Top South East England Attractions & Museums - page 2

Carisbrooke Castle is a great fortress which began life as an Anglo-Saxon earthwork defence against Viking raids. The Normans raised the shell keep on its towering mound, which you can climb up for amazing views. The castle’s most famous resident was Charles I, who was imprisoned here after his Civil War defeat. You’ll find Charles I memorabilia and changing exhibitions in the Carisbrooke Castle Museum. Later, Princess Beatrice, Queen Victoria’s daughter, made Carisbrooke Castle her summer home. Admire the award-winning Edwardian-style Princess Beatrice Garden, inspired by the princess. The castle’s best-known modern residents are the much-loved Carisbrooke donkeys. They still demonstrate the treadwheel, which once raised water from the castle well. Meet them in their stables and hear their story in a film hosted by Jupiter the cartoon donkey.

Explore the glasshouse, the rock garden, and so much more at RHS Garden Wisley. This ticket allows you to spend time at your own pace in the garden, enjoying just exactly what appeals to you. You can opt for a guidebook, or choose an audio guide (extra expense). You can also add on the shuttle bus from Woking train station if you like, to keep things running smoothly (additional expense).

Book in advance to visit Sea Life Brighton, and head straight inside to discover the underwater world inside the world’s oldest operating aquarium. Built in the 19th century, the aquarium is today home to an ocean, reef, and lagoon displays with a colorful variety of tropical fish, sharks, turtles, and sea horses. Stroll under the sea through a glass tunnel, and learn about sea life breeding programs and community projects as you explore at leisure.

Step into history at the 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield, where the legendary clash between King Harold and William the Conqueror unfolded. Explore interactive displays in the visitor center, navigate the battlefield with an audio guide, and see the abbey ruins built on the very spot where Harold fell. Don't miss the new exhibition that brings the pre-battle era to life with engaging illustrations and a family trail. With a café and playground on-site, it's a perfect family outing to discover England's rich heritage.

Don’t waste time dockside when your cruise ship pulls into Southampton Port. Use the free time you have to visit the English attractions that interest you most. This day-long private excursion is completely flexible, with transportation from the port or a hotel, a driver, and an itinerary that you set in advance. The UNESCO-listed Stonehenge circle, Windsor Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, and Leeds Castle are among your day trip options.

Experience Brighton like never before with the City Lights Flight — a breathtaking 45-minute adventure high above the city and coastline. Step inside the i360 pod after the sun goes down and watch as Brighton and East Sussex transform into a glittering sea of light. From 450ft in the air, the skyline sparkles beneath you, the coastline shimmers, and the night sky surrounds you in a truly magical atmosphere. Begin your journey with a welcome drink from the sky bar, then relax and take in the glowing, panoramic views of the city below. Whether you’re planning a romantic date night, catching up with friends, or simply soaking up the evening vibes, the City Lights Flight offers an unforgettable perspective. This limited evening experience is the perfect way to end your day — Brighton illuminated, and you above it all.

Visit the RHS Garden Wisley, one of the UK’s most visited and best-loved gardens and enjoy a delicious cream tea or slice of cake with a hot drink. Explore the historic home of RHS and view a glorious garden of the future at the brand-new planet-friendly research centre. Head to the new RHS Hilltop, to uncover The Home of Gardening Science that is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of gardeners. Enjoy fruit and veggies of all shapes and sizes in the World Food Garden, sit and reflect in the Wellbeing Garden, or spot insects by the water in the Wildlife Garden. Engage your senses, challenge yourself to race up Battleston Hill, breathe in the heady scents in the Bowes-Lyon Rose Garden, or gaze up in wonder in the tropical Glasshouse. The gardens delight through every season from swathes of bulbs and blossom in spring, unforgettable mixed borders and roses in summer, autumn’s bountiful colours and frost-sparkled walks in winter.