From historic houses to parks and gardens, we explore the wide range of top attractions that the south has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a family day out or a London break, there’s something for everyone in our handy guide.
London Eye
The UK capital is packed full of exciting attractions, and perhaps one of the most iconic is the EDF Energy London Eye. At 135m tall, you can see as far as Windsor castle on a clear day, not to mention a whole host of other London landmarks, including Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Hop aboard one of the sleek glass pods on a ride that takes approximately 30 minutes. Plus don’t miss the London Eye 4D Experience, a short film with sensory special effects that will make you feel like a part of the action.
LEGOLAND
For some serious family fun, why not head to LEGOLAND Windsor — the ideal theme park destination for kids aged between 3 and 12? Ride The Dragon, get behind the wheel of a LEGO car in Driving School or explore the mysteries of the deep in Atlantis Submarine Voyage. The park has over 55 rides, attractions and live shows, so there’s tons to keep even the most demanding of children entertained throughout the day!
Paultons
If you’ve got kids of various ages, Paultons Park in Hampshire is the family day out for you. Little ones will love Peppa Pig World, where they can meet their favourite characters from the show and visit the largest Peppa Pig shop in the UK. For older kids, there are lots of exciting rides, from the thrilling drop-tower of MAGMA to the spinning disk of The Edge.
The Eden Project
Family fun meets science and nature in this incredible garden attraction. You will love the breathtaking domes filled with plants and garden displays, plus there are play areas, waterfalls, sculptures, a captive rainforest, storytelling and interactive exhibits to keep the kids engaged. With lots of social and conservation projects on the go as well, it’s the perfect family eco-adventure.
Canterbury Cathedral
Pilgrims have been making their way to Canterbury Cathedral since the time of Chaucer, and it’s one of the most visited landmarks in the country. You don’t have to be a church-goer to enjoy the incredible Gothic architecture, carved columns, Romanesque crypt and stained glass windows, plus the Tomb of the Black Prince is bound to elicit some interest from the kids. Pick up one of the children’s trails from the Welcome Centre to keep little ones amused throughout their visit.
Shakespeare’s Birthplace
Learn all about the Bard as you visit the home of Britain’s greatest ever playwright. You’ll get a glimpse into the world of the famous dramatist, including where he grew up and lived for the first few years of his marriage. The house is part of several properties in Stratford-upon-Avon that are linked with Shakespeare, all of which are worth a visit for anyone interested in the writer and his plays. Don’t miss the childhood home of Shakespeare’s wife, Anne Hathaway, or Mary Arden’s Tudor farm.
Dover Castle
Immerse yourself in history at this Kentish castle, perched atop the famous White Cliffs. King Henry II’s medieval court comes to life in the Great Tower as costumed actors recreate the royal entourage. Explore the dark and winding Secret Wartime Tunnels, and relive the 1940 Dunkirk evacuation depicted using state-of-the-art special effects. It’s an ideal way to get kids interested in British history, as well as being a fun-packed interactive experience for all ages.
Stonehenge
Visit these mighty monoliths for an unforgettable day out in the south. Marvel at the mystery of their purpose and construction, wander in the beautiful Wiltshire landscape that surrounds the landmark, and learn more about the theories and history of the site with a fascinating audio tour. Take a picnic along to make a day of it, and download the free Activity Pack from English Heritage’s website to ensure the little ones make the most of their time there.
The Needles Park, Isle of Wight
Overlooking the Needles Rocks, the Isle of Wight’s most iconic landmark, this fun-packed park offers a range of attractions for the whole family. Get ready to be spun out of control on Spincycle, have a splashtastic time on the Water Walkerz, take the Chairlift from the cliff top down to Alum Bay Beach, visit the Sweet Manufactory or enjoy a round of Jurassic Golf. The park is free to enter, with additional charges for each individual ride, so it’s perfect for families on a tight budget.
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
Take a journey back in time at this working docks and maritime museum, where you can climb aboard Nelson’s HMS Victory and the HMS Warrior 1860, plus learn all about the doomed Mary Rose. 800 years of naval heritage is encapsulated in this incredible attraction, which includes the National Museum of the Royal Navy. Don’t miss Action Stations — a number of interactive activities including an astronaut’s view of Earth and a simulated helicopter flight!
This post was provided by Show and Stay