Splash Point Pleasure Grounds

The coastal wetlands around Splash Point near Taunton offer one of Somerset's better chances to spot wading birds and watch the tidal marshes shift throughout the day. It's a proper nature reserve rather than a manicured garden - expect mudflats, reed beds, and the occasional kingfisher if you're lucky and patient. You'll want binoculars and decent boots because the ground squelches after rain.

This works best for serious birdwatchers and families with older kids who won't mind standing still for twenty minutes waiting for something interesting to happen. Younger children might find an hour enough unless you're really into the twitching crowd. The walks are mostly flat and straightforward, which is a bonus if you're not keen on climbing.

You can reach it easily from Taunton - it's practically on the doorstep. If you're based at Warren Bay Holiday Village or Haven Doniford Bay just down the road, this makes a solid morning outing before heading somewhere else. The beauty is it costs nothing and takes as little or as long as you want. Spring and autumn bring the migrating species through, so time your visit accordingly if you're after something specific. Summer's quieter but the light's better for photography.

Pair it with the bigger attractions around Blue Anchor and Minehead - Butlins is only six miles away if you need proper entertainment. But if you want a genuine bit of nature without the crowds, Splash Point delivers.