Lough Beg nature reserve

The shallow waters of Lough Beg pull in birdwatchers from across Northern Ireland, and once you've spent an hour scanning the reed beds through binoculars, you'll understand why. It's a proper wetland - the kind of place where you're as likely to spot a marsh harrier as a moorhen, and winter brings in whooper swans that make the whole reserve feel alive in a way that photographs never quite capture.

This is very much a specialist's spot rather than a casual family day out. If you're into ornithology or simply want to stand quietly at the water's edge with your camera, you'll find three or four hours disappearing without effort. The walking is flat and undemanding, which means even modest fitness gets you to the best viewing points. Bring a decent pair of binoculars and a field guide - the information boards are useful but sparse.

Just outside Antrim, Lough Beg works brilliantly as a half-day addition to a longer stay rather than a destination in itself. If you're based at one of the glamping sites - Lough Beg Glamping sits right on the water's edge - you can slip down at dawn when the light's right and the birds are most active. Sett on The Lough and Sunset Glamping are both within easy reach too. Free to visit, naturally. April through October is when you'll see the greatest variety, though winter brings its own quieter appeal if you don't mind the cold.