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
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
A royal palace by the sea
Brighton is home to the spectacular Royal Pavilion, a palace like no other.
Location: Brighton & Hove, East Sussex
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
Escape to Greenwich for a London city break with a difference
Greenwich - the home of time - is just ten minutes from central London and is a great base to explore the sights of the capital.
Location: Greenwich, London
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
Drift along on a Canterbury Historic River Tour
Take a boat trip along the River Stour for a relaxing and slightly different Canterbury experience.
Location: Canterbury, Kent
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
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
December events: Visit Hyde Park at Christmas and witness a Winter Wonderland
Gather the family and get your skates on for the UK’s biggest outdoor ice rink at London’s Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park.
Location: London
Step on board HMS M.33, a small ship with a big history
Visit Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard this summer and you'll find a new addition to its amazing maritime collection.
Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire
