AVALON ALPACAS @ Crabtree Orchard

You'll find yourself walking into a field where a herd of alpacas ambles around like they own the place - which, frankly, they seem to. Avalon Alpacas sits at Crabtree Orchard near Worcester, and it's one of those experiences that sounds daft until you're actually there, and then you get why people keep coming back.

The main draw is the alpacas themselves. They're curious animals, a bit standoffish until they decide you're worth their time, and watching them potter about is genuinely calming. Most visitors come to walk the herd through the grounds, feed them if you're allowed, and take the sort of photos that actually make sense on Instagram. Kids seem to either love it or find it a bit slow after twenty minutes - depends on the child.

It's a working farm rather than a polished attraction, so manage expectations on facilities. The setting's lovely enough, with proper countryside around you and that Herefordshire feel. Bring wellies if it's been wet. There's a decent scattering of holiday parks within five miles or so - Ockeridge Rural Retreats and Malvern View are closest if you're after a base nearby.

Not a full day out on its own, but paired with a park stay in the area and maybe a walk round the orchard itself, it's a pleasant couple of hours. Best for families with younger kids or anyone who finds alpacas more interesting than another castle tour. Check ahead for opening times and whether they're running visits that day.