Tidal Paws Dog Fitness Swimming Pool

Your dog can actually swim here - properly swim, in a dedicated pool designed just for them. Tidal Paws is a dog fitness swimming facility near Barnsley, which means you're not dragging your spaniel or terrier to a human leisure centre hoping they'll tolerate the deep end. The whole point is canine hydrotherapy and exercise, so the water temperature and depth are sorted for dogs of all sizes.

It's a godsend if your dog's recovering from injury, carrying a bit too much weight, or just needs to burn off energy without the joint impact of running on hard ground. Older dogs especially seem to appreciate it - the buoyancy takes the strain off arthritic legs. You'll be in the water with them most of the time, so pack a towel and old clothes. Allow a good hour including drying off afterwards, otherwise you'll be wringing out your trousers in the car.

Staying at one of the nearby parks like Mapplewell Meadows Farm or Greensprings Caravan Park works well if your dog needs regular sessions. Both are within easy driving distance, which beats lugging a damp dog across a campsite every other day. Greensprings is particularly well-rated if you're after a solid base - only 2.6 miles away.

Worth it if your dog actually needs the therapy or exercise. If you've got a young collie with endless energy, this beats a walk in the rain. Less essential if you've got a happy couch potato who'd rather nap than paddle.