Camping purists will say, "all you need for a perfect getaway is canvas and a campfire". Others however, may want a little more luxury when it comes to facilities and creature comforts. Covering both bases is Tattershall Lakes; souped-up camping for the social, and an ideal destination for fun families and groups wanting to discover rural Lincolnshire.
The park is set over a large area dominated by dozens of lovely lakes. The site's 210 pitches are spread across a vast grassy space they call the 'Woodland Retreat', a secluded meadow surrounded by trees, with a separate area for touring vans looking for more sturdy hard-standing spots. Luxury Bell Tents are available and come equipped not only with beds, duvets and pillows, but also electric lights. In terms of site facilities, there's everything you need with clean and modern shower blocks, a handy shop and a fully-equipped launderette. Add to that a bar (with Wi-Fi access), children's adventure playground, an indoor swimming pool, spa, gym and even a lakeside beach, then you start to get an idea of just how much there is to keep the family entertained.
Watersports enthusiasts will rejoice at the activities available on the 180 acre lake. There's a wakeboard park (complete with quarter pipe), jet and water skiing, and, for those who like to take it a bit easier, pedalo hire. There's also a well-stocked fishing lake where carp, pike, bream or eel could be your catch of the day.
With all those activities and entertainment (only available from end March – October), you'll find time flies by at Tattershall, but it would be a shame to leave having not explored this special part of the country. Lincolnshire has a rich cultural heritage, long stretches of golden sands, and areas of unspoiled natural beauty. The many medieval castles and historic houses in the area offer you a momentary trip back in time, while the coastal nature reserves give you the chance to really get away from it all. If you're planning a winter visit make sure you head to Donna Nook Nature Reserve where grey seals arrive in November and December to give birth to their pups. Bird lovers will enjoy a visit to Gibraltar Point where the salt marshes, lagoons and sand dunes are home to a huge variety of bird species.
This local area also has huge significance for the RAF and is where many of the country's airmen were stationed during World War II. You can take a hanger tour at the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Visitors Centre (at RAF Coningsby), where you'll see Spitfires, a Hurricane and a Lancaster up close, and get a glimpse into the lives of the men who flew them.
Lincolnshire is rich in history. Lincoln Castle (01522 782040) dates back to medieval times but was also the home to a Victorian prison and the impressive Lincoln Cathedral (01522 561600) is worth a visit for it's stunning gothic architecture. The National Trust property Tattershall Castle (01526 342543) boasts a classic tower and moat while Belvoir Castle (01476 871001) is set in beautiful countryside. For more impressive architecture, head to Belton House (01476 566116) in Grantham (also a National Trust property) and Burghley House (01780 752451) in Stamford. If that's enough culture for you then a trip to the seaside may be in order. From the candy floss and amusements of classic English resort Skegness, to quieter spots such as Sutton-on-Sea, it's a lovely stretch of coast. South of Skegness lies the unspoiled nature reserve Gibraltar Point (01754 898057), or why not spot the seals at Donna Nook nature reserve.
Accommodation comes fully equipped with everything you need to prepare your own meals and there's a choice of supermarkets and convenience stores nearby to stock up on supplies. The Boathouse Bar and Diner onsite serves food through the day, including breakfast. Lincolnshire has been voted the country's food capital and there are no shortage of good places to eat nearby. The Bluebell Inn (01526 342206) is a quaint British pub in the nearby village of Tattershall. Dating back to the 13th century and a favourite haunt of RAF Bomber Command in WWII, the pub serves delicious food in a cosy, welcoming environment. Tattershall Park Country Pub and Dining (01523 268957) serves pub classics in a modern setting and The Village Limits pub (01526 353312) in nearby Woodhall Spa is a good option for Sunday lunch. Satisfy a sweet tooth at Just Desserts (01525 352445), also in Woodhall Spa, a cafe specialising in Belgian waffles, cakes and sundaes.