Castles and historic properties
Peacocks strut across manicured lawns, children shriek with delight as they try to find their way out of fiendishly difficult mazes, and well-kept gardens dazzle year-round at England’s many historic houses and well-preserved castles. Once inside, enthusiastic curators bring history to life with their expert knowledge and often funny insights into the lives, loves, and artefacts of generations of inhabitants. Castle breaks give you more chances of bumping into the present owners of an English castle, many of whom still live in wings of the properties. Just don’t forget to retrieve your children from that maze before you head home.
Enjoy a romantic escape to Broughton Castle
Stroll hand in hand through the beautiful gardens and grand Elizabethan manor of Broughton Castle on a romantic break in Oxford.
Location: Banbury, Oxfordshire
Unlock Kent's Magna Carta secrets
Celebrate historic England and mark the 800th anniversary of Magna Carta by exploring Kent’s weird and wonderful connections to the great charter.
Location: Canterbury, Kent
Take a peek behind the ancient walls of Christ Church
Discover the fascinating history of Christ Church with an exploration of this majestic college, Great Tudor Hall and Cathedral.
Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire
August events: Enjoy a brass band concert at Hertford Castle
On the 18 August, Hertford Castle Gatehouse will open its doors to the public - free of charge - with a brass band concert on the Castle lawn.
Location: Hertford, Hertfordhsire