England Open Spaces Guide

stately home, architectural masterpiece, housing an outstanding art collection and stunning interiors, set in 1000 acres of parkland and featured in Brideshead Revisited and Victoria

world famous open-air theatre in stunning cliff-side location, with visitor centre and exotic, sub-tropical, coastal garden. An exhibition tells the life and times of Rowena Cade, the founder

stunning scenery and natural beauty at Cornwall's most westerly point with cliff top walks, the First & Last House, famous signpost

popular family attraction with animal petting and feeding, undercover play area, pony rides, goat racing and walking. Fun for all the family

miles of trails in this mixed woodland, popular with dog walkers, cyclists and horse riders with stunning viewpoints, picnic and BBQ areas

This is the iconic Liverpool waterfront landmark with the buildings known as The Three Graces and the popular Beatles sculpture.

100s of animals – including giraffes, tigers & penguins, set in a 140-acre park with daily talks and animal feeding and 4 adventure playgrounds

attractions for all the family from the adventure playground, to go karts, with farmyard animals, a maze and character shows in the Alice Theatre

Suffolk's largest reservoir offers a whole host of activities. Sailing, Windsurfing, fishing, walking & cycling are the most popular. Camping is also offered

set around the river, the park offers a variety of fun for the whole family. Features include boating, fishing, steam trains, assault course & much more

famous miniature village set in 4 acres with animated scenes, many with a sense of humour, capturing the essence of England's past

set between Bath and Bristol, the home of fun things to do, exciting live horse racing fixtures and high-quality hospitality events

ruins of Norman abbey, built on the site of the 1066 Battle of Hastings, with battlefield views, visitor centre and Victorian walled garden

bringing the downland landscape & vegetation to life through a series of displays & an audio-visual show

specialising in captive breeding of rare birds and providing a relaxing environment with extensive playground areas and a miniature ride on train

opened originally as a Victorian garden in 1843, with modern attractions including a water coaster, maze and themed areas

with a continuous reputation for excellence, innovation, and dedication to conservation. It's the fifth oldest zoo in the world

peaceful island with diverse wildlife, including the famous red squirrels and with spectacular views across the harbour

deer park with ride on tractor and trailer rides, farm animals which can be handled by the children, picnic area and adventure playground

a great fun filled family day out with over 100 acres and a variety of rides to suit all ages with indoor and outdoor activities

dramatic section of the coast with spectacular views across Bedruthan Beach, rock stacks and walks along the coastal path. Steep cliff staircase

renowned for its magnificent gardens, Chatsworth has something to offer for all the family with a wide programme of themed exhibitions throughout the year

set on the edge of the Black Country, a green oasis with panoramic views, geocaching, and perfect picnic spots

an open air attraction offering animal interaction and outdoor play in the countryside with a wide variety of animals for llamas to racoons

Durdle Door in Dorset is a natural limestone arch on the Jurassic Coast, renowned for its striking geological formation and picturesque, scenic coastal walks.

the Exmoor pony is the oldest native pony breed in Britain, around 350 still live free on Exmoor

offering unrivalled close ups of thousands of puffins, Arctic terns and guillemots (May to July) and seal pups in the autumn. Charges apply including members

explore the rich natural wetlands and western dry heath a result of the extensive mining operations. 7 mile circular multi use trail

the edge of the lovely town of Grassington in the heart of Wharfedale, with large car park and picnic facilities

showcasing best practice in care and health whilst allowing visitors to get close and interact with the animals in a fun and informal way

a site of archaeological importance surrounded by dunes, beaches, a medieval church and a reedbed rich in wildlife

dramatic West Exmoor coast, favourite landscape of the Romantic poets with spectacular coastal, moorland and woodland walks

Kielder Castle is the visitor centre for Britain's biggest forest with over 250 square miles to explore with exhibitions about forestry and conservation

make the most of the great outdoors. From paddling on the Beaulieu River to cycling through the beautiful New Forest woodland, adventure awaits

come and meet the animals at this working farm with a variety of play areas for children, inside and out

home to over 2000 animals in six different habitats and dedicated to protecting global wildlife heritage with feeding times and keeper talks

covering 2500 acres, escape to the great outdoors with wide open spaces, grasslands and deer herds, just a stone’s throw from central London

the park is packed with activities, from cycle trails to an adventure playground - fun for all ages

come and meet the animals and learn about farming at this sheep and cattle farm with an up-to-date playground. Picnics welcome

set around Rudyard Lake, this narrow gauge railway runs throughout the year. The Lake is a family centre for picnics, sailing, boating, walking and fishing

a treasure trove of objets' d'art including the famous silver swan automaton surrounded by luxurious gardens and parklands with children's play area

sanctuary and working farm home to 500 donkeys in need of care, where visitors can meet the donkeys

spot kingfishers, hand feed geese at World Wetlands and stroll gentle, quiet paths to watch wildlife. Stunning views and children's play area

where the lush valleys of East Lyn and Hoar Oak Water meet giving a haven for wildlife and offering excellent walking

internationally important wetland site, with up to 40,000 ducks, geese and swans visiting each year with five hides on the site for watching the wide range of wildlife that visit the reservoir

unique colony of nesting Mute swans which were established in the 11th century by monks to provide food for banquets and now a cage free sanctuary for free flying swans

facilities include children and teenage play area, boating lake, roller skating rink, visitor centre and cafe, fishing platforms and sports facilities

65 acres with a reservoir at the centre with camping and 'glamping' facilities.the Home Farm is children friendly and includes a nature trail and horticultural garden

a friendly welcome and a superb layout awaits. Set in mature parkland, open grassland and gorse with panoramic views out to the sea which is five miles away. Gents par 70 and ladies par 73 course

offering a range of activities and attractions. A petting farmyard, a range of craft shops, children's playground and a train ride round the site

185 acres of extensive conifer woods and moorland with forest walks and viewpoints including a summit of 266m above sea leavel

enjoy magnificent views, woodland walks, and open heathland. Discover the rhododendron labyrinth and the many unique wooden sculptures. Children’s play area with a hazel maze and log train in the Natural Play Area

this popular beauty spot is set within an ancient valley with numerous walking trails to the falls & through the woodland - indoor & woodland theatre - petting zoo - reptile house - events & activities - picnic area

historic harbour and short canal, now a regeneration project with visitor centre. Rowing boats for hire and a great place for a leisurely walk

Excellent preserved ancient villages, with an excellent example of an underground stone-walled passage, known as a ‘fogou'

a sensational survivor of ‘the wildwood’ that once covered much of Britain, where post-glacial melt waters have carved out some spectacular limestone cliffs and gorges

focusing on vernacular buildings – the past houses and workplaces of ordinary people that are gradually disappearing from the landscape

remains of 2,000 year-old settlement with traceable village street and houses, with an underground passage, known as a 'fogou'

get up close and personal with the vast array of animals in 33 acres of woodland, from Chincha the Jaguar to Kelloggs the Corn Snake

from majestic reservoirs, quiet forests and wild open spaces there is something for everyone to explore in the Upper Derwent Valley

7 hectare park with mountain views across Windermere, wild play area and multiple activities on and off the lake for all ages and abilities

founded in the twelfth century, these magnificent ruins echo with centuries old stories. Wonderful walking with ancient tree avenues and a playful water garden

Glastonbury Tor in Somerset, with its iconic tower, offers panoramic views, rich mythological associations, and a captivating history linked to Arthurian legends.

ancient and atmospheric estate with walking trails, medieval garden, mine remains and historic house (house open on limited dates).

awe-inspiring coastal views of St Ives Bay and the sheltered coves and sandy beaches, including a view of Godrevy Lighthouse

beauty spot on the edge of Bodmin Moor with spectacular cascades and a number of well defined walking trails and teeming with wildlife

with a wide range of wild and farm animals, including sheep racing! With indoor and outdoor children's activities

collection of large cats and venomous snakes on display. Various shows, talks and demonstrations

located 24 miles off the North Devon Coast with a wealth of flora, fauna and excellent bird watching. Boats sail from Ilfracombe or Bideford

there are a range of walks available to suit different abilities and time scales however sturdy footwear is recommended for all trails

built in 1862 and used during both world wars, with the original gun barrels in place all brought to life with vivid displays and cartoons

Europe's largest collection of otters, owls and other with animal encounters, feeding sessions and keeper talks throughout the day

grand and tranquil historic house with an impressive ionic temple, a woodland play area and outdoor games for children. Picnics welcome

lived in by the same family since the fourteenth century with armour and portraits of the family down the centuries and extensive gardens and parklands. Picnics permitted

set around beautiful Rutland Water and covering 4,200 acres of open countryside, the park offers everything from walking and cycling to fishing and water sports

set in Kensington Gardens, this seasonal gallery showcases an innovative programme from contemporary creatives from across the world

with a nature trail and waterfalls, which is illuminated during the summer evenings, this gorge has been a popular visitor attraction for over 200 years

surrounded by the striking Bodmin Moor, with a wide range of activities including sailing, windsurfing, canoeing and fishing. Outdoor children's playground

with 15,000 specimens, and 2,500 species of tree from all over the world, the stunning arboretum plays a vital part in research and conservation

Whinlatter is home to stunning views, fantastic walks, exhilarating mountain biking, rare wildlife and adventure play

creating the story of the rainforest, this exotic wildlife park has many unusual and rare animals. Conservation is the driving force behind the zoo, participating in breeding programmes and public education

79 acres woodland reserve five miles north of Kingsbridge - mainly composed of oak, birch & beech trees - diverse flora of bilberry & ferns - supports a good bird population - also large numbers of dormice - two circular way-marked trails

boasting a giant indoor play barn, and over 250 animals. Plus reptile handling, meet the ferrets, cuddle club, chipmunk feeding, meet the boas, outdoor adventure play & inflatables

lauded as "Britain's most beautiful waterway", the canal runs through unspoilt countryside in the heart of North Hampshire. The Visitor Centre provides a history exhibition & information point

providing on site information about the canal and sightseeing trips on the historic working boat during the warmer months

with something for everyone and boasting an outstanding collection of conifers, this large pinetum is a beautiful setting for family picnics

seven acres of woodland & waterways are home to some of the worlds most exotic birds, including flamingos & parrots. Tropical & temperate houses & a children's play area

a wide variety of birds in wonderful surroundings. Discover the Forest Lodge Garden Centre and children's farm

set amid the Staffordshire Moorlands, Blackbrook Zoological Park is one of the largest and varied collections of some of the most rare and endangered species of birds in the world and includes a collection of small mammals and reptiles

five acres of woodland and arboretum, planted since the early 90s. Contains an avenue of witch hazels and rare trees, including over 30 oak species and cultivars, and the most complete collection of winterberries

Working farm with farm animals tractor and pony rides. Other activities include lambing, shearing & brass-rubbing

a traditional park with open spaces, attractive floral bedding and a recently updated children's play area

site of the Battle of Bosworth between Richard III and Henry Tudor in 1485 with many interactive exhibits explaining this significant battle

850 acres of natural parkland surrounding the ruins of Bradgate house, home of Lady Jane Grey, the 9 day Queen of England. Also featuring extensive wildlife

admire the panoramic vista across the water and the wide variety of wildlife from the Wildlife Centre reached by a boardwalk

set in the beautiful Peak District National Park, this leafy course is beautiful in all seasons – a lush green tunnel high up in the tree tops

explore the forest on two wheels, foot or horse back, discovering the unique sculptures dotted throughout the forest on the way

discover surprisingly cosy homes carved into the rock. Walk across Kinver Edge, buzzing with wildlife. Quirky tea room inside a rock house

400 acres country park surrounding one of the highest hills in the area - which may have had religious significance in prehistoric times

overlooking what is still one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world, where Marconi undertook some of his pioneering radio experiments

view the stunning Cornish coastline whilst watching out for sea wildlife with knowledgeable and experienced guides for 1.5 and 3 hour trips

bought in 1888 for the princely sum of £3,120. Originally created in 1841, they are now home to a surprising variety of plants, shrubs and trees

wildlife sanctuary and indoor play centre, home to World Parrot Trust with a fabulous, colourful collection of rare and endangered parrots

providing a sanctuary for a wide variety of exotic animals with animal talks, demonstrations and animal petting area. Picnics welcome

riverside site of the sealing of Magna Carta, with memorials to same, John F Kennedy and the Commonwealth Air Force

wildlife park with a wide range of animals from all over the world. Daily talks and displays. Large children's play area

spanning some 450 acres, and home of the legendary Robin Hood, the forest offers something for everyone of all ages and abilities

first lighthouse to be powered by electricity with a real flavour of a working lighthouse, surrounded by wildflower meadows and great wildlife viewing

pony centre with farm animals and extensive children's activities with a giant indoor play barn, go-karts and outdoor Astra Wave Slide, trampolines, rowing boats

commanding views across the Fal estuary and beyond. Famed for its military history for centuries, there are big guns, batteries and fortifications to discover. With level paths from the car park to the headland

cliff-nesting seabird colony, with 3 viewing points giving superb views of the colony and on a clear day the Isle of Man is visible

a great family day out with British and Asian Short Clawed Otters and wallabies. Muntjac and Fallow deer roam the 21 acre grounds and enjoy a woodland walk with conservation activities

largest area of woodland in West Cornwall with 9 miles of paths from easy going to more challenging set in 250 acres of peaceful woods and lakes. Picnic area

18 mile largely traffic free, surfaced and virtually level multi use trail which provides access to the beautiful Cornish countryside along a disused railway line between Wenfordbridge, Bodmin, Wadebridge and Padstow

Whitehouse Farm is a 40 acre farm centre that has been entertaining and educating people of all ages since 1997

Windsor Great Park in Berkshire encompasses vast landscapes, ancient woodland, historical monuments, and the Long Walk, offering picturesque views and royal connections.

large private collection of trees and shrubs set in 50 acres with many rare and unusual trees

200 acre Victorian Park on the South side of the Thames with a children's play area and children's zoo and a small gallery

beautiful landscaped area surrounding an impressive collection of 66 owls from around the world. Visit the creepy crawlies & flying displays

home to a variety of wildlife with 500 plant species and 200 species fo birds set on a limestone promontory with 200 feet high cliffs

situated on Nottingham's urban fringe this 450 acre park is made up of pleasant grassland & secluded woods with many beautiful mill lakes and many picnic spots throughout

try to 'catch your own' trout at this working trout farm, where all the stages of development of the fish can be seen. Also a chance to buy a variety of plants

country park set in 120 acres with a network of paths leading through wetland and wildflower meadows

5 acre fly-fishing lake - Rainbow & Brown Trout are stocked all year - between 2lb’s and 22lb’s - continuity of size & high standards - friendly capable staff - also well-stocked farm shop & water gardening goods incl. pond plants & ornamental fish

natural landscape - dramatic clifftop with far-reaching views - levelled circular walking trails - breathtaking coastal landscape - hotel & inn nearby

get a bird's-eye view of West Cornwall from this 90 ft high granite obelisk on top of Carn Brea with a winding staircase to the top

Hampstead Heath in London offers expansive green spaces, stunning city views from Parliament Hill, swimming ponds, and a mix of natural and landscaped beauty.