Trampolines

A trampoline park near Salisbury that gives kids somewhere to burn off energy without you having to chase them round a field. It's the sort of place that works brilliantly on a wet afternoon when the campsites around here - Green Hill Farm, Ashurst, Longbeech and the rest - feel a bit claustrophobic.

You're looking at a proper indoor setup where children can bounce about on trampolines, usually in supervised sessions. Depending on the venue, there might be foam pits, dodgeball courts, and airbags to soften landings. It appeals mainly to families with kids aged five upwards, though very young children sometimes have dedicated sessions. Teenagers and actual gymnasts often book it too.

The obvious appeal is simple: it wears kids out fast. An hour of bouncing usually means a peaceful evening back at the campsite. The safety angle matters as well - supervising adults tend to stay alert here because the setup demands it.

You'll want to check opening hours before you go, as these places often run sessions rather than staying open all day. Sessions usually cost a few quid per child, though some places do family packages. Allow at least ninety minutes to make the trip worthwhile from Salisbury itself. Worth phoning ahead to book, especially during school holidays when it gets rammed.

It's not a substitute for exploring the New Forest or visiting Stonehenge, but as a rainy-day fix when you're camped nearby, it does the job properly.