Kidgrove Ski Centre

The slopes at Kidgrove might be artificial, but they're genuine enough for a proper afternoon out if you're camping nearby in Cheshire. This small ski centre sits just outside Stoke-on-Trent and gives you a chance to practice your technique without flying to the Alps - or dragging yourself to the Lake District for winter conditions that rarely materialise.

You'll find dry slopes here, which means year-round skiing and snowboarding lessons. It's not a day-long mission like a proper mountain resort, but rather a solid two to three hours if you're learning or brushing up skills. The place works brilliantly for families with kids keen on winter sports, though don't expect them to be entertained all afternoon - most children get the gist of it and want moving on after that.

If you're staying at Castle Camping or Sky View just down the road, this makes a cracking afternoon stop between woodland walks and exploring the surrounding Cheshire countryside. The proximity to Stoke means you're not completely cut off from civilisation either, though you'll want to check current opening hours and whether lessons are running before you trek over.

Truly, it's less about the skiing itself and more about breaking up a park holiday with something different. Worth the detour for families with ski-mad kids, less so if anyone in your group thinks snowboarding sounds daft. Ring ahead to confirm they're operating before you go.