Hidden gem of a park gets a top Billing

A holiday park in Northampton for a mini break? MEG JORSH says why not, and finds it has all you could want, and more

- MEG JORSH

Meg's little girl at the pond dipping area

When you think of a relaxing place to spend a few days, you might not think of Northampton.

This East Midlands town is known for its shoe industry and transport links. Natural beauty, not so much.

But turning off one industrial estate, you could end up somewhere else entirely. I know, because I've seen it for myself.

Billing Aquadrome Holiday Park is a 235-acre breath of fresh air, complete with lakes, rivers and a marina. Where better to spend a few days with my husband and children - a nine-year-old girl and six-year-old boy - to stave off boredom?

The park offers a range of accommodation options, for visitors of all levels of hardiness. If you're a camping pro, book in your caravan or motorhome from just £25 a night.

Let's assume I'm not that person. I like to stay somewhere better than my house - and our platinum caravan fits the bill.

The kids are overwhelmed with excitement when they spot the hot tub on the deck, which overlooks a peaceful stretch of water.

From the outside, the caravans look fairly close together. But lounging in the bubbles, preferably with a drink in your hand, it feels like it's just you and the ducks drifting by on the pond.