Truly exceptional. A perfect blend of captivating history, magnificent gardens, and engaging activities for all ages. You can easily spend a full, delightful day here. ​Hever Castle is not just a building; it’s an immersive experience that lives up to its 'fairy-tale' reputation. As a visitor, what truly stands out is how well the estate caters to diverse interests, from the most dedicated Tudor enthusiast to a family looking for a fun day out. The 125 acres of gardens are stunning and a massive part of the attraction. They are meticulously maintained and offer something different in every season. Picnic is a good idea: While there are on-site cafes and restaurants, they can be a bit pricey. The grounds offer numerous scenic spots for a picnic. ​Wear comfortable shoes: The gardens and lake walk cover a significant amount of ground. ​Time it right: If you are a history fanatic, plan for half a day in the castle/formal gardens. If you have children, plan for the whole day to enjoy the mazes and playgrounds.

Such a beautiful place to visit and plenty of history... looking around the castle it self is very interesting, I would recommend taking the audio guide when offered to you as has plenty of information, as if it busy its hard to get to the information signs which are dotted about. The gardens are well looked after and beautiful to wander around on a sunny day. They have cafes and shops to look around to. The grounds are fine for wheel chairs and a buggy but the castle isn't suitable

Hever Castle & Gardens is an AMAZING place to visit! Ansolutely stunning Italian park, lake, yew maze, fountains and superb floral displays surrounding a very old castle superbly maintained and loved. William Waldorf Astor, the world's richest man at the time, funneled so much of his resources and devotion to transform and maintain this historical site. Highly recommend as a visit for anyone who appreciates art, history, and nature! Thank you :)

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Hever Castle is such a beautiful place — full of history, stunning gardens, and peaceful nature all around. It’s a wonderful spot to visit any time of year. In November, they also have a great membership promotion, which makes it an even better time to join and come back again. A perfect mix of heritage and natural beauty.

Beautiful castle and grounds with a lot of history. Be prepared to spend quite a few hours here. The water maze was fun, and not just for children, be warned, you may get wet, but not if you are careful 😉. Autumn was a great time to visit for the leaf colour but I would imagine it is stunning anytime of year. Definitely recommended.

My wife and and I only got to see castle and gardens because we over 6 hours of time to kill before our flight from Gatwick Airport.It was was one of the best decisions we have ever made, we were lucky with the weather, it was a lovely sunny and warm day and the castle and gardens looked superb, but the garden were outstanding, ! The castle itself is worth seeing being the home of Anne Boleyn and her family, but we found the gardens magnificent and well worth coming to visit alone.

Definitely recommend to visit. Please allow between 4 hours min to visit the castle and enjoy the gardens if you love Nature. Perfect for solo, family days out. Preferably try to avoid to visit on rainy days. Otherwise a lovely experience 👌

Bluewater is an amazing place, easy to find and parking, plenty of. Shop for everyone, high end or "normal". Food from loads of different countries. Places itself is just nice. Now very Christmas style so warm and cozy. What else? Just go and visit the place. Worth it😊

Some of the stores closed at 8pm when online closing times are 9pm so disappointing, a lot of empty retail units, and the centre lacks visual inspiration inside lots of the features have been removed, so it's all very bland, was also very hot, if you park at John Lewis when they close you have to find alternative way out Also fire exit doors are locked a huge safety concern I have visited many times over 25 years and find it's changed but not for the better on the positive side plenty free parking, shops and food outlets, toilets worth a visit

Great place for shopping, plenty of fashion shops, eateries and entertainment, Cinema, kids climbing, Ballerz, etc. easy parking and loads of disabled spots close the entrances on each floor of the multistories.

Me and my family really enjoy day trip to Bluewater Shopping Centre it’s beautiful and find great things many stores and food halls I really recommend to visit there your day will be amazing.☺️

One of the best shopping centres around! Bluewater is always a great day out — it’s clean, modern, and has an amazing variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options all in one place. The layout is easy to navigate, and there’s plenty of parking available. The staff throughout the centre are always polite and helpful, and it’s clear the place is well looked after. Whether you’re shopping, grabbing a meal, or just having a wander, Bluewater has something for everyone. Love coming here every time!

Love this place. Massive shopping complex with all retail shops you can think of - medium to premium. Food Hall is good with different options. The only issue is the parking, Not sure why people do not prefer parking in the parking building near John Lewis. There is plenty there.

I always find something relevant for what I’m looking for here, but if you come close to Christmas be conscious it gets incredibly busy and parking can be a nightmare. When you go outside of the Christmas period parking is better but it can still get busy at peak times. The centre however is always clean and tidy and public transport links are good. If you don't mind busy shopping centres then this will be right up your street you will most definitely heal yourself if you need retail therapy!!

Beautiful scenery and gardens, lots to see in the castle grounds and the House is amazing. From the house to the castle is a little downhill uphill challenging for those with walking issues but it is worth it! Plenty of seating/benches dotted around if you need a little rest and plenty of seating in the food area. We had a very enjoyable time.

Beautiful castle with nice gardens you can walk around. Lots of seating areas outside along with benches to sit on as you walk around. There are public toilets a book shop a souvenir shop and ice cream stall along with lots of parking and knowledgeable staff members in different rooms of the house to answer any questions.

Amost interesting place, so much to see...and lovely walks around estate. Walled garden in car park full of colour and some pumpkins. Hexagonal in shape and easy to walk around. Inside house reflective of being lived in and each room had costumes on display as worn by previous owners which reflects alot of achieved acquisitions not normally seen. Walk to ruin castle steep but rewarded by good views. Dont miss boat house if you are sandman fans as thus part of estate was cain and ables home! 40 min lake walk good path and easy 2 mile walk. Quarry quirky where stone for building house came from. Dont miss cat on fountain at back of house.... We thought grounds better than sissinghurst. Oh yes no toilets at bottom of hill by ruin. So make sure you go at top!! The painting in dining room of dwarves Hunting worth a muse and comment as so unusual in any old property . Volunteers most tolerant of me telling them about sandman as not many knew much about it!! Last tip house/ castle/ grounds all shut at different times so check if going for pist lunch visit.

​Scotney Castle is simply one of the most beautiful and unique National Trust properties in Kent, offering far more than a typical castle experience. It is a true triumph of landscape design, centered around two distinct periods of history. ​The absolute highlight is the romantic, 14th-century moated ruin of the Old Castle, which sits dramatically in the valley bottom. The views as you descend through the sloping gardens towards the moat, especially in autumn and spring, are breathtaking and perfectly exemplify the "Picturesque" style. It’s fascinating to learn that the ruin was deliberately created in the 1830s to serve as the ultimate centrepiece for the landscape. ​Overlooking the valley is the Victorian mansion (the "New Castle"), a warm and engaging family home filled with eclectic collections. Taking a tour gives you a real sense of the Hussey family's life, from their collection of objects to fun details like the secret door in the library. Beyond the buildings, the 780-acre estate offers wonderful woodland walks, a productive walled kitchen garden, and a fascinating Quarry Garden.

We love visiting Scotney Castle with its beautiful house and dramatic looking castle in the valley down below! First stop though of course is always the cafe for a lovely breakfast snack and drink. Upon entering the property, all staff members were excellent at telling us anything there was to know about each room with their vast knowledge. We then took a walk around the grounds enjoying the scenery and views of the castle. We would always return and recommend anyone to visit! It may be recommended to book parking, as we found out upon arrival that without prior arrangement you have to park in the additional parking section.

Wonderful National Trust site. The views on the Old Castle are spectacular. Gardens are lovely, the house is beautiful and full of history. The staff is very nice and kind. Thank you for a superb day.

Beautiful and incredibly well maintained gardens. We were lucky that we had free passes from the paper otherwise it would be very pricey. We used public transport and the bus service is hugely patchy, the access guide will say there are footpaths but there are several quite scary bits of 50mph country road. It is possible to do it via public transport but you must time everything around the bus. After 1pm the next one was at 5:15pm

​I had a truly fantastic trip to Leeds Castle. This place is awesome—it genuinely feels like a jewel in a crown. ​While the entry cost is significant, it is absolutely worth the price because there is SO MUCH TO DO, making it an easy full-day trip. Even better, your ticket allows you to return for a whole year! ​The grounds are magnificent and incredibly varied, featuring beautiful hilly areas, serene lakes, and varied walled garden areas. Don't miss the maze, the epic-looking children's playground, the Birds of Prey display, and the unique and fun Dog Collar Museum (the only one, I believe!). Inside the castle is amazing, filled with great displays and information. ​What really stands out is the clear investment and the incredible staff. The whole operation is so well-organized, and there are countless staff members who were universally friendly, kind, and helpful. ​The café was especially great! The food was good, and the Lemon Drizzle Cake was absolutely sublime—a perfect break during the day. ​Plus, you can buy duck food in the gift shop—a small touch, but very fun for feeding the birds! Highly, highly recommend this incredible historical gem.

Wow, Leeds castle was stunning. Set in the countryside, the drive up to the castle you knew it was going to be spectacular and we weren't disappointed. The grounds are stunning. It just got better and better, the Maze, Falconry, castle. The food was good here and the restaurant was superb. There was a boat ride available on the lake, Go-Ape, play areas. You could easily spend a day here. The staff were polite and knowledgeable and the castle itself is steeped in history.

An absolute gem — the most beautiful castle in the UK! If you’re visiting Kent or anywhere in the UK, this is the castle you can’t miss. What makes it truly special isn’t just the castle itself, but the breathtaking landscape surrounding it — every view feels like a postcard. There’s something here for everyone: an incredible adventure play area for kids of all ages (the maze is a must!), a stunning collection of birds, and a truly entertaining eagle and owl show that keeps both adults and children mesmerized. Take your time strolling through the gardens and woodlands on your way in — and on your way back, hop on the charming little train or relax on the scenic boat ride. Both are experiences in their own right. The castle grounds have plenty of great dining options, from cozy cafés to proper restaurants, so you won’t have to worry about food. Plus, they host brilliant seasonal events throughout the year — whether it’s a medieval festival, light trail, or Christmas market, there’s always something new to enjoy. The ticket you buy gives you unlimited entry for a full year — which is perfect, because once you’ve been, you’ll definitely want to come back. Ample of free car park. I suggest booking your entry ticket online in case it's busy.

Leeds Castle is absolutely breathtaking — a true fairytale setting surrounded by beautiful gardens and a serene lake. The castle is rich in history and wonderfully preserved, offering fascinating exhibits and lovely walks around the grounds. The location is peaceful, and the atmosphere feels magical from the moment you arrive. A must-visit in Kent and one of the most beautiful castles in England!

Absolutely stunning castle afloat it's moat. Beautiful gardens as well, especially the Mediterranean area. Enjoyed seeing all the various sculptures around the gardens. Lots to see and do. Fun maze to get lost in. The castle itself is amazing and beautiful inside. Had a lovely chat with one of the volunteer guides. He informed us that sadly no black swans currently at the castle due to avian flu 🥲. You can have a boat trip on tge lake but this costs extra on top of the admission price!

We stayed in accommodation on site, marvelous location for a three night stay. Beautiful landscape and gardens, use of all facilities on site during our stay, castle is a fascinating place to visit with lovely walks in the grounds, a visit to the birds of pray is a good choice. All the staff are amazing and friendly and helpful.

A Fantastic Family Day Out! ​We had an absolutely brilliant family day out at Leeds Castle! There is a huge amount to see and do, with something to entertain everyone. ​The children had a blast in the giant adventure playground and on the sandy "Beach", and the Lickalix ice lollies were a massive hit with kids and parents alike! The hedge maze was a real highlight; it's genuinely challenging and great fun, with an incredible surprise waiting in the centre that completely blew us away (we won't spoil it!). ​The Birds of Prey display was spectacular. The handlers were fantastic, flying the birds right through the spectators, giving us a rare and unforgettable up-close view. ​We had so much fun exploring the grounds that we didn't manage to get into the castle before it closed. However, the "pay once, visit all year" ticket is fantastic value and gives us the perfect excuse to return. We will definitely be back!

Our kids love this place, we go every year for the day. Great price for entry and half price after 5pm. Open till late, plenty to do in the area. Carers can get a wristband for half price, up to two Carers but you need to buy tickets on the day at the park itself. Other tickets can be brought online or on the day.

Great rides for £35 per day per head or half price after 5pm. Or £4 per ride if you want fewer rides. I had 6 and 11 year old and both enjoyed.

As a family we have been coming for a long time. The wrist bands are really worth while buying ahead of time as long as you go on at least 5 rides it’s worth it. We did wait for one ride as it broke down and my daughter couldn’t get out one as the harness got stuck for everyone. The rides are fun. The only down side for us was we got a pancake at the end of the evening and there were three staff just mucking about and not really serving. They were laughing at each other and shouting. Other members of the public were not happy as we waited nearly 20 mins. I don’t mind people having fun but they were meant to be working and it was more like a social gathering for them.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Adventure Island, Southend-on-Sea What an absolutely amazing experience! 🎢 Adventure Island is truly the happiest little amusement park by the sea! The moment you enter, you can feel the excitement and energy all around. It’s beautifully maintained, super clean, and offers something for everyone — from thrilling rides for adventure lovers to gentle ones for kids and families. The staff are cheerful, helpful, and always ready to make your day better. The sea view adds a special charm to the whole experience — imagine riding a roller coaster with waves in the background! 🌊 Food stalls, games, and the overall vibe make it a perfect full-day outing. Whether you go with family or friends, you’re bound to make wonderful memories here. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Southend-on-Sea! ❤️ [ Adventure Island Southend-on-Sea, amusement park, family fun, seaside rides, thrill rides, UK travel ] #AdventureIsland #SouthendOnSea #FamilyFun #UKAdventures #SeasideVibes #ThemeParkFun

We visited on the first day of our week holiday. We went for the annual pass as the children will want to visit again and the pass also gets discounts for food, shop etc. We are now on day 3 and going again! Well worth the money! The queues are very quick, we could wait nearby and see them in the queue for the majority of the rides. I wanted to go on a couple of rides so bought some ride tickets separately (no need for a day or annual pass for me 🤣)

VISIT DATE: SAT 20/09/2025 VISIT TIME: 13:30 - 20:00 Adventure Island is a fantastic place to visit if you have children and are in the Southend area. We’re based in Hornchurch, about an hour away by car, or you can also travel quite easily via C2C from Upminster, so my ex and I have visited a number of times with our daughter, starting when she was 3 (she’s now 6). The park promotes itself as free entry, but no one is going to come just to walk through it, so the reality is that you’ll need to get a day pass to take advantage of the rides. At time of writing, it’s £35 for the day, but you can save £10 by purchasing online in advance. If you’re planning to go more than once, then it makes sense to upgrade to an annual pass. These are currently on sale at £50 and do not start until the first time you go. If your child is under 120cm tall, you won’t need your own pass, as they need someone taller (and at least 14 years old) to ride with them. As you’d expect, during the summer, or on character event days, the park is very busy, so there are queues for rides, but going off season reduces this dramatically. We were really blessed with a quiet day, so barely any queuing time, all rides open, with the exception of one, which was closed due to a mechanical issue and the park and rides were open till 8pm. It was also a warm day - being inside the park means that you are sheltered from the wind coming off the Thames Estuary, so even when it’s breezy, you don’t really feel it. There are a variety of rides, with plenty of slower ones for younger children, or those who don’t like faster stuff. Oh these, we really like Adventureville and Spooksville (which is the “scary” version, in darkness and with models of monsters and clowns, as well as appropriate sound effects), and you’ve also got stuff like little trains and boats and the best Crooked House ever, which has been an attraction on the site since 1949, surviving the great flood of 1953 and various ownership changes and developments over the years. I loved this attraction as a child and my daughter loves it too! There are also a number of rollercoasters, with more gentle ones, then building up to Rage, which has a vertical drop and loops. My daughter is looking forward to being tall enough to do that, but she’ll be going on with her Dad when that time comes, not me! There is also a water slide and an indoor area, Adventure Inside, which features a few more rides, including a traditional carousel (my personal favourite) and a decent sized soft play. Staff at the park are generally young, so they have lots of enthusiasm (if we lived nearer, I’d probably encourage my daughter to apply when she’s older, as I think it’s probably a pretty fun working environment, as well as quite hard work) and they are also friendly and helpful when you need anything. As well as the rides that are included in with your entry, there are also plenty of stalls encouraging you to spend more, like “Hook-a-Duck”, which my daughter loves. This is where having an annual pass is beneficial, as you get 20% discount on purchases, including from the food and drink stalls, of which there are also many! Personally, we recommend avoiding the restaurants inside the park as they’re not that great and there are loads of really nice local places a few minutes walk away which deserve supporting. You can also spend money on a Funtopia gamecard, to use on the many games machines in the arcade areas. You can pay to play with a debit / credit card, but the Funtopia card gives you extra credit and allows you to collect points which can be exchanged for prizes. Annual pass also gives you extra credit! Plenty of toilets in the park, including accessible and baby change. All in reasonable condition throughout the day. Overall, we really enjoy visiting and will continue to do so; it’s a great day out on its own, but when you add the other nearby attractions to the mix (Sealife Adventure, Southend Pier, spending time on the beach and in the water when it’s warm enough), this is a fabulous place to visit.

Discounted tickets after 5pm. Got to be quick if you want to do all the rides. Rage was the best. 2cm too short for two. Height checks in que. Ferris wheel took ages. Some ride staff were brilliant. Got wet on the green water slide. Toilets at either end. Plenty of places for food and drink. A good enough park to say you've done.

Great little train and trip. Railway staff were brilliant. Not particularly cheap, but value for money. We managed to get our own carriage both ways, think that it would have been a little less special if we had had to share with other passengers. Scenery outstanding.

We planned to visit Bodiam Castle and couldn’t think of a better way to travel there than on the steam train from Tenterden. What an excellent decision, we had a lovely day out, enjoyed looking out for wildlife on the train journey and loved the atmosphere. I would highly recommend this to everyone!

The Kent and Sussex Railway is really worth a visit for a fantastic day out. Nice big free car park and lovely friendly staff and volunteers everywhere making sure you have a wonderful day. The atmosphere is great as steam loco's move about while you wait to board for a journey to Scotney castle and back. Barrie and I did the trip a couple of times on different loco's and enjoyed sausage and mash for lunch at Tenterden Station. The museum is well worth a visit near the car park. We had a really exciting day, thank you.

An interesting heritage railway capturing the atmosphere of a bygone era of travel by train. The main station is Tenterden which has a booking office, catering facilities and a railway museum. The journey is through countryside with a few intermediate stations, one of which has holiday let's in old railway carriages. The end of the line is Bodiam which boasts a castle about a 10 minute walk from the station.

Nice little place, lovely friendly staff working in the railway station. I paid for a guest class cream afternoon tea with the steam train. I did not get the first class photo advertised on the publicity and I did not get the tide on a steam train. They gave me a complementary voucher not valid in many special occasions with a free ginger biscuit. I was dissatisfied since I did not pay for that. The museum is small but worth it.

Fantastic railway. Served up a great diesel gala, might have been a good idea to hold the 1015 from Tenterden to Bodiam for the shuttle bus from Ashford seeing as there were so many passengers on it.

If you want the steam train experience then this is the place. The whole experience is like going back in time. The volunteers who run this are amazing. The train ride takes about 50min with 4 stops, old level crossings, whistles, and flags. Original carriages and dinners.

I recently stayed overnight at Pinewood Lodge with my two kids (ages 5 and 8) and had such a great time! The lodge was cozy, the beds were nice and snuggly, and it was perfectly located for exploring the park. The kids absolutely loved the primate trail and the Dinosaur Forest, and the safari ride was a big highlight — spotting rhinos, giraffes, bison and more felt like a real adventure. They also had so much fun roasting marshmallows by the fire in the evening and next morning, which made the whole experience even more special. We really enjoyed our meal at Babydoll’s Restaurant too — great food and a lovely atmosphere to end the day. Everything was well organised, the staff were friendly and helpful, and we’ll definitely be back. A brilliant mix of wildlife, learning and fun for families!

My husband and I had a fantastic time at Port Lympne. We stayed at the hotel for 2 nights in the Sir Phillip Sassoon executive suite and it was beautiful. We had an evening meal at the Baby Doll restaurant on our first night and on our second night we had an evening meal at Bear Lodge restaurant, and breakfast was also served in Bear Lodge. The food in both restaurants was delicious. On our first day we did the Gorilla Encounter, we got to feed the gorillas from the roof top and then see them inside, following that we had a safari and on our 2nd day we did the Giraffe Encounter and got to feed the giraffes. The staff on both encounters and the guide on our safari were fantastic, very informative, very welcoming and we had the best time even the rain on our first day didn’t stop us. Having the use of a golf buggy during our stay was also a bonus. Every member of staff made us feel so welcome and nothing seemed to much trouble, we will definitely be returning in the very near future

A fantastic day out with our 16 months old. What we absolutely loved about this park was the fact that the animals had SO much room. We've never been to a zoo before where animals have been so fortunate to be placed there. When we compare it to Howletts it's night and day the animal welfare. You guys have done a brilliant job here, animals come first. Yes, you don't always see the animals, but that in my eyes is a brilliant thing, cause it means they have a more realistic habitat. The Sunday roast in the Garden room was just brilliant, couldn't reccomend this enough. The service was also fantastic. We wouldn't hesitate coming back. It's great to support a park that actually care about the animals and use the money to better not only captive animals lives, but also animals in the wild. So refreshing to see a company doing the right thing for once. One thing to note, it is VERY hilly, so having a push chair was a work out for us with steep hills etc. we were pretty shattered at the end of the day, but little one loved it!

5 stars all round, without a doubt. We stayed in Mansion House, and the room was one of the best we’ve ever experienced — waking up each morning to the sounds of tigers, lions, lemurs, and more was unbelievable. We also did the Ranger Safari with Will, who was excellent: friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about what he does. The food throughout our stay was incredible, and the whole experience felt like a once-in-a-lifetime getaway. Truly unlike anything I’ve ever done before. Highly recommend.

Rhino lodge. Where to start? Staff were great checking in, we were chauffeured to our lodge by a very knowledgeable young man who was extremely chatty. The lodge was clean, everything had been thought of, like toiletries, some snacks and drinks. There were even robes and slippers for us all to use. To our children's delight there were Rhinos by the fence in the paddock so they were straight out to see them. Next stop was the safari, the guide knew everything there was to know and shared so much information. Dinner at Babydolls was excellent. We had a fire pit in the garden and marshmallows had been lift in the lodge with sticks for us. This was a lovely touch! Breakfast in the garden room was beyond expectations, the food was incredible. The highlight of our stay for the kids was our golf buggy and being able to go round the zoo after closing time and early in the morning with no crowds. Not a cheap 24 hours, but one we'll never forget!

Booked a night at the Hog Deer Creek accommodation for my partner’s birthday. Absolutely amazing experience all round. The park itself is excellent, the animals are clearly well cared for with plenty of space. The staff on site be it in the reception, concierge, facilities team, rangers or restaurants are friendly, organised and highly professional. The food was fantastic and the Giraffe Experience is definitely worth doing. The accommodation itself was immaculate. Cosy, well equipped and it was extremely fun driving around such a large well kept site in the golf buggy. 5* all round, will 100% be returning again.

This was a truly magical stay & experience, with my daughter and grandsons, aged 12 & nearly 10 both wondered why we would stay two nights surely we can do the zoo in one day !! Ummm they soon changed their minds having the best time ever and loved every minute. Breakfast at the bear lodge was delicious, BabyDolls restaurant was a favourite a more relaxed vibe for children than the Garden room restaurant which we ate at the second night, food at both was very good and wouldn’t expect anything less. I would highly recommend this stay and would definitely go back. We made memories together that we will never forget.

Went on a Thursday, a week day. Large cathedral, bigger than expected. It did have some construction ongoing outside so that did affect the pictures of the building. Staff and volunteers inside were friendly and happy to tell you a lot about the history, for free. Ticket office staff also helpful explaining the differences in tickets. Very quick and easy. Cathedral probably needs two visits and definitely a tour guide to fully appreciate. There is a cafe and restaurant, and even a hotel. Toilet facilities were adequate. Good places to sit and read if you need a break also. Definitely will return.

Very impressed. More than expected. Magnificent architecture. Huge, light, airy and less dark and oppressive when compared with Westminster Abbey. Beautiful ceilings and stained glass and extensive history. Less ‘tombs’ and fortunately less busy midweek. During our visit a Chaplain addressed all visitors briefly from the pulpit, and offered a prayer, using the cathedral for it’s intended purpose as a place of worship - not a tourist attraction - as it should be. The entry fee to the Cathedral is very reasonable considering the cost of maintaining the building and overseeing visitors. We paid an additional small sum for a guided tour which was exceptional. Lucky to get a ticket. The volunteer gave us a lot of insight into the development of Christianity in the UK, the various phases of the Church during different occupations and global conflicts, the murder of Thomas Beckett in 1170 AD, the destruction of his shrine by King Henry VIII in 1538, all wrapped up with visiting the different areas of the building and outlining the many extensions and renovations over 1000 years! Wonderful learning experience.

A beautiful and peaceful place to spend the day. You can wander around the whole site taking in all of the history and story of the cathedral. There is plenty to see inside both in the crypt and the main floor. You can walk through the entire cathedral. There are places set aside for prayer and quiet contemplation. The outside areas are quiet and interesting to look at. Since the building has been cleaned on the outside you get a good feel for the surroundings and what it would have looked like when it was built. Hearing the bells on the hour was magical and seeing the places where St Thomas was murdered and the site of his tomb before it was destroyed in the reformation makes you stop and think. A fantastic day and a day of learning is never wasted. One day I will return to learn some more. Thank you.

Beautiful Cathedral inside and outside. Very well maintained. You might need two days to walk around inside and outside, lovely gardens with lots of historical information. We thought it was free to enter, but it wasn't. We brought tickets either £19 or £21.00 each (don't remember exactly) they are valid for 12 months from the day of purchase. Just as well really, we thought they opened early on Sunday mornings, but they don't they have Sunday service and they open at 12.30. We had planned to go somewhere else and couldn't wait that long. We managed to walk around inside on Saturday morning early when it was quiet. The cathedral echos when people are talking, it looses it's essence of peace and solidtude. Definitely check the opening and closing times when planning a visit, it isn't visible from the outside of the cathedral which currently has scaffolding surrounding it for maintenance work. I will definitely go back to walk around the remainder of the cathedral before our tickets expire.

Stunning... Just walking around this magnificent building is a delight... And there's no charges. So with a beautiful cathedral and a lovely quaint town with plenty of food options you definitely cannot go wrong for a good day out..

The Cathedral is truly a jewel of medieval architecture. The town, where Charles Dickens once lived for a while, has its own magic. You can feel the atmosphere of English life, away from the hustle and bustle of London (in a certain sense, it conveyed this to me). In the winter, it comes alive with university student life, and I think the pace of daily life changes, but despite everything, it remains beautiful to visit, perhaps even better.

Canterbury Cathedral Canterbury Cathedral is one of the most breathtaking buildings I’ve ever visited. The sheer age of the structure is humbling; knowing that parts of it date back nearly a thousand years adds a deep sense of history to the experience. The moment you approach, its towering spires and intricate stonework capture your attention, and once inside, the vast height of the vaulted ceilings makes you feel both small and inspired at the same time. The architecture is stunning in every detail, from the stained-glass windows that flood the interior with soft, colorful light to the finely carved stonework and the elegant arches that seem to stretch endlessly upwards. Despite its grandeur, the atmosphere within the cathedral is remarkably peaceful. Walking through the nave and chapels, you can’t help but feel a sense of calm and reflection, as though the very walls hold centuries of prayer and contemplation. What struck me most was how the cathedral manages to balance its scale and significance with an atmosphere of serenity. It is both a place of awe-inspiring beauty and a space that feels profoundly spiritual. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply seeking a quiet, moving experience, Canterbury Cathedral is an unforgettable place to visit.

Absolutely a fantastic place to visit oozing with history. The site is large so allow plenty of time. It's also hilly and within the castle there is a lot of stairs. The tunnels under the castle were fascinating especially if you have an interest in WWII. Though they date back to the late 1700s. Tours are run at regular intervals and the staff are extremely knowledgeable. All staff were helpful and nice. We were able to park on site but I imagine school holidays could cause an issue sometimes. There's is a carpack for disabled drivers much closer and on a flatter level near the castle itself. Plenty of toilets dotted around the grounds and a cafe and ice cream van as well as one serving hot drinks and snacks. Small p.ay area with climbing equipment for children. Great views over Dover and the port. Also visit the Saxon Church that is within the grounds.

Was a wonderful visit,went there with a friend of mine and we explored everything the castle had to offer. Under the castle there are some interesting tunnels with a lot of interesting stories. You will learn a bit about the war and the importance of the castle in the past. It's worth the money.

You could easily spend a whole day here visiting the various sections of the large site. Of special interest to us were the Secret War Tunnels. It is a 30-minute tour with an informed and entertaining guide. (Unfortunately no photos allowed.) There is no extra fee for the tour. It is included with your entrance fee. There is also a tour of the hospital tunnels which we didn’t have time to take but would have been interested to see. We also enjoyed seeing the castle which is furnished in replicas from the period which we didn’t expect. Again, the attendants were friendly and informed. On a nice day there are lovely picnic area to enjoy.

Fabulous day out at this historic English heritage site. Plenty to do. Good value. Had nice lunch , not overpriced. Visited war tunnels and walk round and in castle and grounds. Great views over countryside and out towards france.

Travelled from Folkestone to visit the Castle on my way home to London and could have kicked myself as id left my bank card at the hotel so didn't manage to get inside the castle which was a disappointment. The grounds are stunning and the views over the harbour are exceptional.

There is so much to see here - definitely plan enough time! I would recommend buying tickets online, if you can. If not, you can drive up and park, then walk inside and purchase tickets in the gift shop in the main castle area at the top of the hill. The grounds are really well maintained and the staff is so friendly and helpful! The various tours close early, so be sure to hit them first, then tour the rest at your leisure. We started at the top, toured the tunnels, then went and did the two tours at the bottom before making the trek back up. (I would recommend this route) There is a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes! The views are incredible and there is so much to see. The only thing we weren’t a big fan of was the gaudy colors of the decorations in the main castle - they reminded us of a children’s play set - but that’s just our opinion. It definitely didn’t dampen the experience! There are ample restroom facilities located all around the property. It seemed like the kind of place that might be difficult to maneuver in a manual wheelchair, but we don’t use a wheelchair so there might be accommodations we didn’t see. Overall, it was a wonderful experience!

Brilliant place to visit. Be prepared to spend all day. Lots to see and do.Great tower, keep,old church and ancient lighthouse, ramparts, secret defence tunnels, wartime tunnels,various exhibitions, battlements, glorious views across Dover and the Channel. Definitely a English Heritage jewel.

Dropped by Turner Contemporary during a day trip beach day to Margate and really enjoyed it. It’s free, super clean, and well looked after. I only had a quick wander before closing but it was still a really nice visit. Being right by the water is an added bonus. Worth checking out if you’re in Margate!

We spent a lovely couple of hours wandering through the galleries. All very well curated. Great for school groups. No entrance fee. Just donations requested. Small but interesting gift shop with pottery that reflects Turners key work.

I am always excited to see what's going to be on display next. The presentation is always top class with such attention to details. My daughter and I are frequent visitors.

It's free so always worth popping in if you're in Margate anyway. Quite surprised and a bit disappointed that there is literally just the one lonely Turner there. The other exhibits were a mixed bag really, two beautiful sculptures as you enter but the rest were bafflingly naive. Personal taste of course with any exhibition.

Always enjoy visiting the Turner no matter what the exhibition. It’s light,airy, has a great gift shop and cafe, entertainment for kids and decent toilets. We could easily spend a day here when the kids were small but now they are older it tends to be a couple of hours.

Super spot, convenient and plentiful parking, easy access to the gallery. Well worth a visit just to experience this amazing space…. which is just as well as the current exhibit (Anna Boghiguian) looked like it had been produced by a class of 6 year olds… which any self respecting 6 year old might even take umbrage with.

Hi all just been to the turner exhibition only one painting by him which we found unusual in the turner center lol The shell girl was good and the paintings and pictures buy the kids and teenagers of the area where good the sunken ship couldn't get my head around the chess piece where ok and the undersea world was ok .

I visited the White Cliffs of Dover for about an hour and hiked all the way to the lighthouse — it’s a wonderful place for walking and even having a picnic, with amazing views along the way, though the smell from the ships and boats near the pier was a bit unpleasant.

The White Cliffs of Dover are absolutely breathtaking! The views are stunning, and walking along the cliffs is both peaceful and invigorating. The trails are well-maintained, and there are plenty of spots to stop and take photos. A perfect place for nature lovers, history enthusiasts. Highly recommend going early for the best views and to avoid crowds.

Lovely 30-40 min walk to get to the lighthouse. Cute cafeteria as well for a nice lunch. Lovely tourist attraction. Great if you have a national trust membership. Highly recommend.

The White Cliffs left me with an unforgettable impression. 🌅 The sunset painted the sky and cliffs in golden hues, and the sunlight seemed to bring their whiteness to life — it was pure magic. I listened to the melodic songs of birds and was delighted to spot a family of wild hares hiding among the grass. The autumn scenery around was breathtaking, and I can only imagine how even more vibrant and warm it must be in summer. My walk was filled with joy and tranquility, and I will definitely return. This place is truly iconic in England — it’s something everyone should see with their own eyes. The roads are excellent, the area is well-kept, and the cozy café with delicious cream tea and attentive staff makes the visit even more enjoyable. The White Cliffs are not just a natural landmark; they are a feeling of harmony, beauty, and a true blessing. 🏔️💖💖💖

Great coastal path from the National Trust white cliffs car park, free for members,(otherwise there's an expensive charge) you don't see a lot of the white cliffs walking this way, unless you walk down to the beaches, and they don't look as white, I think the views from a far look a lot better, but it's still a lovely walk, and you get 3 National Trust sites on your walk, Fan bay deep shelter, wanstone Gun battery and the lighthouse, so a great day 😊.

A must-see! We took the train from London, walked to the waterfront through the town — lovely architecture and friendly residents, but surprisingly, a somewhat depressed area. We made our way to the top of the cliffs via the foot path, but you may drive or take a taxi to the top, which has a visitor center and cafe. The late-afternoon August sunlight beautifully highlighted the cliffs and hills. On a clear day, you can see the cliffs of France. One visit is not enough!

After visiting Dover castle walked downhill to go on walkway along cliffs above Dover. Good views of Port area only did short walk due to time constraints.

We visited D on a weekday during the holidays, and it was an awesome experience! The aquarium offers a wonderful opportunity to view and learn about a wide variety of sea creatures. It's both fun and educational, especially for kids. They will definitely enjoy the interactive exhibits and get a chance to gain knowledge about marine life. The display of different types of sea fishes—from colorful reef species to large predators—is truly fascinating. The environment is well-maintained and family-friendly, making it a perfect holiday outing. Highly recommended for families looking for an engaging and informative day out! Recommended to visit in the morning session to avoid the crowds.

This should definitely be on any to do list if in or around the Boulogne area. Worth the money and time we'll spent. Would recommend leaving at least 4 hours as there is plenty to see and the large tank is truly amazing. Was shocked when seeing the large manta ray emerge from the darkness for the first time. It's also very educational so would highly recommend. Will go again next time I'm in the area

The most amazing experience! 3 main exhibits, the first of which I spent more then two hours in, gazing at the largest aquarium in Europe was comfortable, spacious and signs were easily translated. Many of the staff were bilingual and so helpful! There were little spots to eat including a restaurant, clean restrooms and lockers to store your belongings. Outside the front of Nausicaa is also a lovely green area with children's play park and access to watch the sea lions! There was so much information accessible and interactive activities to keep children engaged whilst being educational. I will absolutely return here one day!

Such a brilliant day out with the family. It is so much bigger than we were expecting. 3 different areas to look around, with so many tanks and other things to do. Lovely restaurant on site with lots of options. Would definitely recommend to anyone going to the area. 10/10. Definitely book in advance online, we were able to book the group tickets and saved a lot of money. It was very busy, with lots of school trips. We went on a Friday.

This place is truly one of the best! It offers so much more than a typical aquarium. the experience is absolutely surreal. Please note that outside food isn't allowed, but the on-site café serves both hot and cold meals. With multiple levels to explore, it's a good idea to fuel up beforehand. Be prepared for a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and come ready for an adventure!

Wonderful aquarium with huge tanks, so many different species of fish and some big Stingrays and sharks and a selection of well thought it and interesting exhibits. The cafe is good too and plenty to see and do for the day, even the kids are entertained.

The most magical experience. We visited from Dover for the day, easy to get to from Calais. So much to see. All tanks seem very well kept and animals well looked after. Good price and accessible for pushchair

Beautiful long beach with lots of activities for children. Very surprised to see the majority of attractions were closed even the beach side eateries and bars. We had to walk inland to get something. Plenty of parking. Dog friendly beach is restricted to the high point of the dunes.

The day we were there was wonderful. People were flying kits, sunbathing and playing games on the beach. The sand was fine and soft, had to take off my shoes and walked on it. Compared to beaches in English, this beaches is fantastic. 🏊‍♀️

Beautiful beach! Especially the side with the dunes and the park/ forest. Town center is very cute. The only downside is finding a table in a restaurant. Make sure you make a reservation before heading to town. They have very specific times for the kitchen.

Beautiful soft and deep sand that went on for miles and miles. Very spacious. We were there early morning and basically had the beach to ourselves. We found some free parking on the residential streets a few roads down from the pay and display streets and only walked about 10 mins from car to beach. Lovely quaint restaurant/cafes and shops. And also a market selling clothes, crystals bags and food etc. Was a lovely day trip. Would recommend.

Great golf courses and the town is fantastic for great food and a beer. The Westminster hotel was great too!

Unique premise and atmosphere here. Very grand buildings on outskirts and in surrounding forests, becoming more modern towards the seafront. Beautifully manicured areas outside of impressive hotels and apartment blocks. Rue Saint Jean is main pedestrian thoroughfare to the beach area with designer shops inland, giving way to bars and boutiques towards the seafront. Different every time we come, but always fantastic. The beach is very large and clean, with sunbeds and parasols available in season, with an adventure complex and various eateries and bars.

Nice golden sand , stretches for miles, warm sea.

The place is impressive, and worth visiting. Adding the planetarium is a must, especially if you are visiting woth kids. I missed more information about the site itself, the visit felt more like an overview of WWII. The website is also pretty outdated and hard to navigate. Tip: bring a jacket, it is very cold inside the tunnel!!!

I didn’t know what to expect when visiting this museum — I went in completely blind, having done no prior research and only using ChatGPT to help plan my holiday itinerary. I was genuinely in awe when the huge concrete megastructure suddenly came into view as I drove into the car park. It was completely unexpected and an impressive sight to behold. The exhibits, supported by clear and informative supplementary information, made the visit both engaging and enjoyable. That said, a few areas felt a little empty, and additional displays could have further enriched what was otherwise a very well-presented museum. One highlight was the interactive tablet and headset experience, which elevated the visit and made the museum even more immersive. The on-site café was also a pleasant surprise, serving tasty food and drinks at very reasonable prices.

Took my Band of Gamers tour group here on October 2, 2023. The site was absolutely amazing. In addition to the history of the V2 program, the site also presented information on the slave labour the Nazis used to work on this complex - very sobering. In 2019 my group visited the V3 site Mymoceques but we didn't have time to come here. I'm glad we took the time to see it this time. Highly recommend.

If your near by and even have the remotest interest in history, or humanity, go. But bewarned it hits hard. Think about if taking small children is a good idea or not, there are some articles which will need to be explained, but then should be. Will never forget it.

One of the best museums I've visited. As well as the sheer scale of the WW2 remains, it also tells you why, and how, and the human toll it took to build it. The audio-visio guides are superb and show you graphically how and why it was built. A superb museum, superb and friendly staff and a museum that leaves you astounded by the sheer scale. Superb.

Its a beautiful and well preserved memory of the great and indeed insane ambitions of the Third Reich. Combine this visit with a visit to the Blockhaus or the V3 weapon and you'll see what optimism and a lot of money can do. Even though it's unfinished, you'll have a great impression of this site. The interactive tablets do a good job. Some expositions are sadly only in French and the lack of internet under earth invalidate on the fly translation apps. Pre-downloading translations helps. I'll still give it 5 stars. It will take you from 1914 well into the American space program, with a focus on WW2 in Northern France, the resistance and the eventual liberation.

I highly recomend the visit, very well organized museum with a lot of history.

Went on a Wednesday when the park was open from 10AM-10PM, and managed to get on an amazing 16 rides. Wait times were really good especially for The Ride to Happiness, with the longest queue being only 45 minutes. Food is very expensive so I recommend taking your own. Thank you to Leme at the Plopsaland Shop for being so helpful though with our visit and helping us to pick the best pin badges! Definitely will be coming back again!

Great the park. There are some great rides here. Mainly geared towards families with younger children (under 16), but you can not deny the presence of Ride To Happiness, which is clearly aimed at an older audience. Ride To Happiness is simply one of the best roller-coasters in the world, and it should be on everyone's bucket list.

I really wanted to give the park 5 stars but some things are odd. First of all, why isn’t there any signage anywhere? Second, why isn’t there any information about waiting times? We were there on a Wednesday middle of October and it was really calm, Zero to little waiting times, even at the top rollercoaster “ride to happiness”, which is awesome! Most of the attractions are definitely for smaller kids, there are basically only three thrill rides, “happiness, Anubis and Heidi”. Would I come back just for this three rides on a calm day? Definitely! Would I come back on a busy summer weekend? For sure not.

Loved this place and it really exceeded my expectations! We were staying in nearby de panne and it had a great transport link on the tram right into the theme park. Reasonably priced for the entry fee. We purchased the tickets the day before as this worked out cheaper than on the gate. This themepark has something for all the family and we were really lucky to not have long queues on the day we visited. Everyone loved Heidi and the Ride to Happiness. Lots of great food venues to choose from. Great theming throughout the park and decorated really well for Halloween. The parade was also fun and the whole day had a really fun, happy vibe! The plopsaland hotel looked lovely. Overall, a great day out and we would definitely return.

This is a fantastic family Themepark way above the quality of anything experienced in the UK. Primarily aimed at a younger crowd there is a great selection of attractions and magic to be found round every corner! Arguably home to the greatest coaster in Europe with the ride to happiness and only 130cm height restrictions so it blew my 8 year olds mind !! Great food- kinda pricey - we had a rack of ribs, huge sausage and chips with sauce and drink for €15! Unfortunately no where to fill up our water bottle which needs to be addressed especially with 30degree weather! All together a fantastic day of fun for all the family!

Clean and tidy but way too busy and a ridiculous access pass system for families with younger children ! Wouldn’t say this park is value for money! The one good thing at this park is the ride of happiness which is in the top 5 coasters I have done .

We had an absolutely fantastic day at Plopsaland! From start to finish, everything exceeded our expectations. The park was beautifully clean, well-organised, and not at all busy, which made the whole experience even more enjoyable. The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, everyone we spoke to was cheerful and helpful, creating such a positive atmosphere throughout the day. One of the biggest highlights for us was “The Ride to Happiness” what an incredible rollercoaster! It’s easily one of the best rides we’ve ever been on. Thrilling, smooth, and full of surprises, we couldn’t resist going on it multiple times thanks to the short queues! Overall, we couldn’t have asked for a better experience. The mix of fun attractions, friendly staff, and minimal waiting times made it a truly perfect day out. Highly recommend Plopsaland to anyone visiting Belgium, we’ll definitely be back! 🎢✨

Catastrophe!!! Trams are overcrowded and the frequency is too low. Very often you can't get on the tram at all!!! The vehicles themselves are uncomfortable and there is little space in them. I don't understand why, when replacing the tram fleet, it was not decided to use longer vehicles, since the tram stops can handle trams that are several meters longer. This is an unacceptable situation for me.

Stop promoting this as a tourist transportation! It's a regular tram, very crowded and uncomfortable. Yes, it takes you from one place to another, but don't hope for nice view or something interesting to see.

(Translated by Google) on the last 5 days in March 2025, always punctual and reliable, very cheap daily rate (Original) an den letzten 5 Tagen im März 2025 immer pünktlich und zuverlässig, sehr günstiger Tagestarif

(Translated by Google) Nice route along the coast and beach. (Original) Leuke route langs de kust en strand.

(Translated by Google) It's really scandalous how full the trams are, really overcrowded...You can't get on or off...and 1 tram every 15 minutes, really not possible...What if something happens on such an overcrowded tram? ?? (Original) Echt schandalig hoe vol de trammen zitten, echt overvol ...Je kan er niet bij en niet af ...en om de 15min 1 tram, echt niet te doen ...Wat als er iets gebeurt op zo'n overvolle tram???

(Translated by Google) It is not responsible that there are so many people on the tram, it is also dangerous, people have already fallen, also because the tram abruptly left, it's a pity I don't like the tram (Original) Het is niet verantwoord dat er zoveel volk op de tram zit het is ook gevaarlijk er zijn al mensen gevallen ook omdat de tram brut vertrek spijtig ik vind dr tram nirt leuk

(Translated by Google) The coastal tram!!!!!! A real shame!!!!! Here people are crammed into the tram, animals are treated better (Original) De kusttram !!!!!! Een echte schande!!!!! Hier worden mensen in de tram opeen gestampt, dieren worden beter behandeld

Definitely worth a visit. Some interactive information. A number of short video presentations, either in English of with subtitles. Displays of WWI uniforms, munitions etc. Cafe and toilets on ground floor. Option to visit the bell tower, quite a number of steps, but even on a dull rainy day worth the visit.

was here on a bus tour from brussels, entrance was included in our tour. -When we arrived our guide gave us poppy wrist bands for entrance, they also activate things. -Typical museum, different displays of uniforms, weapons, artifacts, stories and maps. There is a small theater to hear real stories from nurses during the war -Souvenir and book shop at the end of the tour. -The museum is in the largest building in town, the old town hall, so you cant miss it. -There was also a small flea/garage sale going on right outside of it. People selling random things. There was one or 2 selling war artifacts, not sure it authentic.

One of the main museums, if not the main museum one can visit when retracing the Western Front and the WW1 trail. Located within a splendid building in the centre of Ypres. The museum is immersive with key station points for your audio guide to be activated, a very clever poppy band that also activated key points throughout the museum. Lots of videos of reenactments, great displays and lots of key information that can even make one who may know a lot, to think further. Very accessible and decently priced.

Great museum focusing on WW1 and the surrounding battles. Take advantage of the opportunity to climb to the top of the bell tower during your visit. Allow at least 2 hours for a comprehensive visit. There is also a small cafe and well stocked book shop. Parking is usually available in the public square outside.

Excellent museum with lots of interactive displays and videos. A brilliant telling of the experiences of the solders and civilians in the Ypres salient during the First World War. Very powerful and moving. All contained in the fabulous building rebuilt after the war.

I visited for two main reasons. First is that my Great Grandfather was a gunner with the RGA in the 3rd Battle of Ypres and not only was it a miracle that he survived but also the diary he kept of his experiences, which is a moving read. After transcribing this a few years ago, I have been researching the contents and the day I visited the museum was part of that and found it so interesting and informative. The layout is quite modern and I liked the use of videos with actors recreating the experiences, especially the medical staff. The other reason I was visiting is that my Great Uncle Charles was killed in 1915 and as he has no known grave, his name is inscribed on the nearby Menin Gate. The impact of his death, and that of his brother who was killed in action only a few weeks later, is still remembered by our family and I was also trying to find out more about his death. For both of these family members, I did manage to find out really useful additional information. Even if you are not like me and researching a specific family member, this is definitely worth visiting and is suitable for younger children with adult supervision. Our teen children found it interesting and we need to ensure the younger generation are aware of the events of 1914-18. There is an entry fee and you can pay extra for an audio tour and visit to the tower. We didn't do the latter two due to time restraints (we managed to get in for last entry time as we had had a busy day of visiting other sites which had to fit in 1 day) We hadn't pre-booked but no issues with that.

The museum itself is excellent – well-presented, with a wealth of information and artefacts that are both informative and engaging. Unfortunately, our overall experience was spoiled by the dishonesty of one employee and the poor handling of the situation by another. My partner and I purchased two inclusive tickets for both museums. It was explained to us that the Flanders ticket granted access to the tower, which is why we chose the full package. However, when we arrived at the Flanders museum, we were told we had to pay extra for the tower. When we challenged this, the employee’s response was hostile. I asked to make a complaint and was told there was no procedure for this and that I should “just do it on Google.” The employee initially refused to involve a supervisor, declined to give their details, and was not wearing a visible name badge. Instead, they repeatedly denied any issue and insisted Google was the only way to complain. Eventually, they contacted the desk where we had purchased our tickets. Unfortunately, that staff member fabricated a story that we had made two separate purchases (we had not) and denied ever saying the tower was included (which she clearly had). After I persisted, a supervisor eventually did attend (despite us previously being told there wasn’t one on site). Once we explained the situation and mentioned that CCTV would support our account, we were quickly granted access to the tower without extra charge. While we were pleased this was eventually resolved, it should never have required such persistence. A museum of this quality deserves front-of-house staff whose professionalism matches the high standard of the exhibits.

A sombre place - 'a First World War memorial in Ypres, Belgium, dedicated to the missing British and Commonwealth soldiers who have no known grave in the Ypres Salient, with their names engraved on the walls of the memorial.' - I felt choked up approaching this place remembering my relatives that served here including my grandfather wounded at Passchendaele. We also saw groups of school kids, including some Indian students, and their teacher and a male and female student carried a wreath to lay remembering Indians who served as part of the British Empire.

I was here twice in one day, on a bus tour from brussels. Once around lunch, and then once at 7pm to stay for the 8pm last post ceremony. -Its a large "Gate" building, the functions as a road as well except at 8pm, when police close the road for the last post ceremony. The sidewalk is also roped off, you cannot cross this gate into or out of city between 7:50pm-8:20pm, by foot or car. -You can walk up the steps in the middle to the upper parts on either side, its more walls of names. -You can participate in the last post Ceremony if you have a poppy wreath similar to theirs. You can bring from home, or Buy a wreath at the "Info shop" across the road from the gate, inside the city. The man running the ceremony said they never turn away someone that wants to participate. -The last post ceremony gets busy, we arrived 1 hour before to be sure we got front row, and we did, but it does get busy. The ceremony itself is about 10min long, with a short trumpet call, then a short speech, then people walk up and put wreaths, and then trumpets again, and its over. The guide said sometimes there is more people putting wreaths, sometimes there is more speeches, sometimes more music performances, so it could take longer sometimes. Overall it was a nice memorial to the fallen soldiers

This is a must go to see, and listen to the sound of last post played by buglers of the fire service. A sombre moment, knowing that all the names carved out on the walls, were of men whose bodies were never found, and remain scattered under Flanders fields. Heartbreakingly sad to think of.

Have visited a few times before. Last time (2024) it was closed for restoration, all done now and looking great. There’s an office on site where they will help you locate the name of a lost family member. (Don’t try to read all the names or you’ll never find the one you want). If your schedule allows, stay for the Last Post ceremony, done every day. Right in the town centre of Ypres, a beautiful place to visit.

This is a must visit site in Ypres, especially at 8pm every day when the last post is played. It is remarkable that this service happens every day of the year more than 100 years after WW1, but then it remains as poignant and relevant today as ever (sadly). We attended on two consecutive nights, one night with the Honourable Artillery Company Regimental Band playing (incredible) the next with a female choral choir. Both were very moving. I estimated about 500 people attended both nights. The four or five horn players of the last post were clearly very experienced. The gate itself is a mini-museum, and it is very impactful to see the thousands of names of lost soldiers from so many countries. Really, everyone should visit this site.

The gate is a large memorial to the British Empire and Dominions troops that were killed in the Great War. It was built in the 1920s and has the names of 54,000 allied servicemen who lost their lives but have no known grave, inscribed on panels inside the building. It is sited on the road that the troops used to march along to reach the nearby Ypres salient, scene of fighting for pretty much the entire war. It is also where the famous Last Post ceremony takes place. We read the CWGC information boards and saw the information on the hill next to the gate and then we walked through the galleries with the names of the fallen before joining the crowds to listen to the ceremony. I was surprised at how busy it was and the ceremony itself lasted about 15 minutes but the colonnade was full 45 minutes before it started. It was a lovely ceremony with the Last Post and then two songs sung by St Anthony's Catholic Girl School from Market Weighton.

A must see experience. Lots of emotions. Make up your own mind as to a celebration of war or a monument against it! A waste of human life for a just cause or maybe a monument against war. A lesson from history about the waste of war and its leaders who send men to there death! Looking at the world at the moment, have we learned? But to those who lost their lives a very moving monument.

France, a country notorious among travelers for its challenging reputation, turned out to be far more charming than I expected. And for me, Lille had even more appeal than Paris. If I ever return to France, there’s no question I’ll be coming back to Lille.

Lille is a beautiful city. The buildings are so architecturally stunning. Plenty to see and do on our 3 days trip. Lots of restaurants and coffee, patisseries. Yummy. Our hotel Mercure grand place was extremely good value and breakfast fabulous. Will visit again when its maybe not so hot 🥵

Absolutely gorgeous! 🥰 Very lively during the day and mesmerising at night with all the beautiful illuminations. It reminded me of Brussels in a way. It’s definitely a must when in Lille. Plenty of restaurants and cafés in its surroundings.

Amazing and spacious square where you can admire several architectural beauties of lille. It can get crowded and there are beggars and homeless people around it, so watch out for your stuff, or help if possible.

The beautiful city of lille. Well worth a visit just for the architecture alone. Stunning and great to see a strong police presence

Only had an hour in Lille before heading for the ferry at Calais so of course we headed straight for the Grand Place & the surrounding streets of the Vieux-Lille to look at the buildings & soak up some Lille vibes….& it was all positive apart from one thing - the stench of the sewers :/

The areas of the town squares are nice. There are many nice decorations around and some good stores where people can buy stuff. One thing I don't like is the fact that cars are allowed to operate within the pedestrian area, with no traffic lights and no signs. Really, man? Who's dumb idea was that? People who walk and cyclists can get hurt, especially children. This stupidity was abolished in 99% of the European cities I've visited, except for Lille. Seriously... Compared to Szeged, Charleroi, Novi Sad and Timișoara, which are superior cities, Lille sucks in that case. 👎 Those are a few examples. ☝️ I've visited many cities all across Europe and Asia. Naming all of them would take 100 days. I know Lille can become good. It really needs better laws and improvements. Other than that, I see good things too. The surroundings look nice. 👍

Wonderful experience climbing the belfort tower, the view from the top is magnificent. It is also nice to see all the bells, everything so well preserved. The hike to the top isn't that bad, there are opportunities to rest throughout. It is advisable to buy your tickets in advance as is a very popular tourist attraction. It's absolutely worth the climb. Highly recommended.

Climbing the Belfort Tower was one of the most memorable and fun experiences of our visit. This iconic bell tower, standing proudly in the heart of Bruges, dates all the way back to the 13th century! making it even older than the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Knowing that we were walking inside a structure with such deep history made the climb even more special. The Belfort has 366 steps leading to the top, and while that might sound intimidating at first, the journey upward is absolutely worth it. When we first saw the sign warning that visitors should be in good health to climb, we felt a bit nervous. But once we began, we realized it was not too difficult at all! more like an adventure! The staircase is narrow and steep, so you occasionally have to pause to let people coming down pass by. These little breaks actually make the experience nicer, giving you a moment to catch your breath and take in the medieval atmosphere of the interior walls and beams. Halfway up, we reached the room housing the automatic bell system, which was fascinating to see up close. The giant drum mechanism that controls the bells is like something from another era , a perfect blend of art and engineering. When the bells start ringing, the sound is beautiful yet incredibly powerful, echoing through every stone of the tower. Finally reaching the top feels like a true reward. The panoramic view over Bruges is absolutely breathtaking, rows of red rooftops, winding canals, and the bustling market square below. Standing there, feeling the cool breeze and hearing the faint sound of bells, you truly understand why the Belfort Tower is such a beloved symbol of Bruges. It’s a climb one I’d recommend to anyone visiting this magical city.

So so worth it. Great view and if you stay long enough you can hear the bells ringing. The walk up was not terrible, but it’s a lot of stairs. With mobility issues you’ll struggle. Gets tight near the top, but less scary than most of the towers we’ve climbed over the years in Europe. Read the info cards, they are super interesting. Has a lot of languages. Very cool story, and the views are killer. Make sure you get there an hour or so before you want to go up, tickets are sold in a small electronic kiosk inside the main door off the square on the left. Only so many tickets are sold per 40 minute chunk.

Amazing experience climbing to the top of the tower. Steep, narrow steps but worth it! Amazing view. The tower; from the ground, is amazing to admire, especially at night!

I recommend buying tickets online ahead of time or at the kiosk out front where you can select what time you want to visit. Otherwise you may have to wait a few hours. The climb to the top is quick, with several points of interest on the way. It’s unfortunate there is netting up to which obstructs your view and photos on the city. Also the cost at €15 is a bit extreme. €5-8 would be more reasonable

Absolutely stunning experience! Climbing the tower was one of the highlights of my trip. The panoramic views from the top are simply breathtaking — you get the perfect perspective of the city’s historic skyline. The exhibits inside are also really well done and give a fascinating glimpse into the tower’s history and the role of the bells. Don’t miss it if you’re in Brugge

The Belfort in Bruges offers a stunning view both day and night. Climbing the tower is a must—once at the top, you can see the entire city, its canals, rooftops, and the surrounding countryside. The experience is both historic and breathtaking, giving you a real sense of Bruges’ medieval charm. The atmosphere around the tower, with its bells and architecture, adds to the experience, making it unforgettable.

A great place to bring kids. It's about 13 euros (less if you're a resident or child) to enter, but it also includes an audio tour which was helpful and made the experience more enjoyable. Kids younger than 12 are free. The view of Ghent from the rooftop is lovely, and it is interesting to see the Mediaeval halls, torture chambers, toilets etc. the audio tour is 30-60 minutes depending on which version you choose (short vs long and comedic). A must-see if you visit Ghent!

A must-visit in Ghent - the castle not only looks amazing from the outside, but is really fascinating on the inside too. You don’t need to book beforehand if you have a free and easy day in Ghent - show up, get a ticket with a slot in an hour’s time or so, then come back for your slot (we even did the river boat tour while waiting). There is a free audio tour and I highly recommend the “humour” one - it’s really funny, entertaining, yet shared a lot of interesting history about the castle. Its an excellently designed audio tour (probably the best I’ve done), and the castle itself was fantastic too. The view from the too of the Castle overlooking Ghent is great, too!

Quite busy on the weekend but totally worth it. Your tickets are valid 10 min before the official admission time. Take an audio guide, there is a comedic version that was a nice touch, even if a bit on the nose at times. It's also great for kids, as long as you keep them off the ramparts where there's no railing.

Absolutely incredible, so much amazing history. Includes audio guide in the entrance price. So sureal to just walk around and soak in the history. Quite a few narrow step stairways but worth the climb for a beautiful panoramic view.

Beautiful example of a period castle. While largely empty, the audio guide was quite informative and well produced. I recommend the hour-long 'comedy' audio guide tour, as it has a good number of stories to talk through the history and design of the castle. I went with my three boys (ages 12, 8 and 5). They all enjoyed the visit, though I didn't get an audio guide for the younger two.

Definitely book your ticket online, otherwise you risk a long wait in line. The audio guide, told in a playful, comedy style, makes the story both adventurous and thoroughly enjoyable, with colorful and witty touches throughout. The castle is beautifully maintained, and the visit is easy to follow, taking around an hour and a half. Comfortable shoes are a must for going up and down the stairs. From the terrace, you can take in — and capture — some truly gorgeous views of the city.

Well worth the visit. Audio tour is quite interesting, but there are two different ones - the longer one is probably better. You must pre-book, otherwise you will queue to buy tickets for a time slot several hours later and you'll have to come back for your slot. Good views over the city, some interesting historical items inside the castle to see. Gift shop is very expensive - avoid!

They’re currently renovating the one half of the outside of the building. But you can still see the other half and it is so impressive! Such beautiful architecture!

Hello everyone, I am very impressed with the city of Ghent. I would like to go back again if I have the chance and I would like all my friends to see this unique city. I can tell you that it is very beautiful.

Wonderful location and surroundings at night. Feels like time travel into the past, with historic buildings in the area, no cars due to the pedestrian zone, and only a few tourists around. I couldn’t imagine Gent being so beautiful, but the City Hall is definitely one of the landmarks.

What to say about this beautiful architecture. A building full of sculptures and details, all I can do is admire the work.

Ghent City beautiful place in Belgium... With stunning architecture.. It's a great a stop off if your travelling from the UK to other parts of Europe... The people are lovey and friendly with lots to do.

Everyone talks about Brugge but let me tell you Ghent we fell in love with. Same feel and look but less popular and I found to be more beautiful. Definitely stop here it is so so beautiful and romantic and a place where they captured a time way before we were here. Castles and waffles heaven. You won't be disappointed.

Ghent is located 30 minutes from Brussel. Small city but with beautiful architecture. We visited City Hall, Several Churches and the Graffiti street.

Pairi Daiza is, without a doubt, my absolute favourite animal park. I visit several times a year, and every visit is pure joy. This park is truly exceptional and never stops improving and expanding. The settings and landscapes are simply breathtaking, making it a real pleasure to spend an entire day here. The park evolves with the seasons and transforms beautifully for special events such as Easter, Christmas, Carnival, Halloween, and during summer weekends, when unique evening openings until 11 PM create a magical atmosphere. Pairi Daiza is the perfect place for a family day out or a relaxing walk surrounded by nature and incredible animals. I highly recommend visiting, you won’t regret it. Moreover, the work carried out by the Pairi Daiza Foundation is meaningful and impactful, contributing greatly to animal welfare and conservation worldwide. I wholeheartedly encourage everyone to support their efforts. Pairi Daiza truly deserves its title as the most beautiful park in Europe. It is always a pleasure to spend time there, no matter the season or occasion.

The best, most beautiful and well organised zoo (despite the thousends of visitors and parking cars) I have ever visited in Europe (and I say that after Vienna, Zürich, Paris). It is not just a zoo, it is also a garden heaven, with many tematics and attractions, shows (especially at Halloween, they are open until 10 p.m.). It is very enjoyable for adults and of course for children, as well. If you have a lot of money you can also sleep here in different kinds of apartments, they are all awesome, too. The app is very helpful, you can use it like a GPS, you can also see which restaurants, kiosks are open or closed. It would be more useful, if you can see where were you already, not to skip a place. Every toilets and restaurants are also a great and different experience. I would like to come back at winter, Christmas time, as well. All the view and photos you see on the website is in real life exactly the same. Just perfect. Thank you, Piari Daiza. ❤️

Amazing wildlife parc with huge setups. Many big zones that are divided in different continents. You can cover this in a full day. We arrived at 11 am and left 7 pm. But you take your time you need more than a day to fully enjoy. Fantastic day and can’t wait to visit again

A nice, big zoo that gives off a bit of a Tomorrowland and fairytale vibe. My recommendation: come earlier, because it’s super big! Try to visit in summer, spring, or early autumn. We didn’t even see half of the animals because many were hiding or sleeping due to the weather. But overall, it’s a really good place — definitely recommend!

We really enjoyed it here. The park was huge and we didn't get time to see everything in one day; but we picked the animals we wanted to see the most. My kids loved the Monkey Bridge (5 & 8).

Absolutely magical – more than just a zoo! Pairi Daiza is hands down one of the most beautiful and unique places I’ve ever visited. It’s not just a zoo — it’s a journey around the world. Every part of the park is beautifully themed and designed, from the Asian temples to the African plains and the peaceful gardens. You feel like you're travelling the world in one day. The animals are clearly well cared for, and their enclosures are spacious and thoughtfully made to resemble their natural habitats. Seeing the pandas, elephants, tigers, and so many other species up close was just incredible. The attention to detail in every corner is impressive — you can tell the people who built this place truly love what they do. The park is very clean, well-maintained, and easy to walk through, with plenty of spots to rest, take pictures, and grab something to eat. It’s perfect for families, couples, or even a solo trip. I left Pairi Daiza with a full heart and a phone full of amazing memories. Truly one of Belgium’s hidden gems — I’ll definitely be coming back! ❤️🐼✨

An absolute must-visit! A beautiful zoo with genuine care for animal welfare. I honestly cannot think of a single negative thing to say about this park. The animals live in beautiful, spacious, and well maintained enclosures and all look healthy and well cared for. What really stood out to me is the transparency and the attention to detail. Whenever an animal has a minor issue or a visible condition, there are clear signs explaining the reason. For example, one animal was limping slightly, and the sign explained that this was due to arthritis as the animal had reached an advanced age. This is such a thoughtful initiative and shows that the animals are truly cared for. I know that some people are against zoos, but without places like Pairi Daiza, which work incredibly hard with breeding programs, care, donations, and conservation efforts. The situation for many endangered species would be far worse. This zoo makes a valuable contribution to the protection and preservation of animals, and that deserves recognition. I truly enjoyed this visit, both because of the animals and the way everything is organized. Without a doubt, this is a place I will happily return to. Highly recommended!

A fun travel through Europe in just a couple of hours! The miniature landmarks are impressively detailed, and it’s both fun and educational (a guide booklet is given free with the entrance ticket that gives basic info about the country and the various landmarks) to see so many iconic sites in one place. The park is easy to walk around, and perfect both for adults and children. Some exhibits are interractive, which elevates the experience, especially for children. Allow at least 2 hours for the visit, if you are also reading the guide booklet while seeing the landmarks and taking photos.

Europe in miniature at Mini-Europe 🌍🏛️🎡⏳ Amazing interactive figures of famous landmarks from across Europe—each one crafted with impressive detail! It took me about 2 hours to explore the entire place, and every corner had something fascinating to discover. Recommended for families, curious travelers, and anyone who wants a quick tour of Europe in one spot 🌟📸.

A fun and unique way to see all of Europe in one place! Mini-Europe is a really charming attraction located right next to the Atomium. The park is beautifully designed with detailed miniature models of famous European landmarks – from the Eiffel Tower and Big Ben to the canals of Venice and the Acropolis. It’s both fun and educational, especially if you enjoy travel and culture. The paths are easy to walk, and there’s plenty of information about each country and monument. It’s a great place for families, school groups, or anyone who wants to experience a “tour of Europe” in just a couple of hours. The best part is the attention to detail in the models – they are very well maintained and make for great photos. Highly recommended if you’re visiting Brussels, especially in combination with the Atomium.

Mini-Europe is an open-air park in Brussels with detailed miniature replicas of Europe’s famous landmarks. It offers a fun, educational experience for all ages, with interactive features and live demonstrations. Booking tickets in advance is recommended to avoid waiting. Family-friendly and wheelchair accessible.

It was a wonderful experience. We saw miniature models of the most famous European landmarks and monuments, which made us feel as if we had traveled to every European country. The design was incredibly detailed, and the atmosphere was great. However, the downside was the lack of transportation — we had to walk for an hour before we could find a taxi.

Awesome place! I wouldn't think that I would enjoy it so much and wouldn't think that the time spent there would be too much but: We arrived on Sunday on a rainy day at 4:30 PM and it was perfect, because we stayed there 1h 30 min. And the place closed at 6PM. We did not buy the tickets in advance and we did not need to (maybe due to the rainy day?) But the experience was awesome, very interactive, very fun, you get to see a lot of the well known buildings around the Europe and hear the hymns of every country present there. This place is perfect for all ages! Would totally recommend :)

Until I watched a travel video on Brussels I had no clue about Mini Europe. I found it to be an interesting experience, highlighting all the major cities of the European Union. If the opportunity presents itself, give it a try. Be sure to do it with the Atomium Attraction.

​The Atomium is, without a doubt, one of the most stunning and unique pieces of architecture in Europe. Even getting to the site in Brussels, the massive, gleaming structure—a representation of an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times—is absolutely breathtaking. For that external view alone, the trip is entirely worth it. Taking the elevator up the central axis to the top sphere is a thrilling experience, and the panoramic views from 92 meters up offer a fantastic perspective over the city and the surrounding Heysel area. ​However, the overall experience inside the spheres was very different from what I had anticipated. I went in expecting a straightforward science museum, perhaps a deep dive into atomic structure and the history of the 1958 World Expo it was built for. While there is a permanent exhibition dedicated to Expo 58, which is genuinely interesting for history buffs, the rest of the tour felt like a delightful, if slightly jarring, contrast. ​Moving between the spheres via those long, tunnel-like escalators—which are a spectacular sight themselves, illuminated with dancing colored lights—felt less like moving through a museum and more like exploring a futuristic spaceship. One sphere, in particular, was home to a completely immersive, psychedelic digital art installation. It was loud, pulsing with light, and utterly captivating, turning the space into something like a high-tech art gallery rather than a historical exhibit. ​In the end, I'd say the Atomium is a good visit, but be prepared for an unexpected journey. You go for the iconic, monumental architecture and stay for the strange, often trippy, contemporary art installations hidden inside. It’s a wonderful landmark, just a wonderfully strange museum.

It's a sculptural genius, we had been there just to view it in the evening and walked around in the park nearby. The ambiance is calm and cosy, definitely recommended to visit with friends and family.

There's a huge historical significance behind the wonderful structure built for the world's fair. Google it then visit it proper. You can skip the lines by purchasing online for about €16 no more Or you can wait in line. It closes at 6pm on most days. The views are stunning there's lots of fun things to do once you visit the lower levels. I don't want to spoil it for you :-)

Just such an amazing experience, the outside structure doesn't prepare you for how it is inside! Very easy to get to from Brussels via the Metro and when you reach Heizel / Heysel station Atomium is only a short walk away. It also looks like it has good car parking.

Spectacular structure. They take you to the top level by elevator where you have a panoramic view of the city. Then you work your way down each atom. In one of the atom, they have light and sound show which is very cool. Finally you come back to the lobby level and gift shop. Overall it was a great experience and highly recommend it when in Brussels. It’s conveniently located close to a train station so you can reach it from any location in the city.

Only had about 1.5 hours to spare. Glad we got a chance to explore. Amazing views. We also did quick walkthrough of the design museum. Parking was metered. There is a small cafe just before entrance with delicious waffles.

Well worth the trip out of the town center. We took the toot bus as this allowed us lots of options for exploring. Inside the Atomium was well laid out and alot of interesting facts. We didn't got to the viewing platform as the queue was really long about 45 minutes but you still get to go inside and enjoy the lighting effects they created. We went back layer that evening to see it in the dark as the toot bus was all day.

This place is incredible. Such beautiful ornate details and awe inspiring architecture. I am constantly fascinated by these old world buildings and love to visit them. This is one of the biggest cathedral’s I’ve seen with many spaces to worship, walk around and see beautiful art and sculptures. Highly recommended when you visit Antwerp.

The Cathedral of Our Lady in Antwerp is incredibly beautiful. It’s one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, featuring masterpieces by Rubens. Please note that entry is not free.

Gorgeous architecture of this cathedral stands out in the centre of the old town. Getting inside is quite pricey and I was not happy to see that guy actually have to pay to get into a church. But given how many tourists are there, they just make it for a living. Try getting to the old town in the early morning - then you can enjoy the cathedral exterior without crowds of people.

The Cathedral of Our Lady in Antwerp, Belgium, stands as one of Europe’s greatest Gothic masterpieces and a symbol of the city’s spiritual and artistic heritage. Construction began in 1352 and spanned nearly two centuries, resulting in an awe-inspiring structure that dominates Antwerp’s skyline with its soaring 123-meter spire, the tallest church tower in the Low Countries. Inside, the cathedral is a treasure house of sacred art, most notably the world-renowned altarpieces by the Baroque master Peter Paul Rubens, whose works infuse the space with drama, color, and devotion. The interior’s vast nave, intricate stained glass, and delicate stone carvings reflect the craftsmanship and ambition of medieval builders. Despite fires and conflicts that damaged the cathedral over the centuries, it remains a living monument of faith, culture, and resilience. Today, it continues to inspire worshippers and visitors alike as the beating heart of Antwerp’s historic center.

My advice to take a photo of a main gate and ask AI for explanation. It has good story. And be aware that sometimes there will be events and you cant visit inside.

4rth time in Antwerp, fourth visit in the Cathedral. Just unique! The paints of Rubens and De Vries are breathtaking! The cathedral is so impressive.

This cathedral is one of a kind, a historical icon of Antwerp’s religious heritage. A calm place to revisit the past and view it from today’s perspective. It tells a timeless story of the struggle of Virgin Mary. I recommend going and seeing what is inside, it only costs €12.

Absolutely the best. I got such a nice room with a great view to the station. Spacious and superclean room. Friendly and very helpful front desk staff. Excellent breakfast. Only complain I might have would be the smokers on the front entrance due to close proximity of the bus stop.

Very good hotel right opposite the Antwerp train station. I’ve given it 5* for location as I wanted to be close to the station. It is about a 15 minute walking into the ‘old town’ Rooms very comfortable and modern. Staff were incredibly helpful and kind Decent included breakfast.

Hampton by Hilton Antwerp is in a very convenient location—just steps away from Central Station. The hotel is quite good and up to standard. The in-room amenities are complete, the place is clean, and the service is great. Jesse, the front desk staff we met on the first day, was cheerful and provided us with a lot of helpful information. Breakfast was decent.

We had a fabulous stay at the Hampton Hotel Antwerp. The location is right across ghe road from the train station which makes exploration of Belgium so convenient. The staff was super friendly and attentive to all our needs. Sorry that I do not know all their names but Lesley stands out as a great example of great service and for caring about his guests. Highly recommended

Great Diamond member recognition. Nice staff, specious room and happy atmosphere. The best part of the hotel is the unbeatable location. Near to the central station, restaurants, supermarkets and zoo. Perfect for family with kids.

Not a great hotel for families. Rooms very dated. Carpets in the rooms and nasty stains all over them, feels very dirty. Bed like a block of wood and pillows with filling all knotted and bunched in places. No sound proofing at all so can hear people in the hallways, and very busy train station right outside so very loud. Parking very far, so if coming with a car avoid this hotel at all costs, if not for the reasons above anyway. Arrived at 11pm with 2 very tired children, 2 and 4 years old. No parking at all outside, risked parking in the road for a few minutes while unloading the bags. Asked wife to go and check in so I could park the car. Parking is 15/20 minutes away including walk back to hotel. Asked my wife to check in and go to the room. Her purse and phone was in the car in the hurry. When I got to the hotel they were still at reception and was told receptionist wouldn’t give the key because the tourist tax had to be paid. I asked the receptionist why couldn’t you give my wife and kids the room key as I was coming back and it’s 11pm for a 2 and 4 year old who were very restless and making it difficult for wife to look after. Fee was only €5 and all she said is I can’t give it, there’s cameras all over watching me. It’s such a stupid excuse, and doesn’t care about customers at all and their struggles. Wife was struggling for 20 minutes with 2 children who were rolling around the floor while she just watched on. They could have been in bed, and all for €5 which we were obviously going to pay anyway, along with the parking costs at the reception. Had to come back to pay that after anyway for a parking garage which was a while away. I then asked if the request we made for a cot in the room was seen and if there was a cot. She said I can see your request so there will be a cot in the room, and if there isn’t just let us know. She didn’t care at all. Surprise surprise no cot in the room, so waited another 20 minutes with the kids for the cot to be bought up. Wished we never booked this hotel, staff with no empathy or care for customers. Avoid at all costs.

I stayed at the Hampton by Hilton Antwerp Central Station for six nights to participate in a technical meeting that was held nearby at A Room with a ZOO. The hotel was an excellent value, well-located, and offered traveler-friendly services. Breakfast in the morning and the house bar at night were highlights.