Winterton-Horsey Dunes

The dunes here stretch for miles along Norfolk's east coast, and they're genuinely dramatic - proper windswept, with marram grass whipping about and the sea crashing beyond. You can walk the length of them without seeing another soul on a grey afternoon, which is the whole appeal. It's raw coastline, not a manicured beach resort.

There's not much to "do" in the traditional sense. No visitor centre, no facilities, just the dunes themselves. Walkers absolutely love it - the paths are clear enough, though sandy in places and a bit of a slog if the wind's up. Kids might enjoy it for an hour or two scrambling about and hunting for shells, but they won't be entertained all day. Photographers come back repeatedly, especially when the light's low and golden.

Free to access, obviously. Allow two to three hours if you're doing a proper walk. Winter's actually the best time - fewer people, better light, the drama of the place comes through. Summer gets busier but you'll avoid the real Atlantic gales.

It's brilliant if you're based at Waxham Sands or Golden Beach - both within easy driving distance - and want to add a coastal walk to a park holiday. Gives you that wild Norfolk feel without leaving the area. Great Yarmouth's the nearest town if you need supplies, though it's not particularly charming. Come here for the walk itself, not for anything else around it.