Oatley Vinyard

You'll find Oatley Vineyard just outside Bridgwater, tucked into Somerset's rolling countryside where the soil and climate actually work in the growers' favour. This is proper West Country wine territory - they're making it here, not just selling it. The vineyard produces its own wines on site, and if you visit during opening hours you can see where the magic happens and taste what they've made.

It's worth ringing ahead to check what's on and whether there's anything specific you want to do - tastings, tours, the usual vineyard bits. The Oatley team take their craft seriously without the pretension you sometimes get at bigger operations. Families with older kids or teenagers who are into wine will find something here; younger children might lose interest fairly quickly, to be honest.

If you're staying at Secret Valley or Moorhouse Campsite nearby, you're well positioned for a half-day trip. Both sites are top-rated and within easy reach. Mill Farm is closer but the reviews suggest the other two are the better experience. Budget a couple of hours if you're doing a tasting or tour, less if you're just popping in for a look and a bottle.

Check their website before you go - opening hours and admission charges aren't always straightforward at smaller vineyards, and they may do group bookings or events that'll affect a casual visit. It's the sort of place where a phone call ahead will pay dividends.