Lytchett Bay Nature Reserve

The mudflats and salt marshes at Lytchett Bay are where you actually get to see Dorset's working wetland in action, rather than just reading about it. You're looking at tidal channels cutting through reedy ground, wading birds you'll need a proper field guide to identify, and the kind of light that makes photographers forget to eat lunch.

It's genuinely excellent for birdwatchers - bring binoculars and a notebook. Winter brings visiting wildfowl, but spring and autumn migrations are when things really get interesting. The reserve is open access, so there's no admission fee and you can wander the paths for as long as you like, though two hours is a solid morning visit.

This works perfectly alongside a caravan stay at either Wareham Forest Tourist Park or Hunter's Moon, both within easy drive. You're about five miles from Poole, close enough to nip into town for supplies but far enough that you feel genuinely out of it. The walking is gentle - no hills to speak of - which means families with younger kids won't spend the entire time complaining about tired legs. That said, it's not a destination for those after obvious attractions. If your idea of a nature reserve involves playgrounds and visitor centres with hot chocolate, look elsewhere.

Go early morning for the best light and fewest people. The bay can be muddy underfoot after rain, so proper footwear isn't optional. It's a proper local's spot where you might see more birdwatchers than families, and that's exactly the appeal.