WWT Martin Mere

Martin Mere sits in the flat Lancashire landscape between Tarlscough and Ormskirk, and it's proper good if you're the sort who gets excited about birds. The Wildfowl & Wetland Trust site spreads across 375 acres of wetland and water meadows - you're looking at swans, geese, ducks, waders, and if you're lucky, the odd rarer visitor blown in from elsewhere. There's a visitor centre, viewing hides dotted around the reserve, and enough walking trails to keep you occupied for a few hours or just a quick potter round if the weather turns.

It works best for anyone with genuine interest in birdwatching or nature, though families with young kids will find the close-up waterfowl viewing entertaining enough. The hides are the main draw - they let you get surprisingly close without spooking anything. Winter's your best bet for numbers and variety, though something's always about.

The flat terrain means no demanding walks, which counts in its favour if you've got elderly relatives in tow or you're after gentle exercise. You'll want two to three hours minimum to feel like you've done it justice, though keen twitchers could happily spend half a day. Several caravan parks sit within easy reach - Leisure Lakes is barely three miles off, and Riverside Holiday Park sits at about the same distance, so it slots neatly into a wider break.

Check ahead for admission prices and opening times before you head out, as these can shift seasonally.