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We are passionate about you exploring South East England and enjoying the many indoor and outdoor attractions on offer within the region. Whether you choose to visit those must-see royal palaces and castles, or the award-winning animal parks and gardens, discover somewhere new or re-visit a firm favourite, you'll find some of the most popular tourist attractions in England here in the South East, so you will never be stuck for ideas on places to visit and things to do whatever your interest.
With over 185 million years of history to discover the South East is littered with historic houses, enchanting castles, impressive cathedrals and inspiring museums, allowing you to delve into stories of a time long since past. Explore famous battles, smuggling adventures and stories of individuals that have changed the course of English history, you'll find them all here in the South East.
For starters there is Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and Winchester Cathedral in Hampshire, Osborne House on the Isle of Wight. These attractions have a host of awards between them!
If you are out with the family, and looking for some family fun, check out the exciting theme parks, popular zoos and farm parks – all of which are sure to provide that next memorable day out in South East England. You'll also find a whole host of steam railways offering the chance to sit back and enjoy the beautiful South East countryside and kid friendly museums to discover, learn and inspire.
Don't miss a ride on the Bluebell Steam Railway in East Sussex, and the all-weather Beaulieu, Home of the National Motor Museum in the New Forest or Tapnell Farm on the Isle of Wight.
Learn how local food and drink is made on one of the many distillery and brewery tours on offer, or join in one of the 'Made in South East' workshops where you can make, do and create your own holiday experience.There are over 140+ vineyards scattered across the South East for you to explore, offering the chance to enjoy a tour and tasting, a delicious lunch, or a wander around their glorious estates. Make a stop at Balfour Winery, Kent for a wine tasting mastercalss or a self guided tour, or head along to one of the regions great Country Pubs for a pint, great company and the chance to try an array of local brews - some of the most famous include Bombay Sapphire Distillery in Winchester.
South East England’s climate also makes the area perfect for must-see gardens such Painshill in Surrey, Batemans or Bates Green Garden in East Sussex. With over 1900 hours of sunshine a year, the South East is one of the sunniest destinations in the UK. Take advantage of this fantastic location and experience a day at the races, enjoy a boat trip along the River Thames, a visit to one of the many award-winning blue flag beaches and dip you toe in the sea. With over 3 million acres of natural beauty and 400 miles of stunning coastline to explore you are sure to find plenty to enjoy here on a sunny day.
Adventure too the 140-acre Marwell Zoo home to hundreds of exotic and endangered species or take to the tree's for a different view with Go Ape with its various sites across the South.
But if the weather changes, that doesn't matter too, as there are plenty of indoor attractions for a rainy day. With beautiful heritage theatres full of entertainment, comedy, drama, dance and music for you to enjoy, along with great places to shop and eat, you can stay warm and dry inside. The South East and all its diversity is ideal place to visit whatever the time of year, whatever the weather and with some great free things to do, it doesn't have to cost the earth either to get out and about on your next visit, staycation or holiday.
Browse the below list featuring some of the best attractions in the South East or for a list of local attractions near you, select map view to search geographically.
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Number of results: 265
, currently showing 21 to 40.
Museums & Galleries
Andover
Housed in a Georgian town house built in the 1750s, Andover Museum tells the story of the town and its surrounding area from prehistoric times to the present day.
Historic House / Palace
Petworth
Explore this majestic mansion and beautiful landscaped deer park.
Garden
Hastings
A 10 minute walk from Hastings town centre, this Grade II Listed Victorian park is one of the finest to be found anywhere in the country.
Distillery
Whitchurch
Located in rural Hampshire just 60 miles from London, Laverstoke Mill is a site steeped in natural beauty, sitting astride the crystal clear River Test and situated within a Conservation Area and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Forest
CRANBROOK
The National Pinetum is a world-class collection of dramatic conifers and a beautiful setting for a country walk in all seasons.
Nature Trail / Watching
Watlington
Discover an Oxfordshire dreamscape as you walk to the top of Watlington Hill, where you will find breathtaking views and fine wildlife all year round.
Farm
Horsham
This 90 acre (36 ha) farm is managed as a livestock farm, with numerous footpaths around the site, incorporating grassland, the River Arun, wet meadow, ancient hedgerows, and access to the greater countryside.
Historic Site
Fareham
Fort Nelson is a superbly restored Victorian fort overlooking Portsmouth Harbour. It is home to the Royal Armouries national artillery collection with over 350 historic guns on display.
Animal Collection / Zoo
Chipping Norton, Chipping Norton
Mixing classic fairy tales, animals and adventure play, children will love Fairytale Farm. With our exciting adventure playground, an enchanted walk with a surprise around every corner and a chance to meet our amazing animals, there is so much to…
Farm
Southampton
Traditional Hampshire farmstead - range of buildings, farm animals, machinery and equipment, pre-1950's farmhouse and 13thC church set for 1900 - living history site.
Walking Tour
Curious About... Explore, Discover & Enjoy!
Curious About offer over 75 self-guided heritage walks with a treasure hunt theme across towns and cities across the UK! Suitable for individuals & groups of all ages, they are great for Family…
Science Centre
Morn Hill, Winchester
Winchester Science Centre is more than a day out. It’s a chance to spark your children’s curiosity in science which could lead them on an exciting journey for life! Situated in the stunning South Downs National Park, this exciting family destination…
Historic Site
ABINGDON
Abingdon Abbey Buildings are the medieval domestic buildings of Abingdon Abbey founded in the 7th century and demolished in 1538 during the Dissolution of the Monasteries. Constructed between the 13th and 15th centuries, they contain outstanding…
Historic House / Palace
Lewes
A Tudor house with Georgian additions in downland park setting. Important English and European Old Master paintings, fine furniture and notable Sevres porcelain.
Museum
Arundel
Arundel Museum is the south coast’s newest museum, revealing the story of the historic town of Arundel.
Vineyard
Bolney, Haywards Heath
Find out why Sussex sparkling wine has been beating champagne in blind taste tests. Bolney Wine Estate carries a tradition brought to Britain nearly 2,000 years ago.
Heritage / Visitor Centre
Oxford
For the first time in 1000 years, the secrets of Oxford Castle have been ' unlocked', revealing episodes of violence, executions, great escapes, betrayal and even romance. Visit Oxford Castle and uncover the secrets for yourself.
Castle / Fort
Rochester
This attractive, turreted castle is set in a picturesque village area that is backed by rolling, wooded hills. The castle is fronted by a water bastion jutting out into the River Medway.
Gallery
Guildford
Watts Gallery - Artists' Village is a unique Arts & Crafts gem nestled in the Surrey Hills. Discover stunning Victorian paintings and sculpture in the historic Watts Gallery before treating yourself to lunch or a cream tea in the Tea Shop.
Historic Site
Winchester
Winchester Castle includes The Great Hall, The Round Table and Queen Eleanor's Garden - see individual entries for more details.
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