Puffin Cruises

The boat pulls away from the quay and within twenty minutes you're spotting them - puffins in their natural habitat, bobbing about on the water like little feathered dinner guests who've had one too many. These cruises operate out of the Northumberland coast near Alnwick, and they're genuinely the best way to see these chaotic, endearing birds without disturbing them.

You'll see razorbills and guillemots too, but let's be honest - you're here for the puffins. They're comical things to watch, especially during breeding season when they're ferrying sand eels back to their burrows. The boatmen know where to find them and they keep a respectful distance, which the birds seem to appreciate.

It's not a long trip - expect to be out on the water for a couple of hours maximum - but it's proper absorbing. Kids will be glued to the railings, and even if you're not particularly bothered about ornithology, there's something meditative about drifting along the cliffs. The sea can be choppy though, so don't assume it's all smooth sailing. Bring a waterproof and consider your stomach's capacity for boat movement.

Spring and early summer are peak season - May and June especially - when you're most likely to spot puffins actually doing something rather than just sitting there. Weather dependent, and you'll want to book ahead during school holidays.

If you're staying at Woodland Chase Glamping nearby, this pairs nicely with coastal walks around the area. It's a proper half-day activity, not something to build a whole day around, but it's the kind of thing you'll remember.