Burry Port Lighthouse

The lighthouse at Burry Port is a proper working beacon that's been guiding ships into Carmarthen Bay since 1832. It's a squat, sturdy tower painted white and red - not the dramatic lighthouse you might be picturing, but there's something appealing about its no-nonsense design. You can see it up close from the harbour wall, where it sits among fishing boats and old stone quays that tell you this is a real working port, not a prettified seaside resort.

This isn't a destination that demands hours of your time. Fifteen minutes to wander down to the waterfront, take a photograph or two, maybe watch a boat come in - that's the honest measure of it. The walk itself is pleasant enough, especially if the weather's kind. Families won't find much to do beyond the photo opportunity, but if you're a lighthouse spotter or someone who appreciates maritime history without the theme-park treatment, it's well worth a detour when you're based at one of the nearby caravan parks - Shoreline Caravan Park is barely half a mile away.

The real appeal is context. Pair it with a ramble around Pembrey Country Park two miles north, where you've got proper woodland and coastal paths, and you've got a proper half-day out. Go when the tide's out if you can - the exposed beach and mud flats give you a clearer view of how the lighthouse actually works within the landscape. There's no entry fee that I'm aware of, and no hours to worry about - it's there, weathered and functional, whenever you fancy visiting.