Bell Plantation Garden Centre

If you’re looking for a low-key afternoon out near Towcester, this place punches above its weight. The poultry centre is genuinely interesting — kids around 7 to 9 seem to get proper stuck into checking out the birds, which makes a nice change from screens. There’s a play train on site that keeps younger ones entertained while you have a wander round the garden centre at your own pace. Grab a coffee and a slice of cake at the café before you leave — it’s worth it. Parking’s easy and the loos are there when you need them.