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
Pedal along 100 miles of off-road cycling tracks
Pedal the extensive, year-round network of cycling routes criss-crossing the woodland, heathland and quiet country roads of the New Forest.
Location: New Forest, Hampshire
Go on safari in the New Forest
Explore the Forest in a unique and exciting way. Hop on and off at villages, attractions and forest walks, or just sit back, relax and enjoy the view…
Location: New Forest, Hampshire
Walking in the New Forest
Twist and turn through vibrant gorse, imposing woodland and bubbling streams as you stroll through the Forest’s 143 miles of trails.
Location: New Forest, Hampshire
Raise a glass in the South Downs countryside
English sparkling wine is enjoying a renaissance.
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
Stay in a luxury country house at Lime Wood Hotel
Bed down in one of the luxury rooms and sample the excellent local food at this quirky, luxury hotel and restaurant.
Location: Lyndhurst, Hampshire
Eat local and stay in the luxurious rooms at The Pig
Foraged food and beautiful shabby chic décor are the order of the day at this unusual, but luxurious, country house hotel.
Location: Brockenhurst, Hampshire
Forage tasty mushrooms for your dinner at Fungi Foray
Get an insight into the wonderful world of mushrooms, and find out what you can pick, and what you should avoid.
Location: New Forest, Hampshire
Cycle and canoe in the iconic Seven Sisters Country Park
Explore the South Downs Way, near Eastbourne, discovering Seven Sisters Country Park by bicycle and the Cuckmere Valley by canoe.
Location: Eastbourne, East Sussex
Comb Sussex’s thriving coastline for fossils and marine life
A Marine Conservation Area, this unspoilt coastline at the foot of the South Downs National Park offers thriving marine life and fossils galore.
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
Get back to nature with a cycling break in the New Forest
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life with a 5-star luxury log cabin break in the heart of the New Forest.
Location: New Forest, Hampshire
Explore the lush landscapes of South Downs National Park
Brighton & Hove is known as a seaside city, but just a short bus ride away lies the UNESCO Biosphere sites…
Location: Brighton & Hove, East Sussex
Go wild at the south coast’s only inflatable water park
The New Forest Water Park in Fordingbridge is a unique outdoor attraction with 50 acres of countryside and lakes for the whole family to enjoy.
Location: New Forest, Hampshire
Romantic Langrish House countryside retreat
Plan a romantic winter break in Hampshire and explore the rolling hills and forests of the South Downs National Park.
Location: Petersfield, Hampshire
Explore the Historic Restored Gardens at West Dean
Escape to West Dean Gardens and explore the autumnal colours of the Arboretum, Pergola, Kitchen Gardens and orchard and award-winning Sunken Garden.
Location: Chichester, West Sussex