In conjunction with Classic Cottages we’ve put together some of the best heritage days out for children in Sussex. We know there are loads more too, so if you have any other recommendations do get in touch and let us know.

Firstly there are some fabulous National Trust properties to visit. Here at Mini Travellers we love National Trust days out! They’re great for families and children as they have put children at the heart of a many of their properties, with lots to enjoy whatever your age. Two of our favourite National Trust days out in Sussex are:

Bodiam Castle

Bodiam Castle‘s towering walls and ruined interior offers a glimpse of 14th century splendour. There are often activities and volunteers in full character dress to immerse you into the history of the site.

Cathy, from Mummy Travels says:”It was just one of the many examples of the way the National Trust has made the castle quite so family-friendly. Yes, there’s plenty for adults on medieval life, history, its place in everything from the Wars of the Roses to the Second World War, but at every corner there’s something to entertain and educate kids too”

Read Cathy’s review of Bodiam Castle.

Nymans

Nymans has gardens and woods that are just waiting to be explored. There’s a family trail that takes you around the gardens and the woods has seasonal spotter activities for you to discover and enjoy.

Ting, from My Travel Monkey, says: “He then found a huge giant redwood, which we were all in awe of – craning our necks just to see the leaves, and then played hide ‘n’ seek in the topiary. We also made ‘tea’ in the Round House, a huge den that attracted several youngsters, not before running all the way to the Log Stepping Stones”

Find out more about Ting’s visit to Nymans.

You can read our full post about National Trust properties in Sussex for children and families here.

To visit these National Trust properties and others below do check out Classic cottage’s holiday cottages in Sussex

The Long Man of Wilmington

Just how did the outline of a figure, the equivalent height of nearly 40 men, come to be overlooking the village of Wilmington? This mysterious guardian of the South Downs has baffled archaeologists and historians for hundreds of years and is the tallest chalk figure in the UK!

This is a wonderful walk for the whole family. Set in the beautiful chalk hills of the South Downs National Park, children will enjoy getting up close to the imposing figure. Full details of the walk can be found here.

If you fancy doing the walk with the kids why not check out Acorn Barn a walkers paradise. Directly behind the barn and gardens is a path with direct access to The Downs, and an area where you can explore endless footpaths and cycle trails including the South Downs Way, Weald Way and the Vanguard Way.

Cowdray Heritage Ruins

The Cowdray Heritage Ruins are one of England’s most important early Tudor houses and Cowdray is known to have been visited by both King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I. In September 1793, whilst undergoing repairs and refurbishments for the impending marriage of the 8th Viscount Montague, a devastating fire took hold and most of the property was destroyed. The Kitchen Tower is the only part of the mansion to remain intact.

Cowrdy is home to the Bear Grylls Survival Academy and in particular for families the Primal Survival Family Adventure Course.

The family course is designed to inspire fathers, sons, mothers and daughters alike. The 24-hour outdoor adventure will be delivered by a range of Bear’s hand-picked instructors teaching a range of techniques.

This course is limited to 16 students (eight pairs).Find out more

If Cowdry Heritage Ruins are on your list do consider staying at Challens Yarde which is a Grade II Listed luxury holiday cottage on the Cowdray Estate itself. Formerly a wheelwrights shop and three cottages, the property has retained many of its original features and boasts a wonderful large private garden, off-road parking, and plenty of space to comfortably accommodate up to eight people and two dogs.

Batte Abbey – 1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield

With so much to see and do — including a brilliant medieval-themed adventure playground — Battle Abbey is a great value day out for the whole family. Book online to get the best price and get ready for an unforgettable visit to this must-see site.

Don’t Miss:

• Find out if you’re strong enough to carry a Norman shield into battle in the exhibition
• See the Harold Stone in the abbey — the very spot where the Saxon king was killed
• Stroll around the Victorian walled garden
• The Battle of Hastings re-enactment held every year in October

One of the best and closest places to stay if you’re planning a trip to Batte Abbey is the Castlemans Coach House which is in the heart of 1066 country and within walking distance of the pretty village of Sedlescombe, this former coach house is the perfect place for families and friends looking for a large house that has space to socialise and enjoy quality time together.