Nothing beats standing on the spot where history happened and as a charity, English Heritage ensures more than 400 of its sites, including palaces, castles, abbeys and Roman forts, provide the opportunity to experience history first-hand.
English Heritage and their loyal followers have revealed the top ten family days out around the country and with a membership offer you could be exploring them too!
1. Dover Castle, Kent – the ‘Key to England’ for more than 900 years, the castle boasts a long and eventful history and has recently unveiled the Dover Castle Under Siege visitor attraction and new playground. Find out more here.
2. Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden, Warwickshire – one of the most spectacular castle ruins in the country, children can follow in the footsteps of royalty and get hands-on with an action-packed programme of events and activities. See more about Kenilworth by clicking here.
3. Whitby Abbey, North Yorkshire – voted third place as the most popular day out with English Heritage’s Facebook fans, Whitby Abbey is an awe-inspiring location has a fascinating history and top-notch visitor centre. More info here.
4. 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield, East Sussex – families can spend the day exploring atmospheric ruins, learning in the interactive discovery centre and visiting the very spot where King Harold is said to have fallen in 1066. Want to know more? Visit here to find out more about Battle Abbey!
5. Tintagel Castle, Cornwall – a spot on one of Britain’s most dramatic coastlines, this is an atmospheric spot with endless opportunities for discovery, exploration and imagination. Find out more here.
6. Pendennis Castle, Cornwall – from the adrenaline-pumping action of a medieval joust, or the historic castle tunnels, Pendennis Castle is a standout favourite among adventure-seeking families everywhere. More info here.
7. Carisbrooke Castle, Isle of Wight – a hilltop-crowning fortress offers all of the ingredients required for a fabulous family day out including panoramic views from the keep and Carisbrooke's most beloved residents, the donkeys! See more about Carisbrooke here.
8. Wrest Park, Bedfordshire – space is one of the biggest appeals here. More than 90 acres of historic landscape surround the mansion… children could spend days here and never get bored! Find out more here.
9. Framlingham Castle, Suffolk – this 12th-century fortress has a long and colourful history making it a top family destination. Themed trails and lively audio tour and walks are all part of the appeal. Discover more here.
10. Audley End House and Gardens, Essex – English Heritage’s Facebook fans voted this as a popular choice for families. Beautiful grounds, including a specially themed play area, fully restored historic stables and Victorian Service Wing make for a lively visit. See more here.
If this has whetted your appetite for exploring English Heritage’s sites, there’s much more to see and do.
We’ve teamed up with English Heritage to offer 25 per cent off gift and annual memberships. So, if you’re stuck for a gift idea this Christmas, this could bring joy for the recipient all-year-round.
What’s more English Heritage membership allows every member to take up to six children under the age of 18 within the family group into any of the English Heritage properties at no extra charge.
Living, breathing, inspiring: history isn’t just something to read about, it’s something to experience first-hand and an English Heritage membership can certainly grant a journey of discovery!
Want to find out more? Simply click here! Use code NEWSQ25 at the checkout.
Offer ends: December 31, 2024
T&C’s: For use on new membership purchases only. Annual direct debit only.
