Ring-tailed Lemur

You'll spot them before you hear them - those unmistakable black-and-white striped tails held high like flags as they leap through the trees. Ring-tailed lemurs in Cheshire? It sounds mad, but there's a proper population thriving in the local forests, and seeing them in something approaching their natural habitat rather than behind glass at a zoo is genuinely brilliant.

These aren't wild animals that wandered north from Madagascar - they're part of a managed group, but watching them bound through the canopy is still a proper experience. They're social creatures, so you'll usually spot them in groups, and their acrobatic leaps between branches are entertaining enough to keep even restless kids engaged for a solid hour or two.

You'll want to allow time to actually walk through the forest and spot them rather than rushing. Early morning or late afternoon tends to be better for sightings when they're more active. Admission details aren't always straightforward, so ring ahead before you head out from Chester.

If you're staying at Birch Bank Farm Caravan & Campsite or Netherwood Touring Site - both excellent bases for the area - this makes a decent half-day excursion. It's different from your standard park activity, which counts for something. Worth the detour if you're already in Cheshire and fancy something a bit unusual, though don't expect a full day's entertainment here alone.