Coventina

Thorpe Park sits between Chertsey and Staines-upon-Thames in Surrey, on the site of old flooded gravel pits that give it a watery setting. It opened in 1979 and is run by Merlin Entertainments. Today it's a full day of rides, with a strong line-up of roller coasters.

Tip: Book your tickets online in advance to guarantee entry.

Legoland Windsor is a LEGO-themed theme park and resort in Windsor, Berkshire, on the site of the former Windsor Safari Park. It has more than 55 rides and attractions across 11 themed lands, plus live shows, building workshops and the Miniland models. It is the most visited theme park in the UK.

Tip: Book your tickets in advance to guarantee entry, and pre-book parking to save time on the day.

Windsor Castle is a royal residence in Berkshire, founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century. Royal Collection Trust describes it as the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and it has been home to 40 monarchs. The grounds cover 13 acres and combine a fortress, a palace and a small town.

Tip: The castle sits at the top of a steep hill and much of the site is outdoors, so wear comfortable shoes and allow for long walking distances.

Bekonscot in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, is a model village built at one inch to one foot and opened to the public in 1929. It is commonly described as the oldest surviving model village in the UK. Its miniature villages capture rural English life in the 1930s, with a cathedral, castle, airport, zoo and cricket match, plus shops with punning names such as Miss A. Stitch the dressmaker.

Tip: Head for the ride-on miniature railway and look out for the punning shop names as you go round.

London Zoo is the world's oldest scientific zoo, on the northern edge of Regent's Park, with the Regent's Canal running through it. It is run by ZSL, a conservation charity, and its animals range from tiny leafcutter ants to a giant silverback gorilla.

Tip: Check the daily animal talks when you arrive and plan your route around the ones you want to catch.

The British Museum in Bloomsbury, London, is a public museum of human history, art and culture. Founded in 1753, it was the world's first public national museum, and it opened its doors in 1759. Its permanent collection is the largest in the world and follows the story of human culture from its beginnings to the present.