Hengistbury Head, Bournemouth

A wild headland at the eastern end of Bournemouth's beaches, with heathland, woods and a sandy spit, and views over Christchurch Harbour, the Isle of Wight and the Needles. It's a nature reserve with birds and wildflowers, and people have lived here since the Stone Age.

Walk the 4 km circuit around the headland, or take the little land train to Mudeford Sandbank, a spit lined with colourful beach huts. A ferry crosses the harbour to Mudeford Quay. There's a visitor centre and café by the car park.