Watersports Centre

The Watersports Centre sits on the outskirts of Milton Keynes, offering a proper splash of activity if you're staying at one of the nearby parks like The Old Dairy Farm or Gullivers. It's the sort of place where you can have a go at kayaking, paddleboarding, or whatever water-based activity takes your fancy - the exact programme depends on the season and water conditions, so it's worth ringing ahead before you visit.

Families with teenagers will get the most from it, though younger kids can join in with the right supervision. It's not a theme park - don't expect queues or crowds - but that's rather the point. You're looking at a couple of hours maximum if you want to try one activity, longer if you're booking a proper lesson or course.

What makes it genuinely useful for a Buckinghamshire caravan holiday is the straightforward proximity to Milton Keynes itself. You're never more than a short drive from the town centre, other parks, and the wider attractions of the area. It breaks up a week nicely if your kids are the active type and you can't face another day at the playground.

The water's cold even in summer, so bring a wetsuit or accept you'll spend the first five minutes getting used to it. Admission costs vary depending on what you book - casual sessions are typically cheaper than lessons - and it's free to watch if you just want to scope it out first.