Southport Golf Academy

The driving range and academy sits just outside Preston, offering proper golf facilities without the commitment of a full round at one of the region's championship courses. You can work on your swing here, take lessons from pros, or just bash balls if you fancy a bit of practice. It's the sort of place golfers use to warm up before heading to the real thing, or beginners come to learn without the pressure of playing an actual course.

If you're staying at one of the nearby parks - Leisure Lakes is basically on the doorstep, and Riverside Holiday Park is less than a mile away - this works as a decent half-day activity. Families with one keen golfer in the group will find it useful; kids can have a go at the range without breaking the bank on green fees. That said, if everyone's a non-golfer, you'll be bored stiff within twenty minutes.

The academy's main draw is proper instruction. Whether you're taking lessons or just practising, the setup means you've got space to improve rather than just mucking about. Charges aren't listed online, so ring ahead before you visit. Allow an hour or two depending on what you're doing. It's not a destination on its own, but if golf's on your holiday agenda and you're camping nearby, it's worth knowing it's there.