Tornado Springs

Tornado Springs is a theme park in Wiltshire that plays on the American roadside carnival aesthetic - think Wild West meets fairground chaos. You'll find the usual ride offerings: coasters, spinning rides, that sort of thing. The appeal is straightforward enough if you're after a day of noise and adrenaline with the family.

It works best for kids aged roughly 6 to 14, though thrill-seekers of any age might find something worth their time. Younger children could get restless if they're below the height restrictions for the main attractions. Adults tend to enjoy it more when they've got little ones to shepherd around rather than trying to squeeze enjoyment out of it themselves.

Location-wise, you're just outside Ashurst, which means it slots reasonably well into a holiday around the New Forest area. Green Hill Farm Holiday Village sits just 3.2 miles away, as does Ashurst Campsite, so you can stay close without having to camp in the car park. The other sites - Longbeech, Ocknell, Matley Wood - are all within comfortable driving distance too.

Practical details are thin on the ground online, so you'll need to check their website for current opening hours, admission prices, and seasonal closures before you head out. Summer weekends will be rammed, so a weekday visit in the school holidays is smarter if you can manage it. Allow a full day if the kids are keen, though some families manage it in half a day and head elsewhere.