Thirsk Sculpture Park

The sculptures rise unexpectedly from the grassland near Thirsk, stopping you mid-stride on what you thought was an ordinary moorland walk. Metal figures and abstract forms catch the light differently depending on where you stand, which means you end up circling each piece trying to work out what you're actually looking at. It's part art gallery, part nature reserve, which makes it feel refreshingly low-key compared to the formal sculpture parks you get down south.

You're walking through open countryside here, so decent footwear matters and the wind can properly bite. The whole experience takes two to three hours if you're taking your time, which you should be - rushing defeats the point. Families with older kids do well; the sculptures give them something to hunt for and the wide open space means they can run about without causing chaos.

It works brilliantly as a break from the usual park holiday routine. If you're staying at Woodland Lakes Lodges or Hillside Caravan Park - both close by - this gives you a proper walk without the commitment of a full fell day. The nearest town of Thirsk provides the practical bits you'll need before or after: coffee, lunch, somewhere to warm up if the weather turns. Timing it for late morning means you can lunch in town afterwards. Free to roam and no crowds, which frankly is the best kind of outing. The art won't change your life, but the walk certainly will.