Just outside London, on the banks of the River Thames, is Hampton Court Palace, East Moseley, Surrey, once the residence of Henry VIII.

As well as the magnificent State Apartments used by the Tudor court, there are 60 acres of immaculate riverside gardens to explore, and a world-famous maze that will delight children and grown-ups alike.

After your visit, take a walk along the banks of the river or catch a boat to Kingston, Richmond or Kew. On a sunny day, this is one of the nicest days out to be had around London.

The get there, take a train from London Waterloo to Hampton Court. The journey is around 35 minutes and runs every half hour.

In the summer it is possible to take a boat from central London to Hampton Court. See River Tours for more information.

If you can plan your stay well in advance, two self-catering apartments are available for hire at the Palace which can sleep up to 8 people.