The capital is a whirlwind of glitzy West End theatres, energetic East End markets, green swathes of royal parkland and architectural feats. Think gothic spires, Georgian townhouses and abstract skyscrapers resembling razors and shards – even gherkins. Step outside the 'big smoke' and relax in green spaces including Kent's (known as the Garden of England), the undulating Sussex downs and Hampshire's lush New Forest – pack your bike and riding hat. History lessons in the Home Counties transport you back in time with Irons Age forts, motte-and-bailey castles and Jacobean mansions. The scenic southeast coastline is a Hollywood star, making cameos in iconic films like Brighton Rock and The White Cliffs of Dover.
London and South East England
Enjoy splendiferous fun at the Roald Dahl Museum
Ever wondered where Charlie and the Chocolate Factory started? This family-friendly museum has answers for children and adults of all ages.
Location: Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire
Travel back to the 1930s at Berkonscot Model Village
Bekonscot is the world’s oldest and original model village and model railway, and a tribute to one man’s eccentricity.
Location: Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire
Visit the home of the WWII codebreakers at Bletchley Park
Once Britain’s best kept secret, this major visitor attraction was also the filming location for The Imitation Game starring Benedict Cumberbatch.
Location: Bletchley, Milton Keynes
Rainy Day Activities: Enter the magical Warner Bros Studio Tour
Step inside the wizarding world of Harry Potter at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London and feel the films magically come to life.
Location: Leavesden, Hertfordshire
Travel back in time at Milestones Museum
A trip to Milestones in Basingstoke brings the past to life. The museum is home to over 20,000 objects that were either made or used in Hampshire, and is a record of the county's social, industrial and transport history.
Location: Basingstoke, Hampshire
Sabotage and subversion in the heart of the New Forest
Shhh! Your mission is to head to the Second World War Secret Army ‘finishing school’ in the serene New Forest village of Beaulieu.
Location: New Forest, Hampshire
Meet Normandy veterans at The D-Day Story
Visit The D-Day Story in Portsmouth and you may be able to meet some of the men and women who took part in the Normandy Landings.
Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire
December events: Visit Hyde Park at Christmas and witness a Winter Wonderland
Gather the family and get your skates on for the UK’s biggest outdoor ice rink at London’s Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park.
Location: London
Rainy Day Activities: Explore the spectacular Science Museum
Known around the world for its historic collections and inspirational exhibitions, London's Science Museum is a treat for all the family.
Location: South Kensington, London
Rainy Day Activities: Get hands on at the Natural History Museum
See hundreds of exciting, interactive exhibits in one of London’s most beautiful landmark buildings.
Location: South Kensington, London