If you're looking for ways to entertain your children during the summer holidays - a task made all the more challenging when the weather is wet - then Bletchley Park in Buckinghamshire could be an answer.
Once the top-secret home of the World War II codebreakers, Bletchley Park is now open every day to visitors who want to learn about the incredible stories of the men and women who worked there.
You can explore the original Victorian mansion and restored codebreaking huts and blocks to discover what makes it a place of exceptional historial importance.
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To be honest, the two children I took to Bletchley Park - aged nine and 11 - were less than enthusiastic at the prospect before we got there. However, four hours later, when it was time to go home, they were reluctant to leave and planning their return - which is inevitable.
That's because there's plenty to pique the interest of children and keep them entertained, including hands-on displays, and fun interactive tables to have a go at cracking codes using a variety of techniques.
There is also a family tour specially designed for children available on free multimedia guides, as well as Most Secret Mission Packs which provide activities and fun facts for all the family to enjoy.
The interactive multimedia guide is narrated through the character of a WREN (Women's Royal Naval Service) and includes codebreaker challenges, puzzles and storytelling. An adult version is available too.
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When it's time for a break, there's both a coffee shop and a restaurant, with the restaurant serving delicious hot food, including an appetising children's menu. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, with the benefit of a children's play area outside, including climbing frames and giant chess. A real hit with my two, and a good chance to blow off some steam!
There's also an ice-cream kiosk, and the perfect place to sit and enjoy a tasty treat is on one of the deckchairs around the lake, in front of the beautiful mansion.
The staff at Bletchley Park are helpful and friendly, with plenty of people around to happily answer any questions you may have.
During the school holidays, Bletchley Park runs a variety of workshops and activities for children of all ages, and throughout August there is plenty to get involved in.
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Join Crafty Commanders and Codebreakers to have a go at some codebreaking, make gliders and parachutes and test them out, and even make your own sneaky plans.
Or why not join a fun, family-friendly tour to find out about the amazing people and machines that helped break the Enigma cipher at Bletchley Park during World War II?
In this fast-paced, interactive tour you will learn some surprising new facts, explore everyday life at Bletchley Park in 1941, and you might even take part in some top-secret war work.
Bletchley Park has something for all the family, and is both educational and fun. It's also great value for money. Admission prices are £25.50 for adults, £17 for 12-17 year olds, and free for under 12s. The price includes free return visits for a year.
For more information and to book tickets, visit bletchleypark.org.uk.
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