The island is the perfect place to discover an abundance of wildlife. Protected by the Solent from the mainland you can enjoy exploring vast swathes of ancient woodland and shoreline, just don’t forget your binoculars.
Places to Go Liz Arnell
Our guide to a whole new type of adventure. It's time to explore the home! Inspired by the book "A Journey around My Room" we have listed a few ideas to make a little fun at home this winter.
Things to do Penelope Dale.jpg)
Sussex offers the best of both worlds for your self-catering holiday with bustling towns and pretty villages contrasting with the wide-open spaces of the South Downs, Ashdown Forest and windswept beaches.
Places to Go Liz Arnell
Spend a morning or afternoon living the high life climbing around the old quarries with the family. Doesn't matter if you have no climbing experience as this is super beginner friendly.
Things to do Hannah Denby
Go seal spotting and discover the wildlife at Godrevy in West Cornwall.
Things to do Dominique Adams
For the first time in a long time I was able to fully shut out all those niggling worries and racing thoughts swirling around my mind. It was total bliss.
Things to do Sadie Phillips
Falmouth Week is a family friendly festival in Cornwall with a full schedule of activities and entertainment carefully organised for every day of the week. Take the little ones, take the older ones, take everyone or just take the two of you in August and indulge in the true spirit of the town.
Things to do Katie Chown
The East Devon Jurassic Coast is a diverse area with gorgeous landscapes, pretty towns and villages and activities to suit everyone.
Things to do Dominique Adams
If you've been inspired by Andy Murray's recent ascent to the world number one title, why not book a cottage with a tennis court for spring or summer? Practice your backhand lob in the privacy of your own garden.
News & Offers Kayleigh Hardy
The town has one of the longest stretches of sand in Europe with seven miles of glorious beaches including the beautiful locations of Brean Down and the famous Lighthouse spot.
Things to do Tasha H
Not just for those with a Bus Pass... this journey is best taken on an open top bus!
Visitors' Book Maz C
Brixham is a beautiful harbour town with pastel houses clinging to the hillside. It’s a colourful town, rich with history and wildlife, perfect for family holidays or peaceful romantic getaways.
Things to do Philip Eley
'Raised on adventure stories with sleeping giants, fairies and trolls, it was the sort of place where they could indulge their imaginations to the full.'
Places to Go Philip Eley
Perfectly positioned between Dartmoor and Bodmin Moor and close to the Devon border, Launceston is ideally situated for exploring both Cornwall and Devon.
Things to do Dominique Adams
The beautiful medieval city of Wells offers a unique and charming day out for everyone looking to enjoy breathtaking landscapes and stunning architecture.
Things to do Tasha H
If you love admiring and exploring the great outdoors, then this part of the world is the perfect place to soak up beautiful countryside and emerald woodland. The Blackdown Hills offers an extensive range of range of activities and things to do on a visit to the area.
Things to do Tasha H
Set in the heart of Wiltshire and boasting a wealth of history, Salisbury is the perfect stop off point, either to explore nearby Dorset and Hampshire, or to spend a couple of days soaking up some culture before heading further on down the country to your holiday destination.
Things to do Becky Bye
Voted the Best UK Coastal Resort at the British Travel Awards in 2015 and 2016, Bude has lots of things to do. Visit for your holiday or simply a day out while staying in one of our Cornwall cottages.
Things to do Abby D
A family day out to Stourhead, exploring the gardens, having a picnic and generally having a magical adventure.
Visitors' Book Emma L
New-fangled ideas and old school fun for Easter in the South and West.
Things to do Katie Chown
This green gem on the south Cornwall coast is a picturesque landscape and geographical hot spot. Here are the places to visit and things to do on the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall.
Places to Go George Thomas
From dinosaur bone hunting to watching the red arrows, we've a great bunch of things to do for free on the Isle of Wight.
Things to do Liz Arnell
If the winter weather is getting you down, try one of our suggestions to beat the blues in the South and West.
Things to do Kayleigh Hardy
A few suggestions for free food in the winter months.
Classic Fodder Katie Chown
Do you like to visit a place with a spooky story? Do you dare visit my list of most haunted Devon places with a ghostly connection? Don't just wait for Halloween at half term, Devon ghost hunts can be enjoyed year-round.
Places to Go Philip Eley
Any time of year is always great for resurrecting some of the simple pleasures of yesteryear. Forests become wonderlands of fun, discovery and adventure. Here’s a round-up of some simple forest fun ideas to try.
Things to do Philip Eley
Take a wander around Dartmouth, one of the many gems on the coast of south Devon. With a colourful Maritime history, there's plenty to discover here.
Things to do Philip Eley
This ancient Dorset town is so tranquil and laid back, R&R is practically guaranteed so you can kick back and zone out. But if you like to occupy your time away, there are plenty of things to do in Tolpuddle.
Things to do Katie Chown
The wolves and chatty giant otters were a big hit, the stories of their conservation making for heart-warming reading and the friendly deer that were free to roam around the park added a magical touch.
Places to Go Faye
For an action packed day of adventure in West Wight, this is the place to go! There's an adventure awaiting all the family, whatever the weather.
Things to do Liz Arnell
Enchant little ones with a trip to Compton Castle in the school holidays and let their imaginations run wild.
Places to Go Philip Eley
A willow adventure awaits: some of my favourite days out are the ones that sound the strangest - The Willows and Wetlands Visitor Centre certainly ticks that weird box!
Things to do Kylie Barton
When you think of a UK summer holiday, what comes into the mind's eye? I would hedge a bet that it may involve a pebbled beach, seaside huts, little ones playing in the water and perhaps an amusement park or two. Enter, Hayling Island.
Places to Go Kylie Barton
The great Cornish countryside is a veritable playground, crammed to bursting with adventures to be had. Photography by Annabel Elston
Things to do Sian Pickles
A true sanctuary - for you and the animals - there really isn’t anything better for the soul than spending the day out at a true animal sanctuary.
Places to Go Kylie Barton
Pick Your Own Fruit Farm does not sound like a thrill-a-minute day out for children used to theme parks and soft play areas, but I defy any child not to love the experience of standing in a warm field eating just-picked fruit with berry-stained fingers.
Things to do Philip Eley
Wherever you end up in the South West this Easter there are things to do that will entertain all.
Things to do Becky Bye
The area has beaches, coastline, moorland and gentle hills, so it is a great place to come on holidays with children. With so much natural beauty it is not difficult to find lots to do to keep the family busy, whatever the weather.
Things to do Philip Eley
I hadn’t thought much about having a holiday in Ryde before I spent the day there but I was really surprised by what it has to offer.
Things to do Liz Arnell
Actually, there's quite a lot of things to do in Somerset without spending money.
Places to Go Katie Chown
Sometimes the travelling really is nearly as good as the arriving.
Visitors' Book Philip Eley
Tune in to nature's jukebox.
Stories & Characters Katie Chown
If there’s one thing that can be counted on in Cornwall, it’s that you can’t count on the weather.
Things to do Sian Pickles
I cannot recommend Moors Valley Country Park highly enough, in fact I've already sent a number of friends and family along and hope to go back again myself soon.
Things to do Faye
Considering it wasn't our location of choice we really surprised ourselves with how enjoyable it was and would highly recommend a visit.
Things to do Faye
One of three lovely long loops you can walk, jog or ride.
Pub Philosophy Peter Kirby
Finding somewhere new that keeps 3 small children entertained for a day and has free entry and free parking is like the Holy Grail for a parent, especially over the summer holidays when paid-entry activities soon mount up. Hannah's child friendly and cheap place for families to visit.
Places to Go Philip Eley
One not-so-touristy spot on the coast of Dorset which has a quaint charm worth spending a few days getting to know, is Poole.
Things to do Becky Bye
we loved Living Coasts, it was a constantly entertaining mix of great animals and special activity areas which meant that they never got bored. A great day out for all the family in Torquay.
Places to Go Philip Eley
Isle of Wight dog walks at Yaverland don't come prettier than this one filled with sparkling sea glass for beach wanderers.
Places to Go Liz Arnell
Fishing can be a great day out for families, couples, parent and child, or even solo. Whether you are new to the activity, or you have brought all your gear on holiday with you, there is something for everyone here in Hampshire.
Places to Go Kylie Barton.jpg)
The Helford River is an absolutely stunning part of Cornwall packed full of interesting wildlife, history and stories. So, get to know the river a bit better, and go on a Helford River Boat Tour.
Things to do Abby D
It’s a great place to watch the ships go by from Portsmouth and Southampton with sailing boats dotted in between with many a deli and cafe to while away relaxing days.
Things to do Liz Arnell
If you enjoy the chugging of the engines, seeing the steam rise up into the skies, and the hustle and bustle on board a carriage, then be sure to check out the West Somerset Railway when visiting the county.
Places to Go Kylie Barton
A fun, low cost holiday activity for all the family, crabbing in Hampshire makes for a great day out.
Visitors' Book Kylie Barton
Longdown is an activity farm where you can visit the animals in the New Forest, an enjoyable day out in Hampshire for all the family.
Places to Go Kylie Barton
You can explore the whole of Devon from Tiverton, visit the contrasting coastlines of north and south Devon, as well as seeing the two varied moorlands of Dartmoor and Exmoor, so there are lots of things to do.
Things to do Philip Eley
The best places to visit in Cornwall that you may have heard of, but not added to your must-see list. Well, we think they're worth taking a peek at.
Places to Go Abby D
Beer may be small but there are lots of things to do to keep everyone entertained. From beach days to places to eat and entertainment, it makes a great day out in Dorset or Devon.
Things to do Becky Bye
Looking for things to do in Bath in September? Don't miss this festival celebrating the life and works of Jane Austen in the second week of the month.
Places to Go Kylie Barton
Explore a new town and find things to do with children in Totnes - as we eliminated suspects and weapons we explored places with great names like Warland and Ticklemore Street.
Things to do Philip Eley
Shaldon is a fantastic village facing an attractive estuary with a small village charm but also a good range of shops, pubs and cafes. It lies in a sheltered valley and stares out at the larger town of Teignmouth which it is connected to by a bridge and a ferry.
Things to do Philip Eley
Want bucket loads of seaside charm? Head to Looe! Whether you decide to base yourself here, or pop over for a day trip, there are plenty of things to do to keep you busy here.
Things to do Abby D
When looking for a family day out, what is it you look for? I think of fun, food, and a little bit of education sprinkled in for good measure. To get just that, you need look no further than Southampton.
Places to Go Kylie Barton
With its pebble beach, easy-going vibe, and many interesting days out and attractions nearby, Seaton is a good place for a family holiday, a walking holiday or an activity holiday.
Things to do Philip Eley
A pretty chocolate box village on the south of the island. Godshill makes for a quaint day enjoying cream teas and pretty pubs, it’s also a great base for walking out into the Isle of Wight countryside.
Things to do Kayleigh Hardy
There are lots of great places to visit, and exciting things to do, which won’t cost anything apart from some parking fees. Here is my list of 10 free things to do in Torbay with children.
Things to do Philip Eley
On the first Sunday of August each year a bunch of mad mountain bikers descend on the quiet villages and open moorland of Exmoor for a 30+ mile challenge. Sign up early as it’s always over-subscribed.
Things to do Liz Arnell
Now theme parks may fill some families with dread – the queues, the food, the prices. But Paultons Park is a great fun day out for the whole family packed full of pleasant surprises.
Places to Go Kylie Barton
Bovey Tracey is a welcoming town with many tasty cafes and restaurants. It is a great base from which to explore a lovely area so here is my guide to things to do in 'Buvvy'.
Things to do Philip Eley
If you're heading to the Isle of Wight on holiday, you may well stop in Portsmouth - why not make a day of it?
Things to do Kylie Barton.jpg)
Whether you’ve got a week or an afternoon to spend, Lerryn makes the perfect place for a spot of pottering. There are things to do in Lerryn to keep you occupied while you relax and unwind on holiday in Cornwall.
Things to do Abby D
If you've tried surfing and found it's just not for you, take a look at our alternatives. You can still get in the water while you're on holiday, try a new activity and get all the family involved.
Things to do Kayleigh Hardy
Dorset walks, places to eat and things to see and do in the unassuming but very pretty little market town of Beaminster, north of Bridport. It's worth a quick visit when you're on holiday in Dorset.
Things to do Katie Chown
We swooped in and took over a vast expanse of sea wall with multiple seawater buckets, miles of tangled string, and a stinking bag of bacon, dried whitebait and squid. West Bay is a family favourite for crabbing competitions.
Things to do Emma L
Famously there is no entry fee and no car parking charge for visiting the Sanctuary. We’re an open charity and people are welcome to visit 365 days a year. The donkeys are here and need feeding, so we’ll be open!
Places to Go James Chubb
Dawlish is a seaside town in south east Devon with a gentle air of sophistication yet still a great place for traditional bucket and spade holidays. With both Dawlish and Dawlish Warren full of ideas for a fun break, here is my guide of things to do in Dawlish.
Things to do Philip Eley
Situated just a few miles from Southampton, this small market town, has lots of hidden gems to keep you and your little ones amused for a day. There are lots of things to do in Eastleigh.
Things to do Kylie Barton
If you’re after a coastal day out in Dorset, but fancy something a little more adventurous than Lyme Regis or Swanage, then Lulworth Cove is for you.
Things to do Becky Bye
Cinemas are everywhere. And can be a great way to dodge a rainy day while you’re on holiday. But if you like places with a dash of character and plenty of good films to go around, you might want to plan a special trip to one of these.
Things to do Kayleigh Hardy
On a day out in Dorset, Portland peninsula, which dangles off the south coast, has a surprising amount to do, so if you want to avoid the summer beach crowds in Weymouth, then head over to Portland for something a little different.
Things to do Becky Bye
Plymouth describes itself as Britain’s Ocean City. It is a vibrant, modern city with plenty of attractions and historic buildings, places to visit, things to do and see and lots of foody destinations.
Things to do Philip Eley.jpg)
They say that good things come in small packages. In the case of Beaulieu, nestling in the historic heart of the New Forest, they're spot on. There's lots of wonderful things to do in Beaulieu.
Things to do Jonathan C
A day out in Dorset would be far from complete without a trip to the seaside. Swanage is the best town on the Jurassic Coast for scenery.
Things to do Becky Bye
For a postcard perfect Cornish village, head to Mevagissey. This sweet fishing port on the south coast of Cornwall offers up buckets of old school charm and the freshest fish of your life.
Things to do Abby D
Enjoy all Bath has to offer – which is a lot! I will walk you through my choice of locations for a date day out in Bath.
Places to Go Kylie Barton
Look no further than the amazing picnicking backdrop of the South. From Dorset to Wiltshire and Somerset to Hampshire, English Heritage and National Trust places to picnic which boast the most beautiful gardens and have their gates open wide for families and dogs.
Classic Fodder Becky Bye
Whether you’ve just been on a fantastic stomp around the Fowey Valley or you’re simply in the mood for a cream tea with a view, you have to check out the Duchy Cafe in Lostwithiel.
Classic Fodder Abby D
Little known Dorset town Wimborne Minster has a lot of activities to offer, whether you are after a family day out, or a quiet relaxing weekend for two.
Things to do Becky Bye
Powderham castle is the home of the 19th Earl of Devon and he is one lucky fellow to live in such a great setting. Our first sight of the castle was over a bulrush-bordered lake and my children all exclaimed with wonder at the sight.
Places to Go Philip Eley
Whilst on holiday in a Hampshire cottage you will be sure to want to stock up on local produce to sample during your time with us. I don’t know about you, but one of my favourite things to do as a couple is go to a good country market and a car boot sale. Such a day out is pretty much a relationship goal, it is so simple, yet so enjoyable.
Places to Go Kylie Barton
Winchester is the old capital of England, it is steeped in history, full to the brim with beautiful architecture, fine eateries, and quaint and quirky shops, making for a lovely day out.
Places to Go Kylie Barton
For anyone who is a bit of a history buff and likes a bite of traditional English lunch, then Dorchester is a much needed mark on your Dorset map.
Things to do Becky Bye
You can’t escape the sea when on holiday on the Isle of Wight, but head inland towards Newport and you can enjoy a waterside location that’s slightly less salty.
Things to do Katie Chown
A holiday in Shanklin is the perfect bucket-and-spade seafront experience. Full of fun for all the family, it’s the quintessential beach resort destination, but in an idyllic setting on the south east coast of the Isle of Wight.
Things to do Katie Chown
With a perfect mix of culture, heritage and adventure, Weston-super-Mare is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a slice of traditional beach fun paired with an abundance of things to do.
Things to do Tasha H
When you think of a typical Cornish holiday, you probably won’t think of St Austell. But this historic town is well worth a wander and offers plenty of things to do as well as fantastic access to some of the best beaches in the whole county.
Things to do Abby D
Sherborne is a pretty and historical town full of things to do and see.
Things to do Becky Bye
Kingsbridge is an attractive market town in its own right, but it is most often seen as a good base from which to explore the spectacular surrounding area of South Hams.
Things to do Philip Eley
Teignmouth has the nostalgic charm of a Victorian seaside town, with its pier, lido and large houses, but there’s a lot more to this interesting town than that, so here’s my guide to things to do in Teignmouth.
Things to do Philip Eley
The New Forest Centre is a hub of information and activities through which to learn about the beautiful scenery which surrounds you, and provides a great educational day out for families holidaying nearby.
Places to Go Kylie Barton
The pretty harbour village of Watchet offers a charming holiday experience in West Somerset. During the summer it is a hive of activity with the winter months in contrast proving a quiet and tranquil ambiance. For a little town, there’s plenty going on, so I’ve picked some of my highlights for a day out in Watchet.
Things to do Tasha H
On a glorious spring day last year, we did two things of note. We looked at the sky. Then we gazed at the sea. Then we enjoyed many of the things to do in Southampton that make for a great family holiday.
Things to do Jonathan C
The Isle of Wight is one of the few places in the UK where you could get away with a relaxed approach to holidaymaking. From the centre of the Island you are never more than half an hour from the sea, and you'll find family friendly bays, beaches and coves scattered all over. There are lots of things to do on a visit to the Isle of Wight.
Things to do Robbie L
Spring is just around the corner, and it is the perfect season to visit one of Hampshire’s farm animal parks.
Places to Go Kylie Barton
Torquay has been a fashionable seaside resort since the early 19th century with some fabulous beaches and many interesting historical houses alongside its shops and cafes.
Things to do Philip Eley
Set on the south coast, Fowey is a maritime lover’s paradise. The smart nautical town hugs the west side of the Fowey estuary, where deep waters attract sailing fans. The town itself is a mix of enchantingly narrow streets and a mix of architecture including historic medieval, grand Georgian and Victorian buildings.
Things to do Abby D
In South Devon people usually describe anything which is a bit quirky and whacky as ‘a bit Totnes’, and for a long time, the town sign said ‘Welcome to Totnes - Twinned with Narnia.’ Totnes is an interesting, independent, beautiful, historical town. It’s a fabulous place to explore with many distracting turns up exciting alleyways.
Things to do Philip Eley
Quite simply, Lymington is an enchanting town for all seasons, for all the family. Situated on the southern edge of the New Forest, it offers the perfect springboard from which to explore the stunning national park.
Things to do Jonathan C
I wonder if Weymouth is actually rather overlooked and under-rated, with visitors flocking more to other Dorset locations such as Bournemouth, but Weymouth has some brilliant hidden gems that I want to share with you.
Things to do Becky Bye
If like me you love this incredible location, you may want to take a few days to experience the wonders it beholds and sample a slice of the region’s heritage on a longer stay.
Things to do Tasha H
Truro is Cornwall’s only city! Steeped in history, Truro boasts stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, an eclectic shopping scene as well as a range of galleries, bars, restaurants and clubs. You’ll find something fun to do whether you’re visiting with kids, on a romantic getaway or flying solo.
Things to do Abby D
One of the nation’s favourite seaside towns, Newquay is a fantastic place for a holiday. With a different beach for every day of the week, an emerging foodie scene and a packed calendar of events for the year it’s a must see location if you’re in the area.
Things to do Abby D
Exploring the historic county town of Taunton gives you a chance to soak up a range of experiences. From the grounds of Somerset’s County Cricket Club to the impressive heritage of Taunton Castle, this lively hub is an ideal spot to enjoy a mix of culture and entertainment.
Things to do Tasha H
Lyme Regis is the perfect seaside destination for a weekend break, come rain or shine. Almost bordering on Devon, Lyme Regis is tucked away on the edge of Dorset, along the Jurassic Coast and has lots to do, whether you’re an active family, or a quiet couple.
Things to do Becky Bye
Welcome to the heart of the New Forest, where cattle, ponies, donkeys, deer and pigs have roamed free for centuries.
Things to do Jonathan C
By Diary of a Devon Mum (Clio FitzHerbert)
Visitors' Book Clio Fitzherbert
Explore the wild and beautiful Lizard Peninsula and revive the senses, before returning to your very own home-from-home in a luxury holiday cottage.
Things to do Lizzie Heather
Year-round beach fun with a round up of some beach activities which I do with my family, and a few suggestions of great locations to do them in.
Things to do Philip Eley
Somerset brings apples and pumpkins together in an Autumn tumble of Halloween fun.
Things to do Katie Chown
Keep everyone entertained with October events in Devon during Autumn half term, there's plenty of pumpkins to go around.
Things to do Katie Chown
When on holiday, consider a slightly different point of view. Grab a blanket, a bottle of wine and come and check out the latest in night-time activities.
Things to do Lizzie Heather
Head out with Cormorant Cruising and discover the local history, marine life and stunning views from the seas around beautiful Mousehole harbour.
Things to do Adam Ludnow
I was headed to the new cycling mecca: Lanhydrock - where there would be no cars, only trees, the rumour of cake and other lycra-clad illuminous beings.
Things to do Rachel Wilson-Couch
Here are my recommendations on where to get away from the crowds and take a really wild Cornish dip
Things to do Sian Pickles
Devon offers many amazing opportunities for visitors who want to try their luck with rod and reel, or simply a handline. Then there's the spearguns...
Things to do Pat Kinsella
Swimming – it's the most natural of activities, yet so many people only ever do it in the most unnatural of locations.
Things to do Pat Kinsella
Even my twelve-year-old son was soon bashing away at rocks with his hammer and proudly announcing his discovery of belemnites, crinoid stems and an ammonite
Things to do Amanda Tomlin
In a county hemmed by stunning, Atlantic-pounded beaches, it’s hardly surprising that surfing is such a popular pastime
Things to do Hayley Spurway
3 Games... to spice up a dull car journey 3 Games...your grandparents might teach you 3 Games...to play after a bottle or two of wine
Things to do Katie Chown
Our fascination with the wet stuff is never-ending...
Things to do Peter Kirby
We explore the eastern boundaries of our territory. Don't succumb to the temptation to keep following the dotted white lines west, but turn off and explore the unique character of Dorset. Perfect for a short, revitalising escape.
Places to Go Philippa Penney
Seaside or rural, find some food to stick on the barbie! Plus some extra treat ideas.
Classic Fodder Katie Chown
Feast on food and film this Autumn
Things to do Katie Chown