The Boulder Bunker

Indoor rock climbing walls and bouldering routes fill this converted space in Devon, and it's genuinely the kind of place where you'll lose track of time. The Boulder Bunker focuses entirely on bouldering - that's climbing without ropes, on shorter walls with thick mats underneath - so there's no messing about with harnesses or belays. You're climbing problems of varying difficulty, from beginner-friendly circuits to genuinely tricky overhangs that'll have you thinking twice before attempting.

This works brilliantly for families with older kids and teenagers who want something more active than the usual rainy-day indoor thing. Adults will find it properly engaging too - it's a full-body workout dressed up as fun. Younger children under about eight might find the climbing blocks a bit high and frustrating, though some venues do have lower walls. First-timers get orientation on arrival, so don't worry if you've never climbed before.

The place runs different hours depending on the day - worth checking before you go, as midweek afternoons have limited access. It's ideal if you're staying at Parkdean Resorts Torquay (just 1.7 miles away) or Brownscombe Luxury Glamping nearby, giving you an indoor option on dodgy weather days. Admission costs aren't listed online, so ring ahead. Allow two to three hours if you're properly going at it, or an hour if it's just a taster session.