Stop hibernating. Start exploring.
Days out are back and we’ve got lots of ideas to get you out and about in 2026.
Check out our brand-new Adventurer’s Checklist: it’s the best way to get your family and friends back out exploring English Heritage sites together.
And if you fancy something more relaxing, we've got suggestions for peaceful walks, top tips for taking photos, and a selection of inspiring collections to visit.
ADVENTURER'S CHECKLIST
Our brand new Adventurer’s Checklist is the best way to get your family back out exploring English Heritage sites together.
Whether you tick off every activity or try just one, the Adventurer’s Checklist will get you moving, laughing, discovering and exploring. There’s no right or wrong way of doing it – it’s all about trying new things and making memories along the way.
DOWNLOAD THE CHECKLIST (PDF, 731 KB)BONDING BENCHES
We're introducting Bonding Benches at the historic sites we look after this spring to help tackle parental isolation.
Research from the NCT shows that 62% of new parents feel lonely or isolated at least some of the time, and 87% feel overwhelmed.
Located near playgrounds or open grassland, the benches feature sliders that can be moved between ‘up for a chat’ and ‘craving quiet’, depending on your mood.
Feel free to use the benches to start up conversations with new people and make new connections whilst your children play - or to have a few minutes' quiet rest!
Relaxing days out
-
Peaceful escapes
Ever feel like you need to escape the 21st century? The ruins of a great abbey or priory are the perfect place for reflection, contemplation or just a bit of peace and quiet.
-
Top tearooms
There's nothing better than ending (or starting!) a winter walk with a warm drink and a snack. Check out our top tearooms and cafés across the country.
-
Gardens in winter
Our castles, halls and stately homes are enchanting in the colder seasons, and now's the perfect time to make the most of rewarding garden walks and sparkling wintry views.
-
Travel guides
Plan a weekend away or a short break with our regional travel guides. They're packed with ideas of historic sites to visit, things to see and do and practical advice for getting around.
Things to spot for kids
-
Spotters' guides
Download our fun spotters' guides and head out to your nearest English Heritage site to start exploring!
-
Folktale creature trails
Explore three exciting trails jam-packed with fairies, dragons and mythical beings at historic places near you.
