Chessington
Chessington World of Adventures Resort is a theme park and zoo in South West London. In 2008 a Sea Life Centre opened on the site of the previous children´s zoo. It lies 12 miles (19 km) south of Central London. In 1931 it was opened as a zoo. The theme park was developed alongside it, and opened in 1987. In 2009 it was the 20th most visited theme park in Europe!
On Zoo Days and Christmas Zoo Days the adventure park is closed but the zoo is open for visitors!
During October (21st to 31st), the park hosts a "Halloween Hocus Pocus" event with the park closing late at 8pm. During this event pumpkins, skeletons, cobwebs and witch characters can be found in the park.
The Royal Pavilion in Brighton
Just an hour away you'll find the Royal Pavilion, a must see for tourists. This splendid summer house was built by George IV when he was Prince Regent. The pseudo Indian palace, with Chinese influenced interiors is a riot of colour, expensive fabrics, crystal and gilt. It is very popular.
Stonehenge
A collection of stones dragged 5,000 years ago to this lonely windy plain near Salisbury. Who built it and why? These questions have haunted the minds of scholars for centuries. The great and ancient stone circle of Stonehenge is a World Heritage Site.
Bath
Bath is another World Heritage Site. Bath is a unique city with its springs, Roman Baths, Abbey, and Georgian stone crescents. The surrounding countryside also makes it worth the trip. Take time to browse the city's shops as this compact city centre is largely traffic free.
Winchester
Winchester is an unspoilt cathedral city on the edge of the South Downs. Winchester is England's ancient capital and former seat of King Alfred the Great. You can see the 11th century Winchester Cathedral, the burial site of Kings, and learn the stories of the Norman Conquest of 1066. Winchester was once a major fort against the Vikings, and King Alfred the Great is commemorated in a magnificent statue in the city centre which has become a landmark in itself. Winchester is only one hour from London, so you can combine a trip here with another attraction such as Stonehenge.
Canterbury & Leeds Castle
Canterbury is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and has 2 castles, 6 museums, and the cathedral; infamous as the setting for the brutal murder of Thomas Beckett in 1170. Canterbury became the centre of one of the most important medieval pilgrimages in Europe, immortalized by Geoffrey Chaucer in The Canterbury Tales.
Leeds Castle is described as the "loveliest castle in the world". It was a Royal residence for 6 of England's medieval queens, a palace for Henry VIII, and a retreat for the rich and powerful. The Norman castle sits on two islands in the middle of a lake, and is surrounded by a vast estate.
Stratford-upon-Avon & Warwick Castle
Stratford-upon-Avon is famous for being the birthplace of playwright William Shakespeare. You can visit the great bard's childhood home. Walk around the town and admire the wealth of black and white timber framed buildings.
The medieval Warwick Castle still has most of its magnificent towers and ramparts intact. You can go down into the dungeons where prisoners were tortured, then relax in the lovingly tended gardens. During the summer months, archery, falconry, and jousting take place in the grounds.
Cambridge
Cambridge's stately Gothic style College buildings rise spectacularly from the greenery along the River Cam where students and visitors enjoy punting along the River. Visit the magnificent perpendicular chapel of King's College, founded in 1441, which is considered the finest and grandest example of late medieval Gothic architecture in England. Also see the "Bridge of Sighs", named after its look-a-like in Venice.
Oxford
Oxford is known as the "City of Dreaming Spires". Its hushed courtyards and elegant, dignified time worn buildings have inspired generations of scholars (including Bill Clinton in the 1970s) and writers, including Lewis Carroll who wrote "Alice in Wonderland" here. Visit Christchurch College, where Harry Potter scenes were filmed and where Albert Einstein studied.
Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is an official residence of The Queen and the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world. A Royal home and fortress for over 900 years, the Castle remains a working palace today. Visit the lavishly decorated State Apartments containing priceless furniture in glorious colors and St George's Chapel, home to the 14th Century Order of the Royal Garter. You can also see the Windsor Changing of the Guard in all its colorful pageantry and splendor.
Brighton
Brighton is the seaside town 'cool' Londoners like to go to for days and nights out, and it's also the gay capital of England. Visit the Royal Pavilion (see above), the extraordinary seaside fantasy palace of King George IV, which combines an Indian mogul exterior with an exotic Chinese interior. Stroll along the vibrant beach front with its Artists and Fishing Quarters, trendy bars and clubs. Enjoy traditional seaside fun on the Victorian Palace Pier and shop for antiques and designer goods in the 17th century Lanes. Add to that great nightlife, a lively arts scene, and over 400 restaurants. Yes, it's the place to be seen.
