Crick Marina

The Grand Union Canal at Crick is where things get interesting if you fancy a break from the usual caravan park routine. The marina itself is a working mooring point rather than a tourist attraction in the traditional sense, but it's the sort of place that rewards a proper wander. You'll see narrowboats coming and going, the canal stretching out in both directions, and enough waterside activity to keep you occupied for an hour or so without feeling like you've paid for the privilege.

This works best for families with kids old enough to appreciate the boats, or anyone who's ever had even a passing interest in canal life. There's something oddly compelling about watching the lockkeepers do their thing and spotting the different names painted on the boat hulls. It's free to walk around, and you can grab a coffee or a bite at the marina cafe if you're staying nearby at Bunkers Hill Farm or Steepleton Lodge Glamping - all are within four miles.

Don't expect a major day out. Thirty minutes to an hour is realistic unless you're the type to sit and read by the water. Spring and summer are best; the canal's busier and there's more life to watch. Winter's quieter, which some prefer. The nearby Lutterworth is your closest town if you need supplies, but honestly, the marina itself is the whole reason to be here. It's a quiet spot that feels genuine rather than manufactured for visitors.