Retford

The old market town where Georgian terraces line surprisingly wide streets feels like somewhere that's seen better days but refuses to give up. Retford sits at the crossroads of ancient trading routes, and that sense of being a proper junction still defines the place today - trains still stop here on the East Coast Main Line between London and Scotland, making it unexpectedly well connected for a North Nottinghamshire town.

Sundown Adventureland dominates the family entertainment scene with its collection of themed rides. The Robin Hood Ride plays up to local legend, while Fort Apache and Pirate Adventure offer more exotic thrills for younger visitors. Shotgun City and the Dragon provide different flavours of adventure, though don't expect Alton Towers-level excitement.

Treswell Wood Nature Reserve, just outside town, offers proper countryside escape. The ancient woodland provides decent walking and wildlife spotting opportunities when you need a break from theme park chaos.

Getting here couldn't be easier by rail - direct services from London King's Cross take around two hours. By car, you're looking at the A1 or A57, though the town centre can get congested during market days.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense for families. Places like Wild Acre Village and Hallcroft Fishery And Holiday Park put you within easy reach of both Retford's attractions and the wider Nottinghamshire countryside. You're also well positioned for day trips to Lincoln or even a push south to Nottingham itself - though frankly, there's enough here to keep the kids entertained for a proper long weekend without venturing far.