Model Boat Lake

Radio-controlled speedboats zip across the water while youngsters clutch their controllers with fierce concentration. This proper little lake near Clacton-on-Sea draws model boat enthusiasts from across Essex, and watching the miniature vessels navigate the calm waters is surprisingly entertaining. Children absolutely love it here - the combination of remote control gadgets and splashing boats keeps them glued to the waterside for ages.

Families staying at nearby holiday parks like Valley Farm or Highfield Grange will find this makes a lovely morning out, especially if the weather's turned a bit iffy for the beach. The lake itself isn't huge, but there's enough space for several boats to operate without collisions becoming a constant worry.

Bring your own model boat if you've got one, though plenty of visitors simply enjoy watching the regulars put their crafts through their paces. The skill some of these enthusiasts demonstrate is genuinely impressive - their boats can reach remarkable speeds and execute tight turns that would make a real skipper envious.

It's free to visit and watch, though you'll want to check locally about bringing your own vessel. Allow an hour or so unless your children become completely absorbed, which happens more often than you'd expect. A cracking little spot that proves you don't need massive attractions to create proper family memories.