Wolverhampton Racecourse

The track at Wolverhampton sits on the outskirts of Brewood, a proper working racecourse that's been pulling in punters for over a century. Greyhound racing and the odd horse event still happen here, though the schedule's more selective than it was decades ago - worth checking their website before you head out. The atmosphere on race nights is genuine local stuff: betting slips, the smell of burgers, the roar when the dogs tear out of the traps. It's not glamorous, but that's rather the point.

For families, it depends what you're after. If your kids enjoy a bit of action and you fancy a flutter on the dogs, it's an afternoon's entertainment - though younger children might find it confusing or even slightly unsettling given the nature of greyhound racing. Admission prices vary by event, so ring ahead. Allow a couple of hours for an evening session, longer if you want to make a proper night of it.

Oakland Holiday Park sits just six miles away, making Wolverhampton Racecourse a decent option if you're staying put for a few days in the area. It's not a destination in itself - you wouldn't travel from Manchester for it - but if you're already bedding down locally and fancy something different from the usual park activities, it breaks up the routine nicely. Check their calendar first though; don't turn up on an off-night to find the gates locked.