Mad Hatters Campsite

See a spire from the site and it’s likely to be that of Ely Cathedral, two miles away: for a closer look, drive there in five minutes or (even better) walk in on the scenic path that runs along the banks of the River Ouse. Once you’ve viewed the cathedral, you can also drop in on Oliver Cromwell’s House, poke around in the antiques market and take a boat trip. For more aquatic activities, make your way to WWT (Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust) Welney nature reserve (20 minutes’ drive) to spot wetland wildlife; bounce across the crazy floating obstacles at Cambridge Aqua Park (25 minutes), or head into the centre of Cambridge (40 minutes) to propel a punt past (and hopefully not into) the colleges. Once you’ve spotted wildlife around the site, set your sights on something rather larger with a trip to Linton Zoo (50 minutes) or a day out with the nags at Newmarket Racecourse and racing museum (40 minutes). Meanwhile, the Milton Maize Maze (half an hour) is a good bet for a bit of farmyard silliness; along with the maze, there’s also duck racing, trampolining and frisbee golf.