Goodwood House

The house itself is a Regency masterpiece - all high ceilings and perfectly proportioned rooms stuffed with proper art. You're walking through centuries of aristocratic life here, from tapestries to furniture that belonged to people who actually mattered in their day. The current Earl still lives here, which gives the whole place a refreshingly lived-in feel rather than the sterile museum vibe you get elsewhere.

The real draw is the collection. Canaletto paintings, Stubbs horses, Gobelins tapestries - it's genuinely outstanding. Even if grand houses aren't usually your thing, the art will stop you dead. Allow a good two hours minimum, longer if you're serious about it. The guided tours are worth booking if you want the proper stories behind the pieces.

A few miles outside Chichester, it works brilliantly as part of a Sussex break. If you're staying at Chichester Lakeside or one of the other parks nearby, this is an easy drive. The grounds are worth a wander too - nothing dramatic, but pleasant enough for stretching your legs after the house itself.

Kids under twelve might struggle with the length and the no-running-about rule, but teenagers who like art or history will get something from it. It's not cheap to visit and opening times can be patchy, so check ahead. Worth the detour if you're in the area and you care about good paintings and proper interiors - skip it if you're after something more active.