The South East of England encompasses a hugely diverse range of landscapes, towns and cities, from the South Downs to the Isle of Wight, Queen Victoria’s favorite haunt, packed along the way with stately homes, nature reserves, notable museums and acres and acres of space to pursue outdoor activities.
Head to Brighton, a trendy vibrant seaside town that’s packed with shopping treats, beachfront eateries and trendy nightlife – kids will be happy hanging out on the beach and exploring the Lanes, a smorgasbord of independent shops filled with all sorts of quirky goodness or avoid the commercial side of things and take to the South Downs for some fantastic walks.
There are castles galore in the South East – notable ones include Arundel and Leeds and, of course, Dover Castle, protecting those white cliffs. Explore the secret wartime tunnels or head to Chatham Historic Dockyard to learn more about this once seafaring nation.
Windsor Castle has plenty of family friendly activities and is handily close to Legoland, which, if you go to, your kids will never want to leave. Stately homes to run around include the lovely Waddeson Manor in Aylesbury, Goodwood House in West Sussex and Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire.
Museums to check out include the Jane Austen House Museum in Hampshire and continuing in the literary vein, the Guildhall Museum and the Dickens House Museum in Rochester and everyone’s favorite; The Roald Dahl and Story Centre in Buckinghamshire.
Car enthusiasts young and old will love the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu in the New Forest and animal lovers and adrenaline junkies will love Birdworld in Surrey, Drusillas Park and Chessington World of Adventures.
A family-favourite theme-park, animal park and sealife centre a short hop from London.
A thrill-seekers' paradise not far from London, with a few rides for younger visitors too.
The younger kids' themepark, with rides and attractions for suitable for children up to 12 years.