Theakston Brewery

The brewery sits right in Ripon, a working operation where you can actually watch beer being made rather than just read about it on a label. Theakston's has been brewing here since 1827, and they've kept things properly traditional - the kind of place where you'll spot copper vats and smell the malt before you've finished your first five minutes inside.

The tour takes you through the whole process. You'll see where the magic happens, learn why their ales taste the way they do, and - best bit - you get to sample a few at the end. It's hands-on enough to keep adults engaged but not so technical that it becomes a slog. Kids might find the machinery interesting for a bit, though if they're under ten they'll probably want to move on after the tasting room.

Allow a couple of hours if you're doing the full experience. Entry costs money, but the samples included soften the blow. Go mid-week if you can - weekends get rammed with groups.

If you're staying at one of the local holiday parks - Sleningford Watermill is closest at under four miles - this slots in nicely as a half-day activity. You're minutes from Ripon's market square and cathedral, so combine it with lunch and a wander around town. Woodhouse Farm Holiday Park, five and a half miles south, works too if you're basing yourself that way. Not essential, but if you're already in North Yorkshire and fancy something beyond the usual attractions, it's worth the detour.