London, East of England and South East

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  Audley End House and Gardens

  1 mile west of Saffron Walden on B1383, junction 8 or 10 of the M11 Wander the tranquil gardens created by 'Capability' Brown, enjoy stunning views across the unspoilt Essex countryside, and see the horses in the Victorian stable yard.

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  Dover Castle

  Entrance on the A258, travelling via the A2 From the secret tunnels to the Great Towers (and loads in between) Dover Castle sits at the top of an 80 acre site which is crying out to be explored.

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  Home of Charles Darwin, Down House

  6 miles from junction 4 of the M25 Discover the family home of Charles Darwin - from his recreated bedroom to the study where he wrote his revolutionary theories (and the garden where he tested them) it's a fascinating site.

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  Wrest Park

  10 miles from Bedford, 6 miles from junction 12 of the M1 Explore the evolution of the English garden with a stroll through three centuries of landscape design or discover hidden treasures in the archaeological stores.

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  Lullingstone Roman Villa

  0.5 miles SW of Eynsford, off junction 3 of the M25 Lullingstone is an incredible example of a Roman villa, with mosaics, a bath-suite and more. Perfect in all weathers! There isn't a cafe, but hot and cold drinks (and snacks) are available.

West Midlands and Cheshire

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  Beeston Castle

  12 miles from M53 (Chester) via A41 Beeston Castle is famous for its incredible views - on a clear day you can see all the way from the Pennines to the Welsh mountains. The Sandstone Café (outdoor seating) does a great bacon roll.

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  Kenilworth Castle

  Off A46, 12 miles from M40 via Warwick Bypass Stretch your legs with a climb to the very top of Leicester's Tower, plus discover the history of the castle in the Gatehouse and Stables Exhibitions. You'll find the tearoom in the old stables.

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  Hailes Abbey

  11 miles from M5 Tewkesbury via A46 and B4077 Founded by the Earl of Cornwall in thanks for surviving a shipwreck, Hailes housed a renowned relic, ‘the Holy Blood of Hailes’. The new museum (opening this summer) tells its story.

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  Goodrich Castle

  6 miles from the end of the M50 via A40 Standing in open countryside above the River Wye, Goodrich Castle is one of the finest and best preserved of all English medieval castles. After you've taken in the view, refresh yourself in the tearoom.

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  Witley Court

  10 miles NW of Worcester on A443, 12 miles from junction 6 of the M5 Discover the dramatic ruins of Witley Court, the newly restored Perseus and Andromeda fountain in the gardens and tales of lavish parties.