Clacton Leisure Centre

Swimming pools, squash courts and a proper gym complex sit right in the heart of Clacton-on-Sea, making this leisure centre a solid backup plan when the Essex coast delivers one of its grey days. The facility covers all the usual bases - there's a decent-sized pool for proper swimming, plus a smaller teaching pool that works well for younger kids. Families staying at nearby Parkdean resorts like Valley Farm or Highfield Grange will find it handy when beach weather doesn't cooperate. The sports halls handle everything from five-a-side football to badminton, though you'll need to book courts in advance during school holidays. What sets it apart from typical leisure centres is the location - you can easily combine a morning swim with an afternoon on Clacton pier, which is just a short walk away. Teenagers might actually prefer an hour here to another family stroll along the seafront. The changing rooms are functional rather than fancy, but everything's clean and well-maintained. Best visited mid-morning when it's quieter, or early evening if you want to dodge the after-school rush. For holiday park guests, it's worth knowing about if you've got restless kids and the weather's turned. Won't win any architectural awards, but does exactly what it says on the tin.