Whether it's a fun-packed day out with the kids, or a relaxing stroll through the countryside you are looking for, Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire can offer something for everyone.
Here are just a few ideas to inspire. . .
l The Waterways Museum, in Stoke Bruerne, is run by British Waterways and is located in a restored corn mill by the Grand Union Canal. It contains examples of canal painted ware and the type of clothes worn by the men and women who used to work the canals. The museum is open daily from 10am to 5pm in the months of April to October.
l Silverstone Circuit, (pictured) in Silverstone, provides high- octane races during the summer including the Silverstone Classic from July 27 to 29 and the Le Mans Series from September 15 to 16.
Whether it's a fun-packed day out with the kids or a relaxing stroll through the countryside you are looking for, Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire can offer something for everyone.
Here are just a few ideas to inspire. . .
l Sulgrave Manor, near Banbury, is the former home of George Washington's ancestors. The manor contains Tudor and Georgian furniture, the largest UK collection of George Washington memorabilia and the national garden of the Herb Society.
Sulgrave Manor is open to visitors from midday to 4pm on weekends and from 2pm to 4pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
l Blenheim Palace, one of the country's most impressive homes, is just ten miles from Bicester and is famous for being the birthplace of the Britain's most illustrious leader, Sir Winston Churchill. The palace is set in 2,100 acres of gardens. New for 2007 is Blenheim Palace, The Untold Story, a high tech attraction that brings to life the events and stories of the family and servants who lived there during its 300 year history.
l A boat ride through the Cherwell Valley countryside on the Oxford Canal is a relaxing way to spend a summer's afternoon.
Oxfordshire Narrowboats based at Heyford Wharf have a range of boats available for self steer day hire between March and November. To find out more visit www.oxfordshire-narrowboats.co.uk or call them on 01869 340348.
l The Mad Hatter Play Centre in Murdock Road, Bicester, is a great place for children to burn off some energy. Children under five feet tall can enjoy the indoor play frame with ball pools, slides, the spooky cave or the climbing wall. A recent addition to the centre is their garden which includes a race track for self propelled Diddy Cars and Zed Bugs.
l Waddesdon Manor, near Aylesbury, (pictured, courtesy of Hugh Palmer, National Trust)
houses one of the finest collections of artwork and furniture in the region. The Manor also boasts fine Victorian gardens, with a parterre, statues, fountains and seasonal displays.
l Gulliver's Theme Park in Milton Keynes has several areas catering for different ages including Toyland, Lilliput Land, Discovery Bay, Junior Discovery Cove and Adventure Land.
l Xscape in Milton Keynes offers a range of white-knuckle sports throughout the summer including a snowdome. Visitors can also experience some of the thrill of skydiving without having to hurl themselves from an aircraft with the Airkix windtunnel. A large cinema, bowling alley and a selection of bars and eateries are also available within the complex.