England Family-Friendly Sightseeing, Attractions & Activities

the world's oldest and largest continuously occupied fortress, one of the Queen's main residences, with impressive state rooms and chapels

Europe's best preserved medieval fortress, inextricably linked with centuries of British history and home to the British crown jewels

packed with over 1000 years of history and set in splendid grounds, there is plenty to see and do including State Rooms, dungeons and falconry

spectacular setting atop the White Cliffs of Dover, this large fortress includes a Roman lighthouse and secret wartime tunnels

high above a meander in the River Irthing, in one of the most picturesque settings on Hadrian's Wall. A Roman fort, turret and milecastle can all be seen on this excellent stretch of the Wall.

a formidable fortress spanning some 900 years of conflicts and sieges. Mary, Queen of Scots, was imprisoned here for some 19 years

the most remarkable Roman remains in the country, a real insight into Roman military life and discover the past behind the archaeological remains

fairytale fortress ruins are all that remain after the castle was destroyed by Parliamentarians in the 17th Century with stunning views of the coast

immerse yourself in history, myths and stunning scenery at Tintagel Castle set high on Cornwall's rugged north coast. Inextricably linked with the legend of King Arthur

a romantic fairy tale castle with an intriguing past with a rare, original port culls in the gatehouse

impressive castle built by William the Conqueror in 1068 and housing an original copy of Magna Carta. A cinema with a wraparound screen tells the story

the largest Norman keep in Europe, built on Roman foundations, now a local history museum with several significant collections

Ruins of 15C castle, formerly a Norman manor house. Fields nearby were the setting for the tournament in Sir Walter Scott's 'Ivanhoe'

overlooking the River Tees and dating back to the 14th Century and lived in by Richard lll

crowning a rocky crag and boasting spectacular views. On a clear day you can see all the way from the Pennines to the Welsh mountains. With a 4,000 year history, a replica Bronze Age roundhouse and a 40-acre woodland park

these extensive remains were once an 11C motte-&-bailey castle built by William of Normandy's half brother

tucked away in a deep wooded valley, this romantic ruin has the preserved remains of an Elizabethan mansion. An audio tour is available

the largest Roman fort in County Durham. A small part has been excavated and is open to visit. Explore the remains of a Roman bath house with its amazing under floor heating system

seventeenth century Bolsover Castle is a wonderful place to imagine the Golden age of Chivalry. Set on a hilltop overlooking the Vale of Scarsdale, it offers panoramic views over the surrounding countryside

now used for University accommodation, however visitors can still tour round the Norman castle

commanding fantastic views, these ruins are in remarkably good condition. Picnics welcome

sits atop a rocky promontory, remains of an artillery fort built by Henry VIII to defend Fowey Harbour. Access via a narrow winding foot path

well-preserved and elaborately decorated coastal artillery fortress designed to mount heavy 'ship sinking' guns with audio tour available and picnic area