The 10 best English Heritage sites to visit with kids

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A family English Heritage membership can be a great way to enjoy days out with the kids on a budget – filling your weekends and UK staycations with fun places to visit without shelling out more money! They’re excellent value for money – usually around £10 a month but they often run discount codes with 20-25% off annual memberships. It could be the perfect Christmas gift for the family to chip in for if you prefer experiences over things. I’ve rounded up the 10 best English Heritage sites to visit with kids – looking at the extras like event days and playgrounds too. From castles and forts to ancient ruins and grand houses, there’s no shortage of places where history comes alive.

The English Heritage have some brilliant sites and seasonal activities for the little ones too. Lots of event days and children’s activities are included for free with your membership (a few have small extra charges) but make sure you check what’s included before you visit. And, I’ve answered some common questions below, so keep scrolling for more info on things like: How much is an English Heritage family membership – is it worth it? Can English Heritage memberships be used in Scotland and Wales? Are English Heritage sites dog friendly? And English Heritage or National Trust? But first, here are my top ten English Heritage sites to visit with kids.

1. Dover Castle, Kent

Dover Castle in Kent is a fortress of fun that ticks all the boxes for a family day out – and it’s without a doubt one of the best English Heritage sites for kids. This enormous castle, perched high on the White Cliffs, has something for everyone. Explore the medieval Great Tower, delve into the secret wartime tunnels, or let the kids run wild in the vast grounds – they even have a new play area. Dover Castle offers plenty of interactive displays and re-enactments that will capture the kids’ imaginations too – with regular free events in the school holidays – we’ve been to some brilliant ones! And the views over the Channel? Just gorgeous, and perfect for a picnic lunch. For all of the details, check out my article: Visiting Dover Castle with kids – a fun family day out guide!

2. Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden, Warwickshire

Kenilworth Castle in Warwickshire is a fantastic place for a day out with the kids. The sprawling ruins are perfect for little explorers, with towers to climb and secret passages to discover. The recreated Elizabethan garden is beautiful, and the interactive exhibits really help bring the history to life. This summer they’re running knights’ tournament events that the kids will love – just check the English Heritage website for event days. It’s easy to spend hours there, soaking in the history and enjoying the outdoors.

3. Osborne House, Isle of Wight

Osborne House on the Isle of Wight is a fantastic place for a family day out with the kids. Once the beloved seaside home of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, this grand estate is like stepping into a royal storybook. The kids will love exploring the lavish rooms of the house, but the real adventure begins outside. The expansive gardens and private beach are perfect for running around, and the Swiss Cottage (a playhouse built for the royal children) is a must-see. Here the kids can imagine what life was like for young princes and princesses. With plenty of open space for picnics and a café on-site, Osborne is a great mix of fun, history and royal adventure for little ones. Plus, the Isle of Wight is the perfect spot for a UK staycation!

4. Beeston Castle and Woodland Park, Cheshire

Beeston Castle is a brilliant spot for a family adventure. Set atop a rocky crag, the castle offers some of the best views in Cheshire – on a clear day, you can see all the way to the Welsh mountains. The kids will love exploring the ruins and imagining what life was like as a medieval knight. Throughout the school summer holidays they run events with things like knight battles, open fire cooking and music from the middle ages – it looks perfect for entertaining the kids. There’s also a woodland walk that’s great for the little ones who enjoy a bit of nature alongside their history. Bring binoculars and a packed lunch – the panoramic views from the top are perfect for a picnic with a view.

5. Tintagel Castle, Cornwall

For a day full of legends and adventure, Tintagel Castle is hard to beat. Set dramatically on the Cornish coast, this castle is said to be the birthplace of King Arthur. The kids will love crossing the footbridge to explore the castle ruins, and the breath-taking views of the sea are worth the visit alone – it’s such a stunning spot, we loved it. The beach below, with its mysterious Merlin’s Cave, adds another layer of adventure too – the kids can even have a paddle in the summer months! Be sure to check out my full review of Tintagel Castle, and the village of Tintagel is a lovely place to explore too. If you get time head to nearby St Nectan’s Glen Waterfall as well – it’s not far from Tintagel Castle at all and it’s so magical.

6. Audley End House and Gardens, Essex

Audley End House in Essex is more than just a grand mansion – it’s a fantastic family destination, and an English Heritage favourite. The house is impressive, but the real magic happens in the grounds. There’s a working Victorian kitchen which the kids will adore – allowing them to experience life as a Victorian servant. They also have stables with resident horses, and beautiful gardens to explore. The children’s playground is the perfect place for the kids to let off steam, and the walled garden is a lovely spot for a leisurely stroll. And, they run all sorts of free family events throughout the year – the spooky Halloween days look amazing for the kids!

7. Whitby Abbey, North Yorkshire

Whitby Abbey’s striking ruins, perched high above the town, are perfect for a spooky day out. The connection to Bram Stoker’s Dracula adds a gothic twist that older kids might enjoy, while the younger ones will love exploring the atmospheric ruins and running around the spacious grounds. I’ve included Whitby Abbey in North Yorkshire in my top ten English Heritage sites for kids because they have a free Dracula show running all summer – included with your membership – and I think the kids would love it! Plus, you can combine your visit with a trip to the beach below or a wander through Whitby town, where you can enjoy a yummy fish and chips to round off the day.

8. Battle Abbey, East Sussex

Step back in time to 1066 at Battle Abbey, the infamous site of the Battle of Hastings. The abbey ruins and the surrounding battlefield make for an educational day out, but it’s the medieval playground, kids’ workshops and the re-enactment events that make this English Heritage site so great for kids. They offer kids’ activities throughout the whole of the summer holidays, and there’s an immersive Battle of Hastings re-enactment held every year in October. (That’s the best time to visit!) The battlefield trail is a great way to let the kids burn off some energy too while soaking up the history. You can download a free family trail or scavenger hunt from the English Heritage website before you go – it’s a fun way to keep the kids engaged.

9. Walmer Castle and Gardens, Kent

Walmer Castle offers a wonderful mix of history, beautiful gardens and seaside views. Originally built as a coastal defence, the castle later became a residence for notable figures like the Duke of Wellington. The kids will enjoy exploring the castle, but the real highlight is the expansive gardens – Walmer Castle is the best place for playing. There’s plenty of space to run around, and the natural play areas dotted throughout the woods and gardens are perfect for little adventurers – I wish all of these kinds of places were so child-friendly! They also have a beautiful Christmas light event in the winter. Walmer Castle is one of the best English Heritage sites to visit with the kids, we really love it there – for all the details, check out my article: Visiting Walmer Castle with kids – a fun family day out guide!

10. Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens, Northumberland

Belsay Hall in Northumberland is a fantastic place for kids to explore, offering a unique mix of history and adventure that will spark their imaginations. The real highlight is the incredible Quarry Garden, which feels like a magical world straight out of a fairy tale. The kids can follow in the footsteps of the mythical Wild Man on the family trail through the grounds and gardens, and swing, climb and slide in the brand-new playground. There’s also a medieval-style castle, adding another layer of fun to the visit. And this particular English Heritage site seems to offer tons of events throughout the year – from bug safaris, to wartime days and jousting tournaments. With plenty of space to play, beautiful picnic areas, and lots of activities going on, Belsay had to make my top ten – it looks like this one could be loads of fun for the kids!

How much is an English Heritage family membership – is it worth it?

If you’re a family that loves to explore then an English Heritage family membership could be a brilliant investment. As of 2025, an English Heritage family membership costs £144 per year for two adults and up to twelve children under 18 – yes, you read that right, twelve! If you’re a single parent or grandparent, the cost is slightly lower at £82 per year. But the big question is, is it worth it? Let’s break it down. If you’re planning to visit more than a few English Heritage sites throughout the year, the membership can pay for itself very quickly.

For example, a family of four visiting popular sites like Stonehenge, Dover Castle, or Kenilworth Castle would easily spend around £50-£70 per visit without a membership. So, after just two or three trips, you’re already in the black! Plus, the membership gives you access to over 400 historic sites across England, which means endless options for affordable family days out. It’s not just about castles and ruins – many sites have beautiful gardens, woodland walks, and plenty of space for picnics and outdoor play. They often host special events, historical re-enactments, and family-friendly activities that can make each visit extra special, and these can be a great way to occupy the kids over the school holidays without an added cost.

Members also get discounts in English Heritage shops and cafés, and you can even enjoy reduced rates on English Heritage holiday cottages – if you’re planning a UK staycation. So, is it worth it? If your family enjoys history and exploring new places, absolutely – for around a tenner each month you can have as many visits as you like without constantly shelling out for day trips. If you’ll visit a handful of places or more each year then it can be great value for money.

Are English Heritage sites free?

It’s a common question for budget-conscious families – are English Heritage sites free? The short answer is no, most English Heritage sites do charge an entry fee. However, with an English Heritage membership you can then visit as many places as you like without spending anything on top. However, English Heritage do allow free term-time entry to their sites for home educating families, just as they do for school visits. So, if you’re home-educating, you can email them to start an account which you’re then able to book educational visits through – just be sure to give a few weeks notice as they’ll need time to approve the visit and send you an entry permit. We’ve used this perk to visit both local attractions and English Heritage sites when we’re on UK holidays. This means that you can visit some fabulous places like these without spending a penny!

Can English Heritage memberships be used in Scotland and Wales?

If you’ve got an English Heritage membership, you’re not just limited to sites in England – your membership can also get you into historic spots in Scotland and Wales – perfect for free days out on your UK staycations! Here’s how it works: English Heritage has a reciprocal agreement with Cadw in Wales and Historic Scotland, which means your membership gives you free or discounted entry to many of their sites too. So, whether you’re planning a family trip to see the majestic castles in Scotland or the ancient forts and abbeys in Wales, your English Heritage membership can help keep those day trips budget-friendly.

In Scotland, this includes access to amazing places like Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle, and many more. Over in Wales, you can explore impressive sites like Caernarfon Castle and Tintern Abbey, all without paying extra if you’re an English Heritage member. However, there’s a small catch – this benefit typically applies if you’ve been an English Heritage member for more than a year. So, if you’re a new member, you’ll need to wait before you can take advantage of these perks. For the first year of membership you can benefit from 50% off entrance costs, but after this it’s a brilliant way to expand your historical adventures across the UK without spending any more.

So, while your English Heritage membership is based in England, it definitely opens the door to exploring historic gems in Scotland and Wales too. If your family loves a bit of history with their holidays, this is a great way to keep your trips frugal and fun!

Are English Heritage sites dog friendly?

If you’re a dog-loving family like ours, you’ll be happy to know that many English Heritage sites are indeed dog-friendly, making them perfect for a day out with the whole family – furry members included! While not every site allows dogs inside buildings or certain areas (understandable, given the historical treasures on display), there are plenty of places where your pooch is more than welcome. Most English Heritage properties allow dogs on leads in outdoor areas like gardens, parklands and ruins – but it’s always a good idea to check the specific site’s dog policy before you go, as rules can vary.

English Heritage or National Trust – what’s the difference?

Choosing between the English Heritage and the National Trust depends on your interests and what you’re looking for in a membership. Here’s a comparison to help you decide which might be a better fit for you and your family:

English Heritage

The English Heritage primarily focuses on historic monuments, castles and ruins. Their properties often include ancient sites like Stonehenge, medieval castles like Dover Castle, and historic battlefields like Battle Abbey. If you’re fascinated by history, particularly from ancient times through the medieval period, English Heritage is a great choice. It’s perfect for families who enjoy exploring castles, Roman forts, and sites of historical significance. English Heritage often hosts historical re-enactments, workshops and educational events that can be particularly engaging for kids. There are over 400 English Heritage sites to choose from – click here to check out what’s on offer near you on the English Heritage website, you can search using your location.

National Trust

The National Trust has a broader focus, managing not only historic houses but also gardens, nature reserves, the UK coastline and areas of outstanding natural beauty. Their properties often include stately homes, beautiful gardens and extensive parklands. If you enjoy exploring grand houses, scenic walks and gardens (or if you’re interested in conservation and natural landscapes) the National Trust could be a good option. It’s ideal for families who love outdoor activities like hiking and picnicking, in addition to history. Many National Trust properties offer children’s play areas, family trails, and activities that make visits fun and engaging for all ages. So whether you opt to join the English Heritage or the National Trust (or both!) you’re bound to have some great days out with the kids.

A final word

Whatever you get up to with the kids this summer have a brilliant time – and I hope this article has helped you to hunt out the best English Heritage sites for family days out near you. Make sure you check out what’s nearby when you’re on your UK staycation holidays too. The English Heritage often have deals for reduced membership prices so click here to see the latest prices and discount codes. Have fun! 😊