School is out for summer, and if you’re looking for a day out during the summer holidays then English Heritage doesn’t disappoint.
From historic sites, including palaces, castles, abbeys and Roman forts, it is the time to experience history first-hand with some great spots to explore.
English Heritage and their loyal followers have listed the top ten family days out around the country. And, with our membership offer you could be exploring them too with up to 25 per cent off gift and annual memberships here.
Stonehenge, Wiltshire – one of the world’s most famous places, it took the top spot with English Heritage’s top family days out list. A must-see for everyone and kids can marvel at the mysterious prehistoric site and tick it off their bucket lists. Check it out here.
Fun, fun, fun at Dover Castle (Image: English Heritage)
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. Be inspired on the website.
Osborne, Isle of Wight – explore the private family life of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert and take part in the Family Tree Trail. There’s the added advantage of being near the beach so head on down and enjoy an ice cream this summer. Check out Osborne via this link.
Tintagel Castle, Cornwall – a spot on one of Britain’s most dramatic coastlines, Tintagel is an atmospheric spot with endless opportunities for discovery, exploration and imagination. See the sights and sounds of Tintagel on the English Heritage website.
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. Check them out here.
Battle Abbey Playground is great for a day out this summer (Image: English Heritage)
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. Save via this link.
Whitby Abbey, North Yorkshire – voted third place as the most popular day out with English Heritage’s Facebook fans, this awe-inspiring location has a fascinating history and top-notch visitor centre. Plan your day at the Abbey via this link to all you need to know here.
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! Check it out via this link.
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. The castle is one of the county's must see locations...explore here.
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. Get the lowdown on what's happening this summer via this link.
Will you be ticking off the top ten places or discovering others closer to home?
Remember, there are numerous other English Heritage sites you can visit this summer and to save on your visit, we’ve teamed up with English Heritage to offer 25 per cent off gift and annual memberships which gives the chance to see its sites in every season.
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.
Want to find out more? Simply click here.
Use code AFFNW25 at the checkout.
Offer ends: December 31, 2026.
T&C’s: For use on new membership purchases only. Annual direct debit only.