Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway

The narrow-gauge railway winds through 200 acres of woodland and gardens on the Isle of Wight, and it's genuinely one of those places that works for almost everyone. You board a proper little steam train - the kind that makes a proper noise and smells like hot metal and coal - and ride through the estate while taking in rhododendrons, azaleas, and woodland paths that wouldn't look out of place in a storybook.

Exbury itself is the real draw for garden enthusiasts. The collections are substantial without being overwhelming, and you can spend three hours here or just one, depending on your mood. The steam railway journey lasts about forty minutes return, which is the sweet spot for young kids who might otherwise tire of walking. Adults tend to hang around longer, exploring the quieter sections on foot.

It's worth knowing upfront that this isn't a freebie - expect to pay for both the gardens and the railway, though combined tickets usually work out better value. Spring and early summer are peak times, so if you can visit in late May or early June, you'll catch the rhododendrons in full swing without the crowds of school holidays.

If you're basing yourself at one of the nearby holiday parks - Lepe Beach Campsite is closest at just over two miles away, or Parkdean Resorts Thorness Bay if you prefer more facilities - Exbury makes for a half-day trip that genuinely fills the time without feeling like a slog. Bring good shoes for the woodland walks, and don't expect a massive cafe, though there are refreshment options.