The Ainsdale Totem

You'll spot it straight away when you're wandering around Ainsdale - a striking totem pole that stands out against the Lancashire coast like nothing else for miles. It's a curious thing to find in this corner of England, but that's rather the point.

The Ainsdale Totem is essentially an outdoor art installation that's become something of a local landmark. It's the kind of piece that makes you pause mid-walk and actually look at it properly instead of scrolling past on your phone. You can see it free of charge, naturally - it's just sitting there in the open air. The practicalities are minimal: no admission fee, no queuing, no time limits. Rock up whenever suits you, which is one of the nicest things about it.

Walkers and photographers will get genuine value here. It photographs well in different lights, and it breaks up a coastal ramble nicely if you're heading out from Southport. History buffs might appreciate the story behind it - the provenance and inspiration make for interesting chat. Families with young kids? They'll get a few minutes of interest, maybe, but it's not going to hold their attention for hours on end. Be honest with yourself about that.

If you're camped at Southport Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite, it's close enough for a morning walk before breakfast or an evening stroll if the light's decent. The totem works best as part of a broader coastal exploration rather than a destination in itself. Worth the detour if you're in the area anyway.