Suttons Pond Nature Reserve

Water, reeds, and a surprising amount of birdlife - that's what you get at Suttons Pond, a modest nature reserve just outside Burnham-on-Sea. It's the sort of place where you'll spot herons, possibly a kingfisher if you're lucky, and various waterfowl making their way across the water. The pond itself is properly peaceful, surrounded by rough grassland and scrub that feels genuinely untamed rather than managed to death.

Really, this is walkers' territory more than anything else. You won't find manicured paths or visitor centres here - it's just you, the water, and whatever birds decide to show themselves on the day. Bring binoculars if you're at all serious about spotting things. Kids will manage it for maybe half an hour before asking what's for lunch, unless they're genuinely into nature spotting.

As far as I can tell, admission is free and there are no set opening hours, so you can rock up whenever suits. Allow twenty minutes for a proper look around, longer if you're a keen birder or photographer. The light is best in early morning before the day warms up and sends the birds into hiding.

If you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks - Burnham Holiday Village or Haven Burnham-on-Sea are both within five and a half miles - this makes a decent morning walk before heading back for breakfast. It's not a day trip in itself, but it's a solid addition to a coastal break in the area.