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This ancient bastion of British royalty is well worth a day out. Its state apartments and the 15th-century St George’s Chapel are glorious. Access to some apartments is restricted when the Queen is staying.

Britain’s oldest university town is a fascinating place to visit, with ancient colleges, museums and galleries at every turn. For a short introduction to the city, start at The Oxford Story on Broad Street. The most magnificent colleges are Christ Church, Magdalen and Merton

Don’t miss King’s, Queen’s and Peterhouse, the oldest college (1284) in Cambridge. Relax on a punt on the river Cam, which runs through the meadows (the Backs) between the colleges.

“London-on-Sea” is the nickname of this cosmopolitan city, established as a fashionable resort by the Prince Regent in the late-18th and early-19th centuries when he moved to the extravagant Royal Pavilion. Shop for antiques in The Lanes, have fish and chips on the pier and visit the beach.

William Shakespeare’s birthplace (1564) is firmly on the tourist map. There are several buildings here associated with the great playwright, as well as the Royal Shakespeare Theatre if you want to catch a performance.

In AD 597, this pleasant market town southeast of London became the seat of the primate, the Archbishop of Canterbury. The magnificent cathedral includes the tomb of St Thomas Becket.

A vast amusement park that was originally a zoo (it still has jungle animals in its Animal Land section) will keep children happy all day. The rides include a terrifying upside-down rollercoaster. Tickets bought in advance are cheaper.

The highest water ride is Europe is just one of the attractions at this theme park, which is popular with families.

Home to the Dukes of Bedford, this 18th-century stately home is one of the best in England. It has a fine collection of paintings and porcelain and large grounds. An added attraction is the adjoining Safari Park.

England’s most romantic castle is built on two islands in a lake surrounded by 500 acres of Kent parkland. It has a collection of medieval furnishings.