Wakering Comon

The path onto Wakering Common takes you straight into proper Essex wetland - flat, open, and surprisingly wild for somewhere so close to Burnham-on-Crouch. This is a nature reserve that doesn't shout about itself, which is rather the point. You get saltmarsh, mudflats, and if you time it right, decent birdwatching. Bring binoculars and low expectations of mobile signal.

It's the kind of place where families with older kids will actually get something from a walk - there's enough space to explore without feeling hemmed in, and the wildlife keeps things interesting. Little ones under five might find it a bit samey after twenty minutes, if I'm honest. The terrain is flat and mostly accessible, though it can get boggy after rain, so waterproofs are non-negotiable.

Free to access, and you can spend anything from an hour to half a day depending on how far you fancy walking. Go early morning or dusk for the best bird activity. Spring and autumn migrations are particularly good.

If you're staying at Riverside Village or Sea End Country Park - both solid choices for a caravan holiday in the area - this makes an excellent half-morning outing. It's the sort of place that breaks up a holiday nicely without demanding much planning. No facilities on site, so pack a flask and something to eat. It's not flashy, but it's genuine Essex, and that's worth experiencing once.