The UK, renowned for its capricious weather, offers a plethora of indoor and outdoor activities perfect for family holidays. From captivating museums and historic cities to picturesque landscapes and diverse coastlines, there’s something to captivate every member of the family. Embark on an adventure tailored to your preferences while exploring holiday destinations in the UK for families.
The Lake District, Cumbria
The enchanting natural beauty of The Lakes holds timeless appeal for visitors of all ages. Windermere, especially suited for families with young children, boasts the tourist hub of Bowness, where little ones can revel in various activities. Families can enjoy boat rides or leisurely strolls along Windermere’s shores, and at Brockhole, a country house, indulge in boat and kayak rentals, treetop swings, archery, and an adventure playground. Delight the kids with encounters with characters from Beatrix Potter’s tales at the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction or immerse them in Wordsworth’s world at Dove Cottage in Grasmere. A family-friendly walk around Blea Tarn near Ambleside or a visit to the Aira Force waterfall beside Ullswater provides easy yet rewarding experiences. For those seeking more adventure, Gowbarrow Fell offers panoramic views of the lake.
Jurassic Coast, Dorset
Combining traditional seaside amusement with a fascination for fossils, the Jurassic Coast in Dorset offers an engaging retreat. Lyme Regis, exuding a subtle charm, serves as an excellent base with its two distinct beaches—one sandy and the other adorned with grey pebbles, featuring a section of ammonite pavement. Dive into prehistoric marvels at the Dinosaurland Fossil Museum housing over 12,000 specimens, including Ichthyosaurs. Experience the nostalgia of classic seaside resorts in Swanage and Weymouth or opt for invigorating clifftop walks along the South West coastal path. The picturesque stretch from Branscombe to Beer offers mackerel fishing trips and a visit to the Undercliffs National Nature Reserve—its dense vegetation creates a magical atmosphere that enchants children.
London
England’s bustling capital, London, promises endless delights for children and families. Wander past iconic landmarks like Parliament and Buckingham Palace or stimulate curious minds at the Natural History Museum, the British Museum, and the Science Museum. Enjoy leisurely strolls at Kew Gardens or any of London’s parks—Hyde Park offers boating on the Serpentine while Crystal Palace features captivating dinosaur statues. The city’s diverse offerings ensure an abundance of engaging activities; even a ride on the Tube becomes an adventure for the little ones. For a weekend extravaganza, hop on a train northward for the Harry Potter Studio Tour. Conclude your day with the magic of a world-renowned show in London’s West End.
Cornwall
For families seeking coastal adventures, Cornwall’s diverse offerings cater to all ages. Teens flock to Newquay for thrilling waves and bodyboarding, while Bude’s charm attracts visitors of all generations. Alternatively, the Fowey area and the emerald landscapes of Roseland and Lizard Peninsulas enchant families. Cornwall’s standout attraction, the Eden Project, houses a captivating rainforest within its biomes, complemented by outdoor sculptures and gardens. Nearby, the Lost Gardens of Heligan, once forgotten after WWI, have been restored to their enchanting glory. St Ives boasts stunning beaches and the Tate art scene, while hidden coves invite wave-jumping adventures, and villages like Polperro immerse visitors in the smuggler’s tales.
York
Steeped in history, York offers engaging experiences for older children and teens. Walk along sections of the 13th-century walls spanning nearly two miles to absorb the city’s historical depth. Explore the Jorvik Viking Centre, offering immersive rides through 10th-century streets and engaging live interpretations. Jorvik DIG provides younger children with hands-on archaeological experiences. For those daring enough, The York Dungeon presents live re-enactments of the city’s darker historical periods. The National Railway Museum caters to vintage train enthusiasts and offers a different kind of historical charm.
Pembrokeshire, Wales
Home to the UK’s sole coastal national park, Pembrokeshire lures families with its expansive golden beaches and unspoiled landscapes. Explore impressive cliffs, visit quaint seaside towns, and embark on wildlife-spotting boat trips. Barafundle’s picturesque bay and crystal-clear waters draw visitors, while Broad Haven offers safe swimming, paddle boarding, and rockpool explorations. Holiday parks provide ample accommodation options, or consider using Tenby as a base, with its vibrant town beaches and colorful harborside.
Giant’s Causeway, County Antrim
Northern Ireland’s iconic Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts hexagonal basalt columns perfect for hopping and photography. Guided audio tours by the National Trust delve into the legend of Finn McCool, ancient geology, and coastal erosion. The Causeway Coastal Route offers additional attractions like sea safaris, Dunluce Castle, and the thrilling Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. Daredevil teenagers can cross the wobbling bridge high above the Atlantic, evoking an Indiana Jones-like thrill.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh captivates families with its majestic castle dominating the city skyline. Explore dungeons, witness cannon firings, and delve into fascinating tales from the fortress’s past. Teens can enjoy humorous ghost tours or venture below ground at Real Mary King’s Close for chilling stories. At the Camera Obscura, mind-bending illusions offer educational yet entertaining experiences. Burn off energy by climbing Arthur’s Seat or exploring Edinburgh’s Royal Botanic Gardens.
Windsor
Ideal as a day trip from London, Windsor boasts the Queen’s weekend retreat—its grandeur evident from the Windsor Great Park. Legoland, another major attraction, sparks creativity with brick-built replicas and family-friendly rides, albeit with expected queues.
These diverse destinations across the UK promise memorable family adventures, combining history, natural beauty, and thrilling activities for all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Holidays in the UK
What is the best holiday destination for families in the UK?
Top UK Destinations for Families
-
- Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland
- Lake District, England
- Trossachs, Scotland
- Cornwall, England
- Devon and Dorset Coasts, England
- Yorkshire Dales, England
- Route Yorkshire Coast, England
Where is the best place to take kids on holiday in the UK?
Family-Friendly Destination: Skegness
- Skegness is renowned as one of the best holiday destinations for families in the UK. With a picturesque seaside setting, the Lincolnshire town offers a myriad of attractions, including go-karting, ten-pin bowling, funfairs, and crazy golf.
What is the cheapest way to have a family holiday in the UK?
Budget-Friendly Options: Camping and Caravans
- Opting for a caravan or camping trip is one of the most affordable ways to enjoy a family holiday by the UK seaside. Modern caravans provide necessary facilities, including satellite TV and comfortable beds, often located in parks with ample activities for children.
Where is the cheapest place to holiday in the UK?
Budget-Friendly Family Holiday Destinations
-
- Scarborough, North Yorkshire
- Isle of Wight
- East Sussex, South Coast
- Whitby, North Yorkshire
- Exmouth, Devon
- Torquay, Devon
- Norfolk
- Peak District, Cumbria
Where do most UK people go on holiday?
Britain’s Favourite Holiday Destinations
-
- Spain
- France
- Italy
- Greece
- Portugal
- USA
- Ireland
- Turkey
Where is the cheapest place for a family holiday?
Affordable Family Holiday Destinations
- Alcudia, Santa Ponsa, and Cala Millor offer ideal options for cheap family holidays with spacious beaches, family-friendly hotels, and restaurants. Algarve in Portugal is also a popular choice with a relaxed atmosphere and activities for children of all ages.
Where is the best place in the UK to start a family?
Best Quality of Life for Families
- Milton Keynes stands out as the top location offering the best quality of life for families, scoring 202 out of 240. Middlesbrough takes the overall lead with a score of 198, and Aberdeen follows closely with 196.
Where is the safest place to holiday in the UK?
Safest Destination for UK Holidaymakers
- North Worcestershire is identified as the safest place for UK holidaymakers, boasting a low crime rate of 365 per 10,000 people in England and Wales by the end of 2022.
Where to stay outside London with kids?
Child-Friendly Hotels Within 2 Hours of London
-
- Brooklands Hotel, Surrey
- Tylney Hall Hotel, Hampshire
- Maison Talbooth Hotel, Essex
- Rubens at the Palace Hotel, London
- Old Swan & Minister Mill, Oxfordshire
- Britains Finest
Is it cheaper to holiday in the UK or abroad?
Cost Comparison
- A summer holiday in the UK can be organized at a relatively lower cost compared to an overseas trip, with potential savings of half the expenses. The actual cost depends on the chosen destination.
What are the cheapest months to go to the UK?
Off-Season Travel
- The off-season, from November 1 to December 12 and December 25 to March 14, offers the cheapest time to travel to Britain. During these periods, airlines often provide irresistible fares.
How can I travel around the UK on a budget?
Budget-Friendly Travel Options
- The most economical way to travel around England for budget-conscious visitors is by coach. While journey times may be longer than trains or cars, bus travel is cost-effective, especially when booked directly through operators like National Express and Megabus.
What is the most famous holiday in the UK?
Christmas Celebration
- Christmas is one of the most significant annual celebrations in the UK, marked by extensive festivities that extend beyond a single day.
Which part of the UK is best?
Top Cities in the UK
-
- Birmingham
- Edinburgh
- Cardiff
- Belfast
- Glasgow
- Manchester
- Leeds
- Oxford and the Cotswolds
What is the kindest town in the UK?
UK’s Kindest Towns
-
- London
- Bath
- Glasgow
- Edinburgh
- Liverpool
- Manchester
- Belfast
- Cardiff
Where is the best place to have kids in the UK?
Best Places for Raising Children in England
-
- Newcastle upon Tyne
- York
- Bristol
- Liverpool
- Bath
- Kingston upon Hull
- Plymouth
- London