Historic watermill, operating on select days. River cruise and self hire boats also available and a small beach area for river swimming.

I had such a lovely day out at Houghton Mill in Abbots and would definitely recommend it. The mill itself is a really interesting National Trust property, full of character, but what made it extra special was everything around it. You can hire boats or punts by the mill at very reasonable prices, which was so much fun and such a relaxing way to enjoy the river. On sunny days, it’s also a great spot to bring your own inflatable if you fancy drifting along at your own pace. The area is perfect for picnics too. There are plenty of tables outside if you want to sit and enjoy food from the café (which was excellent – really tasty and good value), or you can just bring a rug and set yourself up right by the water. It’s such a peaceful, pretty place to relax. If you’ve got time, it’s also worth wandering into the village. There are some really good pubs, all with a welcoming feel, plus a lovely antique and art shop that’s fun to browse. Altogether, Houghton Mill and the village make a brilliant day out with a great mix of history, nature, good food, and a lot of fun on the water!

Lovely small and spacious campsite near the river for walks and water for those who like messing about in it!! The mill was very interesting and a short walk to pubs with good beer. The facilities were great and very clean. My only small gripe was no toilet paper left in the morning.

This was a pleasant and unexpected experience with a lovely mill on a river. Some of the views seemed out of a money painting. We didn't go in the but just did the circular walk. There is a swimming and canoeing area. There's also a campdite close by and a small cafe for refreshments. Parking on grass is available. Good for families wanting to explore and be at one with nature and dogs are welcome.

Visited when en-route home from Shropshire and well worth it. Very busy to park but well organised. Interesting bit of history and couple of enthusiastic volunteers added to it. Pleasant walk along river too. Bought some of the milled flour.

Beautiful place. Did the mill tour but definitely going back to do the 5k circular walk and perhaps take out a rowing boat.

Great place for swimming, canoeing, or long walks. The mill is definitely worth visiting, check the opening hours. There are toilets and a tea shop next to the car park. You can rent boats and canoes. Car park and facilities close usually at 4 pm, but you can still drive out, so don't worry about leaving your car for longer, drive up to the gate (not too close) and it will open. Beautiful scenery, we did an 8k walk (check out the map in my pictures, red trail, with a green shortcut south of the lakes) but you have many options, including an around 20k one recommended on a map just south of the mill. There may be mud and narrow paths in tall grass, so aim at good weather. Don't miss walking around the picturesque village with many old houses, a bit like going back in time. Recommended.

We've been to Wimpole Hall and Farm many times over recent years but we have not been inside the house for some time. What a treasure it is! Forgot what a beautiful stately home it was inside and out plus also the connection to Rudyard Kipling is notable and not something I recall before. Entry ticket now includes the Home Farm (previously was an additional charge) which we didn't get time to visit but it's well worth it. They have also in recent years improved the car park and make it more accessible for less abled visitors.The grounds are large too so you can easily spend the full day there if needed.

Beautiful grounds, walked for hours. Fantastic walled garden. Cute tiny baby piglets! Cafes for coffees and snacks. Stunning collection of trees, herbs, flowers. Definitely worth a visit.

A lovely day out. Almost spoilt by the staff wanting to kick us out of the manor because it was almost time to lock up. That's for a different day if I visit again and it's the same. The manor is beautiful, with exquisite rooms and a gorgeous library. The grounds are remarkable. The amount of money it would have needed for upkeep alone is mind blowing. The cafe was a little under stocked, but the restaurant just a stones throw away made up for that. Nothing beats ab ice cold drink or ice cream on a British summer day 🙂 I took my family (8yo and wife) along with our friends (13yo, 9yo, and the parents). We enjoyed our 5 hour visit, walking everywhere from the woods, to the farm, and then to the manor. The farm is a working farm with historic buildings which are very imposing. I loved them. It was worth having our National Trust membership. Ample parking, and parking for parents + disability needs. A clean well looked after site which I wouldn't mind visiting again.

The building is quite grand and the interior decoration is beautiful. It takes about half an hour to tour the entire building. If this National Trust attraction only had this building, it would feel rather monotonous. However, since it originally provided a garden and form, you can spend a whole day here, so it is also a place worth visiting as a combination. You will often see families playing in the attraction. In addition, the vast garden also provides children's play facilities. In my opinion, compared with the National Trust attractions I have visited, the facilities here are very rich and sufficient.

I loved every bit of it. We covered everything in 2:30 hours but that was a bit of rush. I could have spend the whole day here. It's the best one I visited by far. I am definitely visiting again with plenty of time in my hand. Play area, Farm animals, house and walled garden - oh my god they all are worth seeing. I was also lucky to have the best weather too on the day however I would visit again regardless of weather anytime soon.

An amazing place to visit. The house is just so well preserved and presented. The grounds and gardens are a true pleasure to walk around. I especially enjoyed pig feeding time.

We really enjoyed are trip to the Wimpole estate, we walked around the extensive grounds and visited the old folly on the hill, really worth a basing and lunch was good at the coffee shop as per other national trust locations.

Fantastic day, need more than one day to see everything. We mainly done hanger 1, the US area and the outside planes. These were knowledgeable and informative. We became members so we can come back a few more times. 100% recommended. All the staff we spoke to were lovely.

Great museum. It's huge. Spread over several hangars and buildings, and includes a Concorde, B52, SR71, U2 and many others. When we visited there were lots of light aircraft and classic planes like spitfires and bi-planes flying as well. There are several restaurants, a free shuttle bus, large gift shop and lots of volunteers (in red) more than happy to help. Car parking is free.

The Duxford Air Museum is an absolutely incredible place to visit! The collection is vast and beautifully displayed. The exhibitions are informative and engaging, with plenty of interactive displays and stories that bring the history of flight to life. Watching aircraft take off and land right in front of you is an unforgettable experience. There are also great facilities — plenty of parking, a nice café with good food and coffee, and lots of space for families to explore.

As a big aviation enthusiast, I was really looking forward to exploring the site and seeing some of the iconic aircraft up close. There was a short wait to buy tickets, and while the entry price did seem quite steep, I was happy enough to pay it for the chance to see the planes I’d come for. Unfortunately, the gentleman at the ticket desk (older, with white hair and a beard) was rather unfriendly and didn’t offer the warmest of welcomes — not the best start to the day. My first stop was the Concorde, which I’ve always wanted to experience. There were two staff members standing by the entrance, but they seemed too caught up in their own conversation to greet visitors or answer questions. Once onboard, there was no one available to provide information or engage with visitors, which was disappointing — especially for such a famous aircraft. After leaving Concorde, I made a beeline for the commercial airliners on display outside — the part of the visit I was most excited for. Unfortunately, when I arrived, all of them were closed for the day except the aircraft in British Airways livery. While that one was open and staffed, and the gentleman onboard was extremely knowledgeable and happy to answer my questions (thank you for that!), I couldn’t help feeling disappointed that the others were shut. Throughout my visit, I also noticed that staff presence around the site felt quite sparse. In several areas, particularly around the commercial airliners, I had a lot of questions but couldn’t find anyone to ask. I was later told that access to the aircraft varies by day, which feels like a bit of a “luck of the draw” situation — fine if communicated clearly, but frustrating when you’ve paid full price and key exhibits aren’t open. Overall, while I did enjoy parts of the visit and found the open aircraft fascinating, the lack of staff engagement, limited access to exhibits, and inconsistent communication left me feeling underwhelmed. With such an incredible collection, I had hoped for a more welcoming and interactive experience.

Incredible place! Honestly the best aviation museum I have ever been to and one of the best museums I have been to overall. Lots to see, lots to interact with, actually getting into some of the planes, many elevated platforms and floors to see these huge aircraft from different angles. The airfield is active with all sorts taking off and landing throughout the day. Accessibility for wheelchair users is great too.

Very extensive collection contained at an active airfield. Vintage planes taking off and landing all day was a huge perk! To see these aircraft still flying is indeed a pleasure! Everything was in good order and labeled. Well worth spending the day here; so very much to see and experience!

Visited IWM Duxford during the school summer holidays and explored at our own pace. The vast hangars packed with iconic aircraft—from Spitfires to Concordes—bring aviation history to life. Interactive exhibits, flight simulators, and outdoor displays kept everyone engaged. Super accessible with wide paths and family facilities. A brilliant day out for all ages!

A wonderful historic property - so much to see. The staff were amazing, so knowledgeable and they really enjoyed talking about the history of the property - if you love history then this is an absolute must. Fantastic food at the cafe too. To fully enjoy the house and estate you would need all day. An absolute gem ❤️

Great day out for the family. The house is well maintained and there are nice collections to see. The gardens are well kept and huge. There is just one more little hidden treasure around each corner just when you thought you saw it all. Well worthy the visit. There is also a cafe and a shop. We enjoyed the performance from English heritage on “ferries”. Loved it!

Lovely historic house looked after by English Heritage. Lots of rooms to see inside and very friendly helpful volunteers. They are great to talk to and share so much other interesting information about the house. Outside the gardens were beautiful and lovely large lawn beside lake. The old vegetable garden was also lovely as were the stables. Worth going to stables first of all which are near to the car park and tells you the story of the house before you visit it. Large tearooms to visit with good selection of snacks, meals and treats. Definitely worth a visit.

Although the facilities outside the mansion are generally well-preserved, the mansion itself is very bright and beautiful, making you imagine that people still lived there. The owner of the mansion has very special tastes, and you can see that the decoration inside is different from other British mansions. The most impressive thing is the tall and magnificent wooden carving wall in the reception hall. In addition, you will see some sea monsters and ocean-related icons in the reception room on the second floor. The tour guide said that this is because the owner of the mansion was a big shot in the navy. The mansion facilities are very beautiful and well-maintained. It takes about an hour to walk through.

I really enjoyed my visit!!! The house is stunning inside, with lots of interesting rooms and stories, and the staff were friendly and helpful. The gardens are beautiful and perfect for a walk – peaceful, well-kept, and full of charm. There’s also plenty of space for kids to run around, which makes it a nice family day out. I’d definitely recommend it if you’re looking for somewhere relaxing but also full of history.

Our visit was perfect. The house was a real highlight. It felt like being in one of Jane Austin books. I loved the vast space and well kept grounds. It was time well spent and my children enjoyed it too. It's great place for family visit. Highly recommend.

Great stately home and grounds. The gardens behind the house are really wonderful and seating is available for you to relax and fully enjoy the view. The stables are a must for any horse lovers and the staff there are all very knowledgeable and friendly. There are various gardens. Fruit and vegetable gardens and many rooms from the past. There are two restaurant / cafes both with toilets. Plenty of parking and level access except for the first floor of the house. Sadly no lift is available.

The road to the zoo is a bit narrow and winding, and driving with the steering wheel on the opposite side made it even more unusual. This is a truly small family-oriented zoo with an interesting selection of animals. Everything was clean and well maintained, and we enjoyed the visit. I was especially excited to see capybaras and meerkats. Personally, it was also fascinating to observe the visitors — many families with two or more children. The food was decent, but because of the strong wind and too many wasps outside, the experience was mixed. Overall, it’s a great place to spend a day with family.

Visited for my daughter’s birthday and it was great all round. The entire place is very well designed and in good condition. We tried food at a few of the outlets and all were good quality tasting food - not amazing but not the typical greasy nonsense you get. It’s good that you can walk around each area multiple times and in different directions so you really feel like you get the most out of your ticket. Price wise was good, about average and like I said there is plenty to do when inside. All the animals we saw looked happy, no concerns there.

A brilliant zoo, I would say one of the best we have visited. It was busy but we didn't feel it, its nicely spread out so you never feel crowded, it was also very clean and tidy. The staff were fantastic, even when doing something they were happy to answer questions on animals, they were all happy, friendly and genuinely seemed to enjoy being there. The animals all seemed happy and healthy with a lovely variety. As with all zoos it would be nice to see them with more space. The food was of excellent quality and reasonably priced. Nice to have the mix of animals, the dino trail and parks too. It is 3.5hours away from us but worth every minute in the car. Would 100% recommend

Great zoo, loved the red panda experience, keeper was very friendly and informative in answering any questions I had. Loved getting to see the two red pandas being introduced to each other. Got good views of the animals, some of the viewing windows were quite wet with condensation which blocked views but not much to be done about that. Lots of kids so was quite noisy but think I came in the school holidays. Only negative was one of the jaguars was pacing around a lot in its enclosure, hopefully it was just waiting for food or something like that and not stressed. Got Uber easily to/from the train station. Staff were all friendly and helpful.

A really good day out. I went with my sister and my two teenagers and we all thoroughly enjoyed our day. The theming, informative signs, viewing areas/platforms and eateries were very good. Of course the wonderful animals were the highlight and I can recommend attending the bird show! At the end of the day we even had a train ride around the dinosaur area for £2 each, which ended the day nicely.

A family favourite. My son was two when we went and he loved the dinosaurs section even though I was worried he was too young, there are some bits that are slightly gruesomely but you can quickly go past them. It’s good fun and you can then go to the zoo and look at the animals. It’s very well organised and clean. Limited option for food and as with any of these venues, it’s overpriced for the quality you get.

Hertfordshire Zoo is a fantastic family-friendly destination with a great variety of animals and interactive zones. The enclosures are well maintained , highlights include the lions, camels, and alpacas, all easy to view up close. The “World of Animals” and “Tumble Jungle” soft play area add extra fun for kids, with clearly scheduled play sessions. The zoo is clean, well signposted, and offers a pleasant, relaxed atmosphere. A perfect day out for families with young children!

Jordan was great. Parking easy. Open gendered changing rooms with showers. Also had a mirror and hairdryer which was nice. Lockers were easy to use. Had a group of 9 for the whole raft, unfortunately or fortunately, depending on how you see it, one person at the helm doesn’t paddle. This position can rotate between within your group, which might be a good thing, so you can take a break because this was a tiring activity for sure. Great fun though!

This sports venue is truly delightful. It’s such a pleasure to watch the determination of those battling the powerful water and waves, whether in team boats or individual kayaks. I genuinely enjoy the atmosphere here, and I try to visit once or twice a week. The café adds to the charm—coffee on cold days and beer on warm ones. Altogether, it’s an outstanding place with an incredible vibe

Fantastic facility, make time for coffee or food on the terrace because it's lovely. As described on the website, great fun white water rafting. Highly recommended for anyone wanting a thrill!

Fantastic place to practice your open water and white water rafting skills there is an equipment hire area on site so you dont need to bring your own gear, ample parking the largest car park is just 100 yards from the entrance. Staff are super friendly, there is a cafe on site too with inside or outside (on balcony) seating. The road leading to the place is only a normal 30 mph road and it gets busy quickly so try and give yourself plenty of time to get there.

Amazing facilities. Second time Ive done the rafting which is great. Shaun was a top instructor Can't wait to go back Very clean and tidy highly recommend

I went white water rafting with 7 mates for a birthday. An excellent experience, we loved it. Ask for Sean as your instructor he made it a 5/5 experience. We did 6 runs on the Olympic course and Sean upped the ante each time. Would highly recommend it!

Lee Valley White Water Centre delivered a brilliant day out. The staff were welcoming and made the whole experience feel easy, even for first-timers. The course has the perfect mix of fun and challenge, and everything is run smoothly from start to finish. I’d happily come back and recommend it to anyone looking for something memorable.

What a place to visit. The world meets in London and I hope it continues that way. Everything is well organized, spaced and placed. It’s my second time in there and am keen to go back more times. This is not a one day visit you need few times to cover the whole Musuem. Recommend to come with comfortable shoes

Went on a Thursday in half term time, it was incredibly busy, loads of children! It was still a nice experience for my kids, they loved it. You need a couple of days to visit the whole museum, especially if you are looking to study anything in particular. Limited choices on thw food in the food court area and expect London prices but there is also a high end restaurant at the top. Own food and drinks are permitted only in the designated area. We will definitely come again to see and study other areas.

A Must-see Museum! You can literally feel the history of the world here. It’s free to visit; however, when you think about all the pieces taken away from their motherlands, it does feel a bit bittersweet. :) Make sure to book your tickets in advance — it gets busy! The ambiance will truly astonish you the moment you step inside.

A visit to The British Museum is a rewarding but demanding experience. To make the most of your trip, book your free ticket online in advance. While entry is free, I highly recommend the paid app for its excellent guided tours, which greatly enhance seeing incredible exhibits like the Egyptian mummies, Roman antiquities, and Persian histories. Be prepared for security and bag checks, and note that there's a fee for coat and bag storage. With more wonders than you can see in a single day, the museum thoughtfully provides portable stools—a welcome relief for tired legs. Several cafes and a restaurant are also on-site to help you refuel.

Offers an outstanding and educational experience, with impressive exhibitions and an incredible collection from around the world. The curation, accessibility, and historical depth make every visit memorable and highly recommendable.However, amidst all this cultural wealth, it is important to critically reflect on the origins of many artifacts. A significant part of the collection consists of objects that were taken from their countries of origin under problematic historical circumstances. The museum could do more to address this legacy openly and transparently, initiate dialogues about restitution, and provide more context about the provenance of these treasures.Overall, the visit is rewardin yet the experience would be even richer if the museum visibly acknowledged its responsibility regarding looted art and made an active contribution to justice and transparency.

*5/5 stars* "I recently visited the British Museum and was blown away by the vast collection of artifacts from around the world. The museum's permanent exhibitions, such as the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and the mummies in the Ancient Egypt gallery, were fascinating. The temporary exhibitions were also thought-provoking and well-curated. The museum's layout and signage were easy to navigate, and the staff were knowledgeable and friendly. The museum's location in the heart of London made it an ideal stop for anyone interested in history, culture, and art. *Tips:* - Plan your visit in advance to make the most of your time. - Take breaks to rest and recharge – the museum is massive! - Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds. - Don't miss the museum's excellent audio guides and guided tours. *Overall, I highly recommend the British Museum to anyone interested in history, culture, and art. It's a must-visit destination in London!*"

The British Museum is truly timeless. It was my fourth visit, yet it still felt magical. My kids loved the Egyptian mummies — their excitement was contagious! As a Chinese visitor, I felt proud yet emotional seeing so many treasures from my homeland. The collections are stunning, though the crowds can be intense. Entry is free, but booking online helps you get in faster. This museum isn’t just about history — it’s about humanity, memory, and reflection. A must-visit for anyone coming to London.

Visiting The National Gallery was truly a magical experience. From the moment I entered, I was captivated by the atmosphere and every room tells a different story through its paintings. The layout makes it easy to explore, and the colors, details, and emotions in each artwork are breathtaking. It’s not just a museum but it’s a journey through art and history that leaves you inspired and full of wonder.

It was a wonderful experience. The museum has a good collection of Monet and Van Gogh paintings, which I really enjoyed. For just an afternoon, it’s possible to see everything without getting too tired, though you could easily spend a whole day if you want to study the works in detail. We visited on November 17, and there was also a Christmas market outside the museum, which added a very festive atmosphere.

A very spacious series of galleries housing some of the best known images in the international art world. With a restaurant and toilets and plenty of friendly guides you can easily spend a day here, or just pop in and revisit your favourites. It may look daunting from the outside but the new entrance makes the whole place accessible for anyone. Children of any age will find something to look at and many school trips visit and no they don't disturb the 'grown ups'! A teashop, restaurant, bookshop and well stocked shop make this a day, or two to remember.

I can say that I love this museum. Seeing such a collection of paintings for free is just amazing nowadays. There are beautiful paintings in every room. I could spend a day to visit it. Just do not forged taking a map at the entrance as this is a pretty large museum. French, Spanish, Italian, English, Deutsche… painters from middle age to impressionists. A pretty large collection of Impressionists paintings that can rival with that of Musée d’Orsay in France. Only the Louvre in France is more impressive (but far from being free) among all painting museums that I visited all other the world (with a special notice for Grenoble and Poitier’s painting museum that are great place to visit too).

The National Gallery, a one place to see history through paintings. As usual this gallery is free for entery and quite big so plan ahead. You can book free online ticket or walkin. Tube connectivity is there. Plan to enjoy and take photos from outside squar also. There is a paid washroom available outside. You get chance to see a lot of historical paintings and know about the artist. Due to limited time I was not able to complete it. Wear comfortable shoes and carry water if possible.

I visited the National Gallery today and absolutely loved it. It’s an absolute must visit place when in London, and you can spend hours wandering from room to room, never running out of things to look at. One of the highlights for me was seeing some of Monet’s pieces in person, a moment I’ve been looking forward to for so long. Standing in front of his work felt surreal, and it was worth the entire trip on its own. I highly recommend paying the galley a visit, especially because it’s free entry!

If you’re in London, you must visit this place. I stopped by during an 8 hour layover, and even though I couldn’t take my time the way I wanted to, it was absolutely worth it. The collection is stunning, wall after wall of masterpieces you could spend hours admiring. I barely scratched the surface and already felt amazed. I’ll definitely be coming back on a proper trip so I can truly enjoy and appreciate everything this museum has to offer.

At first I was worried I wouldn’t be able to follow the system or get myself lost. Which I did, end up going the wrong way. But it’s actually so easy to follow, it’s good to make a few errors as then you will be conscious of ensuring you’re on the right tube. London Underground is amazing and it is really easy to get around and see places. I would walk around central London. Use the underground when going further afield. The trains are very regular, you will find they can get very busy, packed. Don’t feel you need to squeeze in, just wait for the next train as it will add to your experience and enjoy it better. As you would anywhere just be vigilant of your surroundings. I felt very safe, as a solo traveler I was very surprised.

As a visitor, you can’t ask for a better system to get about to major museums, etc. You get to ride with both the working class and executives alike. Iconic London ! Takes a little getting used to, if you need to travel in the City, it’s the way to go. As a visitor, we purchased a Visitor Oyster Card online, it’s a fantastic deal. Recommended.

This is a good way to get around London. The new trains and updated stations are good. It is easy to get a ticket and to get around. However, the ventilation is poor, horrible, hot, and sweaty. It makes for an unbearable and uncomfortable ride. However, some of the trains and train stations have proper ventilation and air but most do not. I only take one train with no transfers, which is all that I can bear, and walk just to be outside where I can breath easy. I caution you to only ride when necessary and recommend you walk outside if able.

These shops are all closed for good. I could rattle on about the good old days, (people actually pay to hear about it) and a book would be better; it would take a book, pdf, file, whatever to explain how much it has changed. Point? Many but the main one is: Thanks to Bid Rigging the same people keep getting rich fulfilling contracts that do nothing but cosmetic change. I'd rather see the old retailers (driven out by sky high rent, business taxes, business rates that the the big corporate retailers. Btw/ if you come to London be prepared to lug your suitcase up and down many flights of stairs. Of course the bureaucracy will point to "no step access" (only lawsuits by disabled brought that in) and there are more lifts (elevators), yes this is better than nothing - - lucky find one lift 20 years ago. The old, dirty, extremely noisy rolling stock in Central London is the same. Recently you could still find "MetroCamell" 1973. John Lennon probably on one. Sure, they Spent £16 Billion over budget and late) on a new Elizabeth Line. It's a nice reflection on what we have - - tourists are in central London for the sights, not off to Abby Wood (the other one) and to have them riding the clittering, clanking, clattering collection of caligenous junk - - (think Wizard of Oz to the Tin Man) is a disgrace.

Coming from Manchester we need this in the city.... Yes its a bit dim, dark and dirty.... But what a brilliant, cheap and quick way to get around....

Cheap fast efficient travel for our sightseeing trips. Easy to use gates and pricing simple capped and taken from our banks.

Crowded, stuffy place, too many people in London, but its easy to use, it gets you to your destination on time

Absolutely love London. And Big Ben is a must see / visit. It has been beautifully restored and looks grand as it should. Right next to the houses of Parliament and across from Westminster Abbey just down the road from Buckingham Palace. And then there is number 10. Definitely make time to go to this iconic land Mark.

I’m not the biggest fan of London, but Big Ben was absolutely beautiful. The architecture is stunning, and the city around it feels so classic and elegant. It was really cool getting off the Westminster stop on the Tube and walking straight up to see Big Ben towering above it’s such an iconic sight. Even if London isn’t your favorite city, this landmark will definitely impress you.

Big Ben is absolutely stunning and a must-see landmark! The architecture is incredible, and it really lives up to the hype. The only downside was how crowded it gets, especially during peak hours, which makes it a bit hard to enjoy peacefully. Still, definitely worth the visit and a great spot for photos.

Big Ben is one of London’s most iconic landmarks — a true symbol of the city. Seeing it in person feels almost surreal, especially when you hear the clock chime across Westminster. The architecture is magnificent, with incredible detail and timeless charm. It’s especially beautiful at sunset or when lit up at night, reflecting perfectly over the River Thames. The surrounding area — including the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey — makes it a must-visit spot for first-time visitors to London. Even though you can’t go inside the tower, just standing nearby and admiring its grandeur is worth the visit. A classic London experience!

We didn't get to do the tour but coming off the tube and Big Ben being right there outside the station was pretty awesome. Its even bigger in person than I thought it would be. Really good angles from the station and out on the bridge.

Visited Big Ben while in London. Did you know its official name is the Elizabeth Tower, renamed in 2012 in honor of Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee — but everyone still calls it Big Ben. The site was impressive, with plenty of onlookers taking in the views. We spent about 30 minutes exploring and enjoying the surroundings. Fun fact: the minute hand is roughly the same length as a single-decker bus! Overall, it’s worth a quick stop and was one of the highlights of our trip. Saluti

Big Ben is an incredible and historic landmark, truly one of the most famous symbols of London. The architecture is beautiful, and seeing it up close is a memorable experience. It’s a place full of history and charm, and it represents the classic elegance of the city. However, it’s a bit disappointing to see that some areas around it could be better maintained and cared for. Such an iconic site deserves more attention and preservation to keep its beauty shining for future generations. Despite that, Big Ben remains a must-see attraction and one of the most remarkable places to visit in London.

A fantastic experience and absolutely worth it! The views from the top are incredible — you can see all of London’s major landmarks so clearly. The ride is smooth, relaxing and perfect for both kids and adults. The staff are friendly and organised, making the whole process easy from start to finish. It’s a great family activity, amazing for photos, and something everyone should try at least once. Highly recommended!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amazing experience! The London Eye offers some of the best views in the city—360° panoramas of the Thames, Big Ben, and the skyline. The ride is smooth and lasts long enough to really enjoy the scenery. Queues can get a bit long during peak hours, but they move quickly and are well-organized. Staff were friendly and the capsules were clean and comfortable. Definitely worth it, especially around sunset!

I’ve been wanting to take the kids on The London Eye for a while but I’m glad I waited until they were older otherwise I think they would have got bored after a while! We came during the summer holidays so the weather was nice and the views were beautiful. I pre booked for the best ticket prices and to take advantage of the £20 per adult and £18 per child special offers. We enjoyed it and the kids were able to spot famous buildings which was fun 😁 The only let down was that there were alot of us in our cabin as we were grouped up with a large family with limited seating so after a while of standing i had to sit on the poles due to issues with my knee and the kids sat on the floor. It was a busy day and I think the staff filled the cubicle to capacity This is something to bear in mind for those that may have ailments or disabilities where they need to sit down. Other than that it is worth the visit, we didn’t wait long in the queue and they also take pictures and give you a card with a QR code which can be scanned so you can purchase the pictures after your ride which is nice 😊

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ An unforgettable experience! The London Eye is absolutely incredible — a must-see attraction when visiting London! The views are breathtaking, especially at sunset when the city lights start to sparkle. You can see iconic landmarks like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and the River Thames stretching out below you. The ride itself is smooth and relaxing, and the capsules are spacious and comfortable. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the whole experience felt well-organized from start to finish. Whether it’s your first time in London or you’ve lived here for years, the London Eye gives you a whole new perspective on the city. I’d definitely go again!

The London Eye is one of those attractions that truly lives up to its reputation and is a must-visit for anyone exploring the city. The moment you step onto the giant wheel, you’re treated to spectacular panoramic views of London, stretching out as far as the eye can see. From the top, the historic landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and even Windsor Castle on a clear day come into perfect view. Watching the River Thames wind its way through the heart of London adds even more magic to the experience. One thing families and visitors should prepare for, however, are the long lines. The London Eye is extremely popular, and during weekends or holidays, the wait can feel quite lengthy. For those short on time or traveling with children, the Express Entry tickets are definitely worth considering. They cost a bit more but save you from the longer queues, letting you enjoy the ride without the wait. The capsule itself is spacious and moves slowly, making it comfortable for families, children, and even those slightly nervous about heights. The pace allows you to really take in the scenic 360° views and capture plenty of photos without feeling rushed. Overall, the London Eye is an experience that beautifully combines fun, relaxation, and sightseeing. Despite the queues, it’s absolutely worth the visit for the incredible views of London’s skyline and its historic buildings. It’s one of those attractions that reminds you why London is such a timeless city.

The London Eye is an interesting experience that I was glad that I went on, but I am not sure if I would recommend. It offers great views of the city but I understand that The Shard and Sky Garden also can do this. Heck, the coffee shop at Tate Modern also has great views and it is free to go up. We had booked a time and were waiting for our slot, when we arrived 15 minutes early to join an extremely long queue. I was very surprised how quickly the line went and we actually boarded the ride at our allocated time. I suspect if we arrived early (within reason), we could have got on sooner rather than waiting around. Getting on and off was easy, even though the ride didn't stop. The entire trip lasted about 30 minutes and was very relaxing. Obviously the views were great, but I `think that I would have spent less time if I had gone up the Shard or Sky Garden, as the ride seemed to trudge along. The are definitely opportunities to get discounted tickets: book online or in the visitor centre or with the London Pass. Since the line went quick, I wouldn't pay extra for a fast path.

The London Eye, an iconic Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames, offers a breathtaking experience that defines London’s skyline. At 135 meters, it’s one of the world’s tallest observation wheels, delivering unrivaled 360-degree views of landmarks like Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Shard. Each spacious, glass-walled capsule holds up to 25 people, ensuring comfort during the 30-minute rotation. The gentle pace allows ample time to soak in the city’s sprawl, with informative touchscreens pinpointing key sites. Tickets start at £33 online, though fast-track options (£48) cut wait times, a boon during peak seasons. Pre-booking is essential, as queues can swell, especially on weekends. The Eye operates daily, with evening rides showcasing London’s twinkling lights—perfect for romantics. Accessibility is excellent, with step-free access and wheelchair-friendly capsules. While the experience is undeniably magical, some may find the price steep for a single rotation, and foggy days can obscure distant views. Still, the London Eye’s blend of engineering marvel and panoramic splendor makes it a must-do. For families, couples, or first-time visitors, it’s a bucket-list highlight, offering a unique perspective on London’s historic and modern charm. Arrive early for shorter lines.

Wonderful experience. We travelled to Waterloo by train and hopped on boat to London Bridge for the Tower which was easy and entertaining. The Tower was fascinating, such history. The poppy installation was fantastic. A really good day.....but you need comfy walking shoes!

Great day out. Went on a weekend and not too busy outside of peak season. Crown Jewels clearly the highlight, and didn’t disappoint - displays nicely spaced out, not too much content to overload younger ones and up to date, but there’s also so much more to see. Poppy display was superb, exotic animals, Yeoman tour and White Tower also worth the time, with the latter having interactive area for children. Nice day out and good to take a picnic (though not lots of spaces to sit and eat).

Absolutely awesome place, went when the poppy display was on for the memorial. Got to see everything, crown jewels, the tower of London and other surrounding buildings. Was a brilliant day out. Highly recommended A+++

Enjoyed all the history The Ravens were alot bigger than I imagined. The crown Jewels were amazing and loads of gold pieces of various objects the punch bowl was massive. All the beefeaters were friendly and helpful.

A lovely sunny autumn day spent with my history loving son. Went to see the poppies and did the audio tour guide. Spent 3 fab hours pottering around 😊

A world recognised tourist location. Amazing history connected with the Tower of London. I'd recommend visiting here, even just to walk around the history laden walkways . 😁🇬🇧👍

Absolutely a wonderful time. As a tourist from the US, I cannot believe the amount of history in one place. You could spend an entire vacation at this site alone. Seeing highlights from the coronation amd seeing them in real life was fantastic. The displays in the White Tower were worth it alone

Thoroughly enjoyed talking the self guided tour. The glass floor gives a unique view of the Thames, but can be slightly unnerving. The engine room has the two steam engines, used to power the bascules, on display. Over all, it's very good venue for money.

One of the most important attractions in this wonderful city! Especially, if you visit it at night is way more beautiful! This bridge brings its own unique touch of beauty in London! You have to visit it with no hesitation! 🌉✨

Tower Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in London and visiting it was a fantastic experience. The views from the bridge are stunning, both of the Thames and the city. Taking the Tower Bridge Exhibition tour made the visit even better, as it gave detailed insights into how the bridge was built and the fascinating mechanism behind its operation. Walking across the glass floor was a unique highlight too, giving a completely different perspective of the bridge and the river below. The site is very well maintained and the staff were friendly and helpful. The only thing to keep in mind is that you may need to wait in a queue for entry, and on a sunny day this can feel a bit frustrating. Still, it’s not just a landmark to admire from outside, but also an educational and memorable experience to explore from within. Definitely worth visiting.

Walking near Tower Bridge is honestly one of the nicest things to do in London, especially if you’re trying to escape the busy streets without leaving the city. The view is unreal – you’ve got the bridge itself, which looks straight out of a postcard, the river Thames calmly flowing, and plenty of spots to just sit and chill. There’s something peaceful about hearing the water and watching the boats go by, even when there are tourists around. At sunset, the whole area lights up in warm colours and it feels kinda magical. It’s also surprisingly clean and safe, even in the evening. Loads of nice little cafes and street food stalls around if you fancy a bite, and the walk towards the south bank or down to St Katharine Docks is worth it too. You get a mix of old-school charm and modern city vibes. Would definitely recommend it for a date, a solo unwind walk, or just to take some beautiful photos. 10/10 – calming, scenic, and very London.

The Tower Bridge is a great stop if you're in the nearby area, and provides about 30min to 1 hour diversion. Combined with the free audio tour, great views complete with partial glass floor in one section, historic awe of the building process, and gift shop at the end - I would highly recommend if you're in the area. There are lifts for the tower, but I suggest/recommend you take the stairs getting some insight, facts and touch of history on the way up and down. There are benches to rest, toilets but no Air Con for most of it, however fans throughout provide plenty of relief - 84 degrees and it never felt sweltering inside. Learn how the bridge was designed, constructed and changes over the years - in particular the engine room videos and presentation on divers were really great. And whenever you're done walk along the Thames River path near the wharf and grab a bite to eat.

Tower Bridge is indeed an iconic and highly recommended destination for anyone visiting London. You've captured its essence perfectly! Here's a summary of why it's a must-visit, echoing your points: * Iconic Landmark: It's instantly recognizable and a symbol of London. * Ideal for Shorter Visits: As you said, it's not a full-day commitment but perfect for a few hours. * Photographer's Dream: Offers incredible opportunities for stunning photographs, especially of the bridge itself, the River Thames, and the surrounding cityscapes. * Engaging Experience: Walking across the bridge allows you to appreciate its architecture up close, enjoy the (often cold!) wind, and take in the mesmerizing views of the River Thames. * Great for All: Whether with friends or family, it offers a memorable experience. For those looking to delve deeper, the Tower Bridge Exhibition (inside the bridge itself) offers a chance to learn about its history, see the Victorian engine rooms, and experience the glass walkways for unique views. Even without entering the exhibition, a walk across and around the bridge is a highly rewarding experience.

Good view from the top from a perspective you won't see otherwise. Short video of old footage of London was good. Information boards everywhere to enlighten visitors. On the London Pass so that makes it better value.

Great event - shame was spoiled by the weather but thats the UK for you. Thats the 3rd and final big event I've been to this year Cheltenham and aintree being the other 2. The difference being on the hill is free entry that nobody knows about

A day of thrilling races at Epsom Racecourse, followed by a peaceful escape into the breathtaking beauty of Langley Vale Wood's 641 acres of diverse trees and plants. A perfect blend of adrenaline and tranquility.

Had a lovely evening, with good food and drinks. Even won on the 7pm

Only had one winner,but we had a great time,atmosphere was brilliant,good friendly staff,overall fantastic day out!

Another great days racing at Epsom Downs, Derby day always a great meeting and some fantastic winners. Tickets purchased well In advance but for some reason not posted out, we had to collect on arrival which is never great when you have a disabled member in the party. We booked the Views restaurant, plenty of space and great service from the waitresses, drinks flowing all day. Food was interesting, sampler menu and then lamb main course, unfortunately the main wasn’t hot, warm at best, afternoon tea was plentiful and the cakes full of flavours.

Having grown up here, it has long held a significant space in my heart. It is honestly such a beautiful and peaceful place outside of race weekends... often with people exercising their horse along the gallops. Perfect spot for a walk, a picnic, or even just having some time to think.

The perfect location to view and savour the setting 🌅sun all year round, whilst enjoying 😊 the panoramic views of the North Downs along with increasing the ‘step tally’ on the iPhone Health App! lol. This is indeed a treasured location and 1️⃣ to be enjoyed, especially 1️⃣0️⃣ to 1️⃣5️⃣ minutes leading up to sunset 🌅

Fantastic day out with toddlers. If you can on a weekday in term time you can go on all the rides multiple times as practically no queues! The set up is also very walkable with animals and rides and playgrounds interspersed ergonomically. They have a great variety of animals who seem happy and healthy. It's a little pricey, but it feels worth it to give money to a nice farm. I wish their food options were healthier - especially the snacks (having some fruit on offer for the kids would be helpful!)

We visited as a family with our three girls and had such a fantastic day! There was so much to do — from seeing the animals to enjoying the rides and fun activities. Everything was really well organised, and the staff were friendly and helpful. The girls especially loved the pumpkin patch and all the little details that made the day extra special. We’ll definitely be coming back again soon! 🎃🐮

Incredible place Got there at 10:30am and received an informative welcome from reception I was happily surprised that it was not very busy . I was apprehensive about how many rides my daughter who is nearly two could go on and yet out of everything available she only missed out on 5 attractions. I love how detailed the park was and that there was just so many things to keep kids entertained for hours . Cafe was really good with large portions of food that was not salty but full of flavour. Staff loved interacting with the kids ,were really polite ,enthusiastic and took pride in their jobs. Overall Very very good value for the money and 100% worth it Will be definitely visiting again hopefully with a party of family members.

This is a fantastic place to bring your child! My little one is under 2 years old, so the free admission is a big plus. Everything is well organized, and there's the convenience of being able to eat inside. As expected from places like this, the food is more on the quick side, but it's surprisingly tasty. I've visited twice already and will definitely be coming back. One of the standout attractions is the circus – it’s a wonderful source of entertainment for both kids and adults alike. I recommend this place !

A complete package of thrill, fun and exploration for the little explorers. The farm themed park has a lot to offer starting with family friendly yet thrill rides that little ones can’t simply resist. My little one enjoyed doing the happy horses, train ride and crazy barnyard ride - of of them couple of times. It has got a decent softplay area too right at the entrance, along side the cafe and icecream bars. The animated shows run throughout the day at the show barns and the adventure playgrounds are quite massive and located at the centre of the park. There’s one little explorers playground as well with lots or animal sheds nearby offering seating areas. My little daughter couldn’t only do the doggy roller coaster as the ride closed at 4pm only strictly, but for next time sure. We had an unmissable and unforgettable adventure time her in this park in Brentwood, for sure.

Returned for our annual.years Halloween visit. Bit disappointed to find the Halloween walk through bit was closed off however realised upon checking that we were a day early. Decided to make the most of it and enjoy the rides. Took some really lovely Halloween photos of my girls lots of perfect back drops and props available throughout the park Staff were lovely especially the man on the train ride. Staff on both coffee stations were friendly and my daughter's both enjoyed a delicious custom made hot chocolates in after eight and unicorn. Animals looked happy and with plenty of space to roam around. It was lovely to see the pig foraging for plants and eating on the grass. Two lovely carousels, a rollercoaster and several other rides plus the staff make this place a really fun day out for all the family We will return

Lovely day out, we visited Old McDonald Farm with the kids to experience the Halloween Festival, we have been coming here for years but not on Halloween . Brilliant day, so nice to visit a park with just an entry fee and when you enter all rides are included, shows and activities, no hidden extras. Kids had a brilliant day, even the adults too, the kids also received a free pumpkin each. Some of the children in our family were sick, the staff at Old MacDonald Farm were brilliant - even offered to move to a different day so the kids don’t miss out (for a small fee) . Well done Old MacDonald Farm, we will definitely be coming back again !!!!

Lovely place for kids and dogs. Car park charge is a little bit on the dear side, £4.2 for 2h, but I guess they need to spend a lot on the maintenance of the site.

Lovely country park to have a picnic, go for a walk, sit quietly round the lakes or picnic benches. Lots of open spaces for people, dogs, children to run & enjoy the outside. Parking bit expensive. Biggest issue is cafe not only open at wkends!? Ridiculous! Toilets open till 4pm. Thoroughly enjoyed out time there meeting family, walking dogs. We were lucky with we had glorious weather but no shelter if it rains.

Really nice park, clean and well kept. Easy parking and easy to pay when you leave. Didn't walk too far but I think there are a few trails you can walk around. Took a picnic The sky ropes are brilliant, decent for the kids Good few hours.. 👍

Great day out for kids, lots of entertaining things to play with and explore as you walk or cycle round. Nice little cafe as well.

Perfect size park with different kinds of playgrounds spread across the whole park which makes the experience even more fun for the kids. It's not 5 stars because the cafe was closed during the bank holiday, sky rope was also closed and the football pitches were only available after paying quite expensive fees. Car park fees were not cheap but reasonable, especially if you plan to stay more than 4 hours. Worth the visit.

Parking is terrible as payment is by app only and there is little to no mobile signal at the park making it very difficult to pay. I happily use parking apps normally but the owners need to make sure it is actually possible to use mobile payments. Conversely the cafe is cash only. The park itself is fairly well maintained with good paths though a lot of the play equipment is out of order.

Despite there being a toddler area marked on the plan, in reality there wasn’t much for very young children, not even a toddler swing. Looks really good for older children though. Fortunately my granddaughter liked the sand.

You beauty - We decided to book in advance for Sleeping Beauty Panto with Sydney Christmas for the 29th Dec. By chance we found out last minute that the Orchard Theatre was actually closed for repair works, so it was held in a separate marquee next to the main building. We decided to park in the main Orchard shopping centre multi story car park. Although the payment system was faulty you could pay by coins up to £3 from 5:30pm to 12 or just press the info button and get let out (you decide!) Facilities are very adequate for effectively a tent. Bar, food and souvenirs are also available and ok. Heating is good but does get cold in the main Auditorium marquee eventually. Seats are ok but could do with a bit more padding. The show was very well put together, Sydney out sung the sound system, which let her down, as her voice is so beautiful. The cast were good and full of energy. As expected for a pantomime, cheesy jokes and silly acts were the order of the day but all the audience and kids seemed to enjoy as we did, so would recommend....4/5

Visited the Orchard Theatre West (aka The Tent) for the first time this week to see comedy gig and was pleasantly surprised 👍 I imagine it is better now it is October than it was in midsummer though!

Went to see billy Joel show, that was fine but the cost of drinks at the bar are extortionate, more than the cost at the Edinburgh Tattoo! 2 glasses of wine with literally a splash of soda, 2 Corona Tops.. cost over £32 . Never again.

Nice theatre. Easy entry process with QR code. Bars and snacks at reasonable prices. We had Circle C20-23 and had a great view. Seats were very comfortable with plenty of leg room.

We saw a George Michael tribute singer and he was really good. They have moved the theatre into a temporary marquee and have done a very good job Just a few minutes walk behind the actual theatre, this temporary marquee should not put you off attending as it was very well organised and able to reserve your drinks for the interval as before.

The Orchard has a lot to offer for all age's. They have so much variety I wouldn't be able to list them all, however I can say children love the pantomimes and seeing their favourite books or TV shows coming to life. Now for the adults they have a wide variety from 80s dance nights, comedian, musicals and so much more. There is a great restaurant that you can book ahead of the performances or you can order smaller versions in the bar area. The price's are resemble and there is a good variety, you can choose from 6 starters, a beautiful range of bread chunks, then the show stopping mains the desert is served for you during the interval however you would have to go back up to the dining area. Or you can get the ice cream tubs from the ushers and front of house they have a super variety of ice cream and sorbet. There is one huge downfall I wish the ice cream staff in the foyer would clean the scoop more because let's be fair I'm gluten free due to an allergy and I've had sorbet that had the chocolate brownie ice cream on it. I get there is a lot of people to serve but cross contamination isn't right! I have eaten here on many occasions and the food has been great until the new menu came in a few weeks ago and omg the food is spicy! So if you can't handle spicy foods tell the staff so an alternative can be sorted. For me I wished they kept the Jambalaya chicken and I know others have said they hoped the beer battered fish would have stayed. I like other people would love to have a separate menu that was for persons like myself that are Gluten Free or have allergies so we know what foods we are able to have instead of asking the waiter or manager what is available and them have to go back and forth. It would be great to order at the same time as the persons you come with. Sorry I might add if you are unable to get upstairs due to mobility issues you wouldn't be able to sit in the restaurant however the staff are absolutely amazing and welcoming to have your meal in the bar. The staff I can never fault them they are always super helpful and accommodating even to the point a customer that was unable to go to the restaurant for their desert a wounderful young lady that works front of house went a got the food and bought it to the person during the interval where they sat. So the staff are great! Some of a few photos I've taken!

Great overall experience from start to finish. There was queuing outside before entering but it was very quick to get to the entrance. Fast and efficient processing by staff. Very easy to follow direction once inside and staff were very helpful and efficient. The show was amazing and had an great time. The space inside was just right. Not too big or too small. Just right. The seating was okay but long legs at the front near the side would struggle to be comfortable with the lack of room to sit. Apart from that a superb overall experience.

Gorgeous day at the Tulip Fest in April. Got there very early whilst it was quiet and we were shocked by how massive it was and how much there was to do! The tulips were gorgeous and so impressive. Great food and information everywhere, friendly staff and lots to do and see!

Amazing Autumn Atmosphere! This pumpkin farm offers an absolutely amazing experience that goes far beyond simple pumpkin picking. The overall environment is welcoming, festive, and truly captures the spirit of the season. What truly elevates this spot is the phenomenal attention to detail in the spooky decoration. It's clear a huge effort was made to create a fun, slightly eerie atmosphere, providing fantastic photo opportunities at every turn. From hay bales to haunted props, the decor makes this the ultimate autumnal destination. The selection of gourds was plentiful, and the staff were wonderful. Highly recommended for a memorable, festive, and wonderfully creepy fall It was amazing 👏 I like the environment and spooky decoration!

I went pumpkin picking, and it turned out to be the perfect autumn activity. The atmosphere was festive and full of Halloween spirit, making it a wonderful place to visit during the season. It was such a fun and memorable experience!

Pleasant few hours spent picking pumpkins and toasting marshmallows with the kids. Most of the 'growing' pumpkins had already gone, but plenty more had been shipped in and were dotted around the field to select from. Lots of different varieties also available from the stores if you don't fancy pushing a wheelbarrow around the field! Didn't fancy the Ferris wheel, but probably provides great views if you don't mind heights.

Decided to relive my teenage nostalgia and return to Shocktober for the first time in seven years. Previously it was the place to go and made for a tremendous experience. This time round, it's sadly lost its touch. Massively oversold and overcrowded, it's clear profit is put before experience whereas it once was the other way round. Thankfully I’d purchased some fast track in advance as queue times were obscene. Even still, I had to queue for 10/15 mins in fast track lanes at times. Pros -Purgatory was quality and my favourite of all time. "Free Roaming" actors like the Skinfluencers were very funny and entertaining. Set design was absolutely fantastic as always. Cons - Far too many people allowed into haunts at a time/with too little time between groups. You'd either be caught up by the group behind or catchup the one infront. This KILLED the immersion and enjoyment massively. The flouting of their own rules was not enforced? There are clear rules that say no smoking/vaping, no face masks etc yet I saw people lighting up in the queues and a fair few road men in their finest bin bag attire (to impress their underage girlfriend) walking round ballied up like they've just robbed a bank. I know it's close proximity to Crawley but come on now... Better still was “security” where only those with a bag would be searched. If you hadn’t a bag, you were free to walk in with whatever you fancied! Knife? Acid in a lucozade bottle? Drugs? Must be part of your costume eh lad. Maybe that’s a critique due to my line of work but it did feel a bit pointless. All in all a shadow of its former self. I still had fun however and glad I returned, but think this'll be the last trip full stop. Kudos to the actors and event staff, they all work hard and probably for minimum wage. Sadly I don’t think the experience will be salvageable unless they actually cap ticket numbers drastically.

We had such a fantastic afternoon at Tulleys Farm. From the beautiful fall decor, the very large pumpkin patch, the roaming singers and cast in costume to the marshmellow roast stations (or smores station as they sell a kit too), pumpkin spice latte and ferris wheel we could only have a great time. We got to pick our own pumpkins straight from the patch and carry them in a wheelbarrow made available by the team who was nothing but welcoming. Can't carry big pumpkins home ? Fear not their collection of pumpkin plush toys will definitely call your name. If coming from London, you can either take the bus or more easily take a taxi as there are some available there just waiting to get you home safe. We will definitely make it a yearly tradition !

Shocktoberfest was excellent. Live bands, loads of scary things to do. The sacare mazes were great. Loads of different food stands and bars. The ste is absolutely huge, with a great atmosphere. We will definitely be going again.

Have just returned from a great day at Eagle Heights . Went on a hike with the huskies and the my husband had an Eagle experience. All the staff are amazing so friendly from the ladies on the arrival desk , the lovely ladies on the cafe to the carers of the animals and those who take us on the experiences . They are so knowledgeable and must get the same questions asked a million times but they respond like it’s the first time . The highlight of the day was definitely Brad with the eagles , what amazing birds to work with. He clearly loves what he does and is calm , knowledgeable, enthusiastic and friendly. Thank you to the entire team for a fabulous day . Would 100% recommend this amazing place . 🐾👍🦅🍰☕️

We booked in for a husky kennels tour for my daughter’s birth day. It did not disappoint. A full hands on interactive experience where clearly the dogs are at the heart of the keepers. The falconry displays (x2, with different birds each time) were amazing and the handlers made them as interactive as possible. It’s a small place but we had a really lovely time here and can highly recommend. They have a small gift shop which is also very reasonably priced.

Such a great day today at Eagle Heights! We went for afternoon tea which we really enjoyed- a great variety of sandwiches and sweet treats with scones that were warm! We were made to feel incredibly welcome by the cafe staff whom we had a really lovely chat with during our tea. The bird displays were really informative and fun. Although it is a very small place it is great to see the care that goes into looking after all of the animals there. Would really recommend as a fun afternoon out for adults, not just for kids!

We were a group of 4 booked for entry with afternoon tea. We had a hot drink on arrival before seeing the very informative and fascinating flying display of various owls and eagles. There are pens containing rare animal breeds and huskies and cages with hawks, owls and eagles. All looked well cared for and clean. We had a nicely presented afternoon tea in the café before returning for the second flying demonstration with different birds. We would all recommend Eagle Heights for a happy outing. The staff we met were all helpful and friendly from the entrance to the feeding and cleaning volunteers. This is a small, but very interesting, place to visit for all ages.

Absolutely great day out. Did the meet the huskies experience as a gift for my niece and we both loved it. Alyssa (sorry if I spelled it wrong), was fabulous. She was very informative, and funny, and made the experience brilliant. My niece hasn’t stopped talking about it. We also got to see a bird show and the staff were great, the birds amazing! The sanctuary is lovely, and they do amazing work rescuing and caring for the animals.

We had a really lovely time. Ruby was funny, interesting and friendly. The huskies were just wonderful to share some time with. Affectionate, lively and fascinating and obviously very well looked after. Have already recommended you to a number f friends Thanks! 🧡

Absolutely wonderful place, went on a Husky Hike, beautiful surroundings,knowledgeable and super friendly staff and Willow our stupendous Husky loved a floof and was very well behaved. Great for Adults and Kids alike and the rest of the Sanctuary is also well worth a visit. Housing "Rex" one if the largest eagles in the world.

We went to Chartwell on an October weekday over the autumn half term. It proved to be a popular destination and the car parks were very full. There are toilets a fairly large, modern cafe and a gift shop close to the reception area. If you wish to see the house then it is necessary to book a time slot in order to control number of visitors inside. The house has beautiful views from the windows and is fascinating, being packed with family furniture, photos and pictures. It also contains many souvenirs and gifts received over Churchill's long and distinguished life and career as well as a collection of his many uniforms. There are helpful and knowledgeable guides in each room The gardens and grounds are extensive and were lovely even on a rather dull autumn day. In summer they must be ablaze with colour. Churchill's large studio is situated a little distance from the house and the walls are lined with many of his paintings. There is an interactive guide which gives information on each of them. The gardens are reasonably accessible but may cause a problem for the less mobile as there are quite a few steps and not all have handrails. There is a shuttle bus for those who would find the steepish journey from reception to the house too much or are tired after walking the grounds.

Excellent. The warm and convivial atmosphere of the house is palpable. This was a home, and that sense has been beautifully kept. And what a home! The walled garden is stunning in the summer months. The large estate and woods are perfect for exploring or just admiring the views. Absolutely worth repeated visits. Do book in advance, especially in the summer. It gets busy and entrance to the house is timed.

This was a very special, since Sir Churchill was someone I have been admitted and studied about. If anyone likes a history, appreciate a true beauty of British culture and their heritage as myself I would truly recommend this place. There is so much to see. The house itself has lots of room, then you got a big landscaping and trails around to hike, besides the main House there is art house - where all Sir Churchill painting are placed, cafe shop, local shop. However, my day made people who works there. Each room have a person who are very happy to answer any questions you have, full of passion and knowledge while telling the story. I was very fascinated and felt part of it. Each person was amazing, I didn't catch all names but I would love to Thank you all, especially Paul "Sir Churchill work room', two gents in art room (where I was amazed and like hypnotised listing) - indeed, everyone who I had a pleasure to meet - Thank you for your time. Highly recommend. Besides, I have met very helpful and kind people in town. Thank You - you restored my hope for kindness. For anyone who use public transport, please ensure about the bus who runs only 3x a day.

As Churchill used to say, “A day without Chartwell is a day wasted.” I understood what he meant after visiting this historical place for the first time. The estate is vast and beautifully organized. The rooms are fascinating, filled with countless items from Churchill’s life. There are also many paintings - not only by Churchill himself, but also works by artists like Claude Monet and Townsend. The house has retained its old charm; walking through it feels like stepping into a time capsule. You’ll find numerous artefacts from the Second World War - Churchill’s uniforms, documents, photographs, and gifts he received from world leaders. My favorites were his cigar boxes, Napoleon’s tea set, and the glittering gifts from Josef Stalin - silver, glass, and gem-studded fruit bowls among them. There are many other treasures from the most prominent figures of his era like General de Gaulle, King Abdul Aziz or Franklin D. Roosevelt to name few. The grounds are beautifully maintained, with scenic paths, gardens, and ponds all around. If the weather is good, don’t miss a stroll through the woods beyond the ponds - the tree house there is a highlight, and yes, even adults can fit inside! ;) There’s also plenty of practical convenience: a large car park, a spacious National Trust café, and well-run facilities. I’ve been visiting Chartwell for many years, and it always has something new to offer. Their current Halloween-themed activities are great fun for children. I’ll definitely be back - a truly inspiring place, steeped in history and nature.

What a history and what a well looked after home of great politician Winston Churchill. In fact, this looks like a very well presented exhibition how the great man lived and did. The grounds and gardens are equally beautiful. The facilities provided, like parking, cafeteria, restaurant etc are more than adequate. However, considering all the above the entry fee still seems a bit steep as compared to other similar properties of National Trust.

Visited Chartwell House on the 5th Nov. Sadly the house was closed for decorating for Christmas. However the gardens were stunning and well worth a visit in of themselves. The views were stunning and serene. A nice place to decompress. It would have been nice to see Winston Churchills home. But give me an excuse to visit again. Also sampled their spicy bean soup and had to have some apple crumble cake, made from apples from the grounds, delicious.

Absolutely fascinating glimpse into Churchill's private home life. The house is beautifully maintained, staffed by informative volunteers. The grounds are stunning. There's a great café too. Plenty of parking. Highly recommend as a day out.

A stunning wild botanical garden. Really awe inspiring and thoughtfully planted. Fun for children and adults, my daughter enjoyed the mud kitchen and having fun amongst the trees. Cafe was quite expensive so will bear that in mind for our next visit. Plenty of spaces to have a picnic.

Gorgeous site, especially in autumn. Lovely for walks, they have a nice gift shop too. Cafe serves delicious vegetarian and vegan options. The mud kitchen is fantastic for kids.

My daughter & I hadn't been to Wakehurst for quite a long time. I had forgotten just how beautiful it is here. We walked farther than usual and got to enjoy some of the most beautiful parts. Although be warned, when the map says it's a steep hill, it's truly steep 🤣 We certainly got out workout in!! The staff are lovely too, very helpful. It was reasonably busy for a Sunday but not overcrowded at all. We'll definitely return soon no doubt.

Hello everybody. Very nice place to visit . Beautiful gardens and views and very relaxing quiet. The tea rooms were open and all stocked well. I recommend you pay a visit.

Great botanical garden with a variety of views. I would highly recommend visiting the Himalayan glade and pond. Do be aware that the blooms vary quite a lot between seasons, so you may not get to see the same as my images. Good restaurant with reasonable options and prices on site. Ice cream van with good selection too.

Probably the most amazing gardens I have ever been to! It was very impressive and large and every single part was beautiful. We spent hours looking around in the sunshine and had a great day! So much to see!

This sister to Kew Gardens is a fine place to spend a few hours wandering around the wooded estate and the attractive small mansion house. Notwithstanding the importance of the scientific and conservation carried out by the Millenium Seedbank, for many visitors the main attractions are the walking trails through the over 500 acre wooded countryside, featuring some of the world's most magnificent trees. These include a substantial number of the world's most massive tree, the giant Californian Redwood, which, despite their relative youth, have already ready reached an impressive 36 meters, and, not to be missed, are the weirdly drooping freaks of the same species. Children up to 16yoa have free entry, adults are £18.50 and young people are 50% of the adult rate. Car parking additional. Hot and cold food at the Stables Kitchen Restaurant and cafes. It is not cheap, but it is a great day out for the whole family.

A nice park with plant centre, souvenir shop, rose garden, lily pond, fruits and vegetables garden, restaurant and exhibition hall. It’s a lovely place to spend a weekend with family and friends. Simply love the landscape with lots of beautiful plants and flowers. The food at restaurant is good too!

What a wonderful place. I went for a solo walk and had the best time wandering through the gardens. They’re full of colour, beautifully cared for, and there’s such a calm, happy feel everywhere you go. I went mid-week during term time. The sunshine made it even better. Perfect for anyone who loves nature, fresh air, and a bit of peace and quiet. Highly recommend

Nice gardens and displays, attentive staff although potentially a little too attentive on arrival. Unfortunately a few sections were closed on my visit for maintenance or works, so can’t give a full 5 star review. Prices are also very high making it less accessible for those on lower incomes.

It is away from city. Has a restaurant, lots of car parking. Bus facility is lesser. Nature lovers will like the place. The place seems beautiful with different flowers also peaceful. One could watch the colorful sections generally within an hour.

Beautiful, ever changing gardens. Plan to go back in a different season. Don’t think I had a favourite area, all so lovely. I would imagine there is plenty to see whatever time of year you visit. Friendly staff in the cafe. Lovely cakes. Sandwiches were very tasty, but lacked a respectable amount of filling.

Beautiful garden though a bit hard to get to on a weekday by train and buses. Shuttle bus available only at weekends. Love the rock garden and the restaurant with great scenic views. 😎My favourite is the Global Growth Vegetable Garden. Learned so much about origin of the most common vegetables. Love all the sculptures in the garden and the beautiful thatched house. Excellent food and love their cheese scone. Saw lots of robins. Staff are really friendly and helpful. Great shop too. Wonderful day out.

My first visit and not my last, didn’t realise the history of the place or the area. It is a place that cannot be done in one visit, there is so much to see. The garden centre has plants that are well worth buying and they are competitive priced, the compost is far superior in quality to what I have been buying elsewhere and I now will continue to purchase!

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 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 👌

We visit a lot of NT, English Heritage and other Historical properties and I have to say that this place is at the top of the pile. Superb gardens and lake, fantastically maintained. Beautiful house steeped in Tudor history (Anne Boleyn). Also Falconry displays, Pedalo hire and more. Excellent value for money. Highly recommended.

I recently visited Rochester and had such a great experience exploring both the castle and the town itself. Rochester Castle is absolutely stunning—full of rich history and with an incredible view from the top. The castle is quite a climb, so if you're not great with heights or a bit nervous about steep steps, you might want to admire it from below. But even from the ground, the structure is impressive and totally worth seeing. The town of Rochester is just as lovely. It has a really charming, historic vibe with lots of independent bookshops, quirky little stores, and cozy cafés. We were lucky to catch the local market too, which had a great mix of food, crafts, and handmade items. There’s definitely something for everyone. The park next to the castle is big, peaceful, and perfect for a stroll or a picnic, and the whole area is family-friendly. I'd say it’s great for all age groups, but do be careful with the steps inside the castle—they’re steep and uneven in places. One thing that stood out was how kind and welcoming the people were. It really added to the whole experience. Whether you're into history, shopping, relaxing in the park, or just exploring somewhere new, Rochester has a lot to offer.

Amazing experience, well maintained, has a lovely gift shop with good prices. Has an option for an audio tour however isn't necessary as they have signage explaining the events. We went when the weather was beautiful so was really nice. Alot of steps but definitely worth it for the views of Rochester and the cathedral.

I loved this place. My kids enjoyed this place. The audio guide they gave was helpful. The castle is very old yet preserved well. It is safe with beautiful sights from the top. Absolute pleasure to visit

The castle looks so authentic - a lot of work has gone into preserving this! It's great that people can walk around the outer motte area free of charge. The surrounding area is all in keeping with the historic buildings. Stunning vistas of the castle and across the River Medway, excellent!

Came here for a Craig David concert, it was absolutely brilliant! Amazing venue in the grounds with the castle. Bag searches were vigorous! There were bars, food, tea and coffee, ice creams, glitter tent, medical tent and portaloos. Got a real mini festival vibe, was such a great afternoon and night, really nice crowd. Lots of security too.

Rochester Castle in Kent makes for a great day visit, offering one of England’s best-preserved Norman keeps—the tallest in the country at 113 feet. Built in the 12th century and famously besieged by King John in 1215, it’s a dramatic slice of medieval history. Visitors can climb winding staircases for sweeping views over the River Medway, explore the vast roofless interior, and relax in the surrounding gardens. It’s not wheelchair accessible due to the many steps, but the site is atmospheric, rarely overcrowded, and pairs well with a visit to nearby Rochester Cathedral. Expect to spend around two hours here for a rewarding mix of history, views, and quiet charm. Definitely Recommended.

Interesting to walk up the tower of this ancient castle. Some remainders of the walls of the Bailey still remain and there are lovely views over the River Medway, which are even better from top of tower. Good interpretive boards throughout. Didn't take particularly long to visit and was out in about half an hour. Friendly staff, Interesting history; a good ruin.

This cathedral is small and select, but very good to explore. There was a lot to see and the staff were very kind and welcoming. We just missed out on the mini golf but that was okay, there was still plenty to see! The stained glass windows were beautiful and there seemed to be lots of exhibitions on. It's very easy to find and navigate.

Rochester Cathedral is breathtaking from the moment you see it. The architecture is incredible, with beautiful stonework, high arches, and peaceful interiors that make you stop and admire every detail. It is the second oldest cathedral in England, and you can truly feel the history in every corner. It is not just a religious site, but a brilliant tourist attraction with calm surroundings, helpful staff, and fascinating displays about its past. The mix of ancient design and modern exhibitions makes it enjoyable for all ages. Whether you love history, architecture, or simply peaceful places, Rochester Cathedral is definitely worth a visit.

The cathedral second only in time to that at Canterbury, was the See of Cardinal John Fisher martyred for refusing to accept the religious settlement of King Henry VIII in 1535. The church is steeped in history and whilst a cathedral, feels like a parish church. The tours are very informative. Of interest is that as a former Benedictine Monastery we were told that the cathedral community continue to read a chapter of the Rule of St Benedict. We were also told that the cathedral does not charge as, as a former benedictine community the cathedral does not charge, as under the Rule the cathedral community welcomes guests as pilgrims, as under the Rule. The cathedral has a regular pause for prayer throughout the day c/half of the hour. Of the many highlights in the cathedral is the beautifully carved font, the Rochester Triptych, a simplistic carving of the Virgin Mary in the Lady Chapel. The tomb of Bishop Merton, medieval floor files under the alter near Bishop Merton's tomb, to the left and to the left of this altar is a door behind which is one of the oldest doors in the country. The restored quire by Gilbert Scott restores the medieval pattern. The beautiful carving on an internal door to the chapter house. And by the entrance in the North Transept is an Icon in 2004, the orthodox icon depicts the conversion and baptism of the King of Kent. The tombs of Sts Paulinus and Itemar. Of interest to those interested in the Zulu War is memorial to Lt Chard VC of the Rorkes Drift defense. One could spend a day exploring the surface of the history of the cathedral.

Stunning Cathedral. V helpful, friendly and welcoming staff; visiting alone i was approached several times by staff saying hello, finding out where I was from, telling me fascinating snippets of information. It was a delight speaking to them all and they oozed enthusiasm and pride for the Cathedral, it's history, what it offered, and how they wanted to welcome visitors. Crypt was closed sadly, so wasn't able to view the Textus ... maybe another time. Cafe was in a lovely setting in the Crypt with a good selection of cakes to have with your coffee. No charge, but donations welcome. Loved it here ❤️

Very well kept, and a stunning piece of architecture. It's also great that the surrounding area has been more or less preserved, to keep the context of the cathedral - although there are cars on the pedestrian-looking roads, so beware of traffic.

Lovely Catherdral, with an amazing organ. The place is beautiful and serene. The volunteers are all very helpful and friendly. There is a nice souvenir shop, toilets. Not sure if there's a cafe 🤔 Entrance is free.

Nice cathedral. Lovely painted organ. Cafe in the crypt. Parking nearby. Well worth a visit.

Our visit coincided with the 1940s-themed event, which was exceptionally well-executed. It is regrettable that this was the final iteration. The event's organization was commendable. However, the Call the Midwife taster session, priced at £10 per person for a 20-minute experience, received negative feedback from our group, who considered it to be a poor value proposition and not representative of the full tour. This may deter future participation in the main tour. Despite this, the overall experience remained positive.

We have used our yearly ticket a few times over the year and always end up having a long and fulfilling day out. Engaging for grown ups and a 6 year old. We usually pack a picnic, but this time having exited via the restaurant, the food looked delicious and the menu is fairly priced, so we will treat ourselves next time. All of the staff are so lovely and friendly, but an extra shout out to Jazmyn today who was FANTASTIC! She was so enthusiastic and gave us some lovely information about HMS Gannet. We feel like we learn something new every time, making the yearly ticket very much worth it. Can't wait to see further development of the site over the next 10 years.

Great day out. Never been before. The historic ships reviewed elsewhere. The ticket is valid for a whole year,so I will be back in the spring. If you are walking from the station, it's a good 30 minute walk.

Well worth seeing , make sure you go in the submarine . Tickets would be more economical as a local as they last for a year so it was expensive for us just to visit once . But very interesting my son loved it especially

I can't over emphasis just how impressed I was with Chatham Dockyard. I went because I'd seen advertising online about a LEGO shipwreck display which as it turns out was ok but the rest of the site was FANTASTIC. I got to go on board a 90's navy submarine HMS Ocelot. I walked around a WWII HMS Cavalier a real time capsule. For me one of the best things was being in the exact place seeing where HMS Victory was built. There is a BRILLIANT walk through experience with characters that literally show you the building process for ships around the time of HMS Victory and earlier. It really brought it to life for me. The cafe setting is superb with many of the buildings being made of old ships beams, masts and more. There is a hidden ship under the floorboards so don't miss that.

Really great museum full of history and learning! We visited as a family with our 9 year old. She loved every minute from walking around the exhibits to the tour of the cold war era submarine. Plenty to see and do covering the whole history of the dockyard from its earliest days to its closure in the 1980's. We spent about half a day and could have stayed longer if we had the time. Tickets are valid for a year so if you are local then you can go back and dont have to do it all in a single session. Also there are some concessions, when we arrived we found out english heritage members get discount which was an unexpected bonus. Overall well worth a visit and we will be back before our year tickets run out!

A really nice day out. Good facilities, with better on the way, to keep you comfortable and caffinated. Plenty to see but the gem for me is the 'Ropery', the last of its kind. Book your place as you enter the site if you want to see it.

Booked the site as we were going on a recommendation on how great it is for kids with the fair, farm animals etc. Informed by the staff that the website does mention about all the kids attractions no longer open, but it took me a while to find this information, a post in the “news section” from 2023. There is now, no fair, farm or play areas for children. Many people over the weekend were also surprised about this. We were told by reception that the children’s parks etc will not open again. Site is pretty run down, but it serves a purpose. Toilets and showers are good, but were being cleaned at peak times on a busy bank holiday which made it very busy. However, Lovely setting and being able to have a campfire on your pitch was really nice. Security went around at 10pm to shut all noise down also which was great. All in all, it’s a quiet spacious site, website needs to be amended as it really isn’t a farm now and can be misleading but as a basic campsite, it’s good.

Spacious campsite the offers both electrical and non electrical pitches. On arrival the receptionist was very welcoming and they have a well stocked camp shop for the essentials. Overall it's what you would expect for a campsite of this size, there is limited wash facilities for the size and whilst they tried to keep them clean and tidy it was always going to be impossible for the size of the campsite, but they done the best they could. Easy access to river for kayaking and paddle boarding, so if you enjoy these activities would recommend. Overall, it was ok but we prefer a slightly less busy campsite so would properly try again when it's not a bank holiday weekend.

The staff are fabulous The 2 ladies on reception were really helpful and welcoming The camp is tidy. Probably to many pitches for the amount of showers and toilets. But some people using them just don't tidy up themselves A lot of noise around the camp at night. Car's going back and forth all through the night Bin collection man was also a good friendly

The campsite is fine and toilets cleans however it’s very basic and there’s only one toilet block for almost three fields which means with young children you are limited to one field near the block. I booked this thinking that there would be loads to do but unfortunately the pictures. Pitch up and website are outdated and there’s no attractions. I found some of the members of staff at reception very rude. Also very load music going on from other campers until after midnight which hasn’t been actioned. Wouldn’t come back unfortunately because it had great potential.

Great location for use of the river medway for fishing and paddleboarding, good for walks. Campsite was packed tightly although the grounds are huge. Showers are not as shown on the website, they are now used and could do with a deep clean. Overall a good spot to camp for the kids with loads of space to ride bikes and play games.

Review from a mum of two... I feel like this campsite has received some really unfair negative reviews. If you do your research, you'll be aware the Whitbread Hop Farm is no longer open, this is a basic campsite. The staff are really lovely and check in was smooth. There are many areas to choose from, we chose to be by the river as we wanted to paddleboard. The area had a couple of rope swings which all the children in our party enjoyed. We had so much space, the kids had freedom to run around in the large open field where we had based ourselves. The washing up areas, toilets and showers were nicely kept. You have to accept that these areas with high footfall will become untidy and dirty quite quickly given the rural living! But the staff were always there cleaning. Hot water wasn't an issue, so lovely showers everyday. Some people were unhappy with the codes needed to enter the facilities but not a problem if you just remember the code. All in all a great campsite with lots of space and great spots for launching a paddleboard from. The only slightly negative point I would make (but was well aware of it before we booked) is if you want to take advantage of having lots of space and pitching in one of the areas away from the washing facilities, it's too far to walk but we (and clearly many others) drove to/from the toilets which I guess generates more car movement onsite. All in all a great stay. Thanks Hop Farm.

When we booked, advertised a play area and easy access to river medway for paddle boarding, kayaking and canoeing. No play area, river medway you could access but not very easily as brambles overgrown and no slipways or jettys to launch from. Plus side the showers and toilets were clean and usable

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.

This a beautiful Victorian mansion house with views over an even more beautiful estate that leads down to a ruined medieval castle. There was a real bounty of flowers at this time of year and the flowers in the walled garden were spectacular. Nice cafe, shop and second hand bookstore. Well worth a visit.

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

A really excellent place to visit. The gardens are extensive and somehow very relaxing. We visited over the summer when there was a Summer of Play area for the kids. Perfect for play, picnics and chilling. The house was almost something out of an Agatha Christie novel. It actually had a very gentle, warm vibe. It was nice to see the drinks selection in the library! You felt it must’ve been a fun house once upon a time. Some of the rooms - particularly the bedrooms - almost felt too personal for comfort. I felt almost like I was snooping round some elderly relative’s house at times. Nonetheless, a very interesting place to visit.