Eltham Palace and Gardens, London

Less than an hour from central London by both car and public transport

There's so much to see and do at Eltham. Stroll across London’s oldest working bridge and take the kids to the adventure playground, all before you’ve even set foot inside the palace…

Once inside, explore the extravagant lifestyle of eccentric millionaires Stephen and Virginia Courtauld who transformed the once royal Tudor residence, and medieval stronghold, into a 1930s art deco dream. Try on costumes and follow the family trail to get a sense of just how much history has happened in this glamorous house.

Dedicate a whole day to exploring Eltham, spending lunch in Eltham's cafe and tea rooms or enjoy our delightful picnic area. 

Eltham Palace's gardens are closed over this period to accommodate our Enchanted events, book your ticket now. 

Dover Castle, Kent

A short walk, drive or bus ride from Dover

Set atop the famous white cliffs, Dover Castle was built soon after 1066 and remains one of the best kept fortresses in England. At its heart lies a history of royal intrigue, epic sieges and to the biggest evacuation in military history, evacuating hundreds of thousands of Allied troops from Dunkirk.

Inside the castle walls you can discover 80 acres of grounds, battlements, an immersive exhibition in the Secret Wartime Tunnels and a recreated medieval palace – including royal bedchambers and Kings’ Hall complete with throne - before climbing the roof for amazing panoramic views.

Dover Castle has toilets, disabled access and a dedicated picnic space. The property is a short walk from the town centre so you can finish your day with a delicious meal by the coast. 

Stonehenge, Wiltshire

Under an hour from Wiltshire by car

Perhaps one of our most famous sites and for good reason, this must-see monument is a powerful testament to human ingenuity, imagination and creativity.

Experience the unforgettable atmosphere of the Stone Circle and follow in the footsteps of the prehistoric people who lived here 4,000 years ago as you walk among the Neolithic houses. Dig deeper in the world-class exhibition and take time to explore the monuments and mysteries of the wider Stonehenge landscape.

Everyone can enjoy Stonehenge, we've got a dedicated visitor centre which is perfect to warm up after viewing the magnificient stones. Why not treat yourself to a meal in the restaraunt too. 

Bolsover Castle, Derbyshire

Under an hour from Derby by car

Bolsover Castle was the fantasy hilltop pleasure palace of the horse-mad Cavalier playboy – William Cavendish.

Be transported to the Stuart age of extravagance as you discover richly decorated rooms with rare wall paintings, carved fireplaces and tapestries. Explore the riding school and the wonderfully recreated garden and roam the ruined Terrace Range and take in the stunning countryside views from the restored wall walk.

Families will love the interactive exhibition in the stables, and kids can let their imaginations run wild in the castle-themed play area which is located next to the café so the adults can refuel before exploring more of this grand castle. 

Rievaulx Abbey, North Yorkshire

Under an hour from York by car

Escape to this tranquil valley of the North York Moors and discover the impressive ruins of one of England's most powerful Cistercian monasteries as we shine a light on Rievaulx Abbey's fascinating past. Discover lives of the monks who called Rievaulx Abbey their home. Explore the museum, displaying previously unseen artefacts telling story of the rise and dramatic fall of the first Cistercian abbey in the North of England.

Wander the extensive ruins of the abbey to discover more about the building and how it looked at various stages of its development. Take in the stunning views from our visitor centre while enjoying a tasty treat in our tearoom and appreciate why St Aelred's 'everywhere peace, everywhere serenity' description of Rievaulx Abbey could quite easily have been written today.

Why not park in the nearby chocolate-box town of Helmsley and take a scenic walk from Helmsley Castle to Rievaulx Abbey or refresh back inside the visitor centre with a cafe and gift shop.