Cleaner Ponds

Cleaner Ponds is a small aquarium on the Isle of Sheppey, just outside Sheerness, where you can get up close to freshwater fish and aquatic life in indoor tanks. It's the sort of place that works best if you've got young kids in tow - they'll spend a good hour watching the fish, tapping on glass (don't let them), and generally finding it mesmerizing. Older children might lose interest faster unless they're already keen on marine biology.

The setup is modest rather than sprawling. You're not talking about an enormous complex here - it's more of a local attraction that fills a rainy afternoon when you're staying nearby. That said, if you're after proper entertainment value, it's worth checking what species they've got on display before you commit, as the exhibits can vary.

If you're based at Sheerness Holiday Park, which sits just 0.7 miles away, it's practically on your doorstep. Even the slightly further options like Shurland Dale Holiday Park - about 4 miles out - won't require much of a journey. Admission details are thin on the ground, so ring ahead before you visit to confirm opening times and whether there's a charge. Best for a quick stop rather than a full day out, but useful to know if the weather turns grim during your coastal holiday.