Hen Reedbeds

The reeds at Hen stretch for miles along Suffolk's coast, and if you're after proper birdwatching territory, this is it. You're looking at one of East Anglia's most important wetland sites - the kind of place where you can spend a morning with binoculars and actually see something worth the effort. Bitterns, marsh harriers, bearded reedlings if you're lucky. The walks are straightforward enough, following the water's edge through dense reedbed that towers above your head in summer. There's a real sense of being away from everything, even though Southwold's only a short drive south.

It's definitely walkers and serious birders rather than families with small children. The paths can be muddy, and if your kids aren't into spotting birds, they'll get restless fast. Bring a decent guide or download an app beforehand - that's half the enjoyment anyway. Winter and spring are the best times, when migrating birds pass through and the weather drives fewer casual visitors out.

Free access, and you can easily spend two to three hours here if you're genuinely interested. Several caravan parks lie within five or so miles - Henstead Fields and Mill Hill Farm are the closest proper options for a base. Pair it with Southwold's pier and beach for variety, and you've got a solid coastal weekend. The reedbeds themselves are the real draw though. Quiet, unglamorous, and absolutely worth the trip if you know what you're looking for.