Family Days Out
Photo of two adults and three children walking in the grounds of Dover Castle in the winter

Family Days Out

Looking for somewhere where you and the family can get out in the fresh air together and create memories? Our special historic places offer extraordinarily good value and are full of heart-warming adventures for parents and children alike.

Experience the beauty of winter at breathtaking castles, abbeys and stately homes, or stretch little legs and fire up imaginations with our family events and activities.

Read on for tips and suggestions and to find out what’s on. Find a site near you and book your tickets today.

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Christmas Events

Gather your friends and family this winter and experience the past in a spectacular new light. Celebrate Christmas with brand new, interactive light trails at some of our most popular properties. Brought to you by our event partner Kilimanjaro Live in association with English Heritage, get ready for colour, lights and play this December.

Marvel at the historic buildings being bathed in light as you warm up with a glass of mulled wine and toast a marshmallow under the night sky. You can also stock up on Christmas gifts and tasty treats in our shop.

 

Festive Stories with Father Christmas

Father Christmas is taking time out of his busy festive schedule to tell some of his favourite seasonal stories around the Christmas tree, in our group storytelling sessions. Then, you and your children will get the chance to meet the man himself, take photographs and make memories to treasure, as children receive a traditional present to unwrap.

Photo of two children on a climbing frame at Eltham Palace in London

MEMBERS RECOMMEND: BEST PLAY AREAS

We know how important it is to keep the kids entertained, and a play area is always a helpful place to run off some steam. We asked our Members which sites have the best children's play areas and why. 

Find a play area near you
Photo of two children walking through Audley End House in Essex

MEMBERS RECOMMEND: BEST SITES FOR KIDS

Happy kids equals happy parents! We asked our Members which sites are their children’s favourites. Did your favourite make it onto the list?

Find a site near you

Family Guides

Inspiration and top tips for visiting

It can be tricky to plan a day out with the little ones. To give you peace of mind for your visit, we've prepared helpful guides packed with useful info. Browse the guides, find out what you can look forward to, and get the answers to questions about our facilities at some of our favourite historic places.

Browse all family guides

  • Pendennis Castle

    Discover the wartime tunnels and climb to the top of the mighty Tudor keep at Pendennis Castle. The recreated gun deck brings the noise and drama of a castle under attack to life.

  • Warkworth Castle

    With imposing stone walls, huge fireplaces where kitchen staff worked over roasting spits, and restored furnished rooms, step into medieval life at Warkworth Castle.

  • Down House: Home of Charles Darwin

    Step back into Victorian family life at Charles Darwin's family home. Explore the garden where Darwin conducted his most famous experiments and learn about his greatest discoveries.

  • 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield

    With a family exhibition and play area, as well as a new viewing platform on the rooftop of the gatehouse, explore the battlefield of a major turning point in England's story.

More to Explore

  • Top 5 things to do in December

    This December, we’ve got plenty of ideas to help you step into history. Discover Christmas through the ages, try a traditional Victorian craft, and join us for a month full of festive events.

  • Dog-friendly days out

    We love dogs as much as you do, so there's no reason to leave your furry friend at home. We've got lots of options for dog-friendly days out at our castles, abbeys and historic gardens.

  • Members do more

    Help to keep the story of England's history alive for future generations. Join today and enjoy unlimited access to hundreds of historic places, for yourself and up to six children.

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