Nominate your Best Day Out in England...

 …and you could win £200 worth of Red Letter Day Vouchers

When was the last time you had a great day out in England? No doubt it brings a smile to your face, so why not share it with the nation! Enjoy England is creating a shortlist of ‘best days out’ which will then be put to a national vote in association with travelmail.co.uk. The winning suggestion will be awarded with a trophy at The Enjoy England Awards for Excellence this April - and you can play your part in making it a star!

WIN £200 worth of vouchers

For your chance to win let us know what and where your best free days out are in England by leaving your comments below. From a picnic along the coast with family and friends, to a memorable visit to a historical attraction or a theme park, please tell us what your best day out is in England.

We are searching for ideas for each of England’s nine regions, so let us know and we can share it with the nation!

• North East
• England's Northwest
• Yorkshire
• Heart of England
• East Midland
• East of England
• London
• South East
• South West

Red Letter Day vouchers can be spent on a number of experiences from action packed days out, to indulgent treats, cultural events, sporting fun and so much more. Your comment may also appear on www.enjoyengland.com, in The Mail on Sunday and also on the website travelmail.co.uk.

Deadline for entries is Sunday 29 March 2009

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Comments

[Paul]

My favourite day out, would be sailing from Brighton marina. Brighton is very easy to get too, has stacks of trendy hotels and b&b's and the night life offers a fab weekend break!

[abhishek]

My perfect day out would be driving to Sennon Cove in Cornwall, sitting by the beach watching the waves whilst having lunch and then heading to the Minack Theatre, at Porthcurno to enjoy one of their fantastic open air shows.

[Davidof]

Not living in the England anymore but I have been to lovely places. I have been to the Lake District biking with my friend which was very special. We got lost more than a bit but found our way. Although the Lake District is very special but I will remember my weekend with my uncle and aunt in North Yorkshire as my best experience. I think North Yorkshire with its hills and road which continously go up and down and the amazing secenary touched my heart. We went to Tanhill the highest pub in England, one of the tallest waterfalls in England is something different. North Yorkshire is just simply wonderful!

[Kristy White]

My best day out I gave as a gift to my sister. Just after my mum passed away, I wanted to give her an experience to remember so I gave her my dream experience. It was at Paradise wildlife park
In herfordshire. Being a big cat keeper for the day. feeding tigers and lions, stroking them and full contact of some of the most majestic of big cats.Truly paradise and once in a lifetime experience.

[Stuart B]

Walking around Leicester is one of my favourite ways to spend a day out – Leicester is one of the great undiscovered cities of England. I love the history of the Roman Jewry wall, and the view to the future of the National Space Centre. There’s also a beautiful city hall and the Leicester lanes area is a great place to find some little shopping gems. The city is incredibly diverse, with amazing curries, great street stalls and a vibrant student life.

[Jessica - London]

I went on a night ghost tour of Chester last year and was shown all of the ghostly locations of the city. The rest of the weekend we explored the centre of the town and drank tea in one of the many tea shops. I stayed at Oddfellows, possibly the most creative ‘restaurant with rooms’ I’ve ever had the pleasure of staying in – it’s based on the Adventures of Alice in Wonderland and is definitely the hotspot of Chester nightlife.

[Eleanor]

One of my favourite days out is to take the family to the Yorkshire Dales. My two older sons love mountain biking so they head off the minute we arrive. My husband and I love to take walks through the hills, and stop for a picnic along the way, and recently we drove to Harrogate for dinner after a day out in the Dales and were spoilt for choice and ended up in a great local pub with a warm atmosphere. It's the best way for me to spend a day with the family.

[Darren]

A day out in Bedgebury Forest and Pinetum, in Kent. The Forest is full of fun activities for all the family - a number of cycling routes including off road for mountain bikes, miles of walking tracks (for all ages and fitness levels), a large Childrens play area, plenty of wildlife, lots of scenery and of course the famous Pinetum with plenty of information on the numerous Trees found there. It really is one of those "best kept secret" places that I cannot recommend more!

[Natasha]

A weekend away down in West Sussex. We stayed at the beautiful Bailiffscourt Hotel and Spa and after time relaxing in the spa, we enjoyed long walks along the beach and through the private parkland, taking in the tranquility and sea breeze!

[Two under Two]

A day out with two under two! This needs careful planning and flexibility. So, the last day out I had with the young ones was when visiting the in laws in the North East. We often head up this way and always look for something new and exciting to keep the kids entertained. This time the new RSPB Salthome visitor centre had just opened. Though not finished it was a great and gave the kids an opportunity to run around like headless chickens (not sure the other bird watchers appreciated this) while I got a chance to spot some wonderful birds. After walking through the vast platforms set up to view the various birds it was time for tea and cake (always my son’s favorite part of the day!). The tea room was great value and the cakes were deeeeelicous (as a 2yr old would say). After a few hours here we headed to Seal Sands to watch the loads of seals basking on the sun... what I would do to have a few hours basking in the sun! The kids loved this as you don't get many seals in London and you get quite close. After this we headed to a local highlight (when the sun is shining) called the Blue Lagoon. It wasn't quite as I had pictured it, with the steal works in the background, but the sand dunes were great fun, the beach clean and even managed a paddle in the water. Found a few old car tyres and had hours of enjoyment rolling them up and down the beach. All this fun and out door air for price of a cup a tea and a cake... who said England is just as expensive as abroad!

[Lorraine Metcalfe]

I was very fortunate to visit Ightham Moat near Sevenoaks during Kent's "Big Day Out" last year. It is a superb moated manor house dating from 1320 but the architecture within spans many centuries. For example there is a Great Hall, an Old Chapel and Crypt, a Tudor Chapel with painted ceiling, a Drawing Room with a Jacobean Fireplace and 18th century frieze wallpaper whilst one of the most curious exhibits is a giant dog kennel in the courtyard. The house is set in superb surroundings. There are many ancient trees, lakes and fountains, enclosed and walled gardens, an orchard with bee hives, shrubberies and a delightful woodland walk. I visited when the Spring bulbs were in full bloom but it would be stunning in any season and especially when all the trees are covered in their Autumn tints. Set within a deep wooded valley Ightham Moat provides peace and tranquillity, rare luxuries in this busy, modern world, and a wonderful and captivating step back into our past history.

[Peter Keeble]

For a perfect day out I cannot think of anything better than to catch the steam train from Tenterden Town Station. The Kent and Sussex Railway is probably the country's finest example of a rural light railway. Opened in 1900 it operated for over half a century before being temporarily closed in the 1950s before reopening in 1974. The line follows the River Rother levels and passes through stations with magical names like Rolvenden, Wittersham and Northiam and finally arrives at Bodiam. The whole journey takes 48 minutes and it is a joy to watch the wildlife (particularly wetland birds) through the carriage window. From Bodiam Station a short walk down a country lane, crossing the River Rother by a means of a stone bridge, brings you to Bodiam Castle. It is the perfect example of a late medieval moated, quadrangular castle. Built in 1385 by Sir Edward Dalyngrigge it consists of round towers on its four corners and square towers for defence purposes in the middle of the four walls. It was probably built more for show than defence but consists of all that is expected of a castle - postern, great hall, footbridge, crenulations - in fact it has the lot. There are numerous places for picnics in the grounds and a walk along the towpath is also very rewarding before catching the return train. What more could you ask of the perfect day out - steam trains, medieval history, beautiful countryside - I took three of my grandchildren and we all had a ball.

[Sheila Ludden]

My best day out is the boat,train and bus trip in Devon.You buy a ticket and you can do the trip
whichever way round you want.
We started at Totnes and sailed on the ferry down the river Dart to Dartmouth.Lovely scenery on the way and Dartmouth is very picturesque with lots of cafes,pubs ,restaurants and quaint shops.
After lunch we took the steam train to Paignton.A great nostalgic trip.
After exploring Paignton we then went back to Totnes on the top of an open air bus.
A lovely,lovely day out!

[Kate]

My perfect day out would be driving to Sennon Cove in Cornwall, sitting by the beach watching the waves whilst having lunch and then heading to the Minack Theatre, at Porthcurno to enjoy one of their fantastic open air shows.

[Mrs Emma Woodward]

Portsmouth's historic navel yard is a great day out for all the family. The all inclusinve ticket is a great buy and allows you to roam freely through the exibits at your own pace. We started with a ramble around the HMS Warrior which got both our four year old and his dad in the mood for a navel day with cannons and anchors to measure up against and the original and fully restored fabric of the ship to embrace, you felt transported back in time. We moved on to the Mary Rose exibit and all were enthralled by the imense work involved in the restoration of this legendary vessel, we all enjoyed the self guided audio tour. The experience zone with simulators and displays captivated the childrens mind while the tea room set on a mezzanine floor above gave us a welcome retreat. We rounded the expereince off with the incredible tour around Nelsons "Victory" where six floors are to be explored including the workings of this great and powerful ship. We had dinner in the resteaurant and brought some great souveniers from the shop. There is more than a full day here and you can come back and finish your day pass any time within a year. Plenty of fresh air no overcrowding great views and friendly staff.

[Steph]

Best day out would be taking the train down to Hastings on a Saturday morning, strolling into the Old Town and heading straight to one of the seafood stands facing the sea. Buying a plate of shrimp, oysters and prawns to kick off the seaside feeling. Then walking up the stairs to the top of the cliff which overlooks the whole town, William the Conqueror's castle and the coast. Finish off the afternoon with a drink in one of the cafes on a sunny winding street away from the crowds. Beautiful, relaxing day.

[Toni Inns-Barron]

A visit to Lindisfarne should be on every "to do list" in summer. A small tidal island dominated by a Castle, surrounded by clear waters & sandy beaches. Steeped in history - legend has it St Cuthbert split his rosary beads as he was crossing the causeway & now, years later, they are washed upon the shore with each incoming tide - perfect beads with holes through for you to collect & re-string - hoooooours can be spent scouring the beach for these beads. Sand dunes galore to play hide & seek lead to a secluded bay of sandy beach leading t clean shallow (child friendly)sea. Take the challenge to walk the short circumference of the island beating the tide along the pilgrims walkway. Great seafood freshly caught eaten in a friendly cosey pub looking from Lindisfarne Castle to Bamburgh Castle. Perfect family day out. GO NOW! enjoy x

[Patricia Friedman]

Market day in Ripon, N. Yorks. is on Thursday, and they have some fantastic stalls, great fish, fruit and vegetables, anything you could want. This is set in the centre of a beautiful old, well preserved town, which is a pleasure to wander around, possibly visiting the cathedral, and eating lunch at Lockwoods restaurant. The atmosphere is fantastic, and the people welcoming.

[michael simpson]

Oh what a day my wife & I had a couple of years ago! I had this V/W Camper 5 berth you know the air cooled ones , It was a 1974 left hooker. Anyhow we went on what for us was a short journey from Nottingham to the Derbyshire Dales. This was because I had not had this Camper very long & I wasn't sure of Its reliabilty! so I picked a place called "Lickpenny Lane" camping site. It was a very nice place In the Dale's & the van went well, we were given a map by the camp site manager of some loverly walks & set-off around mid-day so that on this 40min walk we could get a pub lunch at the end of It. We had gone about 2mls, when we came to a very twisty down - hill part of the walk. All seemed well but for some reason, I turned on my ankle & we both heard a loud crack! ooh the pain It was awful. The ankle swelled up really bad, my wife had to get under one of my shoulder's to help me the rest of the way down this walk, to where there was a Pub. We went Inside & a very nice Landlord & his wife strapped up my ankle! but It dawned on me that although my wife could drive, I knew she just would NOT tackle the Camper, not only was It Left hand drive but It was a big long brute that you needed time to get used to the gears & the clutch! Well! we hobbled back to the camp site because as It was Sunday with no bus for at least an hr, & we only had a couple of quid between us as we had both had a small lunch & a drink In the hope that the ankle might just ease with regards the pain a little, we didn't know If we dared order a taxi. Anyway as I said we got back, I pleaded with the wife to just give driving the Camper a try, but she was having none of It. In the end I had to ring my Son In Nottingham, to bring my father In law to the camp site so that he could drive us all back! this he did, but when we look back on what happened, we have to laugh! I still have a Camper & I have travelled all over England-Scotland & Ireland, needless to say It has been on my own as the Wife refuses to go anywhere with me, she worries that something simlar will happen again! what a laugh! Mick

[Connie]

I have also been to the Black Country museum in Dudley, but that was when I was at school (a long time ago). I have fond memories of going on the canal boat, playing at the fairground and seeing how people used to live. A great day out

[sarah Brown]

The best day out is the Black Country museum in Dudley. Step back in time... Explore the coal mine, old houses, old cinema, faiground, have a old school lesson, go on the barge, old style shops. And taste the best fish & chips ever! So much to do, good value for money and is suitable for all ages. The old remember the young have fun, explore and learn!

[Candida]

Taking a walk along Holkham Beach in North Norfolk, perhaps visiting Holkham Hall and watching the deer in the park there. Followed by a cozy lunch at the George in Cley and an afternoon's shopping in the antique shops and galleries in Holt - my perfect day!

[Lesley Christie]

The day would start off with a breakfast of famous 'Craster Kippers' served with brown bread. Tummies full, we would head off towards the outstanding ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle taking in the rugged Northumberland coastline. The beautiful sands of Embleton bay would be the next treat, taking in the wonderful fresh air all that walking works up an appetite!!! Finally reaching the lovely little village of Low Newton with its quaint square and the very inviting Ship Inn!!! Local crab stotties washed down with a refreshing beverage would definately be on the menu!! We deserve it after such a long walk! Then make tracks all the way back to Craster where a lovely pot of Doddingtons ice-cream would finish the day off. Perfect. I'd do it every day if I could.

[Deborah Eade]

Taking a stroll round Greenwich Market and then down to the river to catch a Thames River Cruise, taking in all the sights along the river. Getting off at the London Eye on the Southbank, having a "flight" on the Eye, dinner in one of the lovely restaurants and then catching the boat back. Perfect!

[Joanne]

a great day out for all the family has got to be The Railway Museum in York.

It is free entrance to the Railway Museum for all the family. Very interesting place with exhibits inside and out.

Then stroll back into the City Centre along the river.

[Clare Michael]

Take a walk alongside some of England's most beautiful and haunting industrial heritage - the inspiration for the film Bladerunner. Walk from the Transporter Bridge in Middlesbrough along the Teesdale Way, which follows the river, then the railway tracks, past steel works, through a nature reserve, emerging finally at the stunning beaches of Redcar, where you can take a well-earned break at Pacittos - famous for their lemon-top ice-cream, before catching the train back to your starting point to watch the sun set over the Transporter Bridge.

[Chris Cardy]

A great place to visit at any time of the year is Mistley Place Park Animal Rescue Centre near Manningtree, Essex. Your entrance fee supports their excellent work in animal rescue. There are tea rooms on the site which serve the best home cooked meals ever! Set in 25 acres of natural parkland on the fringe of Constable Country there are superb views over the Stour Estuary.

[Claire]

A drive out to the North Yorkshire coast across the glorious moors. A bracing walk along the beautiful beach at Robin Hood's Bay, finishing the day off with fish and chips in Whitby - the best you can get!

[Mrs G Ames]

My best day out is to Whitstable for the lovely shell fish. My husband and I love it and a walk along the single main street and look in the shops. We can take the dog and sit outside the pub and have a meal and also take our dog on the beach. Its such a pretty little coastal town and not to far from London for us to reach. Mrs G Ames

[Elizabeth]

It was my birthday in 2008 and we were in South Devon. A perfectly clear, endless blue sky and my husband and I walked the beach at Slapton Sands. Unspoilt, unhurried, wild and windswept 2½ miles of history and beach. Read the story of the D Day Landings and what happened to the little villages. Enjoy the beach and the crashing sea. Just enjoy!

[REBECCA SEWELL]

A drive down to Kent round the Hop Houses and beautiful Countryside and all the National Trust Properties. Tasting local food and drink.

[Ntina]

A day out in central London. Starting at the Tate Modern, walking down the South Bank, along the river, passing the London Eye, crossing the bridge, walking past Big Ben and then onto Trafalgar Square. Stopping at Fortnum and Mason for afternoon tea. A really long walk, but it remind you what a great city we live in. Plus you don't feel so guilty for having afternoon tea with all those yummy cream cakes :)