The capital is a whirlwind of glitzy West End theatres, energetic East End markets, green swathes of royal parkland and architectural feats. Think gothic spires, Georgian townhouses and abstract skyscrapers resembling razors and shards – even gherkins. Step outside the 'big smoke' and relax in green spaces including Kent's (known as the Garden of England), the undulating Sussex downs and Hampshire's lush New Forest – pack your bike and riding hat. History lessons in the Home Counties transport you back in time with Irons Age forts, motte-and-bailey castles and Jacobean mansions. The scenic southeast coastline is a Hollywood star, making cameos in iconic films like Brighton Rock and The White Cliffs of Dover.
London and South East England
Learn the ropes at Chatham’s The Historic Dockyard
Immerse yourself in 400 years of discovery at the world’s most complete dockyard from the Age of Sail.
Location: Chatham, Kent
Escape the clutches of Jack the Ripper at London Dungeon
You're lost in the streets of East London where Jack the Ripper is on the prowl. Will you make it out alive? Head to London Dungeon to find out.
Location: London Bridge, Greater London
See the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London
See the stunning Crown Jewels on display at the historic Tower of London, and learn about their profound religious and cultural importance.
Location: Tower Hill, Greater London
Test your metal at Twinwoods Adventure
Bodyflight is Europe's most exciting adventure centre, featuring Indoor Skydiving, Surfing, Climbing, Racing and a simulated BASE jump.
Location: Bedford, Bedfordshire
Travel back in time at Milestones Museum
A trip to Milestones in Basingstoke brings the past to life. The museum is home to over 20,000 objects that were either made or used in Hampshire, and is a record of the county's social, industrial and transport history.
Location: Basingstoke, Hampshire
Venture to the tree tops at Go Ape!
Enjoy fun and adventure in the trees, taking on epic zip wires, Tarzan swings, rope ladders and a variety of obstacles.
Location: Wendover, Buckinghamshire
Plan your trip to Chessington World of Adventures
Non-stop adventures await all the family with thrilling rides, Gruffalo themed shows and even an on-site zoo and aquarium.
Location: Chessington, Surrey
A royal palace by the sea
Brighton is home to the spectacular Royal Pavilion, a palace like no other.
Location: Brighton & Hove, East Sussex
Prepare to be thrilled at Thorpe Park
Adrenaline-seekers will not want to miss this adventure park which has 25 thrills and attractions so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Location: Chertsey, Surrey
Get closer to the animals at Paradise Wildlife Park
Venture to Hertfordshire for an exciting day out with the family at this award-winning zoo; see a range of exotic animals and enjoy a whole host of experiences and attractions.
Location: Broxbourne, Hertfordshire
Meet Normandy veterans at The D-Day Story
Visit The D-Day Story in Portsmouth and you may be able to meet some of the men and women who took part in the Normandy Landings.
Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire
Rainy Day Activities: Treat the kids at Portsmouth's Action Stations
Let your kids loose on this indoor playground, packed with exciting activities including a ninja course and the UK's tallest indoor climbing tower.
Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire
Rainy Day Activities: Discover tropical fish at SEA LIFE Brighton
Take a deep breath and see if you can walk through the world’s largest under-sea glass tunnel at SEA LIFE Brighton.
Location: Brighton & Hove, East Sussex
Rainy Day Activities: Uncover history at the New Forest Centre
Learn more about one of the UK's oldest and largest royal forests at the indoor New Forest Heritage Centre.
Location: Lyndhurst, Hampshire
Rainy Day Activities: Enter an underwater world at Sea Life London
Step out of the rain and head underwater at Sea Life London Aquarium, and discover a whole world of aquatic life.
Location: Southbank, London
Rainy Day Activities: Discover wonders at Winchester Science Centre
Enjoy an adventurous day out for the whole family at the Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium, and learn more about our constantly expanding universe.
Location: Winchester, Hampshire
Become a zookeeper for a day
Meet the animals at London Zoo and learn how to take care of penguins, meerkats and more.
Location: London