The Little Theatre

A proper little theatre tucked away in Leicester, The Little Theatre punches well above its weight. This is the sort of place where you'll actually see the performers' faces rather than squinting at distant figures on a massive stage. The venue hosts everything from amateur dramatic productions to smaller touring shows, and there's something oddly special about catching a performance in such an intimate space.

Theatre enthusiasts and families after something different will get the most from it. Kids tend to enjoy the closeness - they can properly follow what's happening without needing binoculars. The calendar varies throughout the year, so you'll want to check what's on before planning a trip. It's the kind of venue that rewards stumbling across rather than a reason to drive miles out of your way, though if you're staying at any of the nearby parks - Green Acres, Bradgate Park, or Cossiwild Camping - it's absolutely worth an evening visit.

Location-wise, it's bang in Leicester itself, making it an easy add-on to park-based holidays in Leicestershire. Given how many caravan sites dot the area, this could be a decent rainy-day option or a cultural breather from outdoor activities. Allow a couple of hours including a pre-show pint at a local pub. Check their website or ring ahead for current productions and ticket prices.