The Farm Animal Sanctuary

Getting up close to animals without the pretence of a zoo is what The Farm Animal Sanctuary does, and it does it well. Based near Evesham in Warwickshire, this place lets you actually interact with the sort of creatures you'd normally only see from a distance - goats, sheep, pigs, chickens, the lot. You can feed them, handle them, learn what they eat and how they live. It's hands-on in the best way.

Families with younger children will get the most from a visit here. There's something about a toddler's face when they hand-feed a goat for the first time that makes the trip worthwhile on its own. Older kids who've grown bored of screens will appreciate the novelty of actual responsibility - mucking in with animal care, understanding where food comes from. Adults who keep chickens or harbour vague fantasies about smallholding life will find it engaging rather than saccharine.

The sanctuary works brilliantly as part of a Warwickshire holiday. Bredon-Vale Caravan and Camping is less than two and a half miles away and open year-round, making it an easy base. Plum Tree Glamping, four and a half miles off, offers something fancier if you fancy a bell tent with proper facilities. You could easily combine this with other attractions in the area - it's not a full-day commitment, more an afternoon well spent.

Bring wellies. The ground gets muddy, especially after rain. Check ahead for opening times and admission costs before you go - details aren't readily available online, which is a bit frustrating for planning purposes.