Minsmere is the most popular of the RSPB reserves and with very good reason.  The Suffolk coast, where it is situated, is itself a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.  Minsmere can boast the widest variety of species for an area of its size anywhere in the UK due to its mixture of habitats.  The sea, beach and dunes are just outside the reserve and inside there are reed beds with meres, the famous scrape, heathland, woodland and grazing marsh.  The nature trails and eight birdwatching hides (four of them suitable for wheelchairs) offer superb views of all the habitats and the rare and interesting birds and other wildlife. 
The impressive list of breeding species includes Common and Little Terns, Avocets, Nightjars, Bearded Tits, Marsh Harriers and Bitterns. 

Every season brings something good to see at Minsmere. 
In the Winter Bewick's Swans, Wigeon, Pintail, Teal, Gadwall and White-fronted Geese may be found. 
The migration brings many different waders to the scrape including spotted redshank, Black-tailed godwit, little stint and some rarities. 
Summer brings the breeding birds already mentioned as well as possible sightings of Grasshopper, Savi's, and Cetti's Warblers, Marsh Harrier and Nightingale to name but a few. 

Bearded Tit by John Busby

The reserve at Minsmere is well endowed with facilities.  The a visitor and interpretation centre includes a shop and tearoom with adjacent picnic area.  Binoculars may be hired to increase the pleasure of your visit. The toilets include facilities for disabled visitors.  RSPB Members may visit the reserve free of charge on production of membership cards.  There is a charge for non-members.  More information is available from the RSPB web site.