Tips for summer road trips with children
With the promise of a long summer, millions of families will be hitting the road in search of some quality time together. Take some time to enjoy the great British countryside or plan an exciting day with the children.
South East
The Look Out Discovery Centre, Bracknell. This interactive science exhibition has more than 70 exhibits set in over 2,000 acres of woodland. Facilities include children’s play areas, mountain bike hire, walks and orienteering. Turn off at junction three from the M3 or junction 10 off the M4. For more details call 01344 354400 or visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk
Colchester Zoo, Essex. Colchester Zoo is one of the finest zoos in Europe with over 200 species set over 60 acres of beautiful parkland. Award winning enclosures include the Kingdom of the Wild and Penguin Shores. Located off junction eight of the M11 with free parking, Colchester Zoo has been voted Zoo of the Year and also Essex Family Attraction of the Year. For more details, call 01206 331292 or visit www.colchester-zoo.com
South West
The Dinosaur Museum, Dorset. The only museum in Britain devoted solely to dinosaurs is packed full of fossils, skeletons, life-size models and interactive displays. The museum is situated off junction 25 of the M5 and has nearby parking. For more details call 01305 269880 or visit www.thedinosaurmuseum.com
Bristol Zoo Gardens Animal Collection, Clifton, Bristol. From the smallest and rarest tortoise in the world to the largest ape, there are over 300 exotic and endangered species to see at the Zoo of the Year, as praised by the Good Britain Guide 2004. From the M5 follow the brown tourist signs from junction 17 or 18 or from the city centre. For more details, call 01179 738951 or visit www.bristolzoo.org.uk
Midlands
Alton Towers Theme Park, Staffordshire. Boasts over 125 rides and attractions including the brand new Rita Queen of Speed ride and thrilling Oblivion and Nemesis. Those travelling south can take the M1 junction 28 or M6 junction 16. If you are travelling north take the M1 junction 23A or the M6 junction 15. For more details call 08705 204060 or visit www.altontowers.com

Picture: Alton Towers Theme Park.
Althorp House, Northamptonshire. Althorp has been the home of the Spencer family since 1508 and is the final resting-place for Diana, Princess of Wales. Visit the house, grounds and exhibition. From the south, Althorp is clearly signposted as you approach Northampton from Junction 16 of the M1. The Park is located seven miles west of Northampton off the A428. For more details call 01604 770107 or visit www.althorp.com
Wales
Techniquest, Cardiff. Techniquest is a science discovery centre with 160 interactive exhibits, live shows, tours of the universe in the ... Read more
/image%2F0506027%2FobpicTjf0cZ.jpeg)