Coggeshall Community Swimming Pool

The community pool in Coggeshall isn't going to win any architectural awards, but it does exactly what it says on the tin. This is a straightforward leisure facility where locals actually swim - no pretension, no overpriced poolside cocktails, just proper lengths and a shallow end for the kids. You'll find it's the sort of place where you can actually get a lane without elbowing past Instagram influencers, which is rather refreshing.

It's worth the detour if you're based at one of the nearby parks - Teybrook Orchard or Woodchests Glamping are both within easy driving distance - and the weather's turned gloomy. Families with young children will get a good hour out of it, older kids who can actually swim will manage two or three solid sessions. The shallow end genuinely works for toddlers, and you won't feel rushed.

Colchester's only a stone's throw away if you fancy combining a swim with some proper exploration - medieval castle, Roman walls, decent high street. That said, this is very much a use-it-if-you-need-it rather than a destination-in-itself sort of place. Worth knowing about when you've booked a glamping break nearby and fancy a change of pace, but I wouldn't make it the centrepiece of a day out. Check ahead for opening hours and session times before you visit - community pools can be a bit variable with their schedules.