Reaseheath Mini Zoo

You're looking at a proper working college farm turned mini zoo, tucked away on the edge of Nantwich in Cheshire. This isn't Chester Zoo - it's far smaller and more hands-on, which is precisely why families with younger kids tend to get the most from it. The animals are well cared for and there's a real sense that you're visiting a working agricultural space rather than a theme park attraction.

What you'll find are the usual suspects - goats, sheep, pigs, poultry - plus some slightly more exotic additions depending on the season. Children can get close enough to actually interact with the animals, which beats standing behind a rope watching something from fifty metres away. The whole visit takes about an hour, maybe ninety minutes if your kids are the type who want to spend ages at each enclosure.

It's free entry, which helps offset the fact that there's not masses to do if you've got teenagers or you're after a full day out. But for families based at The Willows Touring Park or Little Ranch Glamping - both within a couple of miles - it works as a lovely half-morning activity before heading into Nantwich proper for lunch. The staff are genuinely knowledgeable about the animals too, not just there to collect money at the gate.

Go early in the day when the animals are most active. Late afternoon and they're often quiet in the heat. Best suited to under-tens, really.