1. Come face to face with the civil war at Bolsover Castle

15 min drive from Chesterfield | By train: Chesterfield 6 miles | Bus: visit traveline.info 

Kids will love: interactive exhibitions, castle-themed play area, half-term events

Be transported to the Stuart age of extravagance at Bolsover Castle. Explore the riding school and roam the gardens and ruined Terrace Range and take in the stunning countryside views from the restored wall walk.

Families will love the interactive exhibition in the stables, and kids can let their imaginations run wild in the castle-themed play area which is located next to the café so the adults can refuel before exploring more of this grand castle.

3. Experience life living in a country house at Brodsworth Hall and Gardens

16 min drive from Doncaster | By train: Doncaster 5.5 miles | Bus: visit traveline.info 

Kids will love: pleasure gardens, lots of open space, half-term events

Brodsworth Hall was built in the 1860s for the Thellusson family, but as the family’s fortune diminished, the house and gardens gradually fell into decline and disrepair.

Today, the Victorian pleasure gardens have been expertly restored to their former glory, and are the perfect place for a family adventure in the fresh air. The house has been gently conserved to tell the stories of the generations of people who lived and worked here. During the winter the house is closed, but the servant quarters remain open. The gardens are the perfect place for a winter stroll through the statue walks, the fern dell grotto and the beautiful dells.

5. Learn how to swing a Medieval sword at Dover Castle

2 min drive from Dover Town Centre | By train: Dover Priory 1.5 miles | Bus: visit traveline.info

Kids will love: interactive exhibitions, secret tunnels, rooftop views, lots of open space, half-term events

Set atop the famous white cliffs, Dover Castle was built soon after 1066 and remains one of the best kept fortresses in England. At its heart lies a history of royal intrigue, epic sieges and to the biggest evacuation in military history, evacuating hundreds of thousands of Allied troops from Dunkirk

Inside the castle walls you can discover 80 acres of grounds, battlements, an immersive exhibition in the Secret Wartime Tunnels and a recreated medieval palace – including royal bedchambers and Kings’ Hall complete with throne - before climbing the roof for amazing panoramic views.

Dover Castle has toilets, disabled access and a dedicated picnic space. The property is a short walk from the town centre so you can finish your day with a delicious meal by the coast.

7. Follow in the footsteps of King Arthur at Tintagel Castle

On Tintagel Head, 600 metres along steep uneven track from Tintagel on foot | Bus: visit traveline.info

Kids will love: footbridge, coastal views, beaches with rock pools and caves

Immerse yourself in history, myth and stunning scenery at Tintagel Castle on Cornwall's rugged north coast.

Inextricably linked with the legend of King Arthur, for centuries this dramatic castle and coastline has fired the imaginations of writers, artists, and even the brother of a king. Now it's your turn to be inspired.

Tintagel Castle is a historic site situated on the clifftops of North Cornwall. Due to the rugged coastal landscape, there are steep slopes, sheer drops and uneven surfaces which can present a challenge to visitors.

9. Be a Lord or Lady at Kenwood

Hampstead Lane | By train: London Overground Gospel Oak or Hampstead Heath | Bus: visit traveline.info

Kids will love: lots open space, hands-on activities, fancy dress, self-guided trail

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 cafe and facilities so you can enjoy an extraordinary day out with the family.