Whitestacks Estate

The flat Lincolnshire coastline doesn't shout about its nature reserves, but Whitestacks Estate near Skegness is one worth the detour if you're staying at any of the local holiday parks. It's a proper wetland site - marshes, reed beds, open water - the kind of place where you'll spot waders, wildfowl, and if you're lucky, the occasional rare migrant. Birdwatchers will have the best time here, particularly in spring and autumn when passage birds are moving through. The walks are gentle and manageable, nothing taxing, which suits families staying at Butlins or Haven Skegness who fancy something quieter than the seafront attractions.

The reserve feels removed from the bustle of Skegness town centre, even though it's only a few miles inland. You get a real sense of the Lincolnshire wetlands here - that big open sky, the wind coming off the North Sea, the sound of water and birds. Bring binoculars and a field guide, and allow a couple of hours to properly explore without rushing. There's something quite meditative about it, honestly.

For families with young kids, it depends on their patience for birdwatching. They might find the first half hour absorbing, then get restless. But if you're staying at Skegness Seaview or Creekside Family Camping and want to break up the caravan-park routine with something free and grounded in nature rather than funfairs and ice cream, this works well. Just check what facilities are available on the day - car park, toilet access, that sort of thing - before you plan your visit.