Every parent knows keeping the kids happy during the summer holidays is an all too familiar ordeal. But from this East Midlands base, you are but a short trip to a number of fantastic, family-friendly days out. Whether the Peak District National Park, Water World or, of course, the world famous Alton Towers, you are spoilt for choice with a wealth of attractions.
New for 2015, the site has added a selection of safari tents for those seeking a little extra comfort. Glampers are advised to pack light as each abode comes fully loaded with a fitted kitchen, cooking facilities, cutlery, crockery and plenty of storage space. The site has 195 pitches for canvas campers on a gently sloping field, with some spaces boasting wonderful countryside views. The flatter pitches can be found at the bottom of the field.
It’s almost too easy to get snagged by the beguiling comforts of your safari tent. But if you do decide to venture out, you will be gob-smacked by the amount of activities the region offers. Not only is there the aforementioned Water World and Alton Towers, but the Peak District itself (Britain’s first National Park) is a firm favourite with walkers who lace-up and head for the windswept and mist-shrouded peaks. Age-old stone villages fold into creases in the natural environment, and the hillsides are scattered with elegant homes and rocky outcrops which keep climbers and cavers coming back.
Close to the rolling hills of the Peak District National Park, Alton, The Star offers plenty of choice when it comes to heading outdoors. The campsite is just over a mile away from Alton Towers Resort, the UK's largest theme park, which has a host of family attractions alongside a water park and spa for those who want a little peace and quiet. The pretty market town of Ashbourne in the Derbyshire Dales is close by. The campsite is also is ideally placed to explore both the Peak District National Park and the Staffordshire Moorlands. The National Memorial Arboretum has 150 acres of trees and memorials devoted to remembrance. See the history and manufacturing methods of Wedgwood china at the Visitor Centre in Stoke on Trent where you can even make your own Wedgwood creation. Stoke is also home to several other interesting attractions including Trentham Monkey Forest - where you can see Barbary macaques roam freely in a 60 acre forest – and Water World, where the family can enjoy an indoor tropical aquapark with slides, flumes and rides.
The Ramblers Retreat country restaurant and coffee house in Alton sells homemade meals using locally-sources ingredients. You'll also find some great food at the areas many local pubs including The Fox and Goose, Bulls Head and Lord Nelson. The Star Inn right near the site entrance serves up some fine local ales as well as some excellent, contemporary English cuisine.
