The forecast was not promising: intermittent April showers and gusts of wind. Luckily the doom-mongers got it completely wrong so we – my family of four and another of five – found ourselves shedding layers at RSPB Rainham Marshes under big skies and hazy sunshine.

Created on former army land, these medieval marshes beside the Thames were rehabilitated during the noughties as a new flagship reserve, complete with snazzy eco-visitor’s centre, 2.5 miles of boardwalks and cycle paths, a kids’ play area and adventure playground, plus obligatory gift shop.

There was an Easter quiz provided, spurring the kids along the woodland trail. The theme was eggs. Which bird lays the largest eggs? What is the record for a blue tit clutch? (Ostrich and 19). Bribes of biscuits and exciting sightings such as marsh frogs, beautiful butterflies, baby coots and a swan sitting on her nest got them round the whole circuit and into the café for chocolate cake without significant complaint. To our delight, our bird list for the day comprised 33 species. Hoorah!

Last word went to my daughter: “I love Rainham Marshes.”

Images by Nadine Mellor