Steep Holm

Rising from the Bristol Channel like a limestone fortress, this uninhabited island sits three miles offshore from Burnham-on-Sea. The climb to Steep Holm's summit rewards you with panoramic views across the Severn Estuary, taking in the Welsh coast and Somerset's flat wetlands stretching inland.

Getting there requires a boat trip - several operators run seasonal services from Burnham-on-Sea and Weston-super-Mare during summer months. Once you land at the small jetty, it's a proper hike to reach the 256-foot peak. The paths are rough and can be muddy, so decent walking boots are essential.

History buffs will love exploring the Victorian fort ruins scattered across the island, built to defend the Bristol Channel. Wildlife watchers come for the seabirds and rare plants - wild peonies bloom here in spring, one of only two places in Britain where they grow naturally.

Families with young children might struggle with the terrain and boat journey, but adventurous teenagers often find it brilliant. Allow a full day including travel time, and check weather conditions carefully - services get cancelled in rough seas. The island makes an excellent day trip from any of the holiday parks around Burnham-on-Sea and Brean, offering a completely different perspective on this stretch of coast.