4getmenott smallholding and Alpacas

The moment you walk through the gate at 4getmenott, you're met with a proper queue of alpacas keen to say hello. It's a working smallholding just outside Burton-on-Trent where you can get up close with these oddly charming animals - they're softer than you'd expect and far less spitty than their reputation suggests. You'll spend time feeding them, taking photos that'll make your mates jealous, and getting to know the individual personalities. Some are inquisitive, others couldn't care less.

This place works best for families with young kids or anyone who fancies something different from the usual day out. Expect to spend two to three hours here comfortably without feeling rushed. The smallholding keeps things low-key and genuine - no theme park nonsense, just you, the alpacas, and the Staffordshire countryside.

If you're staying at Kingfisher Holiday Park nearby, it's a cracking half-day addition to your trip. Close enough to pop over without eating up your whole day, but engaging enough that kids won't get bored within an hour. The actual admission cost and opening hours aren't widely advertised online, so ring ahead before you visit - saves a wasted journey. Spring and summer are best if you want to see the place in full swing and catch any young animals around.