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'Great Tours of london, Britain & Ireland'           

SOUTH & SOUTHEAST ENGLAND LINKS

We do not solicit or make a charge for links and always try to inform those organisations we list, offering them a free 60 word description of their amenity or facility. Having read a site's description you can go to it by clicking the name. If you wish to add a site pleasego see Our Links Policy first

A to Z: Castles, Cathedrals, Churches, Country Houses, Museums, etc.

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Amusement Parks in England List - click here

 

Apartments - Agencies List - click here

Arundel Castle S: Founded in 1067 when William the Conqueror ruled, and still the family home to the Dukes of Norfolk, the Castle has a fascinating history linked with Royal intrigue.  The stunning architecture and interiors reflect the changes of a thousand years.

 

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Basildon Park S:  18th-century country house set in extensive parkland. Grand 18th-century Palladian mansion. Fine collection of paintings, furniture and textiles. Saved from ruin and lovingly restored by Lord and Lady Iliffe in the 1950s. Glorious parkland overlooking the River Thames. Graham Sutherland studies for 'Christ in Glory' tapestry hanging in Coventry Cathedral.

Battle Abbey and 1066 Battlefield S: The battlefield and abbey were purchased for the nation in 1976 with a generous gift from the US. Among the many other attractions at the site is the Discovery Centre, a fun, activity-based exhibition. It's available to booked school groups and is open to families on weekends and throughout school holidays. There's also an exhibition, 'The Prelude to Battle', a children's themed outdoor play area, a battlefield and abbey audio tour and a superb gift shop.

Beaulieu Abbey & Natl. Motor Museum S: Beaulieu, one of the South of England’s top day visitor attractions, is set in the heart of the New Forest, the UK’s newest National Park. Beaulieu is a guaranteed great family day out with lots for everyone to enjoy including the world famous National Motor Museum, Palace House, home of the Montagu family, and historic Beaulieu Abbey.

Belmont SE:An elegant C18th house in fine gardens and parkland with beautiful views  ..

 

Biddenden Vineyards & Cider Works SE: The vineyards were established by the Barnes family in 1969. Starting with one acre the vineyards has grown to 22 acres with nine varieties of grapes grown. Set on a gentle south facing slope in a shallow sheltered valley, ideal conditions for vines. Predominantly German varieties are grown including Ortega, Huxelrebe, Bacchus, Schönburger and Reichensteiner. Together with Pinot Noir, Gamay and Dornfelder the vineyards are able to produce White, Red, Rosé and Sparkling Wines.

Bignor Roman Villa S: Discovered in 1811 when George Tupper, whilst ploughing his field, struck a large stone believed to have been the piscina in the Ganymede room. As with most Roman villas, the site evolved over several centuries. The site contains some of the best preserved Roman mosaics in England, including the remains of the north corridor mosaic which extends some 79ft (24m).

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Canterbury Cathedral SE: The website of Canterbury Cathedral, Mother Church of the Anglican Communion and seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury. The Cathedral is both a holy place and part of a World Heritage Site.

Canterbury Roman Museum SE:  The Roman Museum is underground at the level of the Roman town. It's an exciting mix of excavated real objects: authentic reconstructions; and preserved remains of a Roman town house with its famous mosaics.

Canterbury Royal Museum/Art Gallery SE:  The art gallery is the major space in the area for the visual arts, with exhibitions of both contemporary and historical work. The Buffs Museum tells the story of one of England's oldest infantry regiments and its worldwide service, with an extensive display of medals with Victoria Crosses and other gallantry awards.

Canterbury Tales Experience SE: Step back in time to experience medieval sights, sounds and smells in this stunning reconstruction of 14th Century England.  Join Chaucer and his pilgrims on their journey from The Tabard Inn in London to the shrine of St Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral.

Cathedrals of Britain: Through this website you can view our guide to members of the association. These include Cathedrals, Churches, Abbeys and Shrines in the UK and Ireland. Members' pages in the guide give an outline of basic visitor information consisting of times of opening, how to get there, any charges involved, significant historical and architectural features and times of worship.

Charles Dickens' Birthplace S:  The famous writer Charles Dickens was born in this modest house in Portsmouth, England in 1812. The house has miraculously survived and is now preserved as a museum furnished in the style of 1809 which is when John and Elizabeth Dickens set up the first home of their married life there.

Chartwell SE: Bought for its magnificent views, Churchill's home from 1924 until the end of his life has rooms and gardens rmuch as they were when he lived here: evocative pictures, books, maps and personal mementoes. Beautiful gardens contain lakes he created, the water garden where he fed his fish. Lady Churchill’s rose garden and the Golden Rose Walk were a Golden Wedding anniversary gift from their children. His paintings can be seen in the garden studio.

Country House Associations - List

Click here to go to a list of Country House Associations ...

 

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D-Day Museum & Overlord Embroidery S: The D-Day Museum was opened in 1984 to commemorate the 40th Anniversary of D-Day. Its centrepiece is the magnificent Overlord Embroidery commissioned by Lord Dulverton of Batsford (1915-92) as a tribute to the sacrifice and heroism of those men and women who took part in Operation Overlord.

Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre S:Welcome to our great little award-winning and family-friendly Museum. We are Enjoy England's Best Small Visitor Attraction 2008, so do come and see our two fun and fact-packed biographical galleries, the fantabulous interactive Story Centre and enjoy our sunny courtyard.

Denbies Vineyard SE:  Denbies English Vineyard is situated in Dorking,Surrey.  An all weather destination,  the "Indoor Wine Experience" tours operate all year, the Outdoor Vineyard Train runs daily from March - October.

Disabled Information List - Click hereto go to a list of sites with useful information for those with disabilities ....

 

   

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Educational Information List - click here

 

English Wine Centre SE:  Join us at The English Wine Centre for an informal tour of the establishment including our 17th century Walton's Oak Barn followed by a light hearted but informative tasting of a range of English Wines as well as organic drinks ....

Entry Passes Listclick to go to a list of passes to gain entry to many attractions in England ..

 

Entertainment Lists click to go to a list of Entertainment venues, ideas, etc. ..

 

Explosion! Museum of Naval Firepower S: Explosion! the Museum of Naval Firepower tells the story of naval warfare from the days gunpowder to modern missiles. The two hour tour of the museum includes a stunning multi media film show set in the original 18th century gunpowder vault, with hands on exhibits and interactive touch screens that bring the presentations to life.

 

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Family Fun Parks List - click here

 

 

Finchcocks Living Museum of Music SE: Finchcocks is a fine Georgian manor set in a beautiful garden, surrounded by parkland. It now houses a celebrated collection of over 100 historical keyboard instruments, of which over forty are in full working order. It makes a wonderful day out for all the family.

 

Fishbourne Roman Palace & Museum S: Discovered by accident during the digging of a water main trench in 1960, nine seasons of excavations showed the site had developed from a military base at the time of the Roman invasion in AD43 to a sumptuous Palace by the end of the first century. New excavations have revealed exciting new insights into this development. This story is told in an entertaining audio-visual programme and also in the site museum, with the addition of fascinating artefacts from the excavations along with plans, reconstruction drawings and models.

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Gardens List - click here

 

Golf Tournaments & Courses List

Goodwood House S: Regency home of the Dukes of Richmond set in the idyllic rolling Sussex Downs. Collection includes significant paintings by George Stubbs and Canaletto, unique Sèvres Porcelain, fine French furniture and beautiful tapestries.

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Hawk Conservancy Trust (The) S:  The Trust's mission is the conservation of birds of prey both in the UK and internationally. We manage captive breeding progammes for endangered species, conduct research projects, rehabilitate injured birds brought into the Trust, educate the public on raptors and work with other accredited bodies. All of our work is governed by our code of ethics.

Hawking Centre (The) SE: Spend an unforgettable day with us flying Birds of Prey. The flying demonstrations range from Owls to Hawks, Falcons, Eagles, Buzzards and Vultures with emphasis on how these birds work in the wild with lots of audience participation.

 

Hever Castle SE: Dating back to 1270, in the early 1500s the Bullen family bought the castle and added a Tudor dwelling within the walls and so it became the childhood home of its most famous inhabitant, Anne Boleyn, later passing into the ownership of Henry’s fourth wife, Anne of Cleves. From 1557 on it was owned by a number of families including the Waldegraves, the Humfreys and the Meade Waldos. Finally, in 1903, William Waldorf Astor invested time, money and imagination in restoring the Castle, building the ’Tudor Village’ and creating the gardens and lake.

Highclere Castle & Gardens S: Home of Lord and Lady Caernarvon. A beautiful house which has been featured in many movie locations as well as being a fantasy wedding location ...

 

Historic Ships - HMS Victory S: The Royal Navy's most famous warship and the world's oldest commissioned ship - a proud memorial to Vice Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson, Britain's greatest Naval hero. Built between 1759-1765, Victory was a first-rate, ship-of-the-line. In 1805, Vice Admiral Lord Nelson on board his flagship, HMS Victory, led 27 British ships into battle off Cape Trafalgar against a much larger combined French and Spanish fleet.

Hop Shop (The): SE: A unique farm shop set on William and Caroline Alexander's family farm - Castle Farm - in the beautiful and historic Darenth Valley near Sevenoaks, Kent.  Amazingly, for such an unspoilt location, it is only 20 miles from central London. It has won many awards including 5 x consecutive RHS Chelsea Gold medals for its dried flowers and hops, the premier Kent Rural Business Award for its enterprise, and was voted 'Best Farm Shop' in the Kent Life Food and Drink Awards. 

Hotel Finder Sites Lists

 

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Jane Austen's House S:  The novelist Jane Austen is known worldwide for her popular novels describing the society of pre-industrial England. She spent the last eight years of her life here at Chawton in the 17th century house which is now preserved in her memory. She wrote some of her best work here. Come and visit us and let us tell you the story of Jane Austen and her family.

Edward Jenner Museum S: The Jenner Museum is wholly owned and controlled by the Jenner Appeal Trust, a registered charity. Its primary objectives are to preserve the property and its contents and to promote the knowledge of Jenner, his work, and the science of immunology that resulted from it.

 

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Keswick: Theatre by the Lake  NW: First opened in 1999, in a spectacular lakeside setting the Theatre is a driving force in Arts development in the regions. If you're in the Lakes, check it out! Good range of programmes and some excellent productions at better prices than London's West End!

Kingston Bagpuize House & Garden   N: Beautiful manor house and family home thought to have been built originally in the 1660s, the house seen today is largely the result of remodelling done in the early 1700s when extensive work is believed to have been done to both its exterior and interior. Set in parkland with more formal gardens near the house the grounds provide year round interest and colour.

Kiplin Hall N: In the Vale of Mowbray, built in the 1620s for George Calvert, Secretary of State to James I, later 1st Lord Baltimore and founder of Maryland, USA. Its design was unique in Jacobean architecture, with central domed towers on each side of a tall symmetrical pavilion in mellow red brick. Owned by four families, connected by blood and marriage over 400 years, the Hall is now furnished as a welcoming Victorian family home and contains paintings and furniture.

Knole  SE:One of the great treasure houses of England, set in a magnificent deer park, history and grandeur in the heart of Kent. Birthplace of novelist and poet Vita Sackville-West. Rare collection of Royal Stuart furniture and iImportant portraits by Van Dyck, Gainsborough and Reynolds. Magnificent 1,000-acre deer park, a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

 

 

 

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Leeds Castle SE: Leeds Castle, 'the Loveliest Castle in the world', is set within 500 acres of glorious parkland and gardens. Open all year including a special events program, other attractions include: Dog Collar Museum, Aviary, Maze and Grotto, Vineyard, Toddlers play area and daily falconry displays.

Living Rain Forest S: Committed to telling the story of humanity in nature. We believe in education in context, and sustainability in action. The Living Rainforest strives to make learning about life fun.Visitors to our visitor centre are immersed in real rainforest experiences. Our interpretation links plants, animals, ecosystems, human needs, economies and cultures. We aim to delight and challenge, building on the incredible biological and cultural diversity of planet Earth.

Lullingstone Castle SE: Lullingstone Castle is one of England’s oldest family estates, dating back to the time of Domesday. The present Manor House and Gate house were built in 1497 and have been home to the same family ever since. Both Henry VIII and Queen Anne are known to have been regular visitors.

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Mapledurham House  S: After centuries of turmoil, Mapledurham House now enjoys a more peaceful existence. Full of the treasures of an exciting history, a visit to Mapledurham House makes for a fascinating and pleasant day out and over the years Mapledurham has welcomed hundreds of thousands of visitors. Enjoy the House, Watermill, riverside picnic areas and our special cream teas with scones made from flour actually ground in the old mill itself! 

Mary Rose Trust - 16C ship S:  eThe Mary Rose is the only 16th Century warship on display anywhere in the world. Built between 1509 and 1511, she was one of the first ships able to fire a broadside and was a firm favourite of King Henry VIII.

 

Miscellaneous List

 

   

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National Walking Trails (Hiking routes) Info to come soon ...

 

   

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Old Sarum Castle S: Built by Iron Age peoples C. 500bc, later occupied by the Romans, the Saxons and, most importantly, the Normans. It has long been known as Old Sarum. In 1070, William the Conqueror paid off his army here and, in 1085, demanded loyalty from his nobles. A castle, palace and cathedral were built inside the earthwork, but disputes between soldiers and priests, plus inadequate water supplies led to the founding of New Sarum (the city we know as Salisbury) in 1226, the castle remained in use until Tudor times.
Osborne House S: After her marriage to Prince Albert in 1840, Queen Victoria felt the need for a family residence in the country. To use her own words, 'a place of one's own - quiet and retired'. Osborne House was acquired to fulfil this role. The Queen knew and liked the area after visiting the Isle of Wight as a child with her widowed mother. Both Queen Victoria and the Prince Consort were determined to buy the property after they paid a visit there and the Queen wrote: 'It is impossible to imagine a prettier spot.'  

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Parham Park & Gardens S:

 

Petworth House & Park SE:A jewel in the crown of National Trust properties contains one of the copuntry's finest art collections.

Polesden Lacy S: Exceptional setting on the North Downs - a Regency house extensively remodelled in 1906–9 by the Hon. Mrs Ronald Greville, a well-known Edwardian hostess. Her collection of fine paintings, furniture, porcelain and silver is displayed in the reception rooms and galleries, as it was at the time of her celebrated house parties. Extensive grounds, walled rose garden, lawns and walks through the estate. The future King George VI and Queen Elizabeth spent part of their honeymoon here in 1923.

Portsmouth's Historic Ships S:

 

 

Public Transportation Information Sites

 

 

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Royal Naval Submarine Museum S:
   

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St Michael's Mount SW: A national treasure not to be missed – ancient, romantic and breathtakingly beautiful. Follow in the steps of pilgrims, mariners, even giants to discover the legends and the real stories of the Mount. Part Benedictine priory, part embattled castle and still the home of the St Aubyn family. Walk the causeway at low water, or take a ferry when the tide comes in, either way it's an adventure. Harbour village features shops,cafe and the Sail Loft Restaurant.

Salisbury Cathedral S: One of Britain's finest medieval cathedrals ..

 

 

 

Sports and Hobbies Organisation's Sites List  

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Tank Museum S:Make tracks to The Tank Museum - the World's best collection of tanks!

 

Theatres, Regional List

 

Theme Parks List

 

Travel Insurance Online Lists  

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UK General Useful Information Sites List - click here

 

 

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Wilton House S: Home to the Earl of Pembroke this Palladian house, set in 21 acres of landscaped parkland and small formal gardens, contains the magnificent Double Cube Room – the finest surviving 17th century stateroom in England. World renowned art collection includes works by Van Dyck, Rembrandt, Brueghel and Reynolds. Used as a location for many major films, most recently ‘Pride & Prejudice’.

Windsor Castle S:An official residence of The Queen and the largest occupied castle in the world. A Royal home and fortress for over 900 years, the Castle remains a working palace today. Visitors can walk around the State Apartments, extensive suites of rooms at the heart of the working palace. For part of the year visitors can also see the Semi State rooms, which are some of the most splendid interiors in the castle with treasures from the Royal Collection including paintings by Holbein, Rubens, Van Dyck and Lawrence, fine tapestries and porcelain, sculpture and armour.

Wisley Gardens S:Wisley is one of Britain’s best loved garden with 240 acres offering a fascinating blend of the beautiful with practical and innovative design and cultivation techniques. For many, it is the beauty and tranquility of the garden that captures the imagination, with its richly planted borders, luscious rose gardens and the exotica of the glasshouses.

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Day Tours              Top of Page              HOME              Overnight tours

England Bed and Breakfasts / Small Hotels  / Apartments

coming soon ..

 

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Concert Halls & Opera Houses

Academy of Ancient Music: London: One of the world’s first and foremost period-instrument orchestras. Concerts across six continents and over 250 recordings since its formation by Christopher Hogwood in 1973 demonstrate the AAM’s pre-eminence in the music of the period 1600–1850, from Monteverdi to Mendelssohn. It takes its name from a London concert society which was established in 1726 for the purpose of studying and performing ‘old’ music — defined initially as music composed at least a century earlier, but soon to include more contemporary composers, most notably Handel. The site also contains concerts and recordings listings.

Barbican Hall: London: Europe's largest multi-arts and conference venue, it presents a year-round programme of art, music, film and theatre. Designed in the 60s and built in the 1970s, it's owned, funded and managed by the Corporation of London, the third largest sponsor of the arts in the UK, and was built as ’the City’s gift to the nation’. A diverse programme of world-class performing and visual arts, encompassing all forms of classical & contemporary music, international theatre and dance, visual arts and design, and a cinema programme which blends first-run films with special themed seasons. Site has full listings of concerts and events.

City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra M: Since Symphony Hall opened in 1991, it has been acclaimed as one of the finest concert halls in the world by critics, performers and public alike. The classical music programme is complemented by rock, pop, folk, country and jazz music, and even stand-up comedy. The renowned acoustics of the Hall have attracted virtually every established musical figure on the world stage, and have also enabled the CBSO to record many award-winning discs. In October 2001, Symphony Hall celebrated the inauguration of its magnificent new Symphony Organ built by Klais, a company of German organ builders.

Leeds Town Hall N: Leeds International Concert Season is run by Leeds City Council and is the largest local authority music programme in the UK. We programme more than 200 concerts a year in the Leeds area.

 

 

London Coliseum London: English National Opera's home. The ENO started in the slums of Waterloo in the late 19th century thanks to property owner and Old Vic owner Emma Cons, whose niece, Lilian Baylis from South Africa ran the theatrical entertainment for the poor. She put on opera and Shakespeare and, because this was all new to the people in Waterloo, she made sure that the opera was always sung in English. All through the 1920s and ‘30s Lilian Baylis put on opera, Shakespeare and eventually ballet, all done on a shoe string, but by the end of her life, she had created the companies that became The Royal Ballet, the Royal National Theatre and the English National Opera.

Royal Albert Hall:  London: The Royal Albert Hall has a long and rich history as one of the world's leading entertainment venues. Since its first concert in 1871 over 150,000 performances have taken place in the auditorium. There's a wide range of events: from the annual Delta Champions Tennis Tournament to the BBC Summer Proms to Jazz and Rock concerts, to Opera and Ballet productions. The site contains a full Listings guide.

Royal Festival Hall: London: The South Bank Centre comprises The Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall, the Purcell Room and the Hayward Gallery, sharing the site with the independently managed National Theatre and the National Film Theatre. It became an independent arts organisation in April 1988 after two years operating as a constituent part of the Arts Council. The Hayward Gallery was built in 1968 and was funded and managed by the Arts Council of Great Britain until April 1987 when its administration moved to the South Bank Centre.

Royal Opera House Covent Garden London: The Royal Opera was formed as the Covent Garden Opera Company in 1946, but behind it lies a tradition of operatic performance which goes back for more than 260 years at its home in Covent Garden. In each of the three theatres there have been on the site since 1732, opera has played an important role. The Royal Ballet is Great Britain's most prestigious ballet company. The site gives full listings.

St. John's Smith Square: London: In the heart of Westminster, one of London's major concert venues and favourite historic buildings. Valued for its superb acoustic, it presents an extremely varied programme of classical music throughout the concert season, ranging from choirs and symphony orchestras to solo instrumental recitals. See the website for full listing of forthcoming concerts.

St. Martin in the Fields: London: Since 1726 has played host to some of the greatest musicians: Handel played at St Martin’s on its first organ and Mozart is said to have given a concert in the church. The Academy of St Martin in the Fields was formed in 1959 by Sir Neville Marriner and the then Master of Music, John Churchill. It remains the most recorded chamber orchestra in the world. The orchestra still performs at St Martin’s. The church's fine acoustics attract some of the world’s leading orchestras, chamber ensembles, instrumentalists and choirs and with over 350 concerts per year is one of the busiest venues in the country. Concerts are performed by candlelight.

Sadlers Wells London: A strong, dynamic contemporary programme, dedicated to bringing the very best international and UK dance to London audiences. Opened 1998 and breaks new ground in theatre design, but behind the stylish glass, brick, wood and steel of this new theatre is a 250 year history and six previous Sadlers Wells theatres which occupied the same site since the very first SW theatre opened in 1683.

 

Wigmore Hall: London: Built in 1901 by the Bechstein piano company, Wigmore Hall is justifiably regarded as one of the world's great recital halls, attracting the leading classical musicians of our time, and often setting the standard for international chamber music and song. Wigmore Hall's artistic programming is complemented by a highly innovative and diverse Community & Education programme.

 

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Disabled Information

Holidays for the Disabled - Information:

 

Get an access key to the Disabled W.C.'s:

 

 

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EDUCATIONAL

Attingham Trust: Educational courses on Country Houses.

 

British Museum Compass: a database of around 5000 objects selected from the huge range of the Museum's collections. The British Museum thanks the Annenberg Foundation for its generous donation, which made COMPASS possible.

British Museum Children's Compass: Children's COMPASS is made possible by Ford Motor Company Fund.

 

Study in England

Study in England and learn about one of the most important countries in Europe.

   

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Entertainment Information and West End Theatre Ticket Agencies

The Useful Information Company:

 

London Net:

 

Wayahead.com:

 

Ticketmaster:

 

The Globe Theatre:

 

The Society of London Theatre:

 

The Royal Shakespeare Company:

 

 

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Entry Passes to Attractions, etc.

The English Heritage Overseas Visitors Pass: If you are planning a trip to England, then the English Heritage Overseas Visitor Pass is the value for money way to see England's heritage. With the Overseas Visitor Pass you can enjoy unlimited free entry to over 120 of the country's finest castles, abbeys, Roman remains and prehistoric monuments.

 

The Great British Heritage Pass: The Great British Heritage Pass - a must for your Britain Visit! Britain boasts some of the richest history in the world, the abundance of magnificent, olde world properties throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are testament to this. With the Great British Heritage Pass you can visit them all – just buy an affordable one-off pass, and you will be granted free entry to over 400 UK heritage properties.

The London Pass: Your passport to London that gives you FREE entry to over 50 favourite attractions. The London Pass offers great value and convenience.

 

 

The National Trust Touring Pass: For Overseas visitors to the UK only. Many properties to choose from and well worth while considering.

The York Pass: One pass for more than 30 attractions ..

 

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England - Family Fun Parks, Amusement Parks, Theme Parks, Activities, Kids Museums

S: = South; SE: = Southeast; SW: = Southwest; N: = North; NW: = Northwest; W: = West; L: = London; M: = Midlands

Aerial Extreme:

 

Aquatic-Experience:

 

Alton Towers  N:

 

aMazing Hedge Puzzle W:

 

American Adventure N:

 

Animal Farm Adventure Park: W:

 

Avon Valley Country Park W:

 

Bailey Balloons W: Champagne flights ..

 

Beale Park S: formed in 1956 by Gilbert Beale, who decided to give his beautiful, 350 acre site to 'the public' by converting it from private farmland into a non-profit making charitable trust. Since then the Park has developed a remarkable collection of rare and endangered animals, and is involved in various conservation projects ..

Bekonscot Model Village: L:

 

Blackgang Chine Fantasy Park S:

 

Blackpool Pleasure Beach - Lancs.  NW:

 

Bodmin & Wenford Railway SW:

 

Brean Sands Leisure Park W:

 

Bourton Model Railway: W:

 

Brewery Arts: W: Cotswolds arts and crafts centre ..

 

Bristol Zoo Gardens W:

 

Brokerswood Country Park W:

 

Bucks. Goat Centre S: the most comprehensive collection of Goat breeds in Britain, plus many other animals ..

 

Cadbury World M:

 

Camelot Theme Park

 

Cheshire Falconry NW:

 

Chessington World of Adventures L:

 

Chiltern Open Air Museum S: Explore more than 30 rescued historic buildings and roam through 45 acres of beautiful woods and parkland. Wide range of hands on activities, demonstrations and special events - see website
Chinnor & Princes Risborough RailwayS: A friendly branch line providing a tourist attraction for both families and enthusiasts alike operating steam, diesel  and DMU services every Sunday from mid March to late October .. Cholsey & Wallingford Railway  S: Enjoy a heritage train ride on the Cholsey and Wallingford Railway, first opened in 1866, our two and a half-mile line runs through the beautiful countryside of South Oxfordshire .. Combe Martin Wildlife & Dinosaur Park SW:

 

Concorde at Filton: W:

 

Cotswold Falconry Centre:W:

 

Court Farm Country Park:W:

 

Creswell Crags Museum & Education Centre N:

 

Dean Forest Railway:  W:

 

Dean Heritage Centre W:

 

Dinosaur Museum S:

 

Donkey Sanctuary Devon  SW:

Duxford Imperial War Museum (Aviation) M:

 

Eureka! N: Museum for Children - the first and foremost hands-on children's museum in the UK designed especially for 3 - 12 year olds. With more than 400 must-touch exhibits and a full programme of events and activities, you'll be amazed at the fun things you can do!

Farmer Gows Activity Farm S: Fun for all the family - bottle feeding - 'meet the animals' - bale climbs - adventure bike track ..

 

Forest Model Village and Gardens W:

 

Forest of Dean Model Village W:

 

Giffords Circus: various locations see site

 

Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway NW:

 

Godshill Model Village S:

 

Hawkstone Park  M:

 

Gullivers Kingdom N:

 

Hawking Centre (The)

 

Hazel Brow Farm N:

 

Haynes International Motor Museum W:

 

Hawk Conservancy Trust (The) S:

 

Hoo Farm Animal Kingdom M:

 

(The) Horse Trust S: The oldest horse charity in the world. It started life as a respite sanctuary for the working horses of late Victorian London ..

 

Keynes Country & Cotswold Water Park  W:

 

Kilnsey Park  N:

 

Lakeland Miniature Village NW:

 

Legoland  L:

 

Lightwater Valley N:

 

London Dungeon London: Deep in the heart of London, buried beneath the paving stones of historic Southwark, lies the world's most chillingly famous horror attraction. The London Dungeon brings more than 2,000 years of gruesomely authentic history vividly back to life....and death. As you delve into the darkest chapters of our grim and bloody past, recreated in all its dreadful detail, remember: everything you experience really happened.

Longleat  W:

 

Milky Way Adventure Park  SW:

 

Museum of Archeology S:

 

Museum of English Rural Life S:  Houses one of England's most fascinating collections relating to life and work in the countryside over the last two hundred years ..

 

National Marine Aquarium SW:

 

Newquay Zoo SW:

 

Noah's Ark Zoo Farm  W:

 

North Somerset Museum W:

 

Paradise Wildlife Park  S:

 

Park Hall Countryside Experience M:

 

Paultons Park S:  Way too much fun for one day. Over 50 rides and attractions included in entry price ..

 

Pendon Museum S: Indoor model village and railways, South Oxfordshire ..

 

Pooh Corner  S:

 

Prinknash Bird & Deer Park W:

 

Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway SE:

 

SeaQuarium W:

Shanklin Chine S:

 

Sherwood Forest Country Park & Visitor Centre M:

 

Steam: The Gt. West Railway Museum S:

 

Studland Stables S: The beach riding experience - five minutes ride from the beach

Swanage Railway S:

 

Swindon & Cricklade Railway W:

 

Thorpe Park L:

 

Tiggywinkles S: A leading Wildlife hospital ...

 

Twycross Zoo  M:

 

West Somerset Railway W:

 

White Post Farm Centre  M:

 

Woodlands Leisure Park  SW:

 

World in Miniature

 

Wye Valley Butterfly Park W:    

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England - Gardens, Forests, Parks

S: = South; SE: = Southeast; SW: = Southwest; N: = North; NW: = Northwest; W: = West; L: = London; M: = Midlands

Abbey House Gardens W: 16th century gardens alongside Malmesbury Abbey ..

 

 

Alnwick Garden N: Following the success of  the Alnwick Garden’s first year as a tourist attraction - over 300,000 visitors - The Duchess of Northumberland and her husband have decided to donate the entire garden, including the Duke’s endowment of almost £9 million, to the public.

Batsford Arboretum & Wild Garden W: A rare and beautiful collection of trees and wild flowers located in 55 acres of spectacular Cotswold countryside.  Wander along magical meandering paths, beside streams and amongst Japanese flowering cherries and magnolias.  Find the Foo Dog and Hermit's Cave.  Make a  wish with the Buddha.  Eternal peace and tranquillity in wonderful surroundings.

 

Bedgebury Pinetum  S: Open every day, Bedgebury is the perfect place to walk, cycle, ride or play in a spectacular world of trees. Bedgebury's National Pinetum, host to a world-class collection of dramatic conifers, is a beautiful place to walk in all seasons. The two thousand acre Bedgebury Forest now offers miles of family cycling, mountain-biking, riding, walking and adventure play for all ages and abilities. The new Visitor Centre has a cycle franchise, a restaurant, showers and an education/community room. As a location for healthy outdoor activity in a beautiful setting, Bedgebury is in a class of its own.

Bedgebury Pinetum  S: Open every day, Bedgebury is the perfect place to walk, cycle, ride or play in a spectacular world of trees. Bedgebury's National Pinetum, host to a world-class collection of dramatic conifers, is a beautiful place to walk in all seasons. The two thousand acre Bedgebury Forest now offers miles of family cycling, mountain-biking, riding, walking and adventure play for all ages and abilities. The new Visitor Centre has a cycle franchise, a restaurant, showers and an education/community room. As a location for healthy outdoor activity in a beautiful setting, Bedgebury is in a class of its own.
Biddulph Grange Garden M: A rare and exciting survival of a high Victorian garden where Tunnels and pathways lead the visitor on a miniature tour of the world. Rare and exotic planting and architecture: from an Egyptian court, to elegant Italian terraces. Unique oriental pagoda garden with its own Great Wall of China and Victorian eccentricities: an upside down tree and strange stone sculptures.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens M: Four glasshouses take visitors from Tropical Rainforest to Arid Desert conditions with insectivorous plants, giant ‘cacti’, tree ferns and cycads, orchids, sugar cane, bananas and citrus fruits. Outside, 15 acres of beautiful landscaped, historic and themed gardens including our Organic Garden. The Gardens use organic methods of pest control & promote sustainability throughout. Adventure playground, Discovery Garden, walkabout trails, exotic birds, Gift Shop, Plant Sales, Gallery, Restaurant.

Borde Hill S:

 

 

Bodenham Aroboretum M: Bodenham Arboretum is a collection of over 2500 trees set in 134 acres of Worcestershire countryside with 11 pools, four miles of footpaths and a working farm. In addition there is an award-winning 'Earth Centre' set in the hillside overlooking the Big Pool.

 

Bourton House Garden W: Surrounding a delightful 18th century Cotswold manor house (not open) and 16th century tithe barn, this exciting 3-acre garden positively fizzes with ideas. Featuring flamboyant borders, imaginative topiary, profusions of herbaceous borders and exotic plants and, not least, a myriad of magically planted pots; a plantsman’s paradise.

Burrow Farm Gardens W:

 

Burton Agnes Hall & Gardens: N:

 

Cambridge University Botanic Garden: M:

 

Cannon Hall Museum, Park & Gardens: N:

 

Constable Burton Hall Gardens N:

 

Cotehele SW: Medieval house with superb collections of textiles, armour and furniture, set in extensive grounds. Riverside gardens with great seasonal variety. Ghostly goings on: hazy figures, music and a strange herbal smell. Film location for 'Twelfth Night' (1996). Take a boat trip on the River Tamar from Cotehele Quay.
Dorothy Clive Garden M: The Dorothy Clive Garden is intimate and informal. It embraces a variety of landscape features, including a superb woodland garden, an alpine scree, gravel garden and many fine mixed borders. Visitors will discover the great variety of form and colour and the fine views of the surrounding hilly countryside. The plant enthusiast will find many unusual species.

Eden Project SW: The Warm Temperate Biome, the largest conservatory in the world, is 240 m long, 110 m wide and 50 m high. Natural gardens bloom in Mediterranean, Californian and South African habitats.

 

Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway S: a spectacular 200-acre woodland garden, famous for the Rothschild collection of rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias.

 

Firs Botanical Gardens, University of Manchester  N:

 

Forde Abbey W: Enjoy Forde Abbey’s 30 acres of award winning informal gardens with the vivid herbaceous borders, mature trees and wide sloping lawns. The walled kitchen garden, bog garden and rockery provide a wealth of specialist plants for the keen gardener. These are viewed against spectacular architectural features not least the Abbey itself and the Centenary Fountain, the highest powered fountain in England.
Fountain's Abbey/Studley Royal Water Garden N: Of outstanding historic and aesthetic importance; declared a World Heritage site in 1987, the 822 acre estate is open daily all year.

Great Dixter S:

 

Hidcote Gardens M: Celebrated 20th-century garden in the beautiful North Cotswolds. One of England's greatest gardens, an Arts & Crafts masterpiece. A series of outdoor rooms each with its own unique character. Old roses, unusual plants and trees from around the world n estled in the Cotswolds with stunning panoramas across the Vale of Evesham.
Hinton Ampner S: One of the great gardens of the 20th century, the personal vision of Ralph Dutton, 8th and last Lord Sherbourne. Innovative colour schemes and scented plants. Glorious vistas over unspoilt Hampshire countryside. Gardeners on hand to answer questions and talk about their work. House contains a fine collection of Regency furniture and Italian paintings.

Kew Gardens L: the 120 hectares (300 acres) of Kew are a must-see, all-year round. Great collection from all over the world.