Curran Playpark

The wooden platforms and rope bridges at Curran Playpark are strung between proper old trees, giving kids the chance to clamber about without anyone watching them destroy a manicured lawn. It's a nature reserve with actual bite - you're not just walking round looking at fenced-off birds here. The play structures blend into the woodland rather than sitting on top of it, which makes a refreshing change from the standard park setup.

You'll want to allow a couple of hours minimum if you've got young children, though honestly they could spend half a day here and still find new routes through the trees. The equipment caters to different ages reasonably well, so it's not just toddlers or teenagers getting bored after twenty minutes. Walking paths thread through the reserve too, so adults get something out of it beyond supervising.

Larne's close by if you need supplies or a cafe afterwards. Down to Earth Wild Camping sits just over four miles away, which makes this a decent option for families doing the wild camping route round Mid and East Antrim - beats driving to every attraction.

Best visited on a dry day - mud and rope bridges are a combination waiting to happen. Get there early in school holidays if you can, as the place fills up quick with local families who've clearly found their gold dust. It's not going to blow your mind if you're just passing through, but if you've got kids aged five to twelve, it's worth the detour.