Beaconside Sports Centre

Active families staying around Stafford will find this sports centre a proper godsend when the weather turns. The centre offers swimming pools, fitness facilities and courts for various sports - exactly what you need when camping starts to lose its appeal after three days of drizzle. It's the sort of place that saves family holidays when everyone's getting on each other's nerves in a cramped caravan.

Swimmers get the best deal here. The pools are well-maintained and there's usually space for a proper swim rather than dodging toddlers in armbands. Courts are available for badminton, squash and similar indoor pursuits, though you'll want to book ahead during school holidays.

Families based at nearby parks like Stable Park Holiday Park or The White Lodge will find it's close enough for a quick visit without eating into your entire day. Worth checking opening times before you trek over - sports centres can have peculiar schedules, especially at weekends. Don't expect anything fancy, but it does the job when you need to burn off energy or escape the great British weather. An hour or two here sorts out restless kids and gives parents a break from outdoor activities.