Oakham
Rutland Water - Sykes Lane · Photo: Mat Fascione
Rutland Water's Sykes Lane has a shaded, enclosed playground and mini golf, perfect for toddlers. Then drive round to Normanton to see the famous half-drowned church and have lunch by the water.
Park · 10:00–12:00 (2h)
Enclosed playground first, then a round of mini golf.
The north-shore family hub at Rutland Water, with a shaded enclosed adventure playground, a 12-hole mini golf course, a visitor centre and, in summer, a lifeguarded sandy beach. A good toddler base with space to run.
Photo: Mat Fascione
Landmark · 12:30–14:00 (1h30m)
Walk the causeway to the church, then lunch at the waterside café.
The half-submerged church on Rutland Water's south shore, now on its own causeway, with a lakeside café, a seasonal kiosk and the Rutland Belle boat stop. Flat waterside paths suit scooters and buggies.
Photo: Chris Morgan
East MidlandsNottingham city centre
Spend the morning at Nottingham Castle, where the Robin Hood gallery and optional cave tour keep children busy under cover. After lunch, head beneath the streets on a guided caves tour, then finish with hands-on science experiments at a free windmill museum in Sneinton.
Nottingham Castle → City of Caves → Green's Mill and Science Centre
East MidlandsEdwinstowe
Walk out to the thousand-year-old Major Oak and build dens near the visitor centre in the morning. After a picnic, drive a few minutes to Sherwood Pines for story trails, play areas and family bike rides through the pines.
Sherwood Forest Country Park → Sherwood Pines
East MidlandsCastleton
Day one goes underground: a boat ride through a flooded mine, Blue John caverns and a hike up to a Norman castle. Day two heads up Mam Tor for big views, then out to the Derwent dams for an easy lakeside cycle or walk.
Peveril Castle → Treak Cliff Cavern → Speedwell Cavern → Mam Tor + 1 more
