Looking for ideas for family days out for May half-term?
English Heritage has the perfect opportunity for some historic fun at its sites across the country.
Can you track down a top-secret message in the Mystery Missions? A top-secret message has gone missing at historic sites and English Heritage needs you to find it before it falls into the wrong hands!
Your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to explore the site, piece together the clues, and crack the codes to reveal the secret message.
What’s more you can save on your visit with up to 25 per cent off gift and annual memberships with our offer right here!
Check out all the sites taking part below and start planning your half-term happenings.
London and the South East
Dover Castle – pipped as a day out you’ll “never forget”, this is England’s mightiest castle. There’s time to practice defending your own castle and burn off some energy in the Siege Play Area, climb the Medieval Great Tower to discover the pomp and pageantry of King Henry II’s court or take a tour in the Secret Wartime Tunnels where the story of Operation Dynamo is brought to life. Walk to the newly opened viewpoint with the castle in the background and round off the day with delicious food and drink in one of the cafés.
Mystery Missions will also be at:
1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield
Carisbrooke Castle
Eltham Palace and Gardens
Osborne
Walmer Castle and Gardens
Check out the London and South East English Heritage sites via this link to the website.
West Midlands and North West
Beeston Castle and Woodland Park – steeped in history and dramatic views, Beeston Castle is like something from a fairytale. Its atmospheric ruins beckon adventurers of all ages – follow the winding woodland paths, climb the hill to the fortress above, and discover panoramas that reach all the way to the Welsh Mountains.
Follow this link to the West Midlands and North West spots.
Mystery Missions will also be at:
Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden
Yorkshire
Whitby Abbey – crowning the clifftop over the historic fishing port of Whitby, the ruins have long been the focus of myths and legends. Challenge your family and friends to giant lawn games, bounce around on space hoppers, and splash about in the sand and water pits. With plenty of hands-on activities in the beautiful grounds, it’s the perfect way to enjoy fresh air and family fun!
Mystery Missions will also be at:
Brodsworth Hall and Gardens
Scarborough Castle
See the Yorkshire English Heritage sites via this link.
North East
Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens – as well as the medieval castle and 30-acres of incredible garden, head to Belsay’s fabulous play area, featuring towering climbing frames, a winding slide, rope nets for climbing, swings and lots more to explore. Little explorers will love the dedicated play area for toddlers. It’s accessible directly from the Coach House Cafe, so you can enjoy a coffee and some cake while your little ones run... wild!
Check out the North East sites at English Heritage right here.
South West
Pendennis Castle – climb to the top of the Tudor keep and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas. Follow the tunnel down to the Half Moon Battery to be transported back to the Second World War. Pendennis Castle is home to many impressive historic guns. Join a volunteer-led talk to discover how they worked. Stretch your legs on the Castle Explorers trail around Pendennis Castle, before taking a break at the Royal Artillery Barracks, where you’ll find a soft play area and a cafe.
Mystery Missions will also be at:
Stonehenge – Playhenge
Make it your mission to visit the South West spots here.
East of England and East Midlands
Framlingham Castle – the 12th century fortress has a long and colourful history, which of course makes it a top family destination this half term. Discover the stories of medieval aristocrats, a Tudor queen and Georgian poorhouse children and learn interesting facts from the free audio guide. The wall-top walk is a must as you get to see Framlingham’s defences and 800 years of history from above.
Mystery Missions will also be at:
Audley End House and Gardens
Bolsover Castle
Wrest Park
Set your sights on the East of England and East Midlands sites via the link to the English Heritage website.
Want 25% off?
Don’t forget, if you want to save on your visit, we’ve teamed up with English Heritage to offer 25 per cent off gift and annual memberships which gives the chance to see its sites in every season.
What’s more English Heritage membership allows every member to take up to six children under the age of 18 within the family group into any of the English Heritage properties at no extra charge.
Want to find out more? Simply click here!
Use code AFFNW25 at the checkout.
Offer ends: December 31, 2026.
T&C’s: For use on new membership purchases only. Annual direct debit only.
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