Banham Zoo

The animal enclosures at Banham Zoo spread across 35 acres of Norfolk countryside, giving you a proper day out without feeling cramped or rushed. You'll see everything from big cats and primates to smaller creatures in the tropical house, and the set-up means you're not queuing for hours to catch a glimpse of anything.

It's a solid choice for families with young kids. The walking's manageable, there are animals dotted throughout rather than all bunched at the entrance, and you can easily spend three to four hours here without the day feeling stretched. Older children who care about animal welfare will probably appreciate that the zoo puts genuine effort into conservation work rather than just being a display case.

What works particularly well is how close you are to Norwich if you want to split your time - the zoo makes a brilliant half-day activity alongside exploring the city's medieval cathedral or wandering the riverside. If you're staying at Applewood Countryside Holidays just down the road, it's practically on your doorstep, which takes the sting out of travel time with restless children.

Bring comfortable walking shoes and expect to pay admission - it's not free, but fairly standard pricing for this type of attraction. Early mornings or weekday visits are worth timing for, as weekend crowds can make the narrower paths round the enclosures feel a bit tight. The café is functional rather than exceptional, so pack snacks if you've got fussy eaters.