Cleethorpes Pier

Walking out onto Cleethorpes Pier feels properly old-fashioned in the best way. The Victorian structure stretches 300 metres into the North Sea, and you get that genuine seaside-postcard sensation the moment you step onto the decking. Fair warning: it's exposed out there. The wind whips straight across from the water and there's zero shelter, so come prepared if the weather's turned.

The pier itself is straightforward - no amusement park theatrics. You'll find a small amusement arcade halfway along, some gift shops, and a decent cafe where you can grab fish and chips or a cup of tea without the full tearoom fuss. Kids seem to get a good hour of entertainment from the arcade machines and the sheer novelty of being surrounded by sea on three sides. For adults, it's more about the amble than the attractions. The views back towards Cleethorpes seafront are worth the walk, especially on a clear day when you can see right along the coast.

If you're staying at Haven Cleethorpes Beach Holiday Park, the pier is just a short drive away. It slots nicely into a seaside afternoon - combine it with a stroll along the beach and a chip supper and you've got yourself a proper traditional seaside day out. Admission is free and there's no time limit, so rock up whenever suits. Best visited outside summer school holidays if you want to avoid the crush, though even then it's never rammed. On a blustery autumn morning with just a handful of other people around, it's genuinely rather lovely.