10 best coastal birdwatching spots

For rare sightings

Isles of Scilly, off Cornwall

Being out in the Atlantic Ocean, the Scilly Isles get more than their fair share of migrants blown off course - willow warblers and chiffchaffs can turn up in spring, and autumn can see hoopoes, golden orioles and purple herons, among others, including dramatic-looking flocks of shags (left). Travel to St Mary's by boat or air from Penzance and take it from there.

Isles of Scilly Tourist Information Centre (01720 422536, simplyscilly.co.uk).