Kenwood, London

Less than an hour from central London by both public transport and car

Crowning Hampstead Heath, Kenwood is one of London's hidden gems. Roam the beautiful parkland and take in the majesty of this neo-Classical villa. Inside the house, you’ll find a stunning world-class art collection featuring masters like Vermeer, Rembrandt, Gainsborough, Turner and Constable.

Kenwood has its own café and facilties so you can enjoy an extraordinary day out with the family.

Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, Northumberland

Under an hour from Newcastle by public transport or car

Prepare to be enchanted by Belsay's Grecian architecture, medieval castle, and 30 acres of outstanding gardens. Roam through the unique micro-climate of the Quarry Garden with exotic plants around every twist and turn and enjoy the quirky open spaces around the hall and the castle.

Follow in the footsteps of the mythical Wild Man on the family trail through the grounds and gardens and swing, climb and slide in the new play area.

Audley End House and Gardens, Essex

Just three miles from Route 11 of the National Cycle Network

Audley End boasts spacious grounds and one of England’s grandest mansions. Whether you’re exploring the servants' wing, state rooms, stables, kitchen garden or beautiful grounds, you’ll discover what life was like above and below stairs at a Victorian country house.

There’s plenty for families to do, with a playground, working stables and acres of Capability Brown parkland to enjoy.

After exploring Audley, treat yourself in the café or use our dedicated picnic area while the kids are exploring the playground. 

Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden, Warwickshire

Accessible by train from Nuneaton, Coventry and Leamington Spa

Discover stories of epic sieges and royal scandals at the mighty Kenilworth Castle, with views fit for a queen.

Once one of the country’s most formidable medieval fortresses, the castle was later transformed into a spectacular Elizabethan palace by Robert Dudley in an effort to impress his queen. Uncover their royal romance and take in the extravagance of Queen Elizabeth’s private rooms before exploring the aviary, marble fountain and beautiful grounds.

With all that history you'll likely have worked up an appetite, take a seat in the café before exploring some more. 

Beeston Castle and Woodland Park, Cheshire

Just over an hour from the centre of Manchester by car

Crowning a rocky crag high above the Cheshire Plain and boasting spectacular views, Beeston is one of the most dramatically sited medieval castles in England.

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.

Completing those steep inclines deserves a treat. As you head back down, you can decide whether you fancy a light lunch or a coffee and cake in the cafe.