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Get out & about

Oxford

Oxford There's plenty to inspire families in Oxford, especially Harry Potter and Alice in Wonderland fans. The City Sightseeing bus tour takes you to the Natural History Museum and the fascinating curios of the Pitt Rivers Museum. Visit the Bodleian Library to see the real Hogwarts Library and the Divinity School (Hogwarts Hospital). In Christ Church you'll see the Great Hall, the inspiration for Hogwarts Hall, and where the real 'Alice in Wonderland' lived as a child (look out for the long-necked firedogs). Tool the kids up with a pencil and drawing pad to draw their favourite gargoyles with prizes for the best on offer. On a hot day, just pop down to the open air pool (and Tinies' Splash Park) in Hinksey Park - or the Oxford Ice Rink to cool off.

Stock up on picnic pies, cheeses, wraps and fresh biscuits in the Covered Market and take the family punting from Magdalen Bridge - or downriver with Salters Steamers. If it's a bit chilly discover the Ashmolean Museum or Oxford Castle Unlocked (try on a strait jacket and turn the screw).

Teens can explore the shopping centres offering fashion, music and trendy accessories. Or they might just head off to the skate park or cinemas and leave their parents to explore the dreaming spires of Oxford.

Further information and for ideas and inspiration: www.visitoxford.org.

Devon

Devon Devon’s relaxing playground is a great place to escape everyday life and get active. Whether you are daring enough to try something new, or wish to enjoy a long-loved hobby, whatever your desire is, you are guaranteed to find something to suit your holiday needs. The choice of attractions in Devon is endless, with family attractions, historic sites and gardens and a wealth of outdoor attractions, there is always something for you to get involved in.

Looking for a relaxing break?

Devon boasts miles of beaches, national parks and superb unspoilt countryside. Additionally, there are walking and cycling options for families and groups alike; from gentle circular strolls to challenging long distance trails. If horse riding is your thing then you’ll be spoilt for choice in Devon, you have the option of trekking across the moors or trekking down miles of bridleways.

Get your blood racing

Devon Family and groups that are adrenalin seeking would appreciate the more active adventures that Devon has to offer. Try zipping through the treetops at the River Dart Country Park, or you could try taking the rope challenge at Go Ape. Alternatively you could visit Devon’s belly-twisting theme parks and wet and wild water-parks.

Have fun on the water

If being in the water is more your thing, Devon has a lot to offer you; there is canoeing, scuba diving and world-class waves! Did you know that Devon actually offers some of the UK's best year-round water sports in stunning locations? As if that wasn’t enough, there are also clean rivers, fishing lakes, exciting deep sea angling trips and organised fishing weekends perfect for a summer getaway.

For more information on Devon and what to do visit: www.visitdevon.co.uk.

Peak District

Peak District is a world class destination that encompasses everything you could ever want from a break away, from dramatic moorland and breathtaking landscape of Britain’s first National Park, to the ancient oaks of the National Forest south of the country.

No matter the budget you’re working with, your idea of a good time or the people you are travelling with, there is something in Peak District that every one of you young or old will enjoy!

Get out and about

Peak District offers many fun outdoor activities for families and groups alike to enjoy. You can take your pick from enjoyable activities such as canoeing, map reading and navigation courses, or on the other hand you may fancy more traditional outdoor pursuits, in which case cycling, climbing or even walking could be just the thing for you. If that wasn’t enough, Peak District also offers a range of indoor activities such as painting, pottery and spinning courses which are great for spending quality family time.

The Peak Experience for kids…

The Peak District has many attractions to cater to all your children’s needs; including playgrounds, parks, woodland walks, amusements, theme parks and much more.

Well dressed?

Fancy trying something different? Try Well dressing. Well dressing is the traditional art of decorating springs and wells with pictures using only what nature can provide. This ancient custom offers a fascinating insight into traditional Derbyshire heritage. Running only during summer time, now is the perfect time to visit Peak District with your family and try your hand at it.

Bon appétit!

From the rugged Dark Peak in the north to the leafy National Forest in the south, wherever you go in Peak District, you' will be sure to find premium, locally sourced food and drink guaranteed to please both your palate and pocket. Whet your appetite on views good enough to eat, and then tuck into a flavour packed feast at one of a host of cosy country pubs, chic city bars, traditional tea rooms and first class restaurants.

For more information on Peak District and what to do visit: www.visitpeakdistrict.com.

Bristol

Discover the best of both worlds in Bristol

Bristol Keeping the whole family entertained can sometimes be a tough job, especially when the British weather is up to its old tricks. But don’t let that worry you – come pouring rain or dazzling shine, you can rest assured that there will be something in Bristol to keep you, the kids and the grandparents happy for the whole weekend and beyond. There seems to be a surprise around every corner, which is exactly what gives this fun filled city its unique appeal.

Perfect for a weekend day trip, why not jump on the train and discover all that Bristol has to offer? To help you get even more out of your visit, we’ve found the ultimate places to check out while you’re there.

Where to go

Bristol’s rich heritage has left the city with an incredible array of impressive attractions. From Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s Great Britain to the exotic and unusual species at Bristol Zoo Gardens, along with more recent additions such as the mind-bending Explore-@-Bristol, Bristol can proudly boast a collection of diverse attractions that will keep visitors entertained and engaged time and time again. For a great day out, be sure to visit one of Bristol’s many museums, with intriguing displays and precious treasures from centuries ago.

Where to eat

Bristol is famous for its food scene, with a wide range of award winning restaurants and elegant eateries to be found across the city. But it’s not all Michelin stars and gourmet grub – there are plenty of affordable places to grab a bite all over town. For a dining experience that’s ‘out of this world’, head to funky pizza joint Planet Pizza, which serves delicious food and has a great central location.

Hit the Shops

Holding a well deserved place in the top 10 of UK shopping destinations, you really can shop ‘til you drop on a trip to Bristol. Fashionistas will be spoilt for choice by the vast array of retail centres, from the 300-odd stores of Broadmead and The Mall Bristol, to Cabot Circus – the ultimate shopping experience in the South West.

For more information on Bristol and what to do visit www.visitbristol.co.uk.

Nearest station - Bristol Parkway.

New Forest

Be enchanted by the New Forest

The New Forest has changed gloriously little in almost a thousand years. Made up of vast open heathland and small pockets of woodland, it is a true rural paradise where wildlife flourishes and nature abounds.

Whether you choose to walk for miles to explore the stunning landscape or prefer to lie back and relax under the shade of an ancient tree, you’ll soon find the sights and sounds of modern life have been replaced with those of grazing ponies, dazzling flowers and delightful birdsongs. But best of all, aside from all the outstanding beauty of its natural features, this wonderful region has yet more to offer. From fascinating museums to first class restaurants, interactive farms to incredible beaches, there are plenty of great attractions which are guaranteed to make a trip to the New Forest a superb day out for all the family. What’s more, use your Family & Friends Railcard to reduce your journey costs, and your trip will be even more rewarding.

Where to go

Of course, the main draw to this spectacular area is the forest itself, which offers a seemingly never ending choice of routes to take and ways to take them. The simple pleasure of exploring on foot should never be underestimated, as it really is one of the best ways to appreciate this living landscape. However, another popular mode of transport is horse riding, which is a constant source of excitement and adventure for visiting families. There are a host of riding schools in the area offering everything from half hour pony rides to full day treks.

If you’ve got little ones in tow, take a trip to Longdown Activity Farm in Ashurst. Kids will love the hands on activities on offer, which include petting the animals, feeding the pigs and goats, and even taking a ride on a tractor. Meanwhile, both young and old alike will enjoy discovering more about the surrounding area at the New Forest Museum, featuring fun interactive displays and frequently changing exhibitions. For an enchanting ride through picture perfect scenery, visit the Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway – this 200 acre woodland is impressive enough on its own, but the charming coal fired steam train makes this a real winner for the whole family.

Where to eat

With top quality local produce all around, it’s not hard to understand why dining in the New Forest is often a memorable experience. From high class restaurants to cosy pubs, quaint tea rooms to traditional farm shops, there is a truly mouth watering selection of places to eat in the area. If you simply can’t decide where to go, the Taste Trails are a fantastic way to discover some of the gastronomic delights on offer – and all while enjoying the sights of the region! Journey through towns and villages, stopping off at pubs and restaurants along the way, such as The Royal Oak in Fritham and the Old Farm House Restaurant in Burley.

Where to shop

You may just be surprised at the vast array of shops in the New Forest. Whether you’re after arts and crafts, souvenirs, clothing or food, there are plenty of choices to satisfy all your shopping needs! For the perfect gift for friends or family, pop into the Burley Fudge Shop, or for something a little different, visit Setley Vineyard and pick up a bottle of New Forest wine.

For more information on The New Forest and what to do visit www.thenewforest.co.uk.

Nearest stations:
Brockenhurst
Ashurst
Lymington

Newcastle

There's no place like Newcastle!

If you're looking for things to do in Newcastle then you’ll find that this is a fascinating and friendly area defined by the rivers that flow throughout it and encompasses dynamic city life, traditional seaside resorts and acres of beautiful countryside. Newcastle doesn’t do things by halves. Home to the biggest leisure complex and the largest indoor fair in Europe, Newcastle certainly has plenty to offer day trippers and fun seekers looking for a city break that brings excitement by the bucket load.

With so much entertainment jam packed into one city, it can be hard to know where to head when you step off the train. To save you time, we’ve done all the research for you and found the inside information on the best places to visit during your trip. So grab your Railcard and your family and friends and discover this spectacular city for yourself!

What to do

Discovery Museum, Newcastle's largest free museum is a veritable treasure trove of exhibitions and interactive activities such as their Science Maze which is sure to delight and educate. Centre for Life is a vibrant and exciting centre for all the family and hosts an ongoing, award winning, exhibition based on the theme of 'life', offering live science shows, an interactive dome theatre, hands on displays and family based laboratory workshops.

In Tynemouth the award winning Blue Reef Aquarium provides a fascinating insight into marine life and now boasts a seal cove.

Where to Eat

The hardest part about eating out in Newcastle is deciding where to go – there are just so many appetizing options! Head to the Stowell Street area for some of the best Indian and Chinese restaurants in the North East.

Top of the Shops

Whether you’re a bargain hunter or a boutique lover, Newcastle’s shopping scene has got it covered. For one of the best retail experiences in the country, the MetroCentre is the place to head, where you’ll find department stores, high street outlets and speciality shops, as well as a vast leisure complex. For a more laidback shopping trip, check out the wonderful wares to be found at the Newcastle Quayside Market.

For more information on Newcastle and what to do visit www.visitnewcastlegateshead.com.

Nearest Station - Newcastle.

Liverpool

Liverpool is a city which continues to evolve all the time, so if it’s been a while since you last visited, don’t wait any longer.

Renowned for its vast array of cultural attractions and unrivalled heritage, Liverpool is the ideal destination for all the family, specially since it has more museums and galleries than any other UK City Region outside London, including seven FREE venues from National Museums Liverpool.

Liverpool holds the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Status and enjoyed a hugely successful term as European Capital of Culture in 2008. It continues to build on this legacy with new attractions, hotels and headline events.

Two key new attractions are the Fab4D Experience at The Beatles Story, Pier Head, and The BugWorld Experience at Albert Dock.

The Fab4D Experience takes visitors on a musical journey through an innovative and exciting experience for all the family. Take your seat in this new state-of-the-art theatre, where you will be taken on an adventure with plenty of laughs along the way.

The BugWorld Experience is the only attraction of its kind in the UK, and gives visitors the opportunity to see the world through the eyes of bugs. Themed areas from around the world set the scene for an unforgettable experience – and you can even handle some of the bugs.

Looking ahead, Tate Liverpool’s summer exhibition for 2010 is Picasso: Peace and Freedom. This major exhibition will bring together over 150 works by Picasso from across the world.

To find out more about the Liverpool City Region log onto www.VisitLiverpool.com

Nearest Stations: Liverpool Central, Liverpool Lime Street, Liverpool James Street

Plymouth

You would struggle to find a more beautiful location than the one occupied by Plymouth. To the south you have the stunning natural harbour, to the north the wild moor land of Dartmoor National Park and to the west and east can be found picture postcard villages, smugglers coves and some of the finest beaches in England.

Plymouth itself is an extraordinary blend of vibrant modern city and historic seafaring port. The Elizabethan Barbican is an essential first port of call for any visit. Where Drake and Raleigh once weighed anchor, today you can find a bustling community of specialist shops, restaurants, cafes and world class attractions, all in a picturesque harbour setting.

Spectacular Plymouth Hoe and the modern pedestrianised city centre are all within easy walking distance so you can shop to your hearts content then relax on the waterfront and enjoy the stunning views. If you are feeling active then you will never be at a loss for something to do. Lovers of the sea will find that Plymouth exceeds their dreams. Choices include windsurfing, canoeing, sailing, fishing, scuba diving, jet ski and water skiing. Whatever you enjoy it’s yours to experience in Plymouth’s rich combination of heritage and natural beauty in a thriving city environment.

Nearest Station: Plymouth.

For more information about Britain, holiday ideas and practical travel advice, see www.visitbritain.com.

Blackpool

It's a town full of firsts: taller and faster roller coasters, bigger clubs, even the biggest mirror ball in the world plus world class shows, cosmopolitan restaurants, vibrant nightlife, an active sports scene and breathtakingly beautiful scenery on Blackpool's doorstep.

To really get away from it all, try a leisurely stroll through leafy Stanley Park, Blackpool's award winning horticultural and wildlife treasure. Close by is the resort's small but perfectly formed Model Village and Gardens.

Hop on a tram and trundle along twelve miles of Proenade. Marvel at the musical hightide organ which joins the ever-growing range of giant sculptures and eye-catching artworks on New South Promenade.

At the heart of Blackpool's famous Golden Mile is the Sea Life Centre, home to more than 40 fascinating displays. Nearby is one of Blackpool's oldest attractions, Louis Tussaud's Waxworks, inviting you to meet the famous and the infamous in its many galleries.

Down at the Sandcastle they're having a permanent heat wave! White knuckle water chutes, swirling slides and the giant Typhoon Lagoon wave pool combine to offer a full day of family fun.

Of course you can't see and do everything in a day, which is why Blackpool offers a wealth of accommodation for everyone - from luxury hotels to homely B&Bs apartments and caravans - to suit all budgets.

Slow it down, or paint the town, the choice is yours! We're sure you'll leave Blackpool with a care-free spirit and memories to treasure.

Must see and do

Nearest Station: Blackpool North.

For more information about Britain, holiday ideas and practical travel advice, see www.visitbritain.com.

Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is the only coastal park in Britain. Much of the coast line is owned and managed by the National Trust, ensuring that these stunning landscapes are protected.

Some of the best beaches in Britain can be found in Pembrokeshire. Barafundle Bay, once the private cove of Gentry family has recently been named as the most beautiful in Britain, by top travel magazine the Good Holiday Guide.

Try something completely different, coasteeing. Invented in Wales, get kitted out in wet suits and hard hats, it’s a bit like climbing, but instead of going up – go across the cliffs and when you can’t go any further, jump into the sea to start white water swimming. Alternatively, take to the water and explore the region by Kayak.

Walkers are well catered for in this part of the world, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path is 186 miles by coastline that is famed for its magnificent bays and headlands, and there are plenty of options to enjoy your walk, whether you choose to do a full trek, or an easy stroll.