Sheerness

Working port towns don't always get the recognition they deserve, but Sheerness has a proper character that grows on you. Perched on the north-west tip of the Isle of Sheppey, this no-nonsense town serves up industrial heritage alongside surprisingly good coastal views across the Thames Estuary. The ferry port keeps things lively, with a steady stream of lorries heading to and from the continent, while the high street has that lived-in feel you get in proper working communities.

Sheppey's real draw lies in its wild spaces. Oare Marshes stretches out to the south, a brilliant spot for birdwatching where you'll spot everything from curlews to short-eared owls depending on the season. The RSPB Capel Bilgin Fleet Raptor Viewpoint offers cracking views over the Swale, particularly during winter when the raptors put on quite a show.

Getting here means crossing the Kingsferry Bridge - there's no other way onto the island. Sittingbourne is your nearest proper town for supplies, about 20 minutes inland. The surrounding countryside feels wonderfully remote for somewhere so close to London, with South Swale offering miles of mudflats and creeks perfect for long walks.

Camping on Sheppey makes perfect sense if you're after somewhere different from the usual Kent coast experience. The island's got a raw, windswept beauty that's particularly atmospheric in winter, and you're well placed for exploring the North Kent marshlands. Plus, with several holiday parks scattered around the island, you've got options whether you want basic pitches or something more comfortable.