and full of sparkling characters who will excite and enthuse the whole family with true tales of the past. Far from being a decaying relic, this ancient fortress provides a family day out full of drama and interest that really lives up to that often heard

public ferry up the Bosphorus to the village of Anadolu Kavagi, one of the last stops before the Black Sea. Take hats and sunscreen, as you will want to stay up on deck for the ride and views. Stop for lunch, then head up to the ruined fortress above

-your-own garden. There is also a six-acre giant maze, sand box, trampoline, a football pitch, a straw-bale fortress as well as a picnic spot. Tel: 01334 655610; www.cairniefruitfarm.co.uk

Battle, bloodshed and boiling oil? You might associate castles with guts and gore, but it’s been a long time since this fairytale fortress has seen any real fighting. Its medieval ruins were transformed by the Peverel family into a palace

is an imposing 12th century fortress steeped in history and surrounded by beautiful countryside. Wear your walking shoes and take the family on a scenic stroll along the castle walls for perfect views of the early evening autumn sunset.For more fun family days

, 21–23, 27–29For an illuminating evening, head to Muncaster Castle to see the façade of the famous fortress transformed by lights, music and special effects. Wrap up warmly and keep your eyes peeled for a familiar character being pulled across

streets developed around a solid medieval fortress, Limassol Castle, inland from the port. The castle is still there, floodlit at night and surrounded by excellent restaurants – the perfect place to dine on a warm, summer night. You can’t visit Limassol

, to the Torre de Belém, built in 1515 as a fortress to guard the entrance to Lisbon’s harbour on the bank of the Tejo River, the medieval stories and history of this city will keep your children enthralled for days.You can also include a visit to the yellow

science. 57a Newton Street, Manchester, M1 1ES Tel: 0161 856 3287; www.gmp.police.ukFOR A LITTLE HISTORIAN...STAY Cawdor Castle Located in a beautiful part of the Highlands of Inverness, this 14th-century castle (above) was built as a private fortress

Only programme (four- to 11-year-olds), with exotic activities such as henna hand-painting and belly dancing. During school holidays, children can explore Al Koufa, the resort’s Arabian fortress. What’s best for parents? The palatial Givenchy Spa and traditional