Hertfordshire Zoo

The zoo sits just outside Hertford and gives families a solid afternoon without requiring a full day commitment. You're looking at the sort of place where kids will spend two to three hours comfortably - long enough to see the animals without anyone getting properly knackered.

What's on offer is fairly standard zoo fare: lions, giraffes, primates, reptiles. The enclosures are decent enough, though this isn't a sprawling estate like Colchester or Whipsnade. It's more manageable, which means less walking between sections and less chance of losing a toddler in the crowds. That said, don't expect the spectacle of a major attraction.

The zoo works well as part of a caravan holiday in the area. Hertford Camping and Caravanning Club Site is only three miles away, and Lee Valley Caravan Park at Dobbs Weir is closer still at under three miles - both convenient for a morning or afternoon visit without a lengthy drive. Combined with Theobalds Park nearby, you can build a decent few days around the town and its surroundings.

Best suited to families with young children rather than serious animal enthusiasts. Teenagers might find it rather tame, and anyone after rare species or conservation-focused experiences will be disappointed. The admission fees are typically moderate for a UK zoo, though you'll want to check their website for current pricing and seasonal variations.

Go on a weekday if you can. Weekends draw crowds, and a compact zoo becomes distinctly less pleasant when it's rammed. Spring and early summer are ideal - the animals are more active, and the weather's usually kind.