Wonford Sports Centre

Wonford Sports Centre sits on the eastern edge of Exeter and serves the local community with a decent range of facilities rather than pulling in the tourist crowds. You'll find a swimming pool, gym, badminton courts, and a sports hall - the sort of place that's genuinely useful if you're staying in the area and fancy a workout or a splash about rather than another museum visit.

It's worth knowing the opening hours vary quite a bit. Weekdays run 11am to 10pm, but weekends drop to 8am-6pm, which catches out plenty of people planning an evening session. Admission isn't free, but rates are reasonable for a local authority centre - check the website for current prices as they tend to shift.

Families with restless kids might appreciate the pool on a rainy afternoon, though it's functional rather than thrilling - no slides or lazy rivers here. If you're serious about staying fit during a break, the gym is competent. Allow an hour for a swim, longer if you're doing a proper session. Badminton players will find decent courts if you're after a game with mates.

The real draw is its convenience if you're based at Devon Heaven Hideaways or Castle Brake Holiday Park nearby. Both are proper comfortable options, and having Wonford five minutes away takes the pressure off endless outdoor activities. On a grey Devon day - and there will be at least one - it's a solid backup plan rather than something to specifically travel for.