King Swing

You're stood on the edge of Kielder Water looking at what might be the most gloriously daft idea anyone's had for an afternoon out - a massive swing that launches you over the lake. King Swing is exactly what it sounds: a pendulum ride that swings you out across the water, high enough that your stomach does a proper flip and the whole of Northumberland spreads out below you.

It's part of Calvert Kielder, the adventure hub near Hexham, so there's a full day's worth of activities if you're not just here for the swing. The swing itself takes maybe ten minutes of actual swinging time, but the wait and the adrenaline mean you'll want a good hour on site. Families with teenagers love it - younger kids might find it too intense. Adults who fancy reliving their reckless years get the most satisfaction.

If you're staying at Kielder Waterside and Lodges or Landal Kielder Waterside - both brilliant bases, especially Landal if you want high ratings and decent facilities - King Swing works as a brilliant half-day excursion. The campsite option at Kielder Campsite, five miles further out, gives you more of that proper back-to-nature feel but you'll need transport to get here.

Check their website for current pricing and opening times before you go - it's not always running, especially in winter. On a decent day in summer, though, it's genuinely worth the trip.