Twinlakes Outdoor Waterpark

Water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools - Twinlakes Outdoor Waterpark near Melton Mowbray is the sort of place that keeps kids entertained for a solid half-day, maybe longer if they're the type to queue for every ride twice. It's an outdoor setup, so you're at the mercy of the weather, but on a decent summer's day it's proper fun. The park has a range of attractions from gentle floating areas to proper adrenaline rides, making it work for families with young children as well as teenagers after a thrill.

The nearest town is Melton Mowbray, about fifteen minutes away, which means you can stock up on supplies before heading in. If you're staying at one of the local holiday parks - The Grange or Eye Kettleby Lakes are both within a few miles - it's easy to slot a waterpark visit into a longer break without much faffing about. Allow at least four hours minimum; more if the sun's out and the queues aren't murder.

One thing to flag: being outdoor, it's seasonal. You'll want to check opening dates and times before you go, and bring waterproof bags if your phone matters to you. The setting's nothing fancy - it's very much a functional family attraction rather than somewhere trying to look Instagram-worthy. But that's fine. Kids don't care about ambience, and neither should you when they're having this much water-based entertainment.