We love this day out in Cumbria where you're encouraged to "take a fresh look".  Some of the amazing animals you will get to see include the only Canadian Lynx in the UK and you will have the opportunity to help their Lynx Conservation Project.  The Asian Fishing Cat is also well worth a look - these cats are known for diving under the water and catching fish!  Other activities include fantastic flying displays and play areas for the little ones...

Mabie Farm Park is a firm favourite. Ideal for families with younger children ,this family oriented farm park has lots of animals to meet and also offers Donkey Rides, Paddle Boats and Slides as well as Trampolines and Bouncy Castles. Kids can run around on the Soft Play Area while mum and dad relax in the Tea Room. There is also a Farm Shop onsite selling toys, gifts and fresh local produce including cakes and jams. Seasonal activities can also be enjoyed including a spookly tea and walk on Haloween. The Farm closes for the winter on October 31st.

This is a museum and art gallery in one and will suit those looking for an educational and cultural day out.  You can explore the fantastic art collection including Fine Art, Decorative Art and Textiles.  If you love nature then this aspect of Tullie House will appeal. The museum holds large and important collections of zoological, botanical and geological material. And for lovers of history there is plenty to wet your appetite here. Tullie House collects a wide range of historic materials including objects, ephemera (printed material), photographs and associated information files.  We think this museum and art gallery are excellent value for money as well.

We also recommend a visit to Castle Douglas and the Treasure Hunt Treasure Trails. These treasure hunts are great fun for the whole family and are an entertaining way to explore a new town or village. Children will enjoy solving the clues whilst learning about the history of the area. The walking trail is suitable for wheelchair users and those with pushchairs so no one is left out of the fun.

This is an award winning Lake District attraction and they have been operating cruisers on Lake Ullswater for over 150 years.  There is no better way to explore the lakes than on water and you could even combine a cruise with a spectacular walk.  For great days out in this region then this attraction is highly recommended and will appeal to couples as well as families.  Corporate groups are also well catered for.

Rydal Mount & Gardens are wonderfully situated between Lake Windermere and Rydal Water offering breathtaking scenery. The home of William Wordsworth from 1813 - 1850 the grand home is now lived in by the poets descendents but parts of the house and grounds are open to the public. Why not take a guided tour and see the rooms where many of the famous poems were written. The gardens are beautiful at all times of the year but in the summer offer a spectacular display of colour. There is also a gallery and a tearoom. Discounts are available for group bookings.

Housing the most fascinating collection of Birds of Prey in the North East this centre is definitely worth a visit if you are staying in the Kielder Water area. Located in Falstone it's easy to get to and makes a great day out for both families and couples.  As well as seeing the amazing birds you can learn all about the captive breeding programme and the excellent work being done there.  Some of the highlights of the day might include watching a Falcon stoop down from the skies at over 100mph and admiring the grace of the Eagles, Kites and Hawks.