Spitfire

Walk into this gallery near Stoke-on-Trent and you're immediately confronted by one of Britain's most iconic aircraft - a Supermarine Spitfire, sleek and purposeful even when stationary. The gallery tells the story of this legendary fighter plane through photographs, technical drawings, memorabilia and personal accounts from pilots who flew them during the Second World War. It's genuinely moving stuff, particularly if you read the letters and diaries on display.

The experience doesn't require specialist knowledge. You can spend forty minutes here if you're casual about it, or two hours if you properly engage with the exhibits. History enthusiasts and aviation buffs will find themselves rooted to the spot; children tend to prefer the hands-on simulator if there is one, though older kids interested in WWII will get plenty from it.

It's a decent addition to a caravan break in the area - close enough to Luzlow Caravan Site or Glamping at Holly Grove Farm that you won't waste half a day driving. Pair it with a walk around nearby parks or the Potteries Museum in Stoke itself if you're staying for a few days. The main drawback is that unless you're genuinely passionate about military aircraft or the war, you might find one visit is quite enough. Still, if you're touring the region with a keen aviation spotter in the family, it absolutely merits the detour.