Alton Towers Resort

Fifteen white-knuckle roller coasters await at Britain's most famous theme park, and after three decades of visiting, I can confirm the hype is justified. The Smiler holds the world record for most inversions on a single ride - fourteen stomach-flipping loops that'll leave you grinning like a maniac. Oblivion remains my favourite though, that vertical drop into underground darkness never gets old.

Families with younger children get plenty too. CBeebies Land keeps the under-sevens happy for hours, while Thirteen offers just enough thrills for tweens without being too intense. The park's sprawling 500-acre site means serious walking, so comfortable shoes are essential.

Expect to pay theme park prices - it's not cheap - but if you're staying at one of the nearby camping spots like Lower Micklin Touring Park or Rue Hill Campsite, you're perfectly positioned for early starts. Getting there before the crowds makes all the difference, especially during school holidays when queues can stretch to two hours for the popular rides.

Located between Uttoxeter and Cheadle, it's easily the most significant attraction in this part of Staffordshire. Allow a full day minimum, though proper thrill-seekers will want two days to tackle everything without rushing. The on-site hotel is convenient but pricey - the nearby holiday parks offer much better value for money.