Six English Heritage sites set to sparkle this December

Explore English Heritage

Six English Heritage venues are set to sparkle 15th – 23rd December as these wonderful locations open a winter fairy-tale of colourful lights, festive food and seasonal fun for all the family.

What could be more magical than strings of lanterns, toasted marshmallows and traditional fairground rides in beautiful historic gardens.

Audley End House and Gardens in Essex

christmas lights at English Heritage — Credit English Heritage

Discover the magic of Audley End House gardens after dark and follow the spectacular trail of colourful lights. More>

Osborne House on Isle of Wight

English Heritage site in purple light — Credit English Heritage

Follow in the footsteps of Queen Victoria, Prince Albert and their children as you follow the enchanting trail and discover hidden areas of the grounds of Osborne House. More >

Kenilworth House in Warwickshire

Girls running through christmas lights — Credit English Heritage

Follow an illuminated trail through the winter gardens of Kenilwrth Castle and evoke the spirit of Elizabeth I and Robert Dudley. More>

Eltham Palace in London

Trees lit at night

Follow the illuminated trail in the grounds of Eltham Palace after dark and discover the medieval history of Henry VIII’s childhood home. More>

Brodsworth Hall in South Yorkshire

Brodsworth Hall lights — Brodsworth Hall

Brodsworth Hall after dark is definitely worth exploring just in case you catch a glimpse of the friendly fairies who have made their home here as a colourful trail of light guides you around the gardens. More>

Belsay Hall, Castle & Gardens in Northumberland

spotlight on old building — English Heritage

Follow the illuminated trail through the quarry gardens of Belsay Hall, Castle & Gardens on this enchanting walk. More>

English Heritage manages over 400 buildings, monuments and sites across the nation that cover an impressive 5,000 years of history. With so many wonderful properties in the English Heritage portfolio there is bound to be a castle, monument or building near to you where you can introduce your children to a slice of amazing English history.

Selected for us by English Heritage here are 20 of the best English Heritage sites for family days out in the carousel below.

For a complete list of English Heritage locations and more information, visit www.english-heritage.org.uk

20 more amazing English Heritage venues to visit......

Dover Castle

Spectacularly situated above the White Cliffs, this magnificent castle has both a medieval royal palace and Secret WWII tunnels to explore!

Home of Charles Darwin – Down House

One of the fun things to do in Kent on the London border, is to visit Down House, the home of Charles Darwin for forty years.

Eltham Palace and Gardens

Witness the 1930s Art Deco house features a medieval great hall and ornamental gardens with picnic and play areas. Suitable for all ages.

Wrest Park

Head down to Wrest Park in Bedfordshire to this Georgian mansion and see over 90 acres of English, Dutch, Italian and French-style gardens.

Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden

One of the largest historic attractions in the West Midlands. Plan a day out at Kenilworth, a great castle for families with a fascinating past to discover.

Carisbrooke Castle

There is a lot to explore at Carisbrooke castle, and it's a great day out for all the family.

Whitby Abbey

Visit this dramatic abbey ruin, discover its ancient history, the connection with Bram Stoker's Dracula and its Gothic attraction.

Osborne

Explore the wonderful Osborne on the Isle of Wight, it's fun for all the family!

Beeston Castle and Woodland Park

The 'Castle of the Rock' is one of the great historic attractions in Cheshire and makes an ideal family day out with the kids.

Kenwood House

A beautiful 18th Century building in Hampstead Heath, surrounded by stunning landscaped gardens.

Pendennis Castle

For a great family day out in Cornwall, take a trip to the award-winning Pendennis Castle,

Audley End House and Gardens

Explore this country home, visit the restored historic stables, the Service Wing and take a walk around the beautiful grounds.

Tintagel Castle

Spend a day at Tintagel Castle which is steeped in legend and mystery and has strong links with King Arthur.

1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield

Learn about the famous battle of Hastings in the location it took place!

queens mother's garden with castle in background

Walmer Castle and Gardens

Spend a day at Walmer Castle where there is lots to do and see!

Rievaulx Abbey

Roam around the picturesque Rievaulx Abbey when you are looking for places to go in North Yorkshire, make sure you have your camera for some stunning shots.

Brodsworth Hall and Gardens

Step back in time at Brodsworth Hall. Dedicate a day out and explore the rooms of this Victorian country house and gardens.

Stonehenge

Take the family to see the great wonder that is Stonehenge. Marvel at how this stone circle in Wiltshire was built and learn about life in Neolithic times.

Let’s Go Winter Fun!

Give your November that extra spark with our family friendly ideas for days out! We've found some fantastic places to go for you and your adventurers this season.

Christmas Gift Guide

We have some lovely ideas for gift giving this year. Why not make your gift count and help one of our lovely charities this year.

Christmas Festivities

It's nearly the holiday season! We have found some magical family friendly places to go and christmassy activities to be had! We hope you have a wonderful time.