Historical attractions

Take your family along to the Royal Armouries Fort Nelson overlooking Portsmouth and see dramatic characters from military history brought to life. Have fun exploring the warren-like tunnels and stroll along the ramparts of this restored Victorian artillery fort. Don't miss the noise and power of the midday gun-firings. Admission is free and there's a welcome for families at the Powderkeg Cafe.

Bringing military history alive in Winchester are the magnificent museums at the Peninsula Barracks, combining six collections of British regimental history. Gain an insight into the Gurkhas' service to the British Crown at The Gurkha Museum, see the Battle of Waterloo laid out at the Royal Green Jackets Museum and follow the role of modern regiments in the fall of the Berlin Wall at the Light Infantry Museum.

Children will love exploring Winchester Cathedral. Take the Tower or Roof Tour, or join one of the nine trails specially designed for children to follow, including Medieval Realms and Watchers of Winchester, or the Woodworm Trail and Saints Galore for younger children. Alternatively, why not try your hand at gravestone rubbings or gargoyle modelling at one of the cathedral's workshops?

Step into the past at the City Museum, which tells the story of Winchester as an important Roman town and principal city of King Alfred through to the present day. Discover how Winchester's shops used to look - the ground floor display includes three-dimensional re-creations. As well as the displays, there are other activities for families, including quizzes, interactive puzzles, and colouring sheets. Throughout the year there are family-friendly fun days, story telling, living history events and much more.

A debtors' prison for 150 years, medieval gateway The Westgate is a great place to explore the past. View the walls covered in prisoners' graffiti and the collections of armour on display. Climb the stone staircase to the rooftop for great views of the city before trying your hand at brass rubbing.

Winchester is also famous for the legendary Arthurian Round Table. A striking sight, the table has hung for over 700 years on the wall of The Great Hall - the only remaining part of Winchester Castle, once the centre of court and government life. Spot the names of the knights of King Arthur and re-visit this favourite legend known to children through books and film adaptations.

Rebuilt in 1744, Winchester City Mill is a compact National Trust property, perched over the fast-flowing River Itchen at the bottom of the city. Take the family to discover its fascinating history - there is a video, children's quizzes and an interactive exhibition, as well as an island garden and impressive millrace. The mill is fully operational again since undergoing restoration in March 2003. Open March to December.

It's 'all aboard' for a ride on the Mid Hants Railway Watercress Line, a steam train operating for 10 miles between Alresford and Alton, providing a nostalgic day out for all ages. Time your visit to coincide with the popular Santa Specials and Thomas the Tank Engine days - perfect for letting off steam!