Nottingham School of Blackbelts

The Nottingham School of Blackbelts is a proper martial arts facility where you can watch or take part in everything from kickboxing to Brazilian jiu-jitsu. It's the sort of place that appeals instantly to anyone who fancies learning a combat sport without the pretension - the instructors here actually know their stuff, and the atmosphere is welcoming rather than intimidating.

You'll find it in Nottingham itself, making it straightforward to slot into a broader trip around the city. If you're staying at Nottingham Camping and Caravanning Club Site just four miles out, or Shelford Nurseries Caravan Park a bit further on, you're within easy striking distance. The facility works best for anyone aged roughly eight upwards - younger kids can sometimes do taster sessions, but the proper classes demand a bit of focus.

Class times and pricing aren't fixed across the board; different disciplines run on different schedules. The Pro Am Centre side of things handles competitive training, so if you've got a genuine interest in stepping into a ring, this is where serious athletes prep. Casual visitors can often watch from the side lines, though it's worth ringing ahead to check what's on and whether you need to book.

Spend an hour watching, or three hours if you're actually training. It's brilliant for active families who don't want the standard holiday activities, though do manage expectations - this isn't entertainment theatre, it's proper sport. Nottingham's got museums and parks for the quieter moments.