back out to the water's edge. Kids won't spend hours here - thirty minutes to an hour is honest going - but it's free, which matters when you've got a car full of people and weather that's turning.

Staying at Rye Harbour Holiday Park puts you practically on the doorstep, though Parkdean Resorts' Camber Sands site is only just down the coast if you fancy something bigger. The real draw is what's outside rather than in: the Discovery Centre is a jumping-off point for walks along the shingle banks and into the reserve where you might actually spot some of those birds the displays bang on about. Go when the light's decent - late afternoon is best - and bring binoculars. The centre alone? It's a stop rather than a destination. The harbour itself is worth your time.