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
Nightly summer bandstand concerts and weekly fireworks
The UK’s busiest bandstand on Eastbourne’s seafront offers nightly concerts from pop to rock throughout summer, with a weekly firework crescendo.
Location: Eastbourne, East Sussex
Join a ghost tour of England’s spookiest fortress
Join a spooky twilight tour at Eastbourne’s Redoubt Fortress this October for a fun and frightful tour around the creepy cobwebbed corridors.
Location: Eastbourne, East Sussex
Wildlife skills and forest fun in the South Downs
Family holidays in the South Downs National Park are perfect for venturing out into the fresh air, to learn about camping, nature and wildlife.
Location: Eastbourne, East Sussex
Discover the UK’s largest Bronze Age causeway
Explore the ground-breaking discovery of Britain’s Biggest Bronze Age Causeway in new exhibition Making Tracks: Eastbourne’s Bronze Age Mystery.
Location: Eastbourne, East Sussex
December events: Meet Father Christmas at Drusillas
A magical Christmas experience is waiting for all the family at Drusillas Park this winter.
Location: Alfriston, near Eastbourne
Vintage swimwear, Lewis Carroll’s desk and summer keepsakes
Step back in time and discover British seaside holidays through the ages in the new Summer Holiday Seaside exhibition on Eastbourne’s elegant seafront.
Location: Eastbourne, East Sussex
Let your little monkeys loose at Drusillas Park
A world of discovery awaits your family at Drusillas, the UK’s best small zoo with over 100 different species to admire and endless adventure play.
Location: Eastbourne, East Sussex
