Visited here during a weekday break to the Cotswolds in October advised to book in advance which with gift aid was £12 a ticket per head which for easily nearly 4 hours spent here is very well worth it 👍 there's plenty to see if you do the full walk with the trees this time of the year in all their glory of a riot of colour's most of the paths are hardstanding with a few steep inclines of softer ground but we took our elderly dog round in his buggy ok & there were a few disabled buggies getting around ok as well I'd say also brilliant for kids for an outdoor excursion with plenty of "off path" area's for them to explore & let some energy off in the fresh air also a large garden centre & restaurant here the restaurant having a very extensive menu at all reasonable prices with the food very very good quality the restaurant is,also dog friendly with a lovely outside verandah seating area sadly didn't get time to visit the old fashioned tool shed but I'll definitely do that next time we're back in the Cotswolds I'd like to see the Arboretum in spring as well with the blossom so would definitely visit again also a shout out to all the lovely staff 👏👏👏

Beautiful place to visit carpark free, café and toilets on site. Beautiful gardens and grounds. The trees and their colours are absolutely beautiful. Im not a photographer but I took some lovely photos.

Loved our visit here. We have been last year so it was good to come back. A bit quieter in the autumn as well which I prefer. Relatively quiet and easy to get something from the cafe after a good walk around. Trees were beautiful and there was a red carpet of leaves. Have a great nursery here as well with plants, trees and bonsais.

Large area to explore. Good car parking. Restaurant was very busy but good choice of food, although not much for GF diets or low carb. Many very established trees and shrubs including some giant Redwoods. The church was small but interesting. Barefoot House is private but it’s where the Mitford family lived for some time. You’re provided with a good map that shows the steeper trails. Seating provided in certain areas so you can have a breather and take in the tranquility. You could spend a day here easily.

We had a wonderful trip to Batsford Arboretum. I had hurt my knee a few days before so we nearly cancelled but I found I was able to loan their tramper mobility scooter. This allowed me to keep up with family and see the whole venue which even without my injury I would never normally have been able to do even without my usual walking aids. The colours of autumn were exhilarating and the variety of trees and plants was surprising. Supportive caring staff in reception, shop and cafe.

Batsford Arboretum is such a beautiful and special place I visited midweek with my family and everyone felt very relaxed and calmed from being there, a great way to reset surrounded by nature - would highly recommend to anyone looking for a place for mindfulness and relaxing in nature

Beautiful. Easy to get to with a garden centre and craft workshops. Great cafe and fab day out in the lovely cotswolds.

One of the best National Trust I have been up till today! The volunteers give you some very interesting stories about the family who lived in the Hall. The Gardens are full of different types and colours fruits. You will meet a romantic lake during your walking around the gardens.

A very peaceful place to visit. During our autumn day out at Wightwick (pronounced Wittick) there was a lovely calm about the place. Autumn had definitely arrived and the serenity of all the beautiful colours was joyful. The grounds are not too vast, but there are plenty of different areas, plus a woodland walk & a couple of small ponds. The house itself is extremely beautiful, from the decadence of the interior, to the architectural splendour of the exterior. There is a large tearoom, gift shop & second-hand bookshop, which are all worth a visit. Definitely a place I recommend, it's well worth it.

We had a fantastic day out here with friends and family. We visited and immediately were greeted by a very kind volunteer. The gardens were beautiful and the manor itself was steeped in history. The cafe was quite pricey which is to be expected, but the food was really nice so it was worth it. Alternatively you can also just take a pack lunch. Would definitely recommend this place. Really nice way to spend a day out.

Love this place! Went for the first time during the 6 weeks holidays with my 9 year old and another relative and we had a fantastic day! Its so interesting learning about the history of the manor house and the mander family who lived there So much to see and do, we walked round the manor house twice at request of my daughter, the grounds are stunning! And she loved the wooden play area in the woods We had a really tasty waffle cone from the ice cream shop and even bought home some produce they had grown on their allotments from the shop We went back again last weekend for their heritage open day and apple harvest got to harvest some apples and take them home Amazing

If you love arts and crafts and all things beautiful- this is a great place. Full of beautiful wallpaper, ceilings, fireplaces, tiles, paintings, ceramics, materials, stained glass and architecture a real eclectic mix. The staff are wonderful-very knowledgeable, friendly and welcoming. Spent the afternoon here and could spend a whole year here and still have more to see. Yet to visit the 17 acres - more for another wonderful trip.

Wightwick is my favourite NT property so far and Ive visited a lot. The building is beautiful but the house has the most welcoming feel the second you walk through the door. It almost invites you in. Im not sure my pictures do it justice. I also have to say the guides who are volunteers are so knowledgeable. They made the visit even more enjoyable. Coffee and cake afterwards in the tea room. Perfect. This beautiful property is a definitely must visit. I loved it.

The house was fascinating and if you're interested in William Morris & De Morgans designs, it's a must visit. The gardens are small but there is so much to see in the house and gallery it's well worth a visit.

Almost 5 stars but this was our first visit & entering the carpark we had no idea or signs to say which way to the entrance or instructions to pay for the carpark. It wasn't very busy today but we thoroughly enjoyed our time spending over 4 hrs. The staff were delightful & oh so helpful. Fish & Chips were utterly delicious, best I've had in a long long time. The houses & shops were wonderful, bringing back so many memories. All in all a truly wonderful day, thank you.

Such an amazing experience. The museum and what it offers is phenomenal and the staff and volunteers are so engaging. The way they have set this up is exemplary and we learned so much from the people there and the exhibits. The forging and Army and Navy store were two of our favourites as well as the canal and chain shop area. A must see if you are here, a short train ride from Birmingham New Street to Tipton and it's about a 15 minute walk to the museum. Excellent day.

Well worth a visit. Great family day out. We have two boys 7 and 11. They engaged really well. The fun fair cost more but parents of little ones went on free and they were great. Staff were super 👌. The fish and chips were amazing much better than we get these days and cheaper. The demonstrations were informative and entertaining. Definitely go down the mine but watch your head! The gift shop was reasonably priced.

Really enjoyed it and here. Took my 8 year old. Lovely to walk around and really takes you back. Even I remember houses like these when I was alot younger. The boat rides do have an additional cost. There is alot to see and do. Although they do have some eateries we didn't bother. I think I'd have preferred a packed lunch regardless. Definitely recommend a visit here!

Open air museum, this is more like a small, Industrial Revolution, town with plenty to see and do. Very good parking facilities with plenty of disabled space as well as spaces for families, especially those with younger children giving easy access to site. A quick 2 minute walk from the car park to the main entrance where you are greeted into a large atrium in a modern building with a comprehensive gift shop to the right on entry. To the left there is an eatery serving up hot and cold food, and the usual coffees/teas and soft drinks etc. Exiting the main entrance the is a world of history in front of you starting with a tour of the mines. Sadly even early In the morning 10:30 (30 mins after opening) there was a long queue however this was accessible during the day. Old buildings galore, presented in various period decor all accessible to view both upstairs and down as well as black smiths, foundries, smelting, brick production, the list goes on. Heritage building with cars and bikes for viewing. The museum also runs a bus service with busses from 1940’s. They operate an early funfair with several period rides including ghost train, carousel and penny slot machines, well worth a ride. To the rear of the museum there is a modern building dedicated to the canal trust and preservation with the ability to take passenger on a boat ride through the caves where they mined line stone. Several found outlets in the various building, accessible toilet throughout the site, actors on site who interact with the public. All in all a fantastic day out FYI, I travelled from Essex the morning of the visit. Worth every penny.

What an amazing day we had at the Black Country living museum. We got there about 10am and stayed about 5 hours . So much to see and do. The staff was very friendly and helpful and willing to answer any questions. The fish and chips was amazing . Had one or a few beers in various locations. Then we went back for peaky blinders night . What a great time that was. Music and attractions all over the museum. Can’t wait to go back for a 40s or 60s night next year.

Absolutely incredible experience, we do come quite often due to being in the midlands but the new updates are fantastic and there is so so much to do. I actually don’t think the museum is open long enough to do everything they now have on offer. Not to worry you are able to return as many times as you like within a year with those tickets! Incredible! Such a good time had by all!

Lovely quaint National Trust site to visit on a quiet Sunday! The staff here clearly love their location and love sharing the history of the place, really friendly older lady upstairs in the attic rooms who showed us hidden details we hadn’t spotted ourselves. The grounds are beautiful and so lovely on a sunny day - we didn’t attend with children but the park looked like a cool hide-away and very natural for the kids. Awesome history. :)

This was another amazing place to visit. I highly recommend taking the tour as the lovely guides are so knowledgeable and bring the house to life with the history of the place. We had a lovely coffee and cake in the cafe afterwards. This place has made the grounds for the enjoyment of children. It is a fantastic place for adults with the house and the outside adventures for children. Definitely a must. No photos allowed in the house just the grounds.

Secluded hidden gem of a National Trust, not far from the motorway. Not a big site, compared with other National Trust. Doesn't have extensive size gardens. As a result, not crowded. Cafe available with seating indoors and outdoors. Note, cafe is located on the 1st floor, no lift available. Cafe has a smaller selection of hot food, usual scones, pasties and soups. Guided tours available, 45 minutes duration. Outdoor activities for children including climbable treehouse.

A great historic site to visit! King Charles II visited this place back in 1651, and it’s amazing how well the home has been preserved. It offers fascinating insight into how people lived during that time. The volunteers who provided the tour and answered questions were fantastic—so knowledgeable and friendly. I especially enjoyed the info session led by the Barber Surgeon. Highly recommend a visit!

We went here with friends. Absolutely loved it. One of the best days out we've had. Both our kids and our friend's kids enjoyed it. Big outdoor area with a tree house, the house itself is incredible. Draped in history and the staff were knowledgeable and welcoming, happy to answer questions or give information. The building is beautiful. The only one issue we found was the cafe choices for food wasn't great. Didn't have jacket potatoes and what they did have was very expensive. We loved it and would definitely recommend a family day out here.

Great house. Very informative volunteers. It was a beautiful day when I visited, so it was lovely to walk round the gardens, take a moment to sit on one of the many benches and reflect.

My partner and I love visiting a national trust, this one had some beautiful grounds and they have planted over 3,000 trees which is wonderful to see! The gardens are lovely and of course the house too. The best part about visiting them is getting to speak to the volunteers - we love it. They were all lovely during our visit - in particular Sue, she was in the bedroom and spoke us through the view that could be hidden and her knowledge on Charles, his wife, children and that era was something to be jealous of. We finished with a little tea and hot chocolate in the tea room which was lovely. A great visit and we are blessed to have the national trust

Lovely experience. It was a wonderful time, spent around 2 hrs. The best part was the 4D movie which was just wow. And then the avenue was the good experince. If could show more about how chocolates are made nowadays then it would be more interesting. I have seen cadbury making process in a different country and that was more into the process making, so thats what a gap was I feel... rest everything was an amazing experience. It was my best birthday present.

Its not a very big place, but informative and there were things to do. We also got a taster cup of chocolate, it was nice. Saw a demo about how the chocolate was made. Unfortunately when we went the rides were not working and my child was so disappointed! The ticket was not cheap, so all the rides should work properly!

Terrible place to visit, definitely not worth £52 for 1 hour and 20 mins after traveling for over 2 and a half hours. Press and play features not working, other functions not working. Interactive machines not working and one that was working went into error mode when we tried to use it. Nothing for adults and it is more themed for children under the age of 8. The 4D attraction was not good at all unless your of a toddler age, motion seats just move a little and vibrate and the other motion seats in the other video tour slightly move from left to right and was over in 5 minutes. Staff at each station do not explain what to do and what you can do at the chocolate making feature which you don't actually make any chocolate or decorate anything, instead they just say the initial hello and tell you to start and then talk amongst each other in front of you about their personal life's. Booking online isn't any quicker as they have a zigzag queue line for any prepaid visitors. The price of a ticket for an adult ticket is the same price for a child under 15 and the whole experience is far from value for money, it is not something you want to plan as a day out. There is lots of places marked on the map as no visitor access also, and when it came to an abrupt finish ending up in the gift shop to spend more money, we where not told if there was anything else to go to or see and nobody creating us at the door or giving us wishes on our way. Parking is free and about good thing as the whole place appears run down, washed out and offers little to do for the whole family. It is more like walking around a mirco museum with a family playground and cafe.

Loved it, was a lot of fun, even as an oldie. Would loved to have seen more of the factory and some more of the history of cadburys. Also has a lovely afternoon tea while we were there. Please take your time to look and use all the activities or you will be out in less than 2 hrs but saying that I think the entry fee is reasonable.

I visited Cadbury world in Birmingham on a weekday as I predicted this to be a little quieter than a weekend which it was. I managed to get a few snaps of the factory as you take a trip an a good history lesson of the beginnings all the way to present day. I like the tour and I think it’s pretty cool, especially seeing the chocolate makers on the ground floor making the chocolate fresh and shaping these for souvenirs to buy or for special events coming up. The gift shop is also pretty cool and worth a visit, having some cool novelties you can buy and take home with you. HOWEVER, for being a chocolate tour, the ride was not working when I was there, which was disappointing. Also, you only get 2 free bars of chocolate included in your tour visit, which is a little ridiculous considering that you pay a decent price to go.

A place that offers information, fun filled activities and entertainment. Booking tickets in advance is must. It will save you a trip and money. Arrive by about your time of entry, they let people queue and enter in batches. The tour begins with a historic display of cocoa production and evolution of chocolate while it travelled across the world. Then the first chocolate shop and birth of Cadbury, some stories of the family and how they ventured into this business. Followed by the making of chocolate, staffs demonstrating the process and later you get to do it by yourself. Inside they also sell some crazy structures of chocolate. Then you get entertained by 4D movie, dwelling into the world of characters Cadbury has introduced. Followed by a nice exhibit narrating the story of Bournville village and a fun filled ride where you collect the ingredients (virtually) to make your own chocolate. If you may have forgotten to collect something, don't worry you can buy them from their store that has EVERYTHING CHOCOLATE!!! A one of its kind place to engage all age groups. You get some free chocolates on entry and can buy more at exit. There is a cafe inside this building. Parking available. Cloak room is only for large luggage bags. Enough numbers of toilets available in intervals throughout the tour.

It's not just about chocolate (although that's rather a key theme …) but also about how the workers were treated. Very well. A quite interesting self-paced tour. Three free (well, included in the admission price) bars of chocolate for each guest, plus a sample towards the end of the tour. Then there's the museum to see, too. Oh, and the shop, just in case you haven't already got enough chocolate.

There is a helpful little tip for visiting - in the corner of the gift shop there is a lift back up to the toilets. These are back at the beginning of exhibition so you can head round again to pick up any bits you missed! It is a great half day out with the kids. The centre feels like it could do with some updating and refresh on some of the side activities but the exhibits are all great, and the feeding / talk times flow quite well through your visit. The staff are all super friendly and helpful, our daughters especially loved the roaming pirate!

It was am awesome experience! I'll be honest when I first went in, I thought it was quite small, however it is extended at the back so it was indeed quite spacious. Easily took us 2-3 hours to explore the entire place at a slow pace with a 5 month old. The penguins were adorable at the start, the amount of fish in each aquarium space was quite adequate. I did wish we could see the otters though, only managed to catch s tiny glimpse in the room at the far back. The area with the jellyfish was so mesmerising. There were different photography stations located at multiple areas. You could take photos at each station, and at the end you could choose which pictures you'd like to buy and what package. Overall there was a lot of cleanliness, tanks were clean, the walkways were clean too. We ended up going at a busy weekend, but still could easily manage to get around with a baby pram. There was however a pram parking area, if you will, to store the prams if you'd rather do that. Definitely worth a trip.

Visited on a Saturday with pre-booked tickets and went straight in. It was as busy as you would expect on a weekend. Theres a route to follow and as long as you are patient in certain places you can see everything (unless creatures are hiding) There are some additional options like photos taken and a VR experience included in the admission charge. There is quite a bit to see and different areas. There are toilets at the start and halfway through, there is a shop at the end but no cafe. It takes around 60-90 mins to go round but we didnt do any photos or VR. It does look a bit tired and dated in places and the enclosures look a bit on the smaller side especially for the Penquins and Sea Otters. We used Tescos Clubcard vouchers to pay but our tickets would have been £55.00 which is steep for what you get but, if you used all the things offered it might seem better value for money

National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham: A Submerged City Escape ​The National SEA LIFE Centre in Birmingham offers an engaging and surprisingly intimate exploration of the underwater world, making it a perfect family outing in the city centre. While its footprint is smaller than some coastal aquariums, it packs a real punch, particularly with its signature attraction: the UK's only 360-degree Ocean Tunnel. ​Walking through this clear acrylic tunnel is genuinely jaw-dropping, providing an immersive experience as sharks, rays, and the beloved giant green sea turtle, Molokai, glide directly overhead and beneath your feet. This highlight alone justifies the visit, offering incredible photographic moments and a true sense of being submerged. ​Beyond the ocean tunnel, key exhibits include the playful Gentoo penguins in their icy habitat and the charming sea otters, Ozzy and Ola, who reside in the Mammal Rescue Facility. Interactive elements like the rock pool, where visitors can gently touch a starfish, keep younger guests highly engaged. Other sections, like the jellyfish displays and the Clownfish Kingdom, are vibrant and well-presented. ​While tickets can be pricey, seeking out available discounts or utilizing combination passes with nearby attractions like LEGOLAND Discovery Centre offers better value. Allow about 90 minutes to two hours for a comfortable tour. Despite sometimes being busy, the SEA LIFE Centre remains a truly "splash hit" and a memorable journey into marine conservation and discovery.

We had a fantastic afternoon here with my daughter and grandson! It’s such a wonderful place, and we especially loved watching the feeding the sea otters, Ozzy and Ola. The gentleman narrating was so friendly and knowledgeable, answering all our questions with enthusiasm. He’s a real asset to the centre and made our visit extra special — we only wish we’d caught his name!

It's OK for young children, not a long experience for the price so would definitely plan other activities around this if you are travelling into Birmingham. Staff are very friendly and knowledgeable and the venue is clean and tidy. The immediate area, Brindley Place, is clean and well presented and has parking nearby.

Awesome experience,amazing staff!! They have designated talk and feed times for penguins and otters, so you could enjoy that. Staff was very friendly and helpful. Specially enjoyed the penguins. Would have given a 5 or even more if otters were close instead of on screen. However I understand and appreciate that they need to adapt first to this environment before exposing them to public. Overall, it was a very fun experience and Happy Weekend instead!!

The relatively new library is architecturally beautiful but I’m knocking off a point because the Library closed its cafe. When you send long spells in a library it’s helpful to be able to get a drink. In the British Library there are about four or five cafes on site which enables you to work, take a comfort break and return to researching or studying. Not sure why the second city’s main public library doesn’t have this important feature. I also think the business section could do with more resources and event to support businesses and business start up. That said, staff are helpful and professional. It’s easy to take out or renew memberships. I love the light and airy space on each floor and the statement elevators. The roof top garden is beautiful and a great amenity space on a warm day for us to catch up on phone calls. Again I may have remained there if I could have gotten a drink. Instead we leaf after two hours just to get refreshments.

I visited the Library of Birmingham today. Last year, there was a lovely water feature just outside the library — a great spot where kids could play and cool off. I checked several times this year, but unfortunately, it hasn’t been turned on at all, which was a bit disappointing. That said, I did discover a small children’s play area at the lower level of the library that I hadn’t seen before. It includes sand, water, wooden toys, and natural materials — a very fun and creative space for children to enjoy. Great to see the library offering more for little ones, but I really hope the water feature returns soon!

The largest public library in the UK, Birmingham library is a great place to study. They have a large selection of books- academic, fiction and non-fiction self help books. You can also listen to audio books if you have a membership of the library which is relatively easy to get. The staff is always helpful with information relating to books and other related topics. You can find and reserve a book online on their site. They will find the book in their and other libraries and keep the book aside for you for a period of time. Having a cafe would be good given that you’d want to take a break from studying. Nevertheless it’s a beautiful place and a must visit from those outside the city. The balcony gives an amazing view of the city. 💖

I recently visited the Library of Birmingham and had a brilliant experience from start to finish. The building itself is striking and modern, and inside it feels open, bright and welcoming. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the spaces are spotless and well organised, whether you’re looking to read, study, or simply explore. One of the absolute highlights is the outdoor terrace and viewing platform at the top. The view across Birmingham is incredible — you can see right over the city skyline, including Centenary Square, the canals, and some of the landmark buildings that make the city so unique. It’s a peaceful spot that really shows off how impressive Birmingham looks from above. Overall, the Library of Birmingham is a fantastic place to visit. Whether you’re a regular reader, a student, or just someone exploring the city, it’s well worth the trip — especially for the view from the top.

This library is a wonderful addition to central Birmingham. It has many rooms all of varying sizes with many spaces for study, reading or simply relaxing. It had a vibrant feel and it was good to see people using its facilties. There were also some wonderful views of the city from a number of vantage points located on the higher floors of the building, and I particularly liked the secret garden on the 7th floor. The only two gripes for me were the initial escalators on ground floor (very dangerous) and the lack of a restaurant or cafe.

Worth a visit just to ride the escalators and enjoy the sunshine out on the terrace (level 4) or the secret garden (level 7). Elevators are available but were not functioning today, but the 90 step climb to level 7 for the secret garden was worth it. Great views over the city and delightful spaces to sit. And of course they have an enormous collection of books, media, maps and more. Such a cool space with the escalators going back and forth across a large central open space.

The library is beautiful! As a tourist, it is a wonderful place for anyone coming to Birmingham. On the top 2 floors, there is a beautiful terrace with lots of flowers and benches to sit on. There is an exhibition that explains the history of the library. I recommend taking the elevator up and turn down by the escalators. As a student, it is a great place to study, do your homework, it has internet, very private spaces, you can get your membership card to request books. It is a great place for group study or even to read a book.

The building is really mislabeled. There’s one room with Art which may have 20 canvases. One of them is quite a nice place but otherwise if you’re coming for Art, you’re not going to find anything that you want. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a museum with a great coverage of the history of Birmingham, the top floor of the building has a very excellent series of exhibits on this topic. That’s not why I came here, but I did enjoy it quite a lot. If you have kids, there’s a dinosaur exhibit on the lower floor. I think it’s 9 pounds for adults and free for kids. Otherwise, the museum is free. There’s a nice coffee shop.

The museum was outstanding. Very clean, staff were very knowledgeable and friendly, and very considerate when providing assistance, especially to those with additional support needs. There's portable chairs behind the doors, a great personal touch when you're spending a few hours in there. I visited from Manchester to see the Ozzy Osbourne exhibition, the Made In Birmingham exhibition, and paid in to see Giants whilst I was there. Highly recommend and will be returning in the future. Gift shop was great, with lots of different quirky items connected to the exhibitions.

really great place, went for the ozzy osbourne stuff but i was pleasantly surprised by the rest of the displays. I like how everything in the museum is relevant to Birmingham or England. I felt like i got to learn tge place’s history. Everything was really informative, interactiv, and the whole experience was beautiful.

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery is a true gem in the city! The museum offers a wonderful mix of art, history, and culture, with something to interest everyone. The galleries are beautifully curated, featuring impressive fine art collections, fascinating local history exhibits, and world-class pieces like the Pre-Raphaelite paintings. The building itself is magnificent, with stunning architecture that adds to the experience. The staff are knowledgeable and friendly, always ready to share insights or help guide you through the exhibits. It’s a great place to spend a few hours learning, relaxing, and being inspired — a must-visit destination for anyone coming to Birmingham.

Lovely gallery! Lovely and huge and lots of things to see in there aswell as a lovely and spacious cafe, bigger than the cafe in my local gallery!!! I enjoyed my pumpkin spice latte that I had in the cafe it tasted just like the one at Starbucks, but better than Starbucks 👌🏻 and the Ozzy Osbourne exhibiton that's on at the moment is fab 🖼️! I will be back! We both loved the gallery with a passion 😊

Really interesting place to visit. Lots of variety in terms of exhibits and things to do. Plenty for people of all ages. The Staffordshire Hoard is a great section and displayed excellently.

I came here many years ago. Back in the days when they had a museum full of art. Now there's very little but there was a nice section on the history of Birmingham. As much as that was a nice touch and it being free, it felt like there was so little to see. There's the classic over prices gift shop and coffee shop inside. But you'll not spend long in here any more sadly. Hope you enjoy it more than I did. Enjoy.

I've been to plenty of breweries and their tours before. And they tend to get very samey. But not Hook Norton, while yes it covered the main talking points, this is an incredibly unique and interesting Brewery from an engineering and structural standpoint. Also never been to a brewery with so many drinks at the end (5 cask, 4 keg). Peter our guide was phenomenal and made the tour engaging and interesting.

What a lovely day out! Our tour guide Monty was very knowledgeable and welcoming. History, beer and food - brilliant experience across all fronts and came away feeling very enriched. The cafe’s version of a Ploughman’s was top notch and the beer went down a treat. Will be recommending to friends and family!

Great spot. Two of us had a couple of pints and sandwich and side of chips. Good simple pub menu. Gluten free menu. Friendly. Glorious to sit in sun having a beer, outside tables had parasols. Not easy to get to, we cycled from Kings Sutton, but worth it. The shop has the full range of beers and some nice gifts.

This is a must visit as i always pop in every few months and the restaurant is outstanding. We turned up and was leaving and meet with loads of steam powered vehicles which was awesome.

Very clean and tidy. Staff with very, very attentive. They checked that everything was ok three times! Food was fresh and good sized portions. Peri-peri sauce with the chicken has a good kick to it.

Great cafe and bar with well stocked shop. I recently returned to do the brewery tour. It was a very informative tour for the history of the Hook Norton Brewery and how it grew from 1849 and was then extended to the Victorian 3 stage gravity fed brewery of 1899. The tour is 90 minutes long and involves going up and down over 100 steps. It really has a fascinating history which was state of the art when it was built and largley unchanged except a few modern additions added in the 20th & 21st century for effeciency and electrification. Well worth the money and with a great host too called Sally who knew her history. After the tour you get sample the beers and discuss tasting notes. It would be great to do a more indepth day when they are brewing with the brewers to see it all in action and to have a lesson on brewing and the science behind it.

Such an authentic tour. Chris was an absolute pleasure as a tour guide and provided us with so many interesting facts and anecdotes. The cellar bar is a fitting end too 🍺

This was a late in the season visit. Not all the attractions and vendor stands were open. It did not spoil the visit. The best attraction was the falconry quest. The birds were amazing and the handlers ensured that everyone was buzzed by a bird. The barn owls was majestic and graceful. The peregrine falcon was fast and precise. When looking up at the condor as it flew over was awesome. At the end of the show I couldn't tell you what the birds were, but the sky was full. It was amazing, worth the 3 hour drive for this. The horrible histories maze was fun and informative. There are peacocks everywhere. Other wildlife in abundance squirrel's, Robin's and ducks. There are plenty of seating and concession stands. There are plenty of staff who are helpful. Yes there are a lot of areas accessible for wheelchair users but it is hilly in places.

The knights lodge was big enough for 3 of us nicely dressed with a modern bathroom- breakfast was good too - I'd recommend as a short stay. Castle speaks for itself don't miss the dungeon tour - absolutely brilliant my son is 8 and loved it best £6 pp I think iv ever spent

Had a fantastic day with my dad. Birds of prey are fantastic! Really loved seeing them! Lots to see and do. Lot's of choice of food and drink. It's well worth the money. The car park has plenty of space. It's a good day out for the family or just going your own. The castle was really good! Something for everyone. 😁👍. Plenty of toliets. Clean.

Amazing! I enjoyed spending half a day visiting this stunning castle. It’s so big and beautiful, I could stay there the whole day. I love to go again.

Absolutely amazing visit to the castle for Halloween!! The special touches everywhere for Halloween were super fun. It was a great day out with the family with lots of performances, some Karaoke, plenty of food options and lovely views from the top of the towers. Definitely a must visit!!

My friend and I had a wonderful day at Warwick Castle. Such beautiful grounds and such an interesting place to visit. We loved the guides tours, so engaging and informative. The bird of prey show was absolutely outstanding.

A Truly Magical Day at Warwick Castle! From the moment we arrived, Warwick Castle completely exceeded our expectations. The grounds are beautifully maintained, and every corner feels steeped in history. The live shows were absolutely fantastic — the Falconer’s Quest was a standout, and the actors really bring the medieval atmosphere to life. The staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about making the experience memorable. We especially loved how interactive the exhibits were — perfect for families and history enthusiasts alike. We left feeling like we’d stepped back in time for the day. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a fun, educational, and truly magical day out. We can’t wait to return!

Award winning Victorian Gardens, plus a coffee shop, sensory garden, a hothouse and events restaurant, a lake, monuments,a boating lake, ancient trees. Changing colourful flower beds . So picturesque. Art in the Park exhibition etc. Years ago the very lovely Victorian gardens used to hold a fantastic light-show. Thousands of people used travel by coach to visit. This year a small laser light show and an exhibition in the Parish Church, marked the past exotic, extravaganza. Leamington Spa is a great place to visit. Over 200 restaurants and coffee shops. Voted friendliest place to live in England several times. I've lived here for nearly 40 years. And yes, it truly is an exciting place.

The Jephson family have been making the Royal family's underwear for over six hundred years. Each item is individually hand monogramed and every item is hand made by true underwear masters. It's said that Princess Margaret was the only member of the family not to wear the Jephson brand but this has been dismissed by those in the know as a rumour started by a rival to Jephson pants. Prince Edward is particularly fond of the Jephson boxer shorts and has dozens of pairs in multiple colours. The gardens were named after the family in recognition of their undercracker achievements in 2004.

Jephson Gardens is a beautifully maintained park in the heart of Leamington Spa. The gardens are full of colorful flowers, peaceful walkways, and lovely fountains, making it perfect for a relaxing stroll. The river views and glasshouse add extra charm to the setting. A calm and scenic spot that showcases the town’s natural beauty — simply delightful!

Such a beautiful park in the heart of Royal Leamington Spa. Well kept gardens with floral displays and gorgeous mature trees. Lovely lake with an array of water birds. To top it off there's a lovely cafe that has great coffee and nice nibbles. Plus, toilets nearby.

Lovely place well worth a visit. Clean tidy and beautiful disability and autism friendly, lovely gallery and glasshouse was nice. Sensory garden was a bit tired and needs work but will definitely visit again.

Great place for a picnic and a family day out. Lovely gardens with a fountain and also chance to ride on a boat along the river. A walking suspension bridge to access the play area and the boat hire place. Easy access to a car park too at Rossfield street.

Huge, well maintained public garden includes green house garden aka Glass house as well. Surprisingly, never visited before despite in a way everyday..and my chance or serendipity took to this excellent public place..backside is Mills Bridge another epic small cute vintage one which connect to road on back.

It was great to see so many vehicles designed and built in Britain, but suddenly, to see the decline, even though it's been that way for a while, was a little depressing. Great experience though. The kids (2-7yo's) loved it too. Particularly the land speed cars at the end. Tickets are valid for a year so can go back again and again.

This experience is truly exceptional and perfect for the entire family. Whether you're looking for an exciting adventure, a chance to bond over shared activities, or simply some quality time together, this destination has it all. I highly recommend you visit and see for yourself the delightful attractions and engaging experiences it offers. Don’t miss out on creating lasting memories together! Cars are fun for all ages.

There is a lot to take in here. If you have children (currently Children 5-16 £8-£9, Under 4 s free - but cheaper with GO CV 2025) then it is filled with activities for them to do. I think it is always like this - not just during school holidays when I visited. There is a good range of locally built cars, bikes and motor cycles. The Jaguar 'section' brings a modernity to the historical units here, as does the Land Speed Record Thrusts 1 and 2. I was hoping to see a Jaguar C or D type but sadly not here. There are a few tractors, light military vehicles, trucks and buses, but the vast majority of the displays are cars and (motor) bikes and cycles'. The Triumph / 1970's / 80s sections were good - the range is fairly narrow as they are Coventry or locally built models. I couldn't quite get why there were some examples from Birmingham and surrounding areas - there were a lot missing if that's the rationale. Still, better to see them than not. It isn't as big as I thought from the outside. I like to see inside the vehicles but there were a lot where I couldn't do this, partly because of the way they were displayed - maybe not enough room? I think it was the unpainted monocoque shell of a Jaguar XJ220 hanging vertically - but I couldn't see any info on that. Signage was generally OK. The basic floor plan map (attached) could do with a bit more detail I thought, as could some of the displays. The 4D simulator wasn't working on my visit (30th Oct 2025) However, apart from the small bits of nit-picking above, there were so many interesting things to see. There were several unexpected delights too. Cars using fabric instead of metal, cut-aways of cars and car parts, some really unique cars, the 85th anniversary Blitz section, a huge collection of model die-casts (e.g. Matchbox) and much more. Definitely worth the entrance price - which is cheaper if booked online. The ticket is valid for readmission for a year. So, maybe when I come back (and I will) I will get to try the 4D simulator. I had intended to adopt a vehicle(!), but for £100 a year, that didn't seem good value on inspection. I also had a coffee at Baxter Baristas (enclosed in the museum. It was pretty good. The home-made cakes looked tempting too. The toilet facilities only seemed accessible if you used the cafe? I parked very close-by at Bishop Street Car Park CV1 1JN. Cash - i.e. change, or app only. A reasonable price for a heavily pot-holed lot. Not sure if there are any security cameras here - certainly not visible. No directions to the museum from here though and about a 4 minute walk.

Easily a must see if visiting Coventry. I'm personally not a huge car fanatic, but there's no other place where you're gonna get to see the two fastest land vehicles ever made. That alone is worth the visit. Tickets are £15 if booked in advance and a around £16.50 if booked in-person on the day (for adults). However, while the ticket is valid for multiple entries for a span of 1 year either way, I'd recommend booking online in advance simply because it's cheaper.

Brilliant vehicle museum devoted to products made in Coventry or nearby. Huge collection very well presented. Interactive section for smaller children. Cars, bikes, motorbikes, lorries, armoured cars, buses, fire engines and the world's fastest cars.

Great museum, with lots of interesting cars and bikes from all times. Including the record-breaking Thrust 2 and similar vehicles. Takes around 2 hours to finish the whole museum, take that into consideration when parking your car. The one day tickets are only available for Coventry residents.

Unbelievable place. Absolute MUST VISIT for any motoring fan. It's got an unbelievable amount on display, from vintage to absolutely cutting edge motoring technology. Wheelchair accessible throughout, lots to keep kids/families engaged as well as anyone just looking to learn about the history of motoring or Motorsport or car design. Staff were outstanding, particularly Den who was a wealth of knowledge and, more importantly, passion for the museum and local area. This is a place not to be missed. Could send a half day here easily. Extremely highly recommended.

Coventry Cathedral is absolutely stunning and full of history. The ruins of the old cathedral are a powerful reminder of the past, while the new cathedral stands as a symbol of peace and reconciliation. The contrast between the two is breathtaking and makes the visit really special. The atmosphere is peaceful, and the architecture is impressive both inside and out. Staff and volunteers are welcoming and very knowledgeable, which adds to the experience. A must-visit landmark if you’re in Coventry – both moving and inspiring.

Lovely blend of old and new architecture, with lovely staff who were very helpful. Lovely exhibition and a good amount of information. The small museum is only open on weekends but it's a nice walk around anyday.

I had a truly uplifting day in the Coventry area, where everything felt nice and tidy. The food was delightful, and the city centre offered a fantastic shopping experience with all the major shops within reach. Coventry is brimming with attractions, showcasing its rich history alongside a vibrant present and promising future. I was pleasantly surprised by the talented live performers I encountered, enhancing the city's lively atmosphere. There were no beggars or aggressive solicitations—just a welcoming and serene environment, which is a breath of fresh air in any city. Restrooms were conveniently located, and I noticed that disabled access ♿ was nearly everywhere, ensuring everyone can enjoy themselves. The city also appears to embrace dogs warmly, further adding to its charm. Families will find plenty of activities and sights to explore; just take the time to browse. Parking was straightforward and reasonably priced, making it hassle-free. I wholeheartedly endorse this magnificent city, and I believe you, too, will discover joy here—whether alone, as a couple, or with the entire family. It's an adventure filled with fun for every budget!

Wonderful modern cathedral. I feel very moved being here. The artistic skill that went into the design, both of the building and the aspect of the windows as you walk through it. Magical light falls through the stained glass . A triumph over terrible suffering during the Coventry blitz. It is free to enter but do leave a donation for it's upkeep.

Well worth a visit, for a slice of history about Coventry. (When visiting I didn’t even know this existed, so it was a pleasant surprise!). It's beautiful and well maintained. Lots to read and see, very aesthetically pleasing. Located on a beautiful tudor looking street in the centre too. Highly recommend.

Coventry Cathedral is well known for its unique modern architecture alongside the ruins of the medieval building. This is what makes this cathedral unique. In simple terms you would witness New cathedral and the bombed cathedral stand side by side which also reflects transformation from destruction to new light. If you visit then it's worth starting your journey from ruin / old cathedral to new cathedral. New cathedral has a magnificent interior, stained glass, and tapestry. Stain glass in the side wall is very impressive. One of the interesting things to note here is the Tapestry on the back wall. The tapestry was woven by hand and the detailing is astonishing.

It's really all about the stained glass and etched glass. There was a brilliant exhibition about the diverse nature of the people of Coventry and those who built the new cathedral in the 50s. A timely reminder of real community unity in a time of division and flag shaggers.

my wife and i went on sunday 2nd may, The place was heaving, not much social distancing going on. The Website says "...We have restricted admission tickets per day with the priority being to ensure social distancing is adhered to. Our visitor capacity will be reviewed regularly.".. This is rubbish as the car park was so full we had to park on grass right near the very end, it took us ages to walk to the entrance. we saw 2 Giraffes, 1 Rhino, a few chimps , 2 Tigers, some Lemurs and Penguins, not much else as there were queues / crowds for anything that was open, including the shop. in my opinion vastly overpriced entrance fee for what is available. won't be going again.

Rip off car park charges.

Not impressed. A lot of the animals are locked away in their quarters. Also to cold for a lot of them to come out

Clean surroundings, well cared for animals, helpful and polite staff.

Good zoo and always looking at new areas for animals.

Amazing zoo. Great place to spend the day

All good.

Great place to walk over the mountain, enjoy water and have lots of fun. Get ready to spend at least 4 hours. There is parking facility and credit card is accepted. There are toilets for free. Carry food & get ready to walk for kms. Great pleasure ahead.

A beautiful area with plenty of walking, the path along the riverside can be rough in places so mind your step. The walk (fairly steep and loose) up Thorpe Cloud by the stepping stones gives stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Beautiful place, however the natural beauty is spoiled by many who leave behind all their rubbish. Fulled used baby nappies in the car park, left in the parking bay with bins within 20 yards, plastic bottles, crisp packets amongst many. The National Trust staff try their best to litter pick and offer bin bags to large families who set up picnics but there are still many individuals who can't use the bins. Maybe it's a strange concept or maybe they are just dirty, lazy people. This is a national park that should be looked after by all.

One of my favourite places to hike in the Peak District because of how gorgeous it is and how accessible it is for us. The stepping stones are always fun. The climb to Thorpe Cloud is lovely for a great view and very doable with kids. There's a £6 min. charge for parking (unless you have a National Trust membership, in which case it's free). There's a small coffee truck on the car park for refreshments. We tend to take a picnic with is instead.

I visited Dovedale Stepping Stones recently and absolutely loved it.The walk from the car park is short and easy, with gorgeous views of the River Dove all along the way. The stepping stones themselves are such a fun and iconic feature,great for kids and adults alike❤️❤️

Dovedale is a gem of a dale, I as a preference would say it is the best of the Derbyshire dales. It has a very nice river with lots of bird life, you can walk down the whole length. There are stepping stones to cross the river,caves which have been lived in and if you fancy a challenge you can walk to the top of Thorpe Cloud. On coming to the Ilam end there is a national trust car park and cafe. If you carry on into Ilam passed the memorial you get to Ilam Hall which i9part youth hostel and part national trust with a cafe belonging to the national trust,you can also get food from the youth hostel.

Lovely and scenic walking tracks with a no of spots for picnic. Lovely lime stone formations.. The tracks are not wheelchair friendly...

Was given a riding experience as a gift for this place and it was a great place to have my first riding session. Lovely views to see as you ride around the site. They give you the opportunity of having your photo taken with your phone/camera if you want. The horses we had were nice steady so if you've never done it before it makes it easier to build your confidence and someone walks with you incase you need help with the horses.

Fantastic day out at the Alpaca experience ! Was great seeing the beautiful animals and other animals in great shape , happy in their environment! Cafe was great too ! Really lovely staff inshore and outside the cafe ! Hubby fed the alpacas pigs and really enjoyed it with the bought pellets from the cafe !

We had been gifted the horse ride and afternoon tea and had the best time. I had the pleasure of riding Charlie and Jack had JB. Beautiful boys! Perfect weather and had a very lovely , friendly and chatty member of staff who took us on our walk( can’t remember her name but she was a young girl with blonde hair ) Thank you so much :)

Absolutely amazing day! We did the alpaca walk with guide Joshua, I had Cliff and my partner had Ganache. We had so much fun learning about the alpaca and seeing their silly personalities. We also took a walk around the petting area 💕 Joshua was very knowledgable and fun! Highly recommended! We are already planning on coming back! Maybe doing the pig cuddles next time

This was an amazing experience the alpacas were very cute and funny (we walked haribo rolo liquorice hobnob and muffin).Our amazing guide Joshua gave us an interesting insight on the alpacas as well as guiding us through hobnobs moments .Overall this was a incredible experience that has made us want to buy an alpaca thank to our tour guide Joshua for being a great host five star experience definitely would recommend .

We had a great afternoon here walking out adopted donkey Noddy! Great atmosphere, plenty of parking, on site cafe. They also have loads of farm animals you can see as well as horse riding and donkey walks

An Unforgettable Alpaca Adventure! We had the absolute best time walking with alpacas, and we can't recommend it enough! Winchester and Stanley were the stars of the show—both full of personality and so much fun to be around. Winchester strutted like he owned the place, while Stanley was the curious and mischievous one, keeping us entertained the whole way. A huge shoutout to Molly, our guide, who was incredibly knowledgeable and made the experience even better. She gave us loads of interesting facts, helped us bond with our alpaca companions, and made sure everything ran smoothly. You can tell she genuinely loves what she does! If you're thinking about trying this experience—do it! We’ll definitely be back for more alpaca adventures. — Bradley & Charley

We had a brilliant day out here. The house is really interesting and all the staff were very knowledgeable and super helpful. The gardens were lovely, as was the church. The cafe and restaurant were great and the shop and book shop were full of tempting goodies. Loved the whole day.

There is a LONG drive to the entrance. Be sure that your GPS takes you to the correct one. Calke Abbey is maintained a bit differently from other National Trust Properties. The Trust chose not to try to bring it back to its original glory, but rather, to leave it in the condition in which it was received, which includes wings of rooms in disrepair. Tour is self guided but volunteers are frequent to offer explanations or answer questions. One of the unique holdings is a state bed made for King George I in 1715. The bed linens were found by the Trust rolled up in the basement. Since they were in perfect condition, the bed is set up as it would have been and preserved behind glass. Another was the caricature room whose walls were covered with humor satirical pictures. I found it to be quite entertaining. The dining room featured some outstanding decor, simply presented. The main entertaining room was filled with glass cabinets loaded with taxidermy. Not my favorite but that is how the family had left it to the Trust. One particular wing has rooms that are in complete disrepair with the ceilings falling, wall paper peeling, and loads of broken furniture haphazardly tossed in the room. Not at all what one would expect while walking through a National Trust Site. Calke Abbey is perfect example of a country estate that was barely held together in the 20th century. Many similar country houses did not survive to tell their story. We are National Trust members (via Royal Oak), so I cannot attest to the cost of entry. Parking lot was within easy walk of the entrance. No reservations were needed.

Had a lovely dog walk around the beautiful grounds of Calke with friends, I can’t believe I’ve never done this before, being fairly local. The gardens were beautifully maintained and the gardener was happy to stop his work and have a chat. There were outhouses with interesting artefacts to see. We walked the tunnel, dogs weren’t quite sure about this, but we loved exploring. All of the staff were friendly and helpful. What a pleasant place to work at. Had a light lunch in the cafe, it was extremely busy, so there was a bit of a wait for the coffees, but by the time the drinks were served, the warm quiche was ready, so perfect timing. There were plenty of dog water bowls dotted around which was good, as it was a hot day. I will return to this national trust gem.

Superb property, that's been kept as the trust found it in its decline. The house has loads of interesting items in it and the room guides are very knowledgeable. The brewhouse tunnels were decorated for Halloween and were good fun. The church is also worth the walk. The usual cafe and giftshop on site.

I came here today with my partner for a couple of hours, sadly didn't take many photos. The restaurant is nice, the gift shop is cute. The house and the tunnel is great too. As a National Trust Member it is great that we get access to this place. Because it rained we didn't end up looking at the gardens/trails. I definitely recommend a National Trust Membership to come here to visit and other places around Derbyshire.

Fascinating " unstable home" Handed to the National TRUST in 1981 in a very run down state. Continues to be preserved as the family left it. Servants tunnels, ancient kitchens, cases of taxidermy, antiques and general decay. Amazing place. Wonderful gardens, great dog walking and lovely cafe. A full day out to explore.

Calke Abbey is a really interesting house to visit as most of it is in it's original state so you can appreciate it as it was. The volunteers are very knowledgeable about the history of the family. Outside there are grass areas and woodland to take a walk and there's a lovely walled garden and cafe area to visit.

Really interesting place with lots to explore..! I went to see the current exhibition about magic and superstition its very cool! Beautiful gardens and stunning scenery too. Lots of uneven floors and steps so not great for people with mobility issues and I wouldn't fancy taking a pram..parking is charged extra so be prepared for that. Highly recommend 👌

A beautifully renovated medieval manor house hosting a delightfully styled exhibition about Elizabethan connections to magic and mature, informed, educating and entertaining. The beautifully designed gardens are a pleasure to walk around and the host volunteers are friendly and welcoming. There is a lovely restaurant on site, best to book in advance as it's popular. A experience, highly recommended

Great place, we visited during the Magic exhibition and thought it was really well designed in both exhibition text and visually - it was stunning to see in the Hall. Guides were good- especially Chris M who showed us all of the scorch marks and was really informative. The café is small but the food was great. On our way out we were looking forward to the gift shop but found this disappointing, nothing about or related to the Hall or the exhibition. Though it's good to work with what I assume are local small businesses, a core retail offer remaining would have been appreciated as we aren't local so won't be back. The lady running the admissions desk kindly returned after closing so that we could at least buy the exhibition guide. Parking was easy with an attendant and payment was taken on entry as the exit barrier was faulty.

A truly beautiful Christmas Market! What makes it special are the loads of lovely independent stalls—a perfect place to find unique gifts. This is an absolute must-visit during the Christmas season. You'll find that an afternoon or a morning is plenty of time to fully explore. When you get hungry, the on-site cafe offers reasonably priced food, while the food stalls have the standard pricing you would expect at any Christmas market.

It's a smallish medieval country house which is an independent business compared to those often operated by the National Trust. It's quite interesting architecturally but there's not a whole lot to see yet admission prices are quite high. We went whilst they had a theme on Magic and Superstition which was reasonably interesting if quite condensed. The cafe wasn't bad with a decent selection of food and drink offerings Make sure you are steady on your feet as there are significant amounts of uneven floors and stairs

24th September 2025 about 2pm. Firstly, there is a car park across the busy A6 road which is 50mph and really ought to be 40mph to enable pedestrians to cross more easily and more safely. The car park is £4 regardless of how long you stay at the hall. We witnessed an older person trying to exit, who didn't park close enough to the card scanner, had to get out of their car but failed to exit before the barrier came down. That happened 3 times! It's not that the barrier doesn't stay up long enough, it was just that he was older and slower and stopped too far away. The hall is wonderful and a real treasure that is preserved and has hardly been renovated. A very magical place with an interesting history. There are a lot of uneven surfaces so watch your footing. We didn't go in the restaurant as it was quite late. Overall well worth a visit. I highly recommend it. 25th September 2025, as we only got a short visit and felt we loved it and perhaps missed something we went back the next day. It really is a peaceful, magical place and has a bit of an Alice in Wonderland feel to the garden. Perhaps it was all the roses 😁 some of which were red... It was literally buzzing with life and you can look down to Dorothy's bridge which is a beautiful little bridge. There's a bit of a romantic story to go along with the bridge too. We saw a Dipper bird amongst the rocks in the shallow water too.

We went to Haddon Hall Christmas market today. At first it seems tiny, but as you explore the Hall, there is more stalls than you think. Very arty crafty if you're in to that sort of thing. Not many food stalls and the question for coffee were horrendous. The one down side is a lot of people attend which makes for some very cosy moments inside the hall, because the rooms are quite narrow. If you hate crowds, avoid it. A pleasant experience, but far too crowded for me.

Had a fantastic day here. The staff were fantastic. The in character staff were amazing and so friendly and knowledgeable. Special shout goes to Mel who showed us round one of the caves. She was fantastic and a real credit to you. So funny and knowledgable. There’s lots to do up there. The cable car ride is great. 2 caves to tour and plenty of fun for the kids on the play grounds. The cafe was brilliant. Had a lovely panini in there and some lovely cake. We came on a weekday outside of the school holidays and didn’t have to wait for anything. Lots of walking to be done and some is rather steep.

We had an absolutely wonderful experience here today. It was our first time visiting and had no idea what to expect, but what a day we had. I’ve come to write a review because I want to give recognition to Lorin, the lovely guy that did our Cavern tour. He was so helpful, approachable, and even took the time out to stay back and show us some fossils in the final cavern, because my autistic son’s special interest is dinosaurs. He was brilliant with both of my children and made the tour really quite special. Give this man a raise immediately HoA! 🥲🤣

Great couple of hours at least spent with great views . The Cave experience is informative and interesting. The cafe is very good with great selection at reasonable prices. parking is in the station carpark payable . Blue badge holders can pay for time and get an hour ontop free. It is a short walk to the cable car ticket office. Just be aware that the last 150yard to Ticket office is steep.

Plenty to see and do. The cable cart was good fun being dangled so high up. The tower was great for the veiws and cave tours were both informative and entertaining. The staff are all friendly and good fun. Lots of walking involved, but well worth it.

Heights of Abraham is a fantastic family destination—perfect for both toddlers and older kids, with plenty of land to explore, play areas, and exhibits to keep everyone entertained. We especially enjoyed the Wombles exhibition—it was fun and whimsical, and offered something a bit different. The views from the hilltop are absolutely lovely, trampling over the Derwent Valley and surrounding countryside, making the cable car ride all the more magical. The food was okay, but nothing to write home about—not quite matching the beauty of the surroundings. I was also disappointed that they didn’t have a chai latte on the drinks menu, and vegan soft serve ice cream wasn’t available—both would have been great choices to round off a lovely day. Admission is on the steep side: adult tickets cost about £25 online or £28.50 at the gate  . It felt quite expensive, especially for a shorter visit, but with a longer stay it might be more justifiable. Overall, it’s a beautiful and memorable place with a lot to offer families. With improvements to the food and drink options, it would be near-perfect!

Wonderful day out, perfect for dogs also, they are allowed everywhere but caverns and the Vista restaurant. Food a little pricey but picnic tables are everywhere for a packed lunch. The cable car stops half way up for stunning view pictures.

Had a great little visit here. Really enjoyed the cave lighting show, the cable car, live band playing, beautiful views. Food wasn’t cheap but wasn’t too over priced. Staff were all friendly and pleasant to talk to which always makes a difference. Would definitely return.

A very well thought through visitor centre , with very helpful, staff. Some of the exhibits are amazing, especially the 'interactive exhibits". It explained the 'science of the DNA testing' as well as the archaeology part. The history and circumstances of Richard III that led to him being at Bosworth Field, and the very sad outcome. The shop & cafe are excellent, and the outside courtyard- with beautifully planted flowers and trees are all excellent; with plenty of seating under shading trees. Altogether, the layout of the experience was very good, well thought out. The fact it had air con, all around the tour was also excellent. The tour is on two levels ground floor , and upper floor - which can be reached by a lift , so no problem for wheel chair users. It was a very moving moment to see where they actually found him in the car park; it has been preserved, for posterity, exactly where they found him, this is outside in a very beautiful 'sanctum' covered over with toughened glass. The visitor shop is also excellent, with many interesting gifts and books, on medieval topics, including the Yorks & Tudors.. The entrance "doubles" also as the exit. I am so glad I came, to see this exhibit - finally..!!

A really awesome and well executed piece of history. The museum is amazing and the display which shows the location of Richard’s burial is incredible. There was an amazing volunteer named Julie who explained the full story behind the discovery of Richard. The centre has done an excellent job. It is a must visit for any historian.

This is a fairly new exhibition with good information. It’s not extensive but there’s lots of information upstairs about the discovery of Richard III body. Staff were very helpful and friendly.

Very informative and enjoyable visit. Staff were knowledgeable and provided a real insight into the burial of Richard lll and how they found him. We also then walked across the road to visit the cathedral to see his new resting place which complemented the visit to the visitor centre. Had lunch in the cafe which was great. Highly recommend a visit to both.

Loved visiting here. Very well put together and great displays to tell the story of Richard and the project to find him. Special thanks to Jan for her wonderful talk at the grave location about the dig and about the two Princes. A fantastic addition to Leicester

The staff are friendly and helpful the story is interesting but I was kind of left with the feeling that some of the exhibitions were almost unnecessary and making a lot out of nothing really such as a pair of wellies worn but the lady who helped find King Richards grave and even a mask and coverall used to prevent DNA passing from the person who removed the bones to the skeleton of Richard ...hardly anything of note regards historical artifacts asides part of the greyfriars abbey walls and floor tiles under a glass floor ! Whilst informative in places not the best museum I've visited .

Brilliant, but not for kids. There is more to read than to see. However, it is certainly not boring for someone interested in history or for a person who is curious and keen to discover new things. And once done, you are right by the cathedral and the pedestrian streets full of interesting shops, restaurants, and major brands outlets.

Went to Chatsworth for the Christmas markets, light trail and to see the house wonderfully decorated for Christmas. Really enjoyed the decorations in the house, which was a nature theme this year, bringing the outside in. The grandeur of the house is magnificent, with a great history, you can wander round at your own leisure. There are guides in every room who are friendly and very approachable ready to answer any questions you may have. There are lots of places to eat and drink and some nice gift shops, plenty of toilets and amenities for baby changing and people with disabilities. The grounds are extensive and well kept, I particularly liked the rock garden, which looked lovely lit up. The market is very good, with all the usual Christmas stalls, selling gifts and food/wine/ gin tasting, most off the stalls I did notice were card only, I did draw some cash out and ended up spending it in the gift shops. The ground the stalls are on is all got a ground cover on so not muddy. There is plenty of seating areas for when you grab a coffee or burger etc.

We enjoy visiting Chatsworth House. This time an art exhibition was on display, which changed the experience in a positive way. We don’t always get to see the animals, but we were able to this time around. The weather was great. The staff were helpful. We had a poke around the shops. A lovely day out. I would recommend to anyone, especially if you haven’t been before

Visited Chatsworth Christmas on the 23rd November. It was truly a lovely day. The Christmas market is excellent, very different from your average UK Christmas market. The quality of food, drink and products on offer was brilliant. Definitely visit the Scone hut, they are truly to die for. Chatsworth House Christmas display is outstanding and walking the garden just adds that extra dimension to a great day. Add in the gift shops and the overall atmosphere and you will not be disappointed. If you are local in Derbyshire then do one thing, go to Chatsworth, its a no brainer.

The Chatsworth Christmas ticket gives you access to the House, unlimited entry to the gardens for one day, and you can also access the Christmas market (which is free). It’s a lovely day out and well worth the ticket price. Be warned, food and drink inside is very pricey (but what do you expect?). I’d recommend the Stables for something lovely and warm that doesn’t break the bank.

Fabulous visit to chatsworth house & Christmas Market. Lovely stalls to look round. You will love the house with all the Christmas trees and the wonderful decorations. The walk round the gardens were just wonderful too. So worth a visit at this time of year.

An absolutely magical, Christmas experience! The house itself is mind blowing and each room makes you gasp with how much detail and care has gone into each and every decoration. It was laid out perfectly and even had sounds and scents through each experience. The gardens were beautiful to walk through and the Christmas markets were spectacular 😍 There was something for everyone to enjoy there! I cant wait to come back again next year 🎄✨️🎁

Bought tickets well in advance to visit the house and also the Christmas markets. My family enjoyed visiting the house, it's very easy to get around there are a few staircases which you need to navigate. As the visit is in preparation for Christmas there are lots of Christmas trees beautifully presented throughout and the staff are very helpful and informative. I thoroughly enjoyed the Christmas markets; having been to lots of busy public access Christmas markets like Manchester, Liverpool, York etc it was a fantastic relaxing experience to be able to walk around freely and visit the different vendors. Will certainly look at returning.

Fantastic! I love the curve theatre, the staff are always really helpful and the shows I've seen there have been brilliant. This time I saw Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat which was absolutely amazing. The theatre isn't massive, so it feels like anywhere you sit you get good views. This time I was near the front, but for the previous show I saw, we were near the back and it still felt like you were close to the stage and in good seats. Would definitely recommend.

What a fantastic place. Very jealous that our nearest town does not have anything like this. Very clean. It is well signposted, toilets, bar, reception, box office etc. Carpark is next door NCP. Access card accepted for disabled allowing a complimentary carer. Just a nice place to be. We saw Ghost Stories, via door 3 and the theatre was well laid out and comfortable.

The Bat Out Of He'll show was good. The Theatre the air conditioning was not working when it was a full show I found this very uncomfortable. I had a job to keep a awake . This should not be the case . I spoke to a usher about how uncomfortable and hot it was . She said there was air conditioning under the seat . I got light wide leg trousers on I didn't feel any. My husband said that usher said normally the air conditioning comes from the ceiling because the show full it was not working. JUST BONKERS SPOILT THE SHOW FOR ME .

What a lovely theatre. The staff here are so nice, friendly and helpful. Parking is plentiful right next to the theatre. There a plenty of places to eat and drink nearby. That's if you don't want to eat at the theatre's own eatery. The views from the seats in the stalls were fantastic. It was almost like being on stage. A fabulous visit.

Travelled all the way from Londn to see the show. Great theatre. Will definitely go back

Visited as a group of three to watch Kinky Boots, the seats were very comfy and the view was really good. It’s a very modern theatre, you walk around the entirety of the stage and several toilets and bars are dotted around. The toilets were very clean and the bar staff were quick to serve me- for two soft drinks and a large wine it was £13.00. I look forward to coming back. There is a car park right next to the theatre.

Went to see Muriels Wedding. Really enjoyed this production at the Curve, good sound quality and set, liked the round stage. Nice and spacious theatre, staff friendly and really helpful. Left a pair of glasses there. Thankfully the housekeeping found them so they are now returned to us, thank you 😊. We live quite a distance from the Curve, it is not our nearest theatre, but would definitely come back to see another production as it was a lovely experience.

Came here to watch Pink Floyd Dark side of the Moon in the planetarium. The show was one of the best I've ever seen. Amazing atmosphere in the planetarium. The visuals and sounds were perfect. We also had a good look around the space centre itself. Properly cool place with absolutely loads for kids and adults to do and see. Very educational and we will be bringing our kids to have a look. Thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience and will definitely do it again

The NSC is an amazingly well curated museum with interactive elements and immersive shows in the Patrick Moore Planetarium inside, shows last 25mins. They even have a real rocket! and you can take a lift to see it from above. It's well suited to kids and adults (we never grow up really) and you can touch space objects and interact with some scientific tools and even play some games to test your astronaut potential! I spent 2ish hours there and there's still more that I didn't get a chance to experience. Tickets were £20 & that gets you an annual pass. The cafe they have is great too, they do hot food and good coffee and even an awesome giftshop! You gotta go :]

The National Space Centre is a fascinating place for both children and adults. It’s especially engaging for Generation Y and millennials, showcasing the Cold War era, the development of technology, and the first steps in space exploration in an immersive way. You can step inside a Mercury capsule, see how astronauts eat and live, and even sit in a period-style room to feel the thrill of watching a rocket launch to the Moon on a vintage glass screen. The planetarium, presented as an animated journey, is truly impressive – even for adults. It’s a wonderful centre for both learning and fun, and the best part is that with just one ticket you can return all year round. Highly recommended! 🚀✨

Where do I start. The place was amazing. The staff and the exhibits were exceptional. So much great information to digest and lots of things for little ones and bigger little ones to do. There were a lot of people in, but it never felt packed. The cinema show was brilliant and way more immersing than we thought it would be. The gift shop had a great collection of toys as well as interesting gifts specific to the Space center. A great day out and it would've recieved 5 stars if it wasn't for the poor cafe that was let down by a lack of choice and the cleaning of the eating/utensil areas which was really poor. The staff serving were great super friendly on all departments but the eating areas were disappointing. Still won't stop another visit to this wondrous place.

Located north of Leicester city centre, the National Space Centre is an amazing day out for kids and adults of all ages. Filled with interactive and educational activities, award winning shows on immersive 360 degree screen, and lots more to see and do. Super helpful and attentive staff, great gift shop, lots of space to sit. Buy ticket online for free annual pass upgrade without hassle. Kids could spend the whole day in here to learn and play. Bring your own lunch to avoid weekend and peak time queues.

This visit has been a long time coming, after trudging the M1 for three decades and seeing the brown sign for the National Space Centre I finally found time to visit, and it was no disappointment in the slightest. Many facts and exhibits tie into loads of classic films, articles and milestones from over the years and lots for the kids to learn about along the way. A great day out and at the moment (summer 2025) the artists elephants are all around Leicester. The planetarium is incredible! Please go and enjoy one of the midlands great attractions that you might have missed.

I been there for first time, lovely place with many different views. I can see there is a plenty space for car parking. Amazing location with foods, and gifts. I was so happy and excited to be there and to be part of this. I will share few videos and photos from this amazing place. Highly recommend.

Visited while staying in the area. The selection and choice is vast. Can recommend the classic sausages, really tasty, firm skin and little fat when cooking. Also picked up salad, fresh rolls and fruit from here, great quality and reasonable prices. Parking is easily accessible, sat nav took us to a caravan site just down the road - stay on the main road and you'll find it!

The postcode took me 300 yards down the road. Keep going, you won't miss it there are white signs on the road. Plenty of parking. Actually one of the best farm shops I've ever been too. The cafe / restaurant is very nice with plenty of tables. You can eat in the outside area with dogs. The food that's served is fresh food from the shop itself. I can recommend the vegetarian breakfast!! The farm shop is quite large, with plenty of food and fresh counters. To note, the homeware section is very small, this place is all about the food!! There's an outside plant area, although it's not very big. It can get busy so arrive early. Definitely worth a visit, I shall return !! Toilets available in the cafe.

Beautiful farm shop with lots of different foods, excellent selection of cheeses, meats, fruit and veg. If I could give the cafe 10 stars, I would! The staff were lovely and helpful and the food was delicious and plentiful. The beer battered haddock was superb and I'm difficult to please. Will definitely return.

Brilliant shopping experience in a local independent establishment. Most things farmed on the large grounds or locally. Quality is exceptional and very friendly staff. A cafe is out the back, plenty of parking, local beers and a deli counter. Whilst prices are higher then the major supermarkets, remember there is no bulk buying power and no undercutting farmers here, the profits are put back into a real local business with food quality being much higher. Highly recommended.

Thought I would give breakfast a go again, after being disappointed the last time I tried for lunch. Sausage sandwich - three chipolatas, cut in half, where the thickness of the bread was more than the sausage. Just put more sausages in the sandwich and charge more. Service was excellent I must say, but won’t be returning after the second bad food experience.

Went for a lunch on Sunday with the family and they weren’t busy. The children were asked if they wanted ketchup or mayo with their meals, both said yes. When their food arrived the sauces never did. My salad was swimming in dressing. We order two more cokes after trying to get the attention of 2 waiter’s, only 1 bottle was brought to us. These are simple things that staff should be getting right. Then we went to purchase a couple of items from the shop. There was only one person on the till with a queue already forming. Slowest service so I left the items. Very disappointed visit.

Stopped here for a snack after a day trip. Really nice place. Superb choice of fresh produce and some marvellous hidden gems (white asparagus to name one) . The home made chips were so good we ordered again! Nothing too mich trouble, hopefully see you again

Visiting Wollaton Park was a dream come true for me as a Batman fan. The moment I found out this was the filming location for Wayne Manor in The Dark Knight Rises, I knew I had to see it—and standing there in front of Wollaton Hall honestly left me in awe. The building is absolutely stunning, with its towering windows and intricate stonework. For a moment, it really felt like I was stepping into Bruce Wayne’s world. The park itself is just as beautiful as the Hall. Wide green spaces, autumn leaves scattered across the grass, and peaceful paths made it feel both grand and calm at the same time. I could’ve stayed there for hours just walking around and taking it all in. The staff were also really friendly and welcoming, which made the visit even better. You can tell they care about the place and its history, and they were happy to chat and answer questions. Overall, it was a fantastic experience. As a Batman nerd, it felt like a pilgrimage to Wayne Manor. But even if you’re not into Batman, Wollaton Park is still an incredible spot to explore—beautiful, relaxing, and full of character.

Great place to visit. The car park is £5, I paid for this in the shop, giving them my number plate. The park is very extensive but it was fantastic to see the deer so close. The house is fascinating with all the natural history displays. This was £15 but the ticket lasts a year. The gardens were also very nice and the view down to the lake was beautiful. The cafe was ok, not the largest selection of food and the drinks were all served in cardboard drinking cups. All the staff everywhere were very friendly and helpful. The shop was nice to look around and standard prices. The toilet facilities were good and clean. There were some near the cafe and in the house. I definitely recommend a visit. On a warm summers day it would be a lovely place to bring a picnic and make a day of it.

Visited the walled gardens specifically. A wonderful, relaxing and fascinating project to restore the site. Lovely volunteers working at the site and amazing progression being made. Only open set times during the summer for tours. A warm welcome. This is a very special place.

This is very good place. This is wollaton hall gardens and dear park location is in Nottingham wollaton Road Nottinghamshire. Here is lake. Here is golf clup as well. Here is kids playing area as well. Here is parking available. But you need to pay for parking. Here is you can see dear as well

The park is about 500 acres. Many children at the playground, families on picnic rugs, deer wandering through acreage. Camellia House & Wollaton Hall are so different. Enjoyed every moment.

Lovely grounds, plenty of deer and a nice walk in fresh air. There are toilets, a café and gift shop.if you need them. You need the Ringgo app to park and pay £6.10 for all day.

What a wonderful place for a walk, the gardens are beautiful and it was lovely to see the deer and the birds, especially the Mandarin duck. We didn't go into the house this time but will definitely look around next time we are there. There's a lovely cafe and 2 shops. Well worth a visit.

Nottingham Castle played an important role in Britain's history. Apart from being famous for being home to the Sheriff of Nottingham, the castle was a strategic stronghold during England's civil war in the 1600's. Today the castle is museum that houses exhibits of Nottingham's lace manufacturing, studies surrounding the "Major Oak" in Sherwood Forest, and many other interesting displays. Outside the walls is a statue of Robin Hood that is a must see for visitors. Beneath the city is a network of caves that are also present at the castle. Booking a tour of the castle caves provides visitors with much more information about the history and importance Nottingham Castle has played in Britain's history.

Cool castle ramparts encasing a grand mansion steeped in history. Highly recommend booking a cave tour to explore the tunnels within the castle rock. The guides are hugely knowledgeable and give you a fun, educational, story-filled experience.

Nottingham Castle looks impressive and full of history, even from the outside. The grand architecture and its position overlooking the city make it a striking landmark. The grounds and surrounding area are beautifully kept and offer great photo opportunities. A must-see spot that captures the heritage and charm of Nottingham!

The castle is nice but was expecting more of a castle then an art museum. There are few interesting exhibits. The castle looks nice from the outside, the grounds are nicely maintaned offering nice views over Nottingham. The price is a little high for the experience. The Robin Hood experience is nice but is more of a playground for kids with interactive stuff, for adults kind of boring. The cave tour was nice but to pay extra for that, above the entrance price can be pricey for some folks compared to the experiance. The staff is nice and hepful. You buy tickets at the entrance or online waiting in the queue is the same to enter. Next to the castle you'll find a mini square with the statue of Robin Hood. The Forest exhibition is let's say ok but doesn't really impress, a natural woodland walk might be better. One visit is enough honestly, doesn't make any sense to visit the castle again especially if you travel from a bigger distance. The location of the castle is very good, in the city center, car park buildings close by. The souvenir shop and restaurant is nice.

Nottingham Castle is a great mix of history, legend, and modern storytelling. The museum inside offers well-presented exhibits about Robin Hood, local art, and the city’s past. The castle grounds are beautifully maintained with lovely views over Nottingham. While the original medieval castle no longer stands, the experience is still engaging and family-friendly — worth a visit if you’re exploring the city’s heritage.

The staff were all very helpful and friendly entry price is reasonable but..... I was expecting more castle. I am aware that the castle is self was destroyed many many years ago. I enjoy looking at castles in their various states and wonder what they would have been like. The exhibitions were informative and interactive.

A great day out, the caves tour is a must and was an excellent way to start our visit. Then all the exhibits actually inside the castle were really engaging and interactive! I felt like there was loads to do and I learnt loads. Also the view from the top over Nottingham was lovely!

Visited the arena for the first time last night to see rock orchestra. The concert was amazing... But so was the arena, it's facilities and it's staff. On arrival, there was a very fast moving queue through a security check and then in to a ticket scanning queue, despite the large number of people we were inside the stadium in less than 3 mins. Inside it was busy, it's a nearly sold out concert of course it was busy but every thing just flowed well. The bar staff were fast and efficient at dealing with customers and moving to the next, the toilets were clean and the one way on and another way out system worked a dream to keep the flow constant (unintended pun). Prices for drinks and food were reasonable for an arena, I didn't feel ripped off, but being a Yorkshire man I always love a bargain if I can find one. The staff were very friendly and approachable and excellent knowledge of the arena. Absolutely would visit again in future for other events! Well done!

A World-Class Night: Duran Duran and VIP Hospitality at Motorpoint Arena Nottingham ​The Motorpoint Arena Nottingham truly lives up to its reputation as a world-class entertainment venue. While the arena is a long-standing cultural landmark in the East Midlands, attracting massive international acts to its 10,000+ capacity, experiencing it via a VIP package for the Duran Duran concert took the entire evening to another level. ​The experience began with the VIP dinner and hospitality, which was the perfect prelude to the main event. We were impressed by the attentive, professional service and the quality of the dining. It provided a sophisticated and relaxed atmosphere, completely bypassing the typical pre-show rush and crowds. Having a dedicated space to relax and dine made the transition to the show seamless and truly felt premium. ​Once the show started, the arena proved why it's such a vibrant hub for live music. Despite the massive capacity, the acoustics were surprisingly crisp, allowing Simon Le Bon's vocals and the band's iconic synth-driven sound to shine through clearly. Duran Duran themselves were phenomenal, delivering a high-energy set of hits that had the entire crowd on their feet. The lighting and visual production were top-tier, fitting the grandeur of the band and the venue. ​In short, the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham provided a flawless, end-to-end entertainment experience. From the elevated pre-show hospitality to the flawless concert atmosphere, it was a night that was well-organized, highly enjoyable, and certainly confirmed the venue’s standing as one of the best in the UK. We’d highly recommend the VIP route for anyone looking to make a great night even more special.

Went here for The Secret of Us Tour ‘25, it was amazing! The staff were super friendly and helpful! Snacks and drinks were on the expensive side and the water you could get wasn’t really that cold and it was extremely warm in the arena. Also the toilets were kind of gross but obviously they can’t clean during a show unfortunately. Other than that, everything was pretty good, including the sound even from up in the nosebleeds seats!

Went to see Mcfly play, they was absolutely brilliant. The arena was very well organised for the event, better than a lot I have been to! Got us in quick, also doing security checks which some people may groan about having to wait longer, I think this is a good thing.

Visited for the first time to see Marilyn Manson. I was on the floor in general standing for the gig, right in the heat of the mosh pits, so I don't really remember what actually happened! Although, I do remember how good the venue is. Only problem I'd say is if you have vertigo, do not book in the upper seats. From the view I had, it is very steep. But, overall brilliant venue.

Really good venue! Excellent transport links, easy to get in and out of, find the loos, get a drink etc.. Its big enough to draw grate bands and feel epic, but still has a hint of intimacy to it. That bad you like? If they're coming to the ice arena, see them here.

We went to the Marilyn Manson gig who was well on top form as was the support band The Dead Posies & we had the best night, perfect view of the stage & the staff were very friendly & helpful & we will look for more gigs at the venue, cheers for an excellent night

It was our first visit and we hadn't realised how big the site was. We recently had English Heritage membership, so had free entry. There was ample free parking and the ruins of the old house and impressive newer house. Lots of interesting history and rooms you can access, such as Bess' bed chamber. Lots of tapestries, including one made by Queen Mary. Nice shop and cafe and beautiful gardens. Plenty to see and do.

A really amazing place to visit. We only expected to be a couple of hours at most, but there was so much to see. The visit also includes the adjacent old hall ruins. The house is stunning, and the interiors are decorated with the most amazing embroidery which hangs from almost every wall and room. The volunteers are very friendly, knowledgeable and passionate about the property. We took our dog and he was welcome in an area of the restaurant, which was nice as it was cold and raining. We would have liked to walk more of the grounds and gardens, but the weather put us off. They do look stunning and I'm sure on a better day would have been very enjoyable.

Fantastic to look around. Amazing house and gardens, easily able to spend a full day there and more. I could just look at the tapestries for days! Well worth a visit if you're into history or just beautiful places.

We haven't been here for quite a few years and we're pleasantly surprised, there is a lot more to see and do. The guides were interesting and knowledgeable but not overpowering like at some properties. A very pleasant day out 😁

Expect an expansive estate as the drive from the entrance to the parking lot must be a mile long. This property features two historic buildings: Old Hardwick Hall and the Renaissance style Manse known as Hardwick Hall. Bess of Hardwick was born in the original hall and had it renovated to impress guests in 1587. When her 4th husband died and she came into substantial funds she built the latter and present day manse. We were able to tour both with our National Trust memberships (via Royal Oak Society). One can climb to the top of the Old Hall for a bit of a view of the countryside if the weather is accommodating. There are no handrails, though, so take walking sticks if you think you need support while traversing the original stone steps. The Manse is huge and the tour is quite extensive. It is self guided but volunteers are available for questions. Some unique features are the longest Elizabethan Long Hall in the National Trust holdings. It has 450 year old tapestries hanging on the walls. There are also four noble women tapestries that Bess designed specifically for this house. She was obviously quite a talented woman. There are some gardens along the front and the back of the house, but not a formal designed style like you see on some properties. Parking was in a very large lot a bit of a distance from the entrance. There is a cafe on the grounds that offers a delicious cream tea as well as a myriad of other delights, all reasonably priced.

Intriguing place punched atop a hill looking out sadly over the M1 now, but back in the day it would have been quite the most magnificent spot for party's. Some old Yes topiary and magnificent Cedar of Lebanon stand century in the garden providing a great contrast from the pinkish yellow stone and unbelievable lead pane windows which adorn the hall.

A wonderful historical place of interest with stunning tapestries. We spent a very happy 3 and a half hours there. Checking out the history of bess's family, with help from the very knowledgeable volunteers. Strolling the gardens and climbing the 127 steps of old Hardwick hall. Then stopping for a very tasty cheese scone and coffee in the restaurant.

Compared to other castles and British monuments, this attraction isn't very extensive. It essentially consists of two buildings: a medieval mansion for receiving guests, and the castle, where the nobility resided. Furthermore, since the attraction was once abandoned, most of the furniture and decorations are missing or damaged. Despite this, it's still well worth a visit. The castle is built on a magnificent hill, offering stunning views of the surrounding area from the castle gate. The interior is also unique, and wandering through the rooms makes you feel like you've stepped back into the Middle Ages.As a half-day family weekend trip, followed by a good lunch, I think it is very good.

English heritage site well conserved with good information. Spectacular views on clear days. Dog friendly in areas without a roof, except for the café. Friendly informative staff. Fairly good free parking around Bolsover. Only negative is signage to the castle. Well worth a visit.

Nice little castle to explore in a great setting with lot's of ruins. The smaller castle is very interesting, with lot's of winding stairs, marble fireplaces, paintings, architecture etc. Some great views from the castle and there's also a nice walled walk accessible from inside the castle. I'd probably say it would take 2-3 hours at most to explore everything. There's free parking and also some additional parking nearby that you have to pay for. Also on site There's a small playground that is quite good, which is very close by to the cafe. We didn't use the cafe so not sure on prices - quality of food. There's also a few benches around so you could sit and bring your own food if you like. There's a nice gift shop there to, which is definitely overpriced but they always are. There's also a nice wetherspoons nearby if you wanted breakfast/lunch. Staff were very helpful and knowledgeable here.

A very small castle, but my goodness what a history. to be honest you can normally walk around it in an hour but on my visit 25.8.25 there was a jousting display and static displays of medieval life with interesting talks. A superb family day out for all ages. I really can't recommend joining English Heritage highly enough, the whole day, and it was a whole day was fabulous.

Great castle and stunning views. We went while the Halloween events were on and my 6 year old absolutely loved it. I think it would have been nice for more information to be around to read, for those of us that didn't pick up an audio guide (they are hard to listen to with a young child running around), some short descriptions of each of the rooms around the castle would have been really interesting. But overall really enjoyed our visit!

We visited Bolsover Castle to 21st November 2025. It is a fabulous Castle, there is plenty to do for all ages. A very nice coffee shop and gift shop, children's adventure playground and plenty of outdoor seating. The Castle very interesting to walk round. There are some out of this world veiws of Derbyshire from the Castle.

Bolsover in my opinion is the best example of 17th century castles I've been to. Built purely for entertaining royalty and the hierarchy it truly shows how the other half lived. I recommend you book online if you are not a member of English heritage and allow yourself at least 3 hours to look around,free audio machines available for free which are very informative.