Huthwaite Leisure Centre

The leisure centre sits on the edge of Sutton-in-Ashfield, a working town that doesn't pretend to be anything fancier than it is. It's the sort of place where locals come to swim, play badminton, use the gym - the everyday stuff that keeps a community ticking over. You'll find indoor pools, sports halls, and the usual fitness facilities. Nothing glamorous, but genuinely useful if you're camping at Silverhill Woodland Retreats or one of the other parks nearby and want to break up the week with something active on a rainy afternoon.

Who gets the most from it? Families with restless kids needing a proper swim and a slide. Active types who don't want to lose their routine while on holiday. It's not a destination in itself - you're not driving an hour out of your way for this - but it solves a problem. The pools are warm enough for small children, and the staff generally know what they're doing.

It's free to use if you're a member, which you won't be as a visitor. Day rates exist but you'll need to ring ahead or check their website to find out the exact cost - the usual leisure centre setup. Bring your swimming costume and lock your valuables away. Two hours is about right, including changing time. Visit mid-morning on a weekday if you want to avoid school groups and serious swimmers doing laps. It's functional rather than fun, but that's precisely why it's worth knowing about.