7 road-trip treasures of the south east (that you wish you’d known about sooner)

In search of an off-the-beaten-track day of exploring in the South East? Then look no further. From the likes of the magical Hever Castle and its gardens to the impressive Shell Grotto in Margate, get ready to hit the road for some great days out…

Best for being wowed… The Shell Grotto, Margate

This really is one of Kent’s hidden treasures. Head to the Shell Grotto in Margate, where you’ll discover 4.6 million shells and 2,000 sq ft of mosaic on 70ft of winding walkways. It’s thought that a young boy discovered the grotto in 1835, and it opened to the public three years later. To this day, despite many theories, no one really knows who created it or what it was used for. The grotto is open every day, including Sundays and Bank Holidays.

For your sat nav: CT9 2BU

Best for exploring… Dorking’s South Street Caves

Thought to have been originally used to store wine due to its steady temperature of 14C all year round, the Surrey caves were sold to Dorking Urban District Council in 1912 and then opened to the public. Visit the museum before taking a tour underground where you’ll be wowed by the intricate cave carvings and calligraphy – the earliest date to be found engraved in the wall of the cave is 1666. Tours can be taken between May and October, and pre-booking is advised.  

For your sat nav: RH4 1BS

Best for getting inspired… Down House

Just 15 miles outside London, Down House was the home to Charles Darwin and is where he wrote his groundbreaking work, On the Origin of Species. The English Heritage property has been fully restored to how it was when Darwin and his family lived there from the 1840s. You can spend hours exploring the house and grounds where Darwin pondered over his world-renowned theories. You’ll be able to take in the woodland area, see manuscript pages from On the Origin and, most notably, the glasshouse where you’ll be able to see just some of the plants Darwin studied.

For your sat nav: BR6 7JT

Best for a family day out... Hever Castle and Gardens

Home to Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII’s second wife, Hever Castle is nestled in the Kent countryside – and a real gem. Head into the double-moated castle, where you can explore the rooms where Anne used to reside, beautifully furnished with tapestry, antique furniture and Tudor paintings. The award-winning gardens are wonderful all year round. Get lost in the maze or enjoy the spectacle of the jousting for a truly Tudor experience. Check the castle’s site for information on jousting tournaments and other events held there.

For your sat nav: TN8 7NG

Best for being taken out of this world… the South Downs Planetarium

If you fancy doing something a bit different and combining learning with good fun, head to the planetarium. Head to the Star Theatre, where you’ll be able to explore the universe – keep your eye out for comets, eclipses and shooting stars. While there are a lot of educational resources and literature in the surrounding galleries, this is a great day out for all ages.

For your sat nav: PO19 8AE

Best for history-lovers… 1642 Living History Village

Step back in time to the 17^th century where you’ll meet the people of Little Woodham, a charming woodland village. Immerse yourself in the life of the villagers; from embroiderers to sawyers, you’ll experience what it was like to live in a typical 17^th-century English village and see the methods and crafts they would have done then, re-created in front of you. The village isn’t open all year round, so check before you visit.

For your sat nav: PO13 8AB

Best for escapism… Chewton Glen Treehouse

If you fancy turning your day trip into an overnight stay with a difference, then Chewton Glen treehouses await. Escape to your very own secluded treetop abode, where you’ll be kept company by the surrounding birds and squirrels. With floor-to-ceiling windows, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful panoramic views while you tuck into your breakfast hamper, which is delivered straight to your treehouse.

For your sat nav: BH25 6QS