Lincolnshire Wildlife Park

The big cats are what draw most people here, and fair enough - watching a tiger pace about never gets old. Lincolnshire Wildlife Park sprawls across decent grounds just outside Boston, and you're looking at giraffes, zebras, wolves, and the sort of creatures that make kids press their noses against the glass. It's a proper zoo experience without feeling cramped, though don't expect the scale of somewhere like Chester.

You'll need a good three to four hours to see it all without rushing, longer if you've got restless children who want to stop at every enclosure. The place works well for families after a day trip routine - you're close enough to Boston town centre if you want shops or a bite to eat, and there's enough going on to keep under-tens engaged. Teenagers might find it a touch run-of-the-mill unless they're genuinely into wildlife.

If you're camping nearby - Riverside Caravan Park and Waites Farm Glamping are both within spitting distance - it's worth building into your East Midlands break. The park sits reasonably well as a half-day stop between other attractions, though I'd check opening hours and entry fees before you head over, as details aren't entirely clear. Weather matters here like anywhere outdoors - come on a grey, drizzly day and the wandering gets tedious. Pick decent conditions and you'll have a decent morning out.