Things to do on a rainy day
Whatever the weather this season, we have plenty of historic places to hide, play and enjoy the elements.
Our Rain Proof Places
Tea and Cake Weather
If the heavens open, retreat to one of our many cosy cafés at properties across the country. Relax in the magnificent surroundings of Kenilworth Castle's timber-framed stables tearoom, or enjoy the views from the spacious cafés of Wrest Park or Audley End House and Gardens, both in the East of England.
Our Favourite Tea RoomsSOME OF OUR FAVOURITE RAINY DAYS OUT
Discover A Defining Moment
It's the Year of The Normans, and 2016 is the perfect time to visit Battle Abbey, built shortly after the Battle of Hastings in 1066. With a fun-packed indoor Discovery Centre, children can learn all about the battle, as well as Saxon and Norman life, whatever the weather. And if the sun comes out, talk a walk in the tranquil Walled Garden or head out to see the battlefield itself.
Visit Battle AbbeyGet Hands-On At Bolsover Castle
On a clear day, Bolsover Castle's prime location atop a Derbyshire hillside offers stunning views across the Peak District, but if the heavens open families can head inside the Little Castle and Riding House to learn about 17th-century life with the hands-on exhibitions.
Visit Bolsover CastleExplore the Home Of Charles Darwin
A fascinating and unique day out in Kent, Down House offers an insight into the life of the father of evolution theory, and weather-proof fun for all the family. Step inside the house and discover the very rooms in which Darwin's ideas formed the basis for pioneering biological science, even the study where 'On the Origin of Species' was written, still as it looked at the time. Kids will love the hands-on interactive exhibits on this one-of-a-kind day out.
Visit Down HouseSee The Original Wellies
See how your wellies match up to those of the Duke of Wellington himself at Walmer Castle. Home to the Duke for 23 years, his spirit lives on in the castle with a pair of his original 'Wellington boots' on display, and if the sun does decide to shine the gardens are filled with all sorts of wild flora and fauna.
Visit Walmer CastleRain or Shine Stonehenge
The state of the art visitor centre at Stonehenge includes an exhibition of artefacts brought together for the first time, and interactive displays to learn about the history of this wonder of the prehistoric world. Don't miss the virtual 360-degree experience, letting you 'stand in the stones' as you are transported back in time.
Buses can take you from the centre up to the stones themselves, so you can stay dry for as long as possible.
Visit StonehengeFamily Days Out
Discover more great places to visit across the country with the kids this season, from mighty Norman castles to atmospheric abbeys.
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Days out for under £20
Looking for a great experience that won't break the bank? Here are our top picks for family days out on a budget, all across the country.
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Top 10 Castles
If you could be king of any castle, which would you choose? That's what we asked our Facebook fans, and here are the top 10 choices.
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Days Out with Dogs
Enjoy a great day out with your dog at an English Heritage property. There are plenty of dog-friendly sites across the whole of England for your furry friends to enjoy.
