Moulton Leisure Centre

Moulton Leisure Centre sits just outside Northampton - a proper community sports hub rather than a tourist destination, and that's actually its strength. You'll find a swimming pool, gym facilities, and sports courts here; the sort of place where locals come to actually do things rather than just look around.

This works best if you're staying at one of the nearby parks - Sandy Hill Farm is practically on your doorstep at under a mile away, and Billing Aquadrome is less than four miles off. If you've got kids who need burning off energy between park days, or you're after an indoor activity when the weather turns damp, it's worth knowing what's available locally. The pool is the main draw for families; the gym and courts appeal to anyone wanting to keep fit during a caravan holiday.

You'll need to check their website for current opening hours and admission prices - leisure centres vary wildly on what they charge and when they're actually open to the public. Some require membership, others sell day passes. Ring ahead before you visit, or ask at your holiday park reception; they'll know the score.

Honestly though, it's not a detour in its own right. Go if you need a specific activity, not because you're passing through Northampton. The area's got Sywell Country Park just a few miles away if you'd rather be outdoors, which is probably the better call for most park holidays.