Sandilands National Trust

Salt marshes stretch as far as the eye can see, broken only by meandering creeks and the distant North Sea horizon. Sandilands is where the Lincolnshire coastline shows its wilder side - a properly untamed landscape that feels miles from anywhere despite being just outside Sutton on Sea.

Nature lovers will have a field day here. The reserve protects one of the few remaining stretches of natural saltmarsh on this coast, complete with rare plants and birds that thrive in this brackish environment. Walking the paths feels like stepping back centuries - this is how much of the Lincolnshire coast looked before sea defences and development took hold.

Expected a gentle stroll? Think again. The terrain can be challenging, with boggy patches and uneven ground that'll test your walking boots. But that's part of the appeal - it keeps the crowds away and lets you appreciate the landscape's raw beauty. Best visited during spring migration or autumn, when the bird life is at its most spectacular.

Families staying at nearby Cherry Tree Springs or Sutton-on-Sea Caravan Club sites will find this makes for a completely different day out from the traditional seaside experience. Kids who love muddy adventures and spotting wildlife will be in their element, though it's definitely not pushchair territory. Allow at least two hours to do it justice - longer if you're serious about birdwatching.