Cliff Road car park

The car park at Cliff Road isn't why you've driven to this corner of Hampshire, but it's where your day actually starts - and it's worth knowing what you're in for. This isn't a destination in itself; it's the gateway to one of the New Forest's best coastal walks, perched on the edge of the Solent with views across to the Isle of Wight. You'll park up and immediately feel the salt air. From here, the clifftop path drops down to shale beaches and mudflats that reveal themselves at low tide, and the whole stretch is properly dramatic if the weather's turning.

Walkers will get the most out of this spot - it's the jumping-off point for rambles along the forest edge, and the terrain changes constantly depending on tide and season. Families with young kids might find the car park itself less gripping than, say, somewhere with a visitor centre or facilities, though there's something honest about that rawness. Allow a couple of hours minimum if you're actually walking, or just 20 minutes if you're after the views and a stiff breeze. It's free to park, which is always a bonus.

If you're staying at Lepe Beach Campsite nearby, this is a natural extension to your afternoon - less crowded than the beach itself, and you'll spot proper birdwatchers with serious telescopes. Go when the tide's out and you've got real options for where to wander. When it's in, the drama's more about the sky and water meeting.