Great Central Railway - Loughborough

The railway line stretches from Loughborough northward, and it's one of those proper living museums that actually works. You can board a vintage steam train or hop on a heritage diesel - proper trains, mind you, not a theme park ride. The stock ranges from Edwardian carriages to 1950s suburban stock, and the whole operation runs on what was once the Great Central main line, closed in 1969 and brought back to life by volunteers.

The experience is best suited to anyone with a soft spot for railway history or families wanting something different from the usual theme park circuit. Kids tend to love the smell of coal and the clatter of wheels on track, though whether they'll sit still for a full journey depends on their patience. Allow two to three hours for the round trip from Loughborough, depending on which route you take.

It's genuinely well run - the volunteers know their stuff, and the attention to detail shows. Between here and the nearby parks like Bradgate Park, five and a half miles away, you've got a solid weekend. Barrow upon Soar is the closest town if you need a cup of tea beforehand.

Costs vary by journey, and booking in advance is sensible during peak season. Summer Saturdays and school holidays fill up fast. Winter running is more limited, so check their schedule before planning a trip.