Boat trips

Fancy messing about on the water? Southport Marine Lake's got these boat trips running every day, 11:30 to 5, which is handy if you're stuck for something to do with the kids. It's right in the town centre, so dead easy to get to. Don't expect the Caribbean, mind, it's the Marine Lake!

They've got a 3.8 rating from 35 Google reviews, so it's not winning any awards, but it's generally decent. It's outdoors, so only really worth it on a fairly nice day – check the forecast before you head down. They run all week, so it's not just a weekend thing. Give them a ring on 01704 539701 if you're not sure whether they're running.

It's a good way to spend an hour or two if the weather's playing ball, and the little ones will probably love it. It’s definitely a seasonal attraction, though, so don’t bother trying in November!

One tip: it can get busy in peak season, so maybe arrive earlier rather than later to avoid a queue.