Pinnacle Climbing Centre

Spotting the towering climbing walls through the windows from the car park, you know you're in for a proper workout. This purpose-built climbing centre on the outskirts of Northampton offers everything from beginner-friendly routes to seriously challenging overhangs that'll have experienced climbers breaking a sweat.

The facility spans multiple climbing walls of varying heights and difficulties, plus bouldering areas where you can practise moves without ropes. Staff are genuinely helpful with newcomers - they'll get you kitted out and show you the basics if you've never clipped into a harness before. Experienced climbers will appreciate the route variety and regular resetting.

Families with kids over eight will find this works well, though younger ones might lose interest after an hour or so. The weekend morning sessions tend to be busier with families, while weekday evenings draw the serious climbing crowd.

Expect to pay standard indoor climbing rates - it's not cheap but the equipment hire and instruction justify the cost. Allow two to three hours for a proper session, though beginners often find their arms give out sooner.

With Billing Aquadrome Holiday Park and several other parks within a few miles, this makes a decent active day out from your caravan base. Perfect for burning off energy before heading back to base, especially if the weather's turned against outdoor activities.