Hillmorton Wharf Marina

The canal basin at Hillmorton sits quietly on the outskirts of Lutterworth, a working marina where narrowboats come and go with the unhurried rhythm of inland waterway life. It's the sort of place where you'll see proper canal culture happening - boats moored up, people tending their vessels, the odd lock to watch if you time it right. There's a towpath running alongside that stretches in both directions, making it ideal for a gentle walk or a cycle ride away from the main roads.

This works best for anyone who actually likes canals rather than those expecting theme park excitement. Families with young kids might manage half an hour poking about, but older children and adults who appreciate the slower pace of waterway travel will get more from lingering here. If you're staying at one of the nearby caravan parks - Manor Farm is only three miles away - it's worth the short drive for a break from your pitch, a walk along the towpath, and a chance to spot some of the more interesting narrowboat designs.

There's no admission charge and no set hours to worry about; you simply turn up and explore the towpath on foot. The marina itself is working water, so it's not a destination to dedicate a whole day to, but coupled with a walk towards the locks and perhaps a pint at a canalside pub, it slots nicely into a park-based weekend. The flat terrain makes it accessible for pushchairs too, which counts for something.