Chapel Farm Meadows

Bounce on, slide down and climb the inflatable structures at Alderford Lake (10 minutes’ drive), where there are also kayaks and paddleboards for hire (and introductory lessons, if you’re a newbie). For a different lakeside experience, head to The Mere - Ellesmere (15 minutes), with waterside paths and birdwatching. On the outskirts of Wrexham, National Trust - Erddig (25 minutes) is an elegant mansion from the 17th century with expansive grounds that include forest, lakes and meadows. Check out the natural play area in the woods and the Erddig Cup & Saucer Hydraulic Ram, an artificial ground-level waterfall. Take a walk atop the medieval walls in Chester (35 minutes) or climb up the tower of the 11th-century cathedral – either activity comes with great views of the city. The history of Chester goes all the way back to the Romans, who left an amphitheatre and a mosaic-dotted garden.