Herons Mead Lodges - Fun Days Out

Fantasy Island is a resort theme park at Ingoldmells on the Lincolnshire coast, close to Skegness and a short walk from the beach. Rides are split into three wristband levels, Discovery and Adventurer for thrill seekers and Little Explorer for younger children, with height restrictions applying. Outdoor rides sit alongside an indoor entertainment complex in a steel pyramid.

Beyond the rides you'll find mini golf, ten-pin bowling, amusement arcades, restaurants, cafes and bars, plus live shows at Captain Jack's Showbar and Castaways. The park says its market is Europe's largest seven-day market, and entry to the park and market is free, so you can wander round without buying a wristband. It suits families with children of different ages, and anyone after a lively day by the sea. The park is seasonal, so check it is open before you set off.

Tip: Check the park is open before you go, as it closes between seasons. Wristbands can be pre-booked online or bought on arrival, and the right one depends on your height.

Bolingbroke Castle is a ruined castle in Old Bolingbroke, Lincolnshire. It was founded in 1220 by Ranulf, Earl of Chester, shortly after he returned from the Fifth Crusade. It is one of the earliest castles designed and built without a keep, relying instead on thick walls, five D-shaped towers and a twin-towered gatehouse.

Much of the lower walls are still visible, along with the ground floors of the towers. The castle was the birthplace of Henry Bolingbroke, later Henry IV, in 1367, and it later saw action in the English Civil War before being slighted in 1652. Today it is a national monument, and its story and layout make it an interesting stop for anyone curious about medieval Lincolnshire.

Tip: Look for the lower walls and the ground floors of the towers, which are the main surviving parts to see.

Lincoln Cathedral is a Church of England cathedral and a working place of worship, consecrated in the 11th century. The building is grade I listed and has Gothic architecture from several periods, including two large rose windows, the Dean's Eye and the Bishop's Eye. The Victorian writer John Ruskin rated it highly among British buildings.

Beyond the main building, the visitor centre has an Exhibition Gallery with the Romanesque Frieze and artefacts from the cathedral's history. The Discovery Centre lets families build an arch, sit on a throne and recreate a stained glass window. Themed tours cover historic graffiti, stained glass and hidden symbols in the carvings. Dean's Green is a landscaped garden with seating and a fountain, and there is a café and shop. It suits history fans, families with children and anyone interested in architecture.

Tip: The cathedral is a living church, so some areas can close for services or events. Check the visit page for current restrictions before you travel.

Tattershall Castle is a National Trust property built in the 15th century by Ralph Cromwell, Treasurer of England. The Great Tower is an imposing red-brick keep with seven storeys, including the Parlour, Great Hall, Audience Chamber and Private Chamber. Some of the huge medieval fireplaces were once ripped out for sale abroad before being tracked down and returned.

A wide stone spiral staircase leads up to the roof and battlements, where you can look out across the countryside from the Fens. Outside, the grounds include a double moat, the ruins of the wider castle complex and peacocks. The visitor reception building is a 15th-century building with a small shop and a second-hand bookshop, and there are picnic tables near the car park.

Tip: The tower has 149 steps and no lift, and the grounds have deep gravel, so wear sensible shoes. Dogs on leads can go in most places but not inside the Great Tower, except assistance dogs.