Thatcham Reedbed Nature Reserve

The reedbed at Thatcham is one of those places that stops you dead in your tracks - particularly if you're expecting nothing more than flat farmland near Newbury. Push through the visitor centre and you'll find yourself surrounded by three hundred acres of wetland that genuinely feels like another world. Bitterns boom in spring, marsh harriers quarter the reeds, and on a still morning you might spot a water vole if you're patient enough.

This is proper territory for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers. Casual visitors will find the main viewing platforms manageable - there's a wooden boardwalk and observation hides scattered about - but you'll get far more from it if you know your warblers from your warblers. The whole reserve opens year-round and admission is free, which feels like a small miracle. Allow a couple of hours if you're serious about it; thirty minutes if you're just passing through.

For families staying at Rhodeside Caravan Club just down the road, it's an easy morning outing when the kids are bird-spotting mad. The boardwalk keeps younger legs happy without being boring. Hollington Park Glamping, a bit further out, makes a good base for exploring further afield - combine it with walks along the Kennet or trips into Newbury town centre.

Winter and spring are best. Summer can get weedy and insectile in the worst way. Bring binoculars and decent boots.