RSPB Minsmere Nature Reserve

For a wonderful day out with the family, visit Minsmere, which is one of the RSPB’s most famous nature reserves. It has been an RSPB reserve for over 65 years and pioneered the use of observation hides and management of wetland areas to enable visitors to see a sample of the huge range of birds that pass along the Suffolk coast. However, Minsmere is more than just a birdwatcher’s site. There is a wide network of paths and trails, enabling you to experience heath, woodland, and the beach and dunes. Visitors with little ones can enjoy shorter walks along the buggy-friendly paths, while serious walkers can stride out along the longer, wilder trails. Remember to keep your voice to a whisper as you scan for secretive bitterns in the reeds. Look out for elegant, black and white avocets – the RSPB’s emblem! You may even see some otters from the Island Mere Hide. Children can have lots of fun at the Wild Zone natural play area, where they can pretend to be a bittern in the brilliant child-sized nests, climb through a giant sand martin tunnel and then build a den in the woods! Drop in to the Nature Discovery Centre to take part in family-friendly activities, or enjoy one of the many self-guided activities. You can also hire a Wildlife Explorer backpack with binoculars, a bug box, spotter guides and more. Enjoy a meal in the cafe and browse around the shop, or have a picnic in the great outdoors.