Birch Hall Adventures

Birch Hall Adventures sits just inland from Walton on the Naze, offering a proper outdoor setup that punches above its weight for a seaside break. It's an activity centre where you can have a go at various pursuits - think adventure sports and outdoor challenges rather than a passive tourist spot. The kind of place where you actually do something instead of just looking at something.

Families with teenagers will get the most out of it. Younger kids might find some activities a bit advanced, though that depends on what's on offer. Adults keen on a bit of physical challenge will appreciate it too. If you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks - Parkdean's Naze Marine is practically on the doorstep at 2.6 miles, or Grange Farm Campsite the same distance - you could easily slot this in as a morning or afternoon activity without it eating your whole day.

The area around Walton on the Naze is fairly low-key, so this breaks up the seaside routine nicely. You're close enough to the beach that you could do both in one day if you're organised. Whether you need to book ahead or if it's pay-as-you-go isn't entirely clear, so ringing them directly before you travel makes sense. Allow a couple of hours minimum, longer if you're doing multiple activities.

It's worth including in your itinerary if you've got active types in your group. Less interesting if everyone's after a gentle walk and an ice cream, but that's the honest assessment.