England Family-Friendly Sightseeing, Attractions & Activities

recommended places to visit and things to do with children in England


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200 acres of world-renowned 19th century gardens, now restored after decades of neglect, offering secret corners and stunning displays

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Island home to a medieval castle, reached by causeway, with Norman church and sub-tropical gardens.

  • editors' choice!
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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

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largest, best-preserved of several mysterious tunnels associated with Iron Age settlements, thought to date from 5th or 4th century BC

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magnificent late Victorian country house, with the feel of a wealthy but unpretentious family home, including a rare book collection

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rescue centre in picturesque setting, specialising in seal rescue, rehabilitation and release. With daily feeding times and talks

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

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

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a fine Georgian villa designed by William Kent with a rich collection of Old Master Paintings and fine furniture. Free entry to the 65 acres of Grade I listed gardens with grand vistas, architectural delights, water features and a children's play area

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herbaceous borders, over 80 heritage pear and apple trees, over 100 varieties of snowdrops, display of antique garden equipment, children's garden and a garden trail for younger visitors. Truly, something for everyone

Longleat House

Warminster

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lose yourself in the world's longest hedge maze, visit the Elizabethan stately home or drive through the world famous safari park

Marwell Zoo

Winchester

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

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rescuing and conserving historic buildings, teaching traditional trades and crafts to ensure their preservation and sharing the untold stories of rural life

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set in a magnificent deer park, the ancestral home of the Russell family for nearly 400 years has many attractions, including a famous wild life reserve

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dating back to the fourteenth century and closely associated with many historical events. Now best known as one of the locations for the Harry Potter films

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

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lots to keep all the family busy here. From transport and industrial heritage to nature trails and craft workers

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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

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with a wide range of farm animals, exotics and birds of prey, with indoor and outdoor play to keep all ages happy

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

Beale Park

Reading

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

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designed in 1825 and completed in 1827 for William Beckford. The 120 foot tower, has uninterrupted views of the countryside, and was was constructed as a study retreat and to house Beckford's precious collection of art and rare books

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a wealth of architectural history, with buildings dating from the 14C and a superb 30-acre garden famed for its rhododendrons and unique quarry garden

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displaying exhibitions of contemporary and historic art in the spacious Saloon Galleries. The gardens are experiencing a renaissance with new planting schemes, enhancing the herbaceous borders

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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.

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situated in the beautiful parkland of the Blaise Estate at Henbury, the Museum is housed in a late eighteenth century mansion. Here you can see all sorts of familiar - and not so familiar - items from homes through history

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with over half a million specimens, such as dinosaur bones, butterflies and stuffed birds. There are many hands-on activities, and several temporary exhibitions.

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with 5,500 varieties of marine life housed in restored Victorian buildings, offering from the curious and the rescued, to the rare and the enigmatic

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

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

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

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

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

Cragside

Rothbury

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the first house in the world to be lit by hydroelectricity crammed full of ingenious gadgets – most of them still working and with one of the largest rock gardens in Europe

Croome

Worcester

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a secret, wartime airbase now a museum and visitor centre, restored parkland great for walking and with the 18th Century mansion at its centre

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stretching across 3,000 acres of ancient woodland, steeped in history, but with delightful contrasts from the picturesque dingle to the remarkable pieces by Moore and Matisse

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60 acre woodland garden with carpets of named snowdrops in early spring followed by rhododendrons, magnolias and camellias and rich autumn colours finish the season. School holiday entertainment for the children

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

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

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

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former home of Agatha Christie with a relaxed 1950s style with a large romantic wooded garden and a shop selling her novels

Gunwalloe

Penrose

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

Ham House & Garden

Richmond-upon-Thames

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Beautifully situated on the banks of the Thames. Step back in time, walking on the original marble floors and admiring the re-imagined 17th Century garden

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a classic lat 18th Century mansion with political, wall paintings by Sir Jame Thornhill and extensive, relaxed gardens and parkland

Heddon Valley

Barnstaple

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

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a family run living heritage attraction with one of the last horse-drawn barges in Great Britain

Housesteads Fort

near Bardon Mill

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

Jesmond Dene

Newcastle-upon-Tyne

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an historic park in the heart of suburban Newcastle. It is a peaceful haven for residents, visitors and wildlife alike

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

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step into this 125 acre oasis with peaceful tree lined riverside paths, picnic spots, a wetland boardwalk, and open air theatre and cinema in the summer months

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a lovely 18th Century house with an unusual drawing room pained by Rex Whistler, a permanent 20th Century art collection and magnificent gardens

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historic house and grade 1 Cornish gardens with the national camellia collection within 865 acre park on Rame Peninsula

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harbour-side Museum telling the story of Cornwall's rich maritime heritage - promotes an understanding of boats & their place in people's lives

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

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

Nostell

Wakefield

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  • architecture
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  • art
  • -
  • cycling
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

with a world class collection of furniture, textiles and wallpaper and priceless paintings inside and room to explore outside - including cycle trails -

Ormesby Hall

Middlesbrough

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

surrounded by 250 acres of park and farmland with year round seasonal walks and a colourful Victorian formal garden accompanying the mansion

Osborne House

East Cowes

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • museum
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • English Heritage
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • ceramics
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

Queen Victoria's palatial holiday home offering a treasured insight with a visit to the private apartments and the Swiss Cottage where the children played

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

a suburban palace caught between town and country with a lake, magnificent house, elegant gardens and a natural play trail with rope swings and steppingstones

  • family-friendly
  • -
  • all-weather attraction
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

with 12 individual gardens depicting countries from around the world, fantasy and culture and Greek mythology. Rare plant fairs, Christmas Food and Craft Market with summer theatre productions. Home grown produce used in the excellent restaurant

Richmond Park

Richmond-upon-Thames

  • park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • virtual tours
  • -
  • visitor centre
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • leisure facility
  • -
  • natural landscape
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • cycling
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • nature reserve
  • -
  • tourist railway
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • all-weather attraction
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • transport
  • -
  • trains
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • farm park
  • -
  • nature reserve
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

meet the farm animals, watch a falconry display, or become a farmer for a day at this friendly family country park

Sandringham

Sandringham

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • all-weather attraction
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • ceramics
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • royalty
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

the much loved country retreat of HM Queen Elizabeth ll. Explore objets d'art collected by the Royal family, or browse the classic cars in the Transport Museum

  • garden
  • -
  • park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

extensive garden of varied colour, perfume and sound with winding paths, majestic trees with self led family activities

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • photography
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

the ancestral home of Patrick Lichfield, the fashion photographer, a glamorous estate mansion with sweeping parkland and a natural play area for children

The Bowes Museum

Barnard Castle

  • museum
  • -
  • park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • all-weather attraction
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • ceramics
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

designed by Sir Roy Strong and his late wife, stretching over 4 acres, these innovative gardens reflect their interest in the arts and weaves the story of their marriage and lives into them. Picnics are welcome

The Swiss Garden

Biggleswade

  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

an outstanding example of the Regency fashion for creating landscapes in a picturesque alpine style. Also boasts a collection of vintage aircraft and vehicles. Craft activities and trails for children during school holidays

  • nature reserve
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • visitor centre
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • cycling
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

the house, home of the quirky Museum of Curiosities, is surrounded by an informal landscape of lawns, lakes, woodland, parkland and farmland

  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

lose yourself along the 200ft long herbaceous border, formal knot and rose garden, waterlily canal or riverside walk. Has a wide range of year round events, including arts and crafts and gardening courses

  • nature reserve
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • visitor centre
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

rare and exotic plants from world-wide locations with a mixture of formal and informal gardens with world famous camellias and magnolias

  • nature reserve
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • farm park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • film/tv location
  • -
  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • guided tours
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • ceramics
  • -
  • film
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • TV
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

a place of enormous character, charm and interest. Visitors are frequently struck by the warm and intimate atmosphere and the feeling that Arley is a much-cherished family home with beautiful landscaped gardens

  • nature reserve
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • visitor centre
  • -
  • cycling
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • nature reserve
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • cycling
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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 house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • all-weather attraction
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • guided tours
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • ceramics
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

a handsome Georgian mansion with a fine collection of antiques and objets d'art, including the Charles Paget Wade Costume Collection

Bowood

Calne

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • ceramics
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • needlecraft
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

this beautiful stately home houses a vast collection of antiquities, chapel, library, sculpture gallery, laboratory, costumes, adventure playground & beautiful woodland gardens

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

once the home to Sir Francis Drake with contemporary furnishings and artefacts, an impressive medieval Great Barn and extensive gardens

  • leisure facility
  • -
  • natural landscape
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • visitor centre
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • transport
  • -
  • boats
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • archeological site
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • English Heritage
  • -
  • archeology
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • natural landscape
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • cycling
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • music
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

holiday home of the D'Oyly Carte family built in the Arts & Crafts style with a joyful atmosphere enhanced by music and a 30 acre garden

  • art gallery
  • -
  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • all-weather attraction
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • ceramics
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

set in classical parkland landscaped by Capability Brown, now with an adventure playground, this period mansion is also a world class art gallery

Dartmoor Zoo

Sparkwell

  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • virtual tours
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • natural landscape
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • cycling
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

Fell Foot

Newby Bridge

  • park
  • -
  • viewpoint
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • photography
  • -
  • sport
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

Flatford

East Bergholt

  • art gallery
  • -
  • museum
  • -
  • natural landscape
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • limited opening
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • guided tours
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

this charming hamlet was the inspiration for many of Constable's paintings, famously 'The Hay Wain' and 'Flatford Mill'

  • archeological site
  • -
  • park
  • -
  • place of worship
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • World Heritage Site
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • archeology
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • religion
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

Godrevy

Gwithian

  • natural landscape
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • archeology
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • natural landscape
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • family-friendly
  • -
  • all-weather attraction
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • natural landscape
  • -
  • tourist railway
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • transport
  • -
  • trains
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

beautifully preserved railway with Victorian and Edwardian steam engines. There is also a children's playground and woodland walks

  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • guided tours
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • literature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

where Jane Austen lived and wrote some of her finest work with letters, memorabilia, illustrated books and other contemporary artefacts

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • cycling
  • -
  • fashion
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

set in over 6000 acres of woodland, a welcoming Georgian house, holding the National Trust's largest fashion collection with interactive displays

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

the Gothic Revival house is surrounded by gardens which are a masterpiece of architectural planting, home to one of the most outstanding botanical collections in the country

  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • external view only
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

20th Century gardens with hidden pathways and colourful borders using Mediterranean style planting, which takes advantage of the southerly location

  • aquarium
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • all-weather attraction
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

discover an underwater world and the conservation efforts to protect it, shown in different environments with daily talks and shows

  • nature reserve
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

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

Overbeck's

Sharpitor

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • guided tours
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

with spectacular river and sea views, this Edwardian house boasts a rare collections of exotic plants. Generations of children return to hunt for Fred the ghost

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • guided tours
  • -
  • virtual tours
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

set in a picturesque location surrounded by a deer park with family heirlooms in the castle and extensive grounds to explore

Rievaulx Terrace

Kirkbymoorside

  • historic house
  • -
  • park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

Ripley Castle

Harrogate

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • park
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • guided tours
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • cycling
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

a magnificent Georgian house which has been a family home for nearly 300 years with extensive grounds with year round interest

Sealife Aquarium

Southend-on-Sea

  • aquarium
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • all-weather attraction
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • virtual tours
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

boasting the very latest in marine technology creating an underwater tunnel allowing an all-round view of hundreds of species

  • tourist railway
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • transport
  • -
  • wildlife

operating heritage trans between Seaon ,Colyford and Colyton through two nature reserves with an unrivalled view of wading bird life

  • natural landscape
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • nature reserve
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • sport
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

set in a magical landscape, an exciting garden created by the Duchess of Northumberland containing a 120 water jet Grand Cascade

  • aquarium
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • all-weather attraction
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

set in a dramatic building with over 3,500 fish, sharks and rays with a glass lift through a 10m tank - Europe's deepest viewing tunnel -

  • fortress
  • -
  • film/tv location
  • -
  • ruin
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • English Heritage
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • local history
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

medieval Manor House which was the ancestral home of George Washington, with a tranquil garden and a 'nuttery' - a haven for wildlife

  • park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

Abbey Gardens

Bury St. Edmunds

  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

stunning gardens encompassing the ruins of the abbey with different themed sections including a herb garden and children's play area. An ideal spot for a picnic

Adlington Hall

Macclesfield

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

the rooms all display original furniture alongside paintings and portraits that bring to life the story of the house and its occupants including an important 17th Century, played by Handel. Explore the extensive gardens and challenging maze

  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • nature reserve
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • visitor centre
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • farm park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • transport
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

intimate Regency mansion with many treasures, Victorian garden and a Carriage Museum showcasing vehicles for every occasion

Attingham Park

Shrewsbury

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

surrounded by a beautiful landscaped deer park, this elegant country house has had its fortunes rise and fall; this is still visible in the building today

  • viewpoint
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • visitor centre
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • industrial heritage
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • landmark
  • -
  • sightseeing tour
  • -
  • something different!
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • industrial heritage
  • -
  • transport
  • -
  • boats
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • art gallery
  • -
  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • all-weather attraction
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • ceramics
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

a fine example of a country house estate built in the late 17th Century surrounded by beautiful gardens and with a large outdoor adventure playground

Birdland Park

Bourton-on-the-Water

  • park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • guided tours
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

Birdworld

Farnham

  • nature reserve
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

Blue Planet Aquarium

Ellesmere Port

  • aquarium
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

with a range of exhibits covering sea life and fresh water habitats from around the world. At the centre is one of the world's longest underwater moving walkways

  • leisure facility
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • visitor centre
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

Bradley Manor

Newton Abbot

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

medieval manor house - still a family home - set in riverside meadows & woodland - unspoilt & relaxing -

  • natural landscape
  • -
  • nature reserve
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • visitor centre
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • sport
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

ancient and peaceful, this tranquil Tudor manor house is far from today's busy lifestyle and is surrounded by rare terraced gardens

  • theme park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • all-weather attraction
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • wildlife

huge range of activities for children of all ages; indoor and outdoor play equipment and farm animals to meet

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • all-weather attraction
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • literature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

the ‘Great House’ referred to in Jane Austen’s letters, now sensitively restored and find inspiration in the lives and works of our women writers

Cotehele

St. Dominick

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • social history
  • -
  • needlecraft
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

atmospheric Tudor house with medieval roots, working mill on historic quay with a restored Tamar Sailing Barge and glorious gardens

  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

awarded the national Green Flag Award, a peaceful garden left as a legacy from the Fox family including many varied species

Glendurgan Garden

Mawnan Smith

  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • external view only
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

described as a "small piece of heaven on earth" by their founders, these gardens cover three valleys leading to the Helford River

Go Ape

Buxton

  • leisure facility
  • -
  • nature reserve
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • visitor centre
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • sport
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • natural landscape
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • World Heritage Site
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • cycling
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • photography
  • -
  • sport
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • all-weather attraction
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • guided tours
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

dating back to the fourteenth century with a recent up date in the twentieth, this majestic castle is surrounded by lovely gardens

Holkham

Holkham

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • all-weather attraction
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • cycling
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

an elegant Palladian stately home, with a magnificent walled garden, extensive parkland with cycle routes and children's play areas

Hughenden Manor

High Wycombe

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • military history
  • -
  • World War II
  • -
  • politics
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

country home of Benjamin Disraeli, housing a fascinating collection of his memorabilia. Also Second World War rooms, with interactive exhibits and eye-witness accounts

  • museum
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • limited opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • social history
  • -
  • literature
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

set across 11 acres, the visitor can discover the incredible world of Anglo-Saxon Northumbria and the extraordinary life of Bede - the father of English history with plenty of interactive displays and a rare breed farm with rescued animals

  • sightseeing tour
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

hop-on board to see the spectacular coastline for one hour cruise with toilets onboard and indoor and outdoor viewing areas

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • all-weather attraction
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

moated, Tudor manor with fine furniture and paintings, surrounded by period gardens and offering a variety of hands on Education Days for children

  • archeological site
  • -
  • natural landscape
  • -
  • something different!
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • archeology
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • aquarium
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • all-weather attraction
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

home to hundreds of amazing creatures from local wildlife to more exotic species from around the world

  • viewpoint
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • sightseeing tour
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • something different!
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • virtual tours
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • furniture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

this stately home spans the centuries with a colourful history and reputed ghost. There is also a Hawk & Owl Centre with a wide range of birds

  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

over 130 rare and exciting creatures with keeper talks and animal experiences - children's play area, Dragon Maze and activity trails

  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

a must see for any horticulturist with over 6000 labelled plants set in different garden zones including a Japanese Garden

  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

well-established owl sanctuary, with owls from all over the world, plus other animals, petting area, falconry and play area

  • family-friendly
  • -
  • all-weather attraction
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • natural landscape
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • visitor centre
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • natural landscape
  • -
  • viewpoint
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • military history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • nature reserve
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • natural landscape
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • cycling
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • sightseeing tour
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • wildlife

sea ferry journey from Penzance to the Isles of Scilly, with terrific views and wildlife and providing sea tours of the coast with informative commentary

  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • external view only
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

A Grade 1 registered landscape with acres of parkland and the national plant collection of rhododendron, magnolia and camellia species

  • farm park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • all-weather attraction
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

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

Batsford Arboretum

Moreton-in-Marsh

  • nature reserve
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
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  • walking
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  • wildlife

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

  • nature reserve
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  • family-friendly
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  • seasonal opening
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  • café
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  • shop
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  • nature
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  • walking
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  • wildlife

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

  • nature reserve
  • -
  • family-friendly
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  • open year round
  • -
  • café
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  • visitor centre
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  • nature
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  • walking
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  • wildlife

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

  • park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • cycling
  • -
  • nature
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  • walking
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  • wildlife

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

  • park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • nature
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  • walking
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  • wildlife

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

  • historic house
  • -
  • museum
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • all-weather attraction
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • English Heritage
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • literature
  • -
  • science
  • -
  • wildlife

Down House was Charles Darwin's home, showcasing his study, extensive gardens, and insights into his groundbreaking scientific discoveries.

  • museum
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • limited opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • maritime heritage
  • -
  • transport
  • -
  • boats
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  • walking
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  • wildlife

the most southerly point on mainland Britain this 250 year old working lighthouse offers interactive displays

  • sightseeing tour
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  • family-friendly
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  • seasonal opening
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  • nature
  • -
  • sport
  • -
  • wildlife

fishing & angling trips from Newquay Harbour - MCA licensed & insured up to 60 miles offshore - half-day, full day & evening trips

The Arthurian Centre

Slaughterbridge

  • landmark
  • -
  • ruin
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
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  • café
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  • shop
  • -
  • history
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  • local history
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  • nature
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  • walking
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  • wildlife

discover 1,500 years of legend with an exhibition room recalling the legends and history of King Arthur. Brass rubbing, nature trail and children's quiz

  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
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  • café
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  • shop
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  • wildlife

set in beautiful woodland, taking care of four different species of monkeys. Visitors receive an intimate insight into a working sanctuary with informative talks by keepers. Children's activity room and frequent workshops

Trebah Garden

Mawnan Smith

  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
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  • open year round
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  • café
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  • nature
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  • walking
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  • wildlife

beautiful gardens that tumble down to the sea with a superb collection of sub-tropical plants and a water garden. Children's play area and picnics are welcome on the sheltered and secluded beach

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • ruin
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • English Heritage
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

11 acres if gardens landscaped by Capability Brown. The history of the ruined 18th Century house is depicted in the Gate House Museum

  • landmark
  • -
  • ruin
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • English Heritage
  • -
  • archeology
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

a prehistoric monument that was started in the Neolithic period, probably between 3,000 and 2,500 BC, consisting of 42 stones in a 40-meter diameter circle

Banham Zoo

Norwich

  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
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  • café
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  • shop
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  • walking
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  • wildlife

surrounded by 30 acres of parkland and home to over 1000 animals including penguins, leopards, fur seals, tigers and zebras

  • park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • archeology
  • -
  • cycling
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • local history
  • -
  • nature
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  • walking
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  • wildlife

visitors can admire the remains of an Iron Age fort which is situated in a fine example of chalk grassland, running alongside is the Ridgeway National Trail

  • farm park
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  • family-friendly
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  • seasonal opening
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  • café
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  • nature
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  • wildlife

set on a Roman site this farm has many rare breeds that visitors can feed. See sheep shearing, foot trimming, calving & lambing in season

  • nature reserve
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  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

set on the north side of the River Blyth with a picnic area and children's play area, as well as pleasant horse and nature trails. The park covers 57 hectares of woodland and grassland.

  • landmark
  • -
  • museum
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • guided tours
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • industrial heritage
  • -
  • walking
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  • wildlife

containing much of the original machinery from the 1700s', this is the only remaining windmill on the Island. Spectacular views to be had from the cap

  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
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  • open year round
  • -
  • café
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  • shop
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  • nature
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  • walking
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  • wildlife

all year round enjoyment for everyone with landscaped parks and gardens set in a picturesque valley. Includes historic glasshouses, a countryside museum, woodland railway, indoor and outdoor children's play areas

  • sightseeing tour
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  • family-friendly
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  • seasonal opening
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  • café
  • -
  • nature
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  • wildlife

take a trip to the Farne Islands & observe the grey seal colonies. All-day bird watching is available during the breeding season

  • nature reserve
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • guided tours
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

introducing the birdlife of Northumberland and the North East. Tours with friendly guides who share their knowledge of local birds with infectious enthusiasm

  • nature reserve
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  • family-friendly
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  • open year round
  • -
  • café
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  • cycling
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  • nature
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  • walking
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  • wildlife

visitors can enjoy the lake, arboretum, woodland & adventure trails & the chance to go horse riding in this attractive complex of country parks

Blackbury Camp

Southleigh

  • landmark
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • English Heritage
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

remains on an Iron Age hill fort - impressive ramparts - now surrounded by woodland - walks - wildlife - ideal place for picnics

Bluereef Aquarium

North Shields

  • aquarium
  • -
  • family-friendly
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  • open year round
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  • café
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  • shop
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  • nature
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  • wildlife

exciting wildlife attraction designed to inspire deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural world. At the heart of the visit there are giant ocean tanks with spectacular underwater walkthrough tunnels

  • ruin
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • religion
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

with over 80 miles of riverside, woodland and moorland paths, medieval buildings, picnic areas, tearooms and restaurants, gift shops and fabulous scenery there is something for everyone

Borde Hill Garden

Haywards Heath

  • garden
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  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
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  • café
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  • shop
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  • nature
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  • walking
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  • wildlife

botanical heritage and stunning landscapes make Borde Hill the perfect day out for horticultural enthusiasts, country lovers and families alike

  • farm park
  • -
  • film/tv location
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  • family-friendly
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  • seasonal opening
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  • café
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  • nature
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  • TV
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  • walking
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  • wildlife

home of Channel Five’s ‘Mist sheepdog tales’ this 400 acre working farm is home to a flock of 700 breeding ewes, plus their lambs, holds sheepdog & Falconry displays throughout the summer - April lambing open days

  • garden
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
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  • walking
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  • wildlife

Originally opened in 1874, these Victorian gardens are bursting with floral splendour and colourful displays. Winding through the park is the garden’s lake and a multitude of pathways

  • natural landscape
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • archeology
  • -
  • geology
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  • nature
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  • walking
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  • wildlife

located in a Methodist chapel, the centre contains a selection of natural history displays covering a range of topics, including geology, archaeology, vegetation & wildlife

  • nature reserve
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  • family-friendly
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  • seasonal opening
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  • café
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  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

collection of unusual birds from all over the world. The centre also has a hospital room where sick or injured birds can be treated

  • nature reserve
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • visitor centre
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  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

over 40 different species, from tiny field mice to magnificent red deer including badgers and hedgehogs. All the natural wild life to be found in Britain, with informative displays and a conservation project to visit

  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • wildlife

one of the UK's largest zoological collections in the grounds of Bradwell Grove, in an impressive garden setting showcasing plant diversity

  • nature reserve
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • visitor centre
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

this country park includes a picnic area, forest walks & wildlife observation.

Gibside

Newcastle-upon-Tyne

  • park
  • -
  • ruin
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • external view only
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • nature
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  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

a rare example of an 18th Century landscape garden, a tree lined avenue, pockets of peaceful woodland and adventure play areas

  • farm park
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  • family-friendly
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  • all-weather attraction
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  • seasonal opening
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  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

set in the beautiful rolling hills of County Durham, a mixed farm of 290 hectares - a great day out for children who can see and touch animals at close quarters

  • historic house
  • -
  • garden
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • all-weather attraction
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • antiques
  • -
  • art
  • -
  • furniture
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  • history
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  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

an impressive, Tudor, merchant's house boasting an attractive garden and some ornate internal panelling and carvings

  • something different!
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  • family-friendly
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  • seasonal opening
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  • café
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  • shop
  • -
  • nature
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  • wildlife

informative displays about bees with educational talks & videos on beekeeping and beeswax candle making - beehives are kept behind glass

Restormel Castle

Lostwithiel

  • fortress
  • -
  • ruin
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • limited opening
  • -
  • English Heritage
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • military history
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • park
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
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  • external view only
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  • National Trust
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  • café
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  • shop
  • -
  • nature
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  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

designed by Humphrey Repton in the nineteenth century with extensive views and magnificent rhododendrons, when in season

  • fortress
  • -
  • ruin
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • English Heritage
  • -
  • architecture
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • military history
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

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

  • leisure facility
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  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • cycling
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

two lakes offering water sports, angling, walking, cycling and relaxation. Picnic area. Equipment hire and children's play area

  • nature reserve
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • seasonal opening
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

three flying displays each day with different birds in each - hawks, owls, falcons, vultures & eagles - other birds & animals - playground - picnic area

  • nature reserve
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • limited opening
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • wildlife

visitor centre highlighting the work of the hatchery - promotes the sustainability in fisheries & aquaculture - resident giant lobster - displays a wealth of information about lobsters, the fishery & marine conservation

  • landmark
  • -
  • ruin
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • English Heritage
  • -
  • archeology
  • -
  • history
  • -
  • local history
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

well-preserved, Neolithic 'dolmen' burial chamber - stands 2.7 metres (8.9 ft) high - five standing stones, surmounted by a huge capstone with wide vistas from the top of the mound

ZSL London Zoo

London NW1

  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • wildlife

old-established zoological gardens with thousands of animals ranging from majestic lions to tiny frogs, with emphasis on conservation

Blackpool Zoo

Blackpool

  • family-friendly
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • café
  • -
  • shop
  • -
  • nature
  • -
  • wildlife

Over 400 animals, from Aardvarks to Zebras. Keepers give regular talks & demonstrations to enable visitors to learn more about the animals.

  • natural landscape
  • -
  • nature reserve
  • -
  • family-friendly
  • -
  • free admission
  • -
  • open year round
  • -
  • National Trust
  • -
  • visitor centre
  • -
  • cycling
  • -
  • walking
  • -
  • wildlife

Step back in time to an authentic Fen, to one of the oldest nature reserves in the country, virtually the last of its kind left in Britain

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