Historic DAYS OUT

Now that Autumn’s arrived, what’s a better time to plan an adventure with all the historians in your life?

Dove Cottage & the Wordsworth Museum

Discover the traditional Lakeland cottage that was once home to Britain’s greatest poet, William Wordsworth. Soak up the unique atmosphere of Dove Cottage on a guided tour and then take a stroll through the beautiful semi-wild garden. Explore the Wordsworth Museum and discover the world’s greatest collection of the Wordsworths’ letters, poems and journals. 015394 35544 àà wordsworth.org.uk

St Albans Museum + Gallery

Promising fresh experiences each time you visit, come and enjoy regularly changing exhibitions and art installations, take part in the vibrant programme of events, and explore the fascinating histories of the Georgian Town Hall, its Assembly Room, Courtroom and Cells - all in the heart of one of Britain’s most historic cities. 01727 864 511 àà stalbansmuseums.org.uk

Sizergh, National Trust

Standing proud at the gateway to the Lake District, Sizergh is waiting to be explored throughout autumn. ‘Sizergh Uncovered’ (Tuesday 25 – Sunday 30 September) gives visitors a sneak-peek at items not usually on display whilst ‘Cecilia: A Life in Letters’ (until 31 October) tells Sizergh’s story through the words of its eighteenth-century mistress. 0344 800 1895 àà nationaltrust.org.uk/sizergh

Museum of the Jewellery Quarter

When the owners of the Smith and Pepper jewellery factory decided to retire after 80 years of trading, they simply locked the doors and left behind a time capsule for future generations. Today the factory is a remarkable museum in Birmingham’s famous Jewellery Quarter, where you can enjoy guided tours and demonstrations of traditional jewellery making. 0121 348 8140 àà birminghammuseums.org.uk/jewellery

The Bowes Museum

The Bowes Museum offers one of Britain’s most fascinating museum experiences. Founded over 100 years ago, the magnificent building contains the greatest collections of European fine and decorative arts in the North of England. With a number of entertaining interactives and a varied programme of exhibitions it is a great day out for all. 01833 690606 àà info@thebowesmuseum.org.uk

Hever Castle & Gardens

Children can take part in a series of hands-on activities to learn to be a knight or princess in medieval times. Explore different periods in history with encampments, re-enactments and stalls over the bank holiday. 01732 865224 àà www.hevercastle.co.uk