Cloud Aquarium

The tanks at Cloud Aquarium pull you in straightaway - glass cases running the length of the space, fish moving through water with the kind of purpose that makes you stop and actually watch for a minute. It's in Doncaster, easy enough to find, and the whole thing feels less like a theme park and more like someone's serious collection that happens to be open to visitors.

You're looking at tropical fish mainly, the sort of thing that'll hold kids' attention for a solid hour or so before they start asking for the gift shop. Adults who actually know fish - freshwater enthusiasts, aquascapers - will find proper specimens here, nothing like the depressing tanks you see in some seaside towns. The staff know their stuff, which makes a difference when you're trying to work out what you're actually looking at.

It's free to get in, which is the right price for what you're getting. Allow an hour, maybe ninety minutes if you're thorough or have young kids who need explanations for everything. Doncaster itself has enough going on that you won't feel trapped if the weather turns, but it's the kind of stop that works brilliantly if you're based at Sunnyview Touring Park or Bawtry caravan park - both close by - and fancying something low-key between proper days out.

Don't expect drama or performance tanks. This is quiet, genuine stuff. Worth the detour if aquariums interest you at all.