The Hilt

You'll find The Hilt just outside York - a proper sports complex that's far more interesting than the name might suggest. It's basically a working farm that's been converted into an activity centre, and the whole setup feels genuinely laid-back rather than corporate.

What you actually get is a chance to have a go at clay pigeon shooting, fishing on their lakes, and various other field sports. The shooting is the main draw - they run instruction sessions if you've never done it before, which beats turning up cold. There's a decent tearoom too, though don't expect Michelin-star fare.

This is one for adults really, or older teenagers who aren't easily bored. Young kids might find twenty minutes enough before wanting to move on. The fishing appeals to patient types, walkers who fancy breaking up a day with something different.

It's worth ringing ahead to check what's on and book if you're doing the shooting - they don't always have everything running. Entry itself is free, though activities cost separately. Allow a couple of hours if you're trying the shooting, less if you're just browsing.

If you're staying at Nurseries Caravan Park or Wagtail Park nearby, The Hilt makes a decent half-day diversion from standard holiday park fare. It's close enough to York that you could easily pair it with a city visit, though the contrast between here and the medieval streets is pretty stark. Best on a dry day - the ground gets boggy otherwise.