child friendly places to visit uk

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40 Places in the UK to See with Your Kids Before They Are All Grown Up

We’ve put together a list of the most fun, the most innovative and the most covertly educational days out in all of the UK.

Many are geared towards testing brains and coordination, and helping kids develop while having fun.

Others, like the UK’s biggest theme parks, are the sort of organised silliness and mayhem that all children need now and again.

There are places so magnificent and awe-inspiring that they might even bring you closer together, and buildings and museums so fascinating that parents won’t help but be engrossed as well.

Here’s our list of the best places to visit with your kids before they are all grown up!:

1. Science Museum

South Kensington, London

Why you’ve got to go: To enlighten inquisitive young minds about the physical world and the people who advanced our understanding. Well deserved one of the best things to do with your kids!

What to do: It could be civil engineering, robotics or vacuum technology: If there’s a certain sphere that your budding young scientist is just getting into, well, the cavernous Science Museum will have whole galleries devoted to it. The movies at the IMAX theatre will only enhance that sense of wonder.

Get there when kids are: All ages

More info: http://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/

2. Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Leavesden, Hertfordshire

Why you’ve got to go: To be enchanted by a trove of items and places from the Harry Potter series.

What to do: For a young Harry Potter fan , what could be more exciting than stepping into the Great Hall or boarding the Hogwarts Express? You can go behind the scenes for secrets about the special effects and animatronics, and browse a decade’s worth of costumes, sets and iconic props.

More info: https://www.wbstudiotour.co.uk/

3. National Railway Museum

York, North Yorkshire

Why you’ve got to go: There’s a vast hall of engines that will cater to your young ones’ steam train fixation, and then some.

What to do: If steam engines are all the rage with your kids, this attraction will have them riveted. The Great Hall will be a kind of cave of treasures for them, packed to the steel rafters with golden age steam locomotives and a Shinkansen from Japan to hop aboard. You can even see a cross-section of an engine to understand how it works. And it’s all absolutely free to boot.

Get there when kids are: Up to 12

More info: http://www.nrm.org.uk/

4. Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

Edinburgh, Lothian

Why you’ve got to go: Six floors of puzzles, special effects, games and other interactive craziness at one of Britain’s oldest attractions.

What to do: The whole thing started in 1835 with the Camera Obscura, a live projection of a bird’s eye of Edinburgh from atop a tower. Like mini gods, kids can pretend to pick people up or smoosh them into the ground, if that’s their thing. The five floors below are a fabulous miscellany of optical illusions, light and magic and smoke and mirrors.

Get there when kids are: Primary school age

More info: http://www.camera-obscura.co.uk/

5. Eden Project

St Austell, Cornwall

Why you’ve got to go: To journey into landscaped worlds within futuristic domes and get immersed in botany on the way.

What to do: One of the best bits here is the Canopy Walkway, a raised platform high among the treetops in the rainforest biome. You can identify the various plants and trees, like cashew, rubber, banana and cocoa. For young thrills there’s England’s longest zip line, the SkyWire, and lots of interactive gadgets at the Core Building.

More info: http://www.edenproject.com/

6. Stonehenge

Amesbury, Wiltshire

Why you’ve got to go: One of the UK’s most special locations will seem even more magical through a child’s eyes.

What to do: Kids are trivia sponges, and the facts and figures of this site will blow young minds. It’s amazing to think what was achieved 5,000 years ago with just man and ox-power, ropes and stones. The very sight of this monument will also make a big impression on children and get them pondering an era that is mysterious even for grown-ups.

More info: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/stonehenge/

7. Bewilderwood

Hoveton, Norfolk

Why you’ve got to go: For all the energy-burning fun of a soft play park, in 50 acres of whimsical woodland.

What to do: There’s interactive story-telling and puppet shows for toddlers, as well as mazes, zip-lines and rope bridges for bigger kids. Like an Ewok village for children, BeWILDerwood adapts to mature woodland and poses a natural and healthy alternative to indoor play parks. It’s all the brainchild of kids’ author Tom Blofeld and the characters from his books show up to make things even more fun.

More info: http://www.bewilderwood.co.uk/

8. Giant’s Causeway

Bushmills, Antrim

Why you’ve got to go: It’s a UNESCO-listed natural phenomenon, an epic system of basalt columns that look like stepping stones for giants.

What to do: The name alone will spark kids’ active imaginations, but when they see the causeway their sense of awe will be off the charts. You can clamber over the rocks, picking out the weird and wonderful formations, and seeing if they match their old nicknames. Park up at the visitor centre and get to the site via the special shuttle, which has reduced rates for kids.

More info: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/giants-causeway

9. Legoland

Windsor, Berkshire

Why you’ve got to go: Because it’s a theme park made with 80 million Lego blocks. You can’t get cooler than that in a kid’s eyes.

What to do: Go on interactive adventures like Coast Guard rescue or the Lego City Driving School where little ones can get their Lego driving licence. Or ride Lego-themed rollercoasters like the Dragon, which swoops over the park’s plastic block rooftops. And shopping of course: The largest Lego store in the UK awaits you at the exit.

Get there when kids are: 10 or under

More info: https://www.legoland.co.uk/

10. Natural History Museum

Why you’ve got to go: To see the dinosaur fossils and eggs to teach kids about the real monsters that once walked the earth.

What to do: All children have a dinosaur phase, right? The moment you step into Hintze Hall and catch sight of the diplodocus you’ll know you’re in a place that can bring them to life, at least in a child’s imagination. Grown-ups can marvel at the museum’s architecture, while brave kids can confront an animatronic T-Rex and feel what it’s like to be in an earthquake.

More info: http://www.nhm.ac.uk/

11. National Space Centre

Leicester, Leicestershire

Why you’ve got to go: There isn’t a child that hasn’t dreamed about space exploration, and this attraction will make the dream a little more real.

What to do: There are six hands-on galleries for kids to get stuck into, as well as immersive shows at the largest planetarium in the UK. The Rocket Tower is 42 metres high and you’ll speed to the top in a glass lift. It’s one of those days out that is informative for adults, but also keeps kids’ attentions with kinetic exhibits and multimedia.

More info: http://spacecentre.co.uk/

12. Tintagel Castle

Tintagel, Cornwall

Why you’ve got to go: For King Arthur, who was born right here according to the famous legend.

What to do: Explore to your heart’s content, at a place where real Dark Age history and folklore collide. Children will have no trouble imagining knights and wizards at this awesome setting, in which the ghostly ruins of castle walls mingle with cliffs and sprawl onto a little rocky island.

More info: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/tintagel-castle/

13. Tower of London

Tower Hamlets, London

Why you’ve got to go: The Beefeaters at the Tower can tell you more about the history of London and England than a week’s worth of school!

What to do: See Traitors’ Gate, where famous Tudor prisoners like Sir Thomas More and Anne Boleyn entered, never to leave with their heads attached to their bodies. Kids will be dazzled by the Crown Jewels, and gripped by the story of the Princes in the Tower, two young heirs to the throne who disappeared right here in the 15th century.

More info: http://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/

14. Imperial War Museum Duxford

Duxford, Cambridgeshire

Why you’ve got to go: It’s all about the aircraft, with more than 200 machines to wow the bigger kids in the family.

What to do: Duxford will indulge that young fascination for high-octane hardware and feats of wartime daring. In the American Air Museum there’s an enormous B-52 Stratofortress filling the entire hall, and suspended above your head are jet and propeller planes from all periods. This is dreamland for kids who love big machines.

Get there when kids are: Around 12

More info: http://www.iwm.org.uk/visits/iwm-duxford/

15. Hadrian’s Wall

Hexham, Northumberland

Why you’ve got to go: This was the northern boundary of the whole Roman Empire, a titanic wall between the civilised world and northern tribes.

What to do: Hadrian’s wall is the largest single Roman artefact in the world, and its length was marked with mile-castles and forts every five miles. One, Housesteads Fort, encourages children to dip into the ancient past by clambering over these evocative ruins. In a few minutes you can walk down to Sycamore Gap, a spectacular valley made famous by movies.

More info: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hadrians-wall-and-housesteads-fort/

16. Forbidden Corner

Middleham, North Yorkshire

Why you’ve got to go: For a spooky, offbeat and brain-teasing afternoon of discovery.

What to do: Little adventurers are encouraged to explore tunnels, mazes, a creepy mausoleum and hidden passages at a large garden where getting completely lost is all part of the fun. In this large folly you have a checklist of things to track down but there’s not a map to be found. Children will have a whale of a time solving problems, and grown-ups will fall in love with the garden’s wit and imagination.

More info: http://www.theforbiddencorner.co.uk/

17. Zipworld

Blaenau Ffestiniog, Gwynedd

Why you’ve got to go: For safe and challenging fun in an extraordinary underground environment.

What to do: A former slate quarry is now a fantasy-like subterranean space where bottomless sheer walls are fitted with zip lines, rope bridges, climbing grips and even a massive bouncy net. This activity centre is fun, awe-inspiring and exhausting all at the same time and includes the first four-person zip line in Europe.

Get there when kids are: Ten and up

More info: https://www.zipworld.co.uk/location/detail/blaenau-ffestiniog/

18. Warwick Castle

Warwickshire

Why you’ve got to go: To see living history at its best, at the most complete medieval castle in the UK.

What to do: Survey the scene from the walls, climb the towers, see the huge siege engines in action, watch birds of prey shows and solve the ‘Horrible Histories’ maze. And for the bravest souls there’s the Dungeon Experience, in which you go back to the plague-ridden 1300s to meet characters such as the judge, torturer and a cook with questionable culinary standards.

More info: https://www.warwick-castle.com/

19. Beamish

Stanley, County Durham

Why you’ve got to go: To drive trams and steam engines, dress up in old-time clothes and meet a cast of characters from the past.

What to do: There’s a breathless variety of activities to take part in, from ploughing fields, to attending Victorian school, baking bread and descending into a coal pit. Beamish puts kids in touch with the rigours of historic rural and city life in the most direct way possible. Just in case they think they have it tough now!

More info: http://www.beamish.org.uk/

20. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Portsmouth, Hampshire

Why you’ve got to go: For the warships and the tales of maritime life from real sailors on a genuine naval base.

What to do: Whippersnappers can board heritage ships like HMS Victory and hear accounts of the swashbuckling battles that were fought on these decks. Aboard HMS Alliance you can peep through the periscope of a real World War II submarine, while the Mary Rose is a real life shipwreck lifted from the depths of the Solent and displayed before your eyes.

More info: http://www.historicdockyard.co.uk/

21. Llangollen Railway

Llangollen, Denbighshire

Why you’ve got to go: For the UK’s ultimate steam train ride, in the romantic landscape of the Dee Valley.

What to do: Steam engines hold a real fascination for many kids, and this 10-mile heritage line is powered by the hulking locomotives built for the Great Western Railway. Little passengers can meet a working Thomas the Tank Engine, while older parents can watch the beautiful North Wales scenery scroll by from the window.

Get there when kids are: Up to ten

More info: http://www.llangollen-railway.co.uk/

22. Alnwick Castle

Northumberland

Why you’ve got to go: So that kids can tell their friends they’ve been to the real Hogwarts.

What to do: Investigate one of the few medieval British castles that has remained habitable to this day. After the outside and inside of the building starred in the Harry Potter films, Alnwick Castle has reached out to younger audiences. Courageous kids can join the Knight’s Quest, dressing up in chivalric gear, visiting a medieval market and venturing into a dragon’s lair.

More info: https://www.alnwickcastle.com/

23. Llandudno

Why you’ve got to go: To treat children to an old-fashioned s day at the seaside.

What to do: Llandudno has way more than the average beach escape. You do have time-honoured favourites like the puppet shows on the promenade, amusements at Llandudno Pier and the vast open sands at West Shore Beach. But the resort is also set off by Great Orme, a monumental limestone headland, primed for visits via the sweet heritage tram and the cable cars that carry you to the top.

Get there when kids are: Up to 14

More info: http://www.visitllandudno.org.uk/

24. Alton Towers

Staffordshire

Why you’ve got to go: For exhilarating white knuckle rides that will meet the approval of even the most jaded teenagers.

What to do: Alton Towers has a menu of gravity-defying rollercoasters pitched at adolescents and young adults. Smiler sends you upside down more than any other ride in the world at present and Thirteen is the first vertical drop rollercoaster on the planet. There are old-school fairground rides, playhouses and activity centres for the youngest family members.

More info: https://www.altontowers.com/

25. Dorset Heavy Horse Centre

Verwood, Dorset

Why you’ve got to go: To meet, groom and bond with rescued working horses.

What to do: There’s never a dull moment for young animal lovers. You’ll meet, care for and get to know the pasts of the giant working horses, which are incredibly gentle despite their size. The centre has won accolades for its hands-on tractor rides, trips on horse-drawn wagons, petting zoo and a range of workshops blurring the line between fun and learning.

More info: http://www.dorset-heavy-horse-centre.co.uk/

26. Jurassic Coast

Devon and Dorset

Why you’ve got to go: For collecting fossils and impressing youngsters with wild coastal scenery .

What to do: If everything seems bigger through a child’s eyes the cliffs and gnarled rocks of the Jurassic Coast will be a craggy wonderland. Scenes like Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove will stay with them for the rest of their lives. But there’s an educational element on the Jurassic Coast, as you can pore over beaches like Chamouth for fossils freezing 185 million years of history in stone.

More info: http://jurassiccoast.org/

27. National Media Museum

Bradford, West Yorkshire

Why you’ve got to go: To broaden horizons about the possibilities of the moving image and the Internet.

What to do: There are eight floors of free, hands-on galleries explaining how video games, television and movies work and inspiring you about their potential. You can make your own animations, delve into the history of video gaming and track the latest Internet trends. There are always cool workshops and exhibitions in the school holidays and movies at the IMAX screen.

More info: http://www.nationalmediamuseum.org.uk/

28. Fingal’s Cave

Staffa, Argyll and Bute

Why you’ve got to go: For a marvellous natural wonder that your kids will remember their whole lives.

What to do: Stare astounded at the towering basalt columns that look like they might have been made by an ancient race of giants. If your kids are reading Lovecraft they’ll be wild about this sight, which is the goal of a quest into the Inner Hebrides. On calmer days you can go right inside the cave in your boat, and go ashore to scrabble over the polygonal rocks.

Get there when kids are: 12 and up

More info: http://www.nts.org.uk/Property/Staffa-National-Nature-Reserve

29. Paultons Park

Romsey, Hampshire

Why you’ve got to go: One reason: Peppa Pig World .

What to do: Peppa Pig has taken over toddler society in the last few years, and Paultons Park is where you can feed that obsession . All the rides, play areas and shows have characters from the cartoon. Little nippers can jump in Muddy Puddles, walk the Rainbow Road in Mr Potato’s playground and go on seven gentle rides made for little Peppa Pig fanatics.

Get there when kids are: Five or younger

More info: https://paultonspark.co.uk/

30. Cornish Seal Sanctuary

Gweek, Cornwall

Why you’ve got to go: Because you’re never too young to learn about animal conservation and help injured seal pups.

What to do: It’s nice to be in an animal attraction where nearly all the residents are only there temporarily. The Cornish Seal Sanctuary rescues some 50 injured pups a year and nurses them back to health. Come to watch common seals, grey seals, otters and penguins feeding, and go behind the scenes in the seal hospital to see the great work being done.

More info: http://www.sealsanctuary.co.uk/

31. Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo

Begelly, Pembrokeshire

Why you’ve got to go: Little ones can make friends with farmyard animals, feed giraffes, groom ponies, and a lot more .

What to do: There’s a lot of interactivity at this multi-award-winning farm and zoo attraction. So that means befriending miniature pigs and finding out how to milk cows and goats. There’s a barn for petting goats, rabbits, donkeys and miniature ponies, as well as a zoo with wilder animals like lions, Humboldt penguins and meerkats.

More info: https://www.folly-farm.co.uk/

32. Matlock Bath

Why you’ve got to go: To bring kids to a place of magic, innocence and fun high in the Peak District.

What to do: Potter around this lovely gorge-side town and catch the cable-car to the Heights of Abraham atop Masson Hill. This attraction has been running since the 19th century and conducts you around two enormous show caverns that were mined since Roman times. Gulliver’s Kingdom is a theme park aimed at under 12s and the Victorian amusement halls in Matlock bath can provide hours of traditional fun.

More info: http://www.visitpeakdistrict.com/Matlock-Matlock-Bath/details/?dms=3&venue=6070460

33. Caernarfon Castle

Why you’ve got to go: To scale the labyrinth of spiral stairways and conquer the powerful Eagle Tower.

What to do: Be awed by a castle that was intended to make an impact. Caernarfon has UNESCO status and is a must for any child studying the bloody reign of Edward I, nicknamed Long Shanks by his foes. Even today every monarch’s first son has the Prince of Wales title because of this menacing hulk of stone built in the 13th century.

More info: http://cadw.gov.wales/daysout/caernarfon-castle/?lang=en

34. Windermere

Why you’ve got to go: For the majesty and outdoor fun of the largest lake in England.

What to do: A huge list of family-friendly activities is on offer, from rowing, sailing, swimming and canoeing on the water, to horse riding, climbing, abseiling and walking on the shore. And trips on the old steamers that criss-cross the water are sure to wow the youngest family members. The high fells that slope down to the lakeshore never cease to make your heart soar.

More info: http://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/visiting/placestogo/explorewindermere

35. Culloden Battlefield

Inverness, Highland

Why you’ve got to go: This is where the last hand-to-hand battle on British soil was fought, in 1796, a turning point in Scottish history.

What to do: The high-tech new visitor centre is a dream resource for bigger kids keen to know more about the Battle of Culloden. There’s an immersive 360° movie of the battle, an animated battle table and a roof-top viewpoint of the site. The galleries have artefacts and firsthand accounts, and you’ll find out why life in the Highlands and Scottish islands would never be the same again.

More info: http://www.nts.org.uk/Culloden/

36. New Forest National Park

Why you’ve got to go: For the ponies! There are 3,000 wild ponies in the New Forest, going where they please and grazing in woodland glades.

What to do: The New Forest is a safe place for kids to get to know the natural world in person, with gentle country that young legs can handle and piles of kid-friendly attractions: There are bird and reptile centres, deer sanctuaries, tree-climbing adventure parks and activity farms. Be here in summer when the pony foals promise a cuteness overload.

More info: http://www.thenewforest.co.uk/

37. Ironbridge

Why you’ve got to go: At this one location you can trace the very genesis of the industrial Revolution at 10 incredible museums.

What to do: Don a hard-hat and journey underground in the Tar Tunnel, see where nearly all of the country’s tobacco pipes were once made, design your own tiles at the Jackfield Museum, dress up as a old-time potter at the Coalport China Museum. No single place can inform children about the upheaval of the UK in Georgian times like Ironbridge.

More info: http://www.ironbridge.org.uk/

38. White Cliffs of Dover

Why you’ve got to go: To conquer the immense chalk walls that have been England’s front porch for 2,000 years.

What to do: Amble along the gentle grassy trail and look across to France, see the South Foreland Lighthouse where Marconi conducted his radio experiments and put on a hard hat and head torch for a guided tour of the Fan Bay Deep Shelter. Precocious antiquarians can go on a history frenzy as three castles, Dover, Walmer and Deal, flank the cliffs.

Get there when kids are: Aged five and up

More info: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/the-white-cliffs-of-dover/

39. Llancaiach Fawr Manor

Caerphilly, South Wales

Why you’ve got to go: So kids can tell their friends that they’ve braved a real haunted house.

What to do: Young ones can engage with living history, meeting an array of historical characters from the top to the bottom of the social order. These residents are in fact knowledgeable guides who will dish the dirt on this fortified Tudor manor, its role in the English Civil War and all the eerie goings-on that have spooked visitors for centuries.

Get there when kids are: Five and up

More info: http://your.caerphilly.gov.uk/llancaiachfawr/

40. World Museum

Liverpool, Merseyside

Why you’ve got to go: There’s a crazy miscellany of things to see, perfect for the shortest attention.

What to do: It’s not called the World Museum for nothing: Kids can be grossed out by Egyptian mummies, marvel at real casts of dinosaur skeletons, see authentic samurai armour and inspect the creepy crawlies at the Bug House. And if that’s not enough they can blast off on their own space odyssey at the planetarium.

More info: http://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/wml/

40 Places in the UK to See with Your Kids Before They Are All Grown Up:

• Science Museum
• Warner Bros. Studio Tour
• National Railway Museum
• Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
• Eden Project
• Bewilderwood
• Giant's Causeway
• Natural History Museum
• National Space Centre
• Tintagel Castle
• Tower of London
• Imperial War Museum Duxford
• Hadrian's Wall
• Forbidden Corner
• Warwick Castle
• Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
• Llangollen Railway
• Alnwick Castle
• Alton Towers
• Dorset Heavy Horse Centre
• Jurassic Coast
• National Media Museum
• Fingal's Cave
• Paultons Park
• Cornish Seal Sanctuary
• Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo
• Matlock Bath
• Caernarfon Castle
• Culloden Battlefield
• New Forest National Park
• White Cliffs of Dover
• Llancaiach Fawr Manor
• World Museum

Attractions

Architecturally stunning glass domes house tropical plants and the visual surprise of one of the world's rarest and most fragile of butterflies. One of the best things to do with kids is to visit one of the purpose-built, often eco-friendly flora and fauna venues dotted around the country. Should your brood be wannabe scientists and mechanics, top of your ‘places to go with kids’ list should be science centres with practical interactive exhibitions, while model railway museums are among the most popular attractions in England.

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Get in touch with your inner Tarzan at Go Ape

Looking for some active fun? Stop monkeying around and spend the day at Go Ape where you can fly down a zip wire or leap off Tarzan Swings.

Location: Northwich, Cheshire

Savour your scoops at The Ice Cream Farm

Keep the kids happy with more than 40 delicious flavours of ice cream, an outdoor play area, farm, quad bikes, mini golf and more...

Location: Tattenhall, Cheshire

Enjoy splendiferous fun at the Roald Dahl Museum

Ever wondered where Charlie and the Chocolate Factory started? This family-friendly museum has answers for children and adults of all ages.

Location: Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire

Tree top adventures and forest segways at Wendover Woods

Take to the trees for breath-taking views of the Chilterns and Black Park.

Location: Wendover, Buckinghamshire

Bronze Age living at Flag Fen Archaeology Park

Travel back 3,500 years to discover a prehistoric causeway at one of the finest Bronze Age archaeological site in Northern Europe, discovered 1982.

Location: Peterborough, Cambridgeshire

Be at one with birds of prey at Rosliston Forestry Centre

There’s something special about being close to a bird of prey; those round watchful eyes on high alert, fixing you with a dominating stare.

Location: Rosliston, Derbyshire

Discover Cornwall's Eden Project

Five biomes nestled under five giant bubbles in the hills of Cornwall make for one of Britain's most impressive indoor eco-attractions.

Location: St Austell, Cornwall

Visit the Diamond Isle

Enjoy a 10 min trip on the Needles Park Chairlift and go dinosaur hunting.

Location: Isle of Wight

Travel back to the 1930s at Berkonscot Model Village

Bekonscot is the world’s oldest and original model village and model railway, and a tribute to one man’s eccentricity.

Location: Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire

Visit the home of the WWII codebreakers at Bletchley Park

Once Britain’s best kept secret, this major visitor attraction was also the filming location for The Imitation Game starring Benedict Cumberbatch.

Location: Bletchley, Milton Keynes

Underground & over ground adventures at Go Ape

Release your Tarzan and journey to the centre of the earth on an epic double adventure in Derbyshire’s beautiful Buxton.

Location: Buxton, Derbyshire

Rainy Day Activities: Uncover underwater secrets at Blue Planet Aquarium

Discover clown fish, reef magic, giant octopus and plenty more indoor activities as you immerse in this underwater world.

Location: Ellesmere Port, Cheshire

Take the whole family to Chester Zoo

Venture to tantalising tropical islands in the heart of Cheshire with innovative exhibits at the UK’s most popular zoo.

Location: Upton near Chester, Cheshire

Get your thrills and spills at Gulliver’s World

With more than 50 rides and attractions suitable for the whole family, a short break to Gulliver's World is sure to leave you giddy with glee.

Location: Warrington, Cheshire

Swing through the trees at Leeds Castle

Clamber the treetops of 'the loveliest castle in the world'.

Location: Maidstone, Kent

Learn the ropes at Chatham’s The Historic Dockyard

Immerse yourself in 400 years of discovery at the world’s most complete dockyard from the Age of Sail.

Location: Chatham, Kent

Rainy Day Activities: Enter the magical Warner Bros Studio Tour

Step inside the wizarding world of Harry Potter at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London and feel the films magically come to life.

Location: Leavesden, Hertfordshire

Coast to countryside views from Arundel Castle

Explore Arundel’s rich history and heritage with re-enactments and family fun-days at Arundel Castle.

Location: Arundel, West Sussex

Have a great British seaside break at Butlin's Bognor Regis

Famous for long sunshine hours, royal visits and Billy Butlin, the seaside town of Bognor Regis, on the border of the South Downs National Park, is the perfect destination for a family-friendly short break.

Location: Bognor Regis, West Sussex

All aboard heritage steam trains at the Epping Ongar Railway

Pay a visit to Epping Ongar Railway, and ride on running steam and diesel engines between period stations, through countryside and forest.

Location: Chipping Ongar, Essex

Escape the clutches of Jack the Ripper at London Dungeon

You're lost in the streets of East London where Jack the Ripper is on the prowl. Will you make it out alive? Head to London Dungeon to find out.

Location: London Bridge, Greater London

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Family-Friendly Attractions

The Top 18 Family Attractions in the United Kingdom

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The United Kingdom's top attractions for families run the gamut—from screaming thrill rides and totally immersive child-sized worlds to wonderful animal exhibits and family-friendly cultural attractions.

There's no need to put off a trip to the UK just because you have young children, either. Family travel can be fun for everyone as long as you remember to include child-friendly attractions in your itinerary. Fortunately, most of these attractions are also fun for teenagers and adults—everyone can find their inner child on a trip to the United Kingdom.

Tour the Making of Harry Potter

Harry Potter fans and anyone interested in a detailed look at what's involved in the making of movie magic will love the Warner Brothers Studio Tour London: The Making of Harry Potter .

The movies' most iconic sets, including The Great Hall , Dumbledore's Office, Hagrid's Hut, The Gryffindor Common Room are open to the public at the studio, 20 miles northwest of London, where the movies were filmed.

The studio tour is conducted on foot and features costumes, props, and behind-the-scenes secrets of the franchise. While there are no rides or theme park thrills, kids old enough to have read the books and enjoyed the films will be enthralled, and there are interactive experiences including the chance to ride a flying broom.

Roleplay at KidZania

Picture a town where kids run everything: They work as doctors and dentists; train as actors and put on shows for their parents; and do the jobs of airline pilots, firefighters, and law enforcement officers.

Such a place exists at KidZania, a children's role-playing attraction that offers 100 different role-playing activities in 60 different establishments like shops, offices, hospitals, factories, and race car pit stops. Parents can watch from discreet windows, but kids run all the activities inside the play space. The tiny workers even earn KidZania's own currency (Kidzos) that they can spend in the shops. 

KidZania is monitored and safe. The play space only has one entrance and one exit, and once in Kidzania, children are fitted with RFID bracelets that keep tabs on them. Children can only be removed at the exit while in the confirmed presence of their parents. 

Watch Live Theater

 Gautier Houba / TripSavvy

What better place to introduce children to the experience of live theater than the West End? Kids Week , sponsored by the Society of London Theatres, has been held since 1998 and has grown from a one-week festival to an entire month of performances in August each year.

During Kids Week, a child under 16 can attend a performance for free with a paying adult ticket holder, and two more children can come along for half price. During the week, there's also an array of free events, workshops, storytelling, and activities.

Tickets go on sale in June, and the participating shows are announced near the start of the month. The best way to find out what's happening is to subscribe to the Society of London Theatre Family Bulletin . That way, even if you can't come for Kids Week in August, you can find out about other family-friendly shows, promotions, and competitions in London throughout the year.

Stay at Legoland Windsor Resort

Legoland has 150 rides, all kinds of shows, water slides, and boat trips, and everywhere you look, you'll find amazing creations made of Lego pieces. In Miniland, at the center of the park, 35 million pieces of Lego have been used to create scenes from London, Paris, Amsterdam, and elsewhere in Europe.

There are surprises everywhere, including a fire-breathing dragon at the entrance to the resort and an incredibly realistic Chewbacca guarding the entrance to the Star Wars exhibits.

The park is aimed at children between 2 and 12 years old, but some of the rides have height restrictions for the younger ones. You can also stay overnight at The Legoland Resort Hotel . The hotel, which opened in the middle of the park in 2012, includes two days of free entry to the park for each guest.

Get Lost in Longleat Safari Park

Mohamed Sadikeen/EyeEm/Getty Images

Longleat is one of the best safari parks in the world—and the oldest outside of Africa. The park has a huge maze, a boat ride on a lake full of seals, a train ride, and an adventure playground designed like a child-sized castle.

For the adults, there is a  stately home, garden, and park (landscaped by Capability Brown) to explore. Regularly voted the U.K. Family Attraction of the Year by all kinds of guides and domestic magazines, Longleat won't disappoint visitors of any age.

Wave at the Swans in Abbotsbury

Josie Elias/Getty Images

For more than 600 years, nearly a thousand mute swans have nested at the Abbotsbury Swannery in Dorset each year, and as a result, they've become completely tolerant of, if not indifferent to, close up encounters with humans.

Spending a day with the world's only man-managed nesting colony of mute swans is a great activity for adults and kids alike. Watch the swans build their nests and tend to their eggs. Visitors might even get to see the cygnets hatching, especially in May and June, when hundreds of cygnets break free of their shells and wander around the paths of the nesting site. 

Observe Sharks

Europe's deepest aquarium is a magical exploration of the world's oceans with fascinating displays and utterly beautiful aquaria.

At The Deep , the main tank is more than 30-feet in depth and has manta rays, sharks, strange looking Australian sawfish, and schools of smaller fish (about 3,500) that, remarkably, don't get eaten.

Don't miss the "jewel" tanks that demonstrate the jellyfish cycle of life and the Twilight Zone with its strange, almost prehistoric critters. 

Explore Museums Near Ironbridge Gorge

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Ten museums over 80 acres illustrate the industrial revolution beside Thomas  Telford's cast iron bridge , the world's first. The Ironbridge Gorge , known as the Birthplace of Industry, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. At the location, visitors can learn about the first factory-made products and the tools and machines that made them.

Nearby, there's a Coalport China Museum , a tile museum, a pipe makers workshop, a reconstructed Victorian town, and more—if that seems a bit dry and grown-up, be assured the interactivity makes it a blast for children. Leave plenty of time because there is simply too much to see in one day.

Another option is visiting Enginuity , an interactive design and technology center where kids can learn how things work and design their own bright ideas. Also, don't miss Blists Hill Victorian Town , where your family can experience a day in the life of ordinary people during the reign of Queen Victoria.

Visit The Eden Project

Contained in a series of transparent geodesic domes that squat on the Cornwall landscape like sci-fi mushrooms, the Eden Project describes itself as a place that "is all about man's relationship with and dependence upon plants."

The Enden Project is a "green" theme park where issues and questions around nature and sustainability are explored. Although not specifically aimed at kids, there are plenty of child-centered activities including trails, restaurants with healthy children's menus, and play structures naturally "grown" from willow and bamboo.

Head Underground in a Mine Shaft

Mark Tighe/Creative Commons

The Llechwedd Slate Caverns in Blaenau Ffestiniog, within the Snowdonia National Park, are at the heart of a feast of family-friendly activities. What began as a modest, illuminated attraction in a disused slate mine has grown into a multi-activity center.

On the Deep Mine Tour , the steepest cable railway in Britain plunges into the heart of Llechwedd mountain and back. Tour guides come from families with generations of links to the slate industry. Younger children love the hard hat experience.

Once underground, let the kids loose on the Bounce Below , a vast underground playground with bouncy, trampoline-like nets filling the caverns. For the adventurous, ZipWorld Caverns takes participants on a journey through otherwise inaccessible caverns on zip lines, rope bridges, via ferrata, and tunnels. The tour is limited to children older than 10, involves some onsite training, and can take about three hours.

Be Mesmerized by Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Great for visitors of all ages, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is the oldest visitor attraction in Edinburgh, which first opened in 1853. Filled with tricks, puzzles, illusions, special effects, and all sorts of new and old technology alike, this unique attraction includes five floors of illusions as well as a spectacular rooftop view of the city.

Climb Into BeWILDerwood

Karen Roe/Flickr/CC BY-2.0

Nestled into the forests of Hoveton, Norfolk, the BeWILDerwood attraction is a 50-acre park filled with whimsical fun, head-scratching puzzles, zip-line adventures, interactive story-telling events, and puppet shows.

Appropriate for kids up to 12 years old, BeWILDerwood is the brainchild of kids’ author Tom Blofeld and features characters from his book including Hazel the Wood Witch, Moss & Leaflette, Swampy, Mildred the Crocklebog, and Snagglefang.

Marvel at the Giant's Causeway

A UNESCO-listed natural phenomenon, the Giant's Causeway in Bushmills, Antrim, in Northern Ireland gets its name from the large system of basalt columns that look like stepping stones for giants disappearing into the sea.

Features include walking trails, an interactive visitor's center, and the Wishing Chair—a natural throne formed from perfectly-arranged columns. Kids of all ages will enjoy climbing up and down the stone "steps" and learning about the history of the region on the Giant's Causeway Experience at the Visitor's Centre.

Step Back in Time in Beamish

 Paul Trafford/Flickr/CC BY-2.0

The world-famous open-air museum Beamish—also known as The Living Museum of the North—tells the story of life in northern England in the 1820s, 1900s, and 1940s.

Located in Stanley in County Durham, this unique attraction invites guests to dress in period garb and meet a cast of characters from England's past. From plowing the fields to descending into a coal pit, school-age children of all ages can enjoy this truly immersive experience.

Get Thrilled at Alton Towers Resort

 Wikimedia Commons

Located in Alton in Staffordshire, the Alton Towers Resort is an all-inclusive amusement park and hotel complete with a waterpark and kids' play place, making it the perfect destination for families of all ages.

Kids aged 10 and up can embark on thrilling rollercoasters, including the first vertical drop rollercoaster in the world, Thirteen, as well as fairground rides, playhouses, and haunted houses. Meanwhile, younger kids can spend the day in the Term Time CBeebies Land Hotel, a colorful world of rainbows and interactive exhibits.

Get Wild at Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo

If your kids are fans of animals and nature, head to Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo in Begelly, Pembrokeshire.

From learning how to milk cows and goats to petting goats, rabbits, miniature ponies and pigs, and donkeys, there's plenty of interactive amusement to be found on Folly Farm. Additionally, kids will get a chance to see wilder animals like lions, giraffes, meerkats, and Humboldt penguins up close.

Discover the World Museum

 Jonathan Oldenbuck/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 3.0

Housing everything from Egyptian mummies to an entire wing dedicated to insects, The World Museum in Liverpool, Merseyside, is a must-see attraction for natural history fans visiting the United Kingdom. Explore the cosmos in the planetarium, discover different traditions from around the planet in the World Cultures Gallery, and marvel at real casts of dinosaur skeletons in the prehistoric wing.

Be Mesmerized by Stonehenge

James O. Davies

One of the most famous and oldest attractions in the United Kingdom, Stonehenge is a must-see on any trip to the region.

Located near Amesbury in Wiltshire, Stonehenge is easily accessible from London, and many companies offer private tours of the prehistoric monument with transportation included in the cost. Other things to see and do near Stonehenge include exploring Neolithic houses, touring the Stonehenge exhibition at the visitor's center, dining at the nearby cafe, or buying a souvenir at the gift shop.

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England With Kids: 10 Ideas for the Best England Itinerary for Families

Visiting the country of England with kids is a must for any family’s bucket list. With its rich history, culture, and outstanding natural beauty, an England itinerary for families is sure to be packed with all sorts of unique and interesting activities.

Our family absolutely fell in love with the country of England. We spent over a month and a half in England and thoroughly enjoyed the food, the culture, and the people we met during our stay in England.

If you’re planning a trip to England for your family, then you’ll definitely want to read up on our ideas for things to do in England with kids. Take some time to see our wonderful suggestions for an itinerary in England for families. And then get ready for your own wonderful adventure in England!

This post was originally published on November 9, 2021.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means I may receive a small commission if you click on the link and purchase something. But don't worry, this will not result in any extra costs to you.

Table of Contents

England with kids highlights

Don't have time to read the whole post? Browse through these highlights for England itinerary ideas for what to do in each featured city during your trip to England with kids:

• London: Markets tour
• Greater London: Harry Potter Studio tour
• Brighton: Walking tour
• Salisbury: Stonehenge tour
• Bath: Bridgerton walking tour
• Cotswolds: Village tour
• Birmingham: Walking tour
• Stratford-upon-Avon: City sightseeing bus
• Oxford: University walking tour
• Lake District: Ten lakes tour

10 ideas for the best England itinerary for families

We normally like to do slow tourism , but from time to time, we do like to do shorter trips as well. Our time in England was a mix of slow travel and quick trips. We essentially did a big road trip around the country!

As we traveled throughout England with kids, I couldn’t help but take note of our favorite parts of this country so that I could share it with you all. Eventually, I ended up with this list of ideas and travel tips for an itinerary in England for families.

This is by no means an extensive list. There are undoubtedly many places that we missed. But it’s certainly a good introduction to England. My hope is that you use this England itinerary to give your family ideas of where to explore on your own family vacation to England. 

Take a look at our ten suggestions for places to visit in England with kids. I’ve highlighted things to do in each location. And I’ve also added a suggested number of days, to give you an idea of how long to stay. 

You don’t need to do everything on the list. For example, if you’re trying to plan for a 10 day England itinerary, you can pick three spots to really deep dive into. Or if you’re planning to spend two or three months in England, you can expand your time in each location, and explore other destinations too.

London has many family friendly points of interest, so you’ll want to use your time wisely while you’re visiting this city in England with kids. I suggest at least a week in the city if your England itinerary allows it. But if you have 10 days in England, or fewer, then plan for at least two full days to visit London with kids .

Many museums are free, such as the British Museum , the Victoria and Albert Museum , the Natural History Museum , and the Science Museum . This is great news if you're trying to visit England with kids on a budget. Famous landmarks, such as the Tower of London , Globe Theatre , and Westminster Abbey , however, will have an admission fee.

There are plenty of unique markets to visit such as Borough Market and Camden Market . You can also visit parks like Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens . We enjoyed walking along the River Thames, via the Jubilee Walk , or taking a boat ride along the Regent’s Canal .

For a good overview of London book one of these tours:

London In a Day: Tower of London, Westminster Abbey & Changing of the Guard

London in a Day - Private Custom Walking Tour

Camden Market, Borough Market and Covent Garden Market Private Tour

Suggested number of days in London for your England itinerary: 2-5

2. Greater London, England itinerary options

There are so many wonderful places to see outside of London as well. You should be sure to include spending time in this area while you're in England with kids. If you’re not limited to a 10 day England itinerary, you’ll want to plan for at least a day doing one or two of these things. Many of the places are accessible by train, or you can book one of the tours highlighted below, which includes transport.

The town of Windsor, to the west of London, is home to Windsor Castle . Visitors can stroll through the grounds and tour the home where the Queen of England spends most of her private weekends.

Book your Windsor Castle tour here:

Private Half-Day Windsor Castle, Park and Old Town Tour from London

If you’re more into a low key excursion during your time in England with kids, and you happen to be a Ted Lasso fan, take a visit to Richmond. Also situated west of London, Richmond is home to two beautiful parks: the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Richmond Park .

Book this tour of London, which includes a visit to Kew Gardens:

Amazing Kew Gardens & London Landmarks Tour

Harry Potter fans will want to book a walking tour of Harry Potter filming locations in London. And don’t miss visiting the Warner Brothers Studios in Leavesden, where you can learn how the movies were made. 

Book this tour to visit the Warner Brothers Studio, which includes transport:

Warner Bros. Studio: The Making of Harry Potter with Luxury Round-Trip Transport from London

If you have more time in the United Kingdom (and you absolutely love Harry Potter), then be sure to visit Edinburgh where you'll find even more Harry Potter tours .

Suggested number of days in Greater London for your England itinerary: 1-2

Get a 5-day itinerary to the city of London from our friends at Wanderlust Crew !

3. Brighton

Just south of London is the beach city of Brighton. This city is a must-visit for your England itinerary. However, if your time in England with kids is limited, you can also just spend a morning or afternoon here.

A popular beach holiday spot for Londoners, Brighton has the boardwalk atmosphere of Atlantic City, and the eccentricity of Venice Beach, with a touch of British charm thrown in the mix.

If you have time in your England travel itinerary, plan to spend at least one full day in Brighton. You’ll want to walk along Brighton Pier and also enjoy the beachfront path. Shelter Hall is a great food hall to enjoy a meal, with a diverse selection of cuisines that you can purchase through an app. Even though the weather wasn't too great when we were there, Brighton was definitely a highlight during our time in England with kids.

You also don’t want to miss walking through The Lanes, a collection of pedestrian lanes and small streets full of eclectic shops, cafes, and restaurants. There is bus service in Brighton, but we didn’t need to use it as the city is very walkable.

For a great overview of Brighton, book this walking tour:

The Brighton story - walking tour

Suggested number of days in Brighton for your England itinerary: 1-2

4. Salisbury

I like to think of Salisbury as the gateway to Stonehenge . The UNESCO World Heritage Site is only 9 miles away from Salisbury. But the city of Salisbury is interesting in its own right. And families who come to England with kids will enjoy visiting this ancient town. 

Stonehenge and Salisbury are great places to spend an afternoon if you have a limited 10 day England itinerary. But if you have more time, it’s worth adding a day or two to your England travel itinerary to explore Salisbury on its own.

The city of Salisbury is located west of Brighton and southwest of London. The Salisbury Cathedral is home to one of the best surviving original copies of Magna Carta. A historic legal document drafted in 1215, Magna Carta led to the establishment of Parliament and laid the groundwork for documents like the US Constitution.

Central Salisbury is fun to explore when you're in England with kids, with shops and restaurants along the River Avon. On Tuesdays and Saturdays, be sure to visit the Salisbury Market . The city is walkable. And if you have a car, you can park in one of the public car parks located in the center of the city.

Book this private tour to experience Salisbury and Stonehenge with your kids: 

Bespoke private tours of Stonehenge and Avebury by car with local guide

Suggested number of days in Salisbury for your England itinerary: 2-3

Ready for a change? Take the first step to living a life of full time travel.

If you’re a fan of Roman history (or a fan of the show, Bridgerton), then you’ll definitely want to include Bath in your England itinerary. The city of Bath dates back thousands of years. But it’s most well-known for the Roman baths that were created in 60 AD. 

Today, Bath remains a popular tourist destination for families who come to England with kids. The city is not just known for the Roman baths, which you can still visit and tour, but also for its beautiful architecture and parks. If you’re limited to a 10 day England itinerary or shorter, plan to spend a morning visiting the Roman baths.  

But if you have more time to spend in Bath, be sure to visit the Royal Crescent, a set of homes built in the 1700s laid out in a crescent overlooking a well-manicured park. The homes feature prominently in many scenes in Bridgerton . You can take a tour of one of the homes at No. 1 Royal Crescent .

Also while in Bath, spend an afternoon having tea at one of Bath’s many tea rooms and cafes. This is a must and gives you a glimpse into Britain’s tea culture while you're in England with kids. And don’t forget to visit Bath Abbey , located near the Roman baths and built over a thousand years ago.

Book one of these tours of Bath to fully experience all the city has to offer:

Walking Tour with Blue Badge Tourist Guide (90 Minutes)

Private Walking Tour with Blue Badge Tour Guide

2-Hour Bath Walking Tour of Bridgerton Filming Locations

Suggested number of days in Bath for your England itinerary: 1-2

6. The Cotswolds

One of the most picturesque parts of England is the Cotswolds. This part of the country was once famous for its wool, from sheep that were introduced to this part of the world by the Romans. 

Today, though, the Cotswolds are known for its well-preserved small villages that look like they’re straight out of a storybook. Wool is still an industry in the Cotswolds, but so is tourism. And no trip to England with kids is complete without a visit to the Cotswolds.

If you are on a limited 10 day England itinerary, plan to spend an afternoon at the Cotswolds. But if you have more time, it’s worth spending a day or two exploring the many small villages that make up the Cotswolds. 

We enjoyed Bourton-on-the-Water, with its shop-lined river running through the village. There’s also the Model Village , a 1:9 scale replica of Bourton-on-the-Water that’s well-worth visiting.

To explore the Cotswolds, book one of these tours:

Private Cotswold Village Tour

Tour of the Cotswolds from Moreton-in-Marsh

Suggested number of days in the Cotswolds for your England itinerary: 1-2

7. Birmingham

While Birmingham might not be an obvious choice to include in an itinerary for England with kids (unless you’re a fan of the show, Peaky Blinders ), it’s definitely a city not to be missed. Even if you’re limited to a 10 day England itinerary, I highly suggest including one full day in this city.

The second largest city in England, and located in the West Midlands region of the country, Birmingham played a large role in the Industrial Revolution. This is primarily due to its close proximity to the Black Country, named because of its many coal mines. Because of the coal mines of the Black Country, Birmingham became the epicenter of industry and metal crafts. 

For worldschooling families visiting England with kids, Birmingham is a great destination for learning about science, technology, and history. You can learn about the area’s industrial history by visiting the Black Country Living Museum , just outside of the city. And within the city, you can visit museums like the Pen Museum or the more popular Think Tank Birmingham Science Museum .

Birmingham is also near to two places of interest: Warwick Castle and Cadbury World . Warwick Castle is a Medieval castle constructed by William the Conqueror in 1068. And Cadbury World is a family-friendly exhibition tour run by the Cadbury Company showcasing the chocolate-making process.

Book one of these Birmingham tours to really get a feel for this unique city:

Discovering Birmingham Afternoon Walking Tour

From Canals and Victorians to Today's City: Birmingham Walking Tour

Suggested number of days in Birmingham for your England itinerary: 2-4

8. Stratford-Upon-Avon

For literary buffs, a visit to Stratford-Upon-Avon is a must in your itinerary for England with kids. The town of Stratford-Upon-Avon is the birthplace of William Shakespeare, one of England’s most famous writers. Plan to spend a morning in Stratford-Upon-Avon if you’re on a 10 day England itinerary, and at least a day if you have more time and flexibility. 

The town is small enough to walk around. There are shops around the town center, and you can tour Shakespeare’s actual house . Additionally, you can also visit the home of Anne Hathaway , Shakespeare’s wife. 

For a different activity, take a visit to the Stratford Butterfly Farm . Kids will especially enjoy seeing the wide variety of butterflies included at the butterfly farm.

To experience Stratford-Upon-Avon during your visit to England with kids, book this tour:

City Sightseeing Stratford-upon-Avon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Suggested number of days in Stratford-Upon-Avon for your England itinerary: 1-2

For worldschooling families who love to incorporate learning into our travels , a visit to the town of Oxford during their time in England with kids is not to be missed. Oxford is home to the oldest university in the English-speaking world, the University of Oxford. And it’s also host to the Bodleian Library , the second largest library in the United Kingdom. 

The town of Oxford is referenced in countless pieces of literature and film. Most recently, Oxford has been the setting for several Harry Potter film scenes. If you’re on a limited 10 day England itinerary, spend an afternoon here. But if you have more days to spare on your England itinerary, then plan at least one full day.

We were unfortunately not able to explore Oxford during our England itinerary, although we did drive through the city. But we intend to come back and visit the next time we come to England with kids.

Book one of these tours of Oxford to experience the town and all its beautiful attractions:

Oxford University Walking Tour With University Alumni Guide

Private Oxford Walking Tour for the Discerning Traveler

Harry Potter 2 hour PUBLIC Tour + Self Guided Entry to Christ church

Suggested number of days in Oxford for your England itinerary: 1-2

10. Lake District

If your England itinerary allows, take a visit to the northern part of England to the Lake District . This area of England is filled with beautiful lakes, mountains, national parks, and small villages. It’s a wonderful option for experiencing the natural beauty of the country while visiting England with kids.

If you’re limited to a 10 day England itinerary, I wouldn’t suggest visiting the Lake District due to its distance from London. This was what happened during our first England itinerary. We simply didn't have time!

But the second time we were in England with kids, we did have a chance to visit the Lake District, and it didn't disappoint. This part of England is beautiful. The best time to go is in the summer, where you can fully experience the outdoors, and maybe even do some camping while you’re there.

Book this tour of the Lake District to fully experience the beauty of the area:

The High Adventure: Full Day Ten Lakes Tour of the Lake District

Suggested number of days in the Lake District for your England itinerary: 1-2

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Basic information for your England itinerary 

As you're preparing for your trip to England with kids, take some time to get acquainted with some basic travel information. England is part of the larger country of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. There are four countries within the United Kingdom: England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. Out of these four countries, England is the largest.

The language spoken in England is English, but each region of England has their own distinct accent. During our time in England with kids, we loved chatting with locals and hearing their accents! 

In terms of lodging, you'll be able to find plenty of Airbnbs and vacation rentals throughout England. You can also use Booking to find hotels across all budget ranges for your trip to England with kids. Alternatively, consider doing house sitting with kids to SAVE BIG on accommodations.

Before your trip, you and your kids can learn about England and the United Kingdom with this book: 

The Big Book of the UK: Facts, folklore and fascinations from around the United Kingdom

I also suggest buying a guidebook for your England with kids trip. We like this one from Rick Steves:

Rick Steves England

Best time to visit England with kids

If you’re planning to visit England with kids, the best time for your England itinerary is between the months of April to October. This is when the weather is the warmest.

However, be aware of when British children go on school holidays as that will impact the crowds during your trip. August is the summer vacation month for British school kids. But during the year, there are also one to two week-long breaks between school terms in April and December. Additionally, there are also week-long breaks in the middle of the term (called half term) during the months of February, June, and October.

As you’re planning your best England itinerary, be mindful of these school holidays so that you know what crowds to expect.

What to pack for your England itinerary

Depending on the time of year, you’ll want to make sure you’re packed for the weather for your England with kids trip. Having a lightweight sweater or cardigan may come in handy. 

Because England’s climate can be rainy, even in the summer, you’ll want to pack a waterproof jacket to prepare for the weather. We like bringing these jackets along for our trip to England with kids:

Columbia Kids & Baby Rainy Trails Fleece Lined Jacket

Additionally, you also want to make sure you have things like cloth tote bags for when you visit farmer’s markets or go souvenir shopping. Many stores in England, especially grocery stores, now charge for the use of plastic bags, so having your own tote bag is helpful. You can also consider bringing other eco-friendly travel products to make your trip more sustainable.

If there's a holiday or a birthday coming up, take it as an opportunity to give travel gifts for your kids that can prepare them for your England trip.

Take a look at our favorite backpacks for travel with kids to bring along for your trip.

Getting around England with kids

It’s surprisingly easy to get around England with kids. The country has an extensive rail system. And you can get to most cities and towns by train. Additionally, there are over 30 airports in England.

However, in our opinion, the best way to get around England with kids in tow is by car. International rental companies that service England include Hertz, Enterprise, Budget, and Thrifty. Use Expedia to find great England car rentals .

When driving around England, remember that drivers drive on the left-hand side of the road. This is different from other European countries that we’ve been driven through, such as Spain , Italy , or France . 

British roads and speed limit signs use miles, just like in the United States. Additionally, British roads will often use roundabouts instead of stop lights, so you’ll need to be familiar with how to get in and out of a roundabout. 

Get prepared for any emergency with the insurance made for digital nomads!

Making memories with your England itinerary

We had such an amazing time visiting England with kids. We feel like even a month and a half is not enough time to really experience this country and do all the England kids activities we wanted to do. Next time, we want to plan for a longer England itinerary, to really get a feel for what England has to offer.

If you’re planning a trip to England with kids, feel free to use this England itinerary as a starting off point for making your own memories of England. Whether it’s for a short 10 day England itinerary, or a longer three month stay, England is well worth a visit. This country is full of so much history, culture, and beauty, we know that you’ll love it as much as we did. 

Have you visited England with kids? What was your experience like? Share your family and kids England itinerary with me in the comments below.

Planning to use England as a starting off point for a family gap year? Use my ebook, Hey Kids, Let's Go Travel! for family travel advice on planning and prepping for a family gap year.

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9 fantastic places to visit in the uk with kids for a perfect family holiday.

Fun, beautiful and interesting places to visit in the UK with kids: holiday destinations in the UK perfect for families with children.

The UK has been my favorite destination for years.

I first visited when I was a kid myself, during long summer road trips in England, Wales and Scotland in my parents’ Italian plated car, driven all the way from Rome!

I then explored several parts of it when I studied English on summer programmes and eventually realised my dream of living in London, an experienced I adored and that made London my first real city love.

It is important for me to show the UK to my kids.

There is a plethora of kid-friendly attractions in the UK, lots of exciting cities to explore, cultural sites and nature to be discovered, and I love that we never have to compromise of grown-up fun as there is, literally, a lot to do in the UK for all ages.

We live in Dublin, Ireland, and the UK is a short hop from here. In this roundup, I have put together our favorite places to visit in the UK with kids for a family vacation and suggestions for a child-friendly weekend away.

These are my, recommendations about the best UK destinations for a family holiday.

Please note: this post contains affiliate links. Should you make a purchase, we might make a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

The best places to visit in the UK with kids

London – the most exciting city destination in the uk for families with kids.

We open this list with London, one of the best cities in the world to visit with kids !

London needs no introduction; however, if you have visited the city before you have children, you may not realize how much there is actually to do for them here.

Find here >>> our guide to visiting London with kids

The list of things to do in London with kids is huge!

To discover the family friendly side of this city, I turned to my friend and local mum Katja from the family travel site Globetotting.com.

You can’t plan a family holiday to the UK and not visit London.

The capital is a big city with an even bigger personality, jam-packed full of fun things to do with kids.  

If it’s history that you’re after then London delivers by the bucketload.

The city is nearly 2,000 years old and is full of fun historical facts and stories – try the Tower of London for starters and a tour around the Houses of Parliament.  

For culture you have over 200 museums to choose from – many of them free.

Start with the Natural History Museum and its neighbours, the Science Museum and the V&A. But don’t forget some of the smaller, quirkier gallery spaces such as the Old Operating Theatre near London Bridge 

Make sure to catch a musical or play while you’re in town; there are a number of theatres dedicated to performances specifically for kids.

If the weather is on your side – or even if it’s not – take advantage of how green the city is.

London is home to hundreds of parks of varying sizes and almost as many playgrounds.

The Princess Diana Memorial playground is always a hit with children.  

Before you go, make sure to book a  kids’ afternoon tea .

London offers plenty of family-friendly themed teas – the perfect activity to round off your time in the capital.  

Edinburgh with kids – a perfect family city break in Scotland

If you are looking for a great family city break in the UK, then you will love Edinburgh.

Edinburgh is a very child friendly city with lots of things to do for kids and adults alike.

Iconic Edinburgh castle towers above the city and it is only the best knowns of the many places your kids are sure to love.

Other exceptional things to do with kids in Edinburgh include walking the Royal Mile, beautiful and full of fun shops and cafes, climbing up the Scotts monument for views, a visit to the national Museum of Scotland and of course the Harry Potter Trail, perfect for children age 5 and up!

Other fun kids’ activities include hiking Arthur’s Seat (in summer) and then rest and relax in the many cozy cafes and restaurants in the city.

You can get an hop on – hop off bus tour such as this one to help you navigate between all these attractions.

Edinburgh is also a fantastic base for a Scottish adventure in the beautiful nature of this stunning part of the world!

The Cotswolds – picture perfect location for a UK family holiday with kids

If, like me, you first fell in love with the UK through photos of quaint stone cottages and picture perfect  villages, then the best place for a family vacation in England is the Cotswolds.

Cotswolds is the largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in England and a delightful place to visit with kids as well as grown ups.

Depending on the age of your kids and your taste, you can choose between a variety of things to see and do.

If you are visiting from abroad, you will love the sightseeing opportunities of this area.

Pretty towns such as Bourton-on-the-Water, with its canals, or Castle Combe and its chocolate box beauty are lovely to visit with kids and the area also have several National Trust properties that are fantastic to learn about the area and also well equipped for entertaining children.

Snowhill Manor for instance is stunning and has a hazel maze, a hidden den in the woods and a children garden trail.

There are many petting farms in the area, always a fantastic day out with little kids, and if you are visiting in summer, you will also be able to visit the stunning Cotswolds lavender fields, among the best fields of lavender to visit with kids in Europe!

If you and your kids love films, the Cotswolds will be a treat too.

Due to its quintessential English charm, many movies were filmed in this area.

Grown ups may recognize spots from Bridget Jones’ Diary, the Remains of the Day and Emma, just to name some of the most famous motion pictures filmed in the area, and children and teens won’t miss the fact that Harry Potter was filmed here.

Some of the most famous film locations in the Cotswolds are Gloucester cathedral, Castle Combe, Snowshill and Bampton, all easy to weave into a family friendly itinerary in this area.

The Cotswalds is one of the prettiest areas to visit in the UK with kids and great for an extended stay.

However, you can also visit with a day tour from London like this one , perfect if you don’t want the stress of driving your own vehicle..

The Peak District – fabulous UK holiday idea for outdoorsy families

If your family loves the outdoors, then you should explore the Peak District one of the most scenic areas of the UK.

We got insider tips to visit this area from travel loving mum and writer Jenny from  Peak District Kids , a fantastic resource for families visiting the area.

Nestled between the big cities of Manchester, Sheffield and Derby, The Peak District National Park is the oldest National Park in the UK.

With its green rolling hills, dramatic escarpments, quaint country villages and farms, it’s the perfect getaway for outdoor loving families.

The Peak District is our home, and of a weekend we love nothing better than a family walk in the hills.

Our favourites are the Nine Ladies Circle through Stanton Moor Peak or the walk starting next to The Robin Hood pub in Baslow, with spectacular views from Birchen Edge.

Alternatively, hire some bikes and ride the Monsal Trail or Tissington Trail.

Visit Blaze Farm in Wildboarclough for a free walk around the farm and a taste of the scrummy homemade ice-cream, or head over to Chatsworth House to marvel the grand gardens, play in the adventure playground or even go wild swimming!

A good family day out in the Peak District is taking the cable car up to the Heights of Abraham and venturing into the underground caverns, or riding the vintage trams at Crich Tramway Museum.

But if you’re seeking thrills head to Gullivers Kingdom, or nearby Alton Towers! 

There really is so much to do! But this isn’t a place to tick off attractions. The Peak District is a place to connect with nature and enjoy the slower pace of life together. 

If you are short on time, you can also explore the peak district with a tour such as this one , leading you to discover this beautiful area without the stress of driving.

Dartmoor, Devon – perfect holiday destination in the UK for families who love nature

Another fantastic part of the UK to visit with kids is Dartmoor, which we discovered thanks to local mum and travel writer Emma from Wanderlust and Wet Wipes.

I may be a little biased, having grown up on the edge of this National Park, but Dartmoor is truly one of the UK’s crown jewels.

Stunningly beautiful and with so much on offer, it’s hard to argue with! Since having children, we have loved heading back to visit as there is so much to do for families. Firstly, one of our favourite activities is to go for a hike.

We like nothing better than tramping along old railway lines and exploring ruins from forgotten times.

Depending on the ages and abilities of your kids, you can head up to the top of the tors and splash through streams.

There are also a good number of gorges to discover.

If you need a purpose to your walk, try something like geocaching or letter boxing to keep the little ones entertained.

If that’s not enough, head to a National Trust / English Heritage property near Dartmoor.

They’re historical and beautiful plus they offer a range of kid friendly activities. There are plenty of picture postcard villages and towns in or on the edge of Dartmoor too. 

All that should have worked up an appetite so grab a traditional Cornish pasty (easily found in Devon!) or a Devon Cream Tea.

If you need something more substantial, get some traditional pub fare like scampi and chips or enjoy a cold drink after a long walk (or a hot drink if it’s raining).

South Wales – wonderful UK family destination for castle lovers

We are based in Ireland and often make our way to the UK by boat which means the first part of the country we see is stunning Wales.

Wales is all outstanding in terms of natural beauty and it also has lovely towns and castles that are fantastic for kids.

One of the most family friendly areas of Wales is the South, which piqued our attention thanks to travel loving mum Catherine, author of Passports and Adventures , who shared why she loves South Wales as one of the best places to explore with kids in the UK

One of the best places in the UK to visit with kids is South Wales.

Host to the capital Cardiff , a wealth of amazing castles in Wales for kids, sandy beaches galore and both beautiful and rugged mountains, South Wales has it all.

There are lots of things to do in South Wales with kids and if you are visiting Cardiff, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

As well as Cardiff Castle in the city centre and Cardiff Bay, there are lots of family-friendly museums, St Fagans is a must and many parks to wander through and explore.

Venture further afield along the coast and you can enjoy the many beaches or enjoy a walk along the Wales Coast Path.

You should also take time to visit the Gower Peninsula, an area of natural beauty. Head to Rhossili Bay or Three Cliffs in this area. 

Along the coastline you can also discover some castle but to find the best you need to head a little inland.

Some of the best castles to visit in South Wales with kids are located north and east of Cardiff, with some on the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park.

Our favourites are Caerphilly Castle with its dragons (yes, dragons!), Chepstow, Raglan and Carreg Cennen in the west.

If animals appeal to your kids head to Cefn Mably Farm Park between Cardiff and Newport or to Folly Farm in West Wales.

Do your kids like the outdoors?

Then the Caerphilly Mountain Range might be just the place for them to enjoy. And if your kids are older, why not tackle the hike up Pen-y-Fan, the highest mountain in South Wales.

No matter where you go in South Wales with kids, you will find something to entertain the kids and to enjoy with them. It is a stunning part of the UK and a must-visit.

Definitely a strong case for declaring South Wales one of the best places to visit in the UK with kids, wouldn’t you agree?

Cornwall – great UK holiday destination for beach lovers (and a great family road trip!)

Cornwall is one of the most beautiful parts of England and one of the spots in the country that gets the best weather.

If you are looking for a place where you can mix sightseeing, time at the beach and possibly even catch a bit of sun, Cornwall is the place!

There is plenty to see and do for kids in Cornwall: this area has many pretty towns, lovely sandy beaches, castles (Tintagel is here, famous for the King Arthur saga) and you also have many National Trust properties that are great for adults but also always very well equipped to entertain kids of all ages.

You can also learn to surf here !

My favorite way to discover Cornwall is with a road trip, so you can experience many different places and stay in the type of properties I love most: B&Bs! You can find the best Bed and Breakfasts in Cornwall here.

Devon – fantastic family friendly UK holiday destination for kids of all ages

Devon is one of the best holiday destinations for families in England, full of things to do for kids and wonderful towns and scenery for grown ups too.

No matter what you are looking for, in a Devon vacation, the area will deliver! In Devon with kids, you can have a fun beach holiday, go glamping, have an active holiday to keep the kids and yourself in shape or you can relax in one of the lovely family hotels in the area.

The resource to plan your family holiday in Devon is the site Devon with Kids by local mum Claire: It has absolutely everything you need to know about Devon and tons of info about things to do with kids, family hotels and activities for all ages and holiday styles.

Find all Claire has to recommend in her guide to the best family holidays in Devon for kids

Northern Ireland – fabulous UK road trip idea of families!

A family trip to Northern Ireland is my very own recommendation for a UK holiday with kids and a recommendation I give from the bottom of my heart as I find Northern Ireland simply stunning!

This is one of our favourite road trips for families !

The whole area is beautiful and has plenty of things to do with kids.

If you want to see stunning nature, then you have lots to choose from: the Giants Causeway, right on the very North shore of northern Irland is stunning and a real pleasure to visit with kids.

The paths to the causeway and teh causeway itself area easy even for little kids to tackle and there is a beautiful and informative visitors center that has lots of educational displays for kids, to teach them through play about this peculiar rock formation.

Not far from the causeway there is the scenic and stunning Carrick-a-rede bridge, which is great for adventurous kids (older ones, but little ones can easily walk to its access point) and you also have close to hear Dunluce Castle, which is one of the most scenic castles you can see in the whole of Ireland , North and South.

Last but not least, norther Ireland is home to wonderful towns such as Belfast, which has very cool museums and attractions for kids, and the wonderful Derry/Londonderry, which has an interesting and important history, beautiful city walls and incredible murals, both beautiful and significant.

I believe this is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the UK with kids for all families interested in nature and history.

You can spend many days in Northern Ireland and not get tired of it but you can also cover a good bit of ground with a weekend there. You can find our Northern Ireland weekend itinerary .

More places perfect for short break in the UK with kids

All the areas mentioned above are fantastic for family vacations and have plenty to keep you and your kids entertained all summer long.

however, there are many more fantastic place to visit in the UK with kids, which you can also cover in a weekend.

Some we love are:

Cambridge with kids – famous for its renowned universities, Cambridge is a treat for families.

The city has a delightful center easy to visit on foot and by bike and it has plenty to do for kids.

On a first visit, you should visit some of the towns’ most famous university, go punting on the river Cam , visit the fantastic Cambridge university Botanical gardens and the fun science center. Don’t forget to also just sit and relax in one of Cambridge’s many green spaces: if you fo in summer, you can relax while the kids play in one of the many splashpads around town!

Bath with kids – an ancient Roman town, Bath is fantastic for kids.

Located in a stunning part of England, close to the Cotswolds and Bath is a great destination for a weekend away with the kids because of the family attractions in town and the many easy day trips you can take from here.

The jewel in the crown in Bath are the Roman baths, which are easy and interesting to visit with children. thanks to the children’s audio guides and costumed characters that help make the site come to life.

For more kid-centered fun, you can go to the play area in Victoria Park or have a game of crazy gold at the Victoria Falls Crazy Golf course.

if you want to explore further afield, must-see UK attractions such as Stonehenge and Salisbury are a short drive out of Bath and you can also visit Stratford-upon-Avon, which is great if you have school age kids especially.

UK Theme parks – an easy win for families with kids is planning a weekend in one of the great theme parks that dot the UK.

There are several you can chose from, in several parts of the country.

For small kids, we highly recommend Thomas Land .

The park is simply fantastic for little ones as they truly feel like they they stepped into the world of their favorite, really useful engine and it is easy to manage for parents since it is big but not so vast to overwhelming.

The park is also close to the Leicester National Space Center , which is excellent for small and older kids and even teens.

I hope you enjoyed this quick list of the best places to visit in the UK with kids. Safe travel planning!

Looking for more places to visit in the UK with kids? Then you may also enjoy our review of our weekend at ThomasLand , a real fun family weekend away for little ones, and our visit to the UK National Space Center , a wonderful place for space loving kids (and adults)

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Marta Correale

Marta Correale is the creator, writer and creative mind behind Learning Escapes. A travel loving mama of two from Italy, Marta currently lives in Ireland with her husband and two kids, they take frequent trips to European destination, the US and beyond. A professional travel blogger for over a decade, Marta is passionate about traveling with kids and helping others to travel more and better as a family.

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18 UK attractions you must visit for days out with the kids before they turn 12…..

We love a family day out! There are so many places to choose from in the UK, so for days out with the kids how do you know what the best family attractions and child-friendly places are, especially if you have children under 12? You are spending your hard earned money and precious time so you want to choose somewhere that will delight, inspire and entertain all the family and create magical memories for your family. So here are our recommendations for 18 UK attractions you must take your kids to before they turn 12; from all around the UK and for all tastes and pockets!

1. Bewilderwood

A huge, award winning forest of family fun for days out with the kids and outdoor adventure. With treehouses, zip wires, jungle bridges, storytelling, boat trips and marsh walks; it’s the exact opposite of the commercial theme parks – no special effects, rides or fast food outlets; just lots and lots of outdoor fun and adventure! Best of all there are now two to choose from; the original park in Norfolk and the new one in Cheshire….

bewilderwood.co.uk

2. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

At first impression outside it’s busy, full of tourists (who are only visiting to get the picture!) and expensive, but get inside and for the true Harry Potter fans it’s an absolute treasure trove of amazing-ness! It suggests most people are there for 3 hours – we were there 7 hours with a 7 and 9 year old (and a very pregnant mummy!)

Once inside it didn’t seem as busy or full of bustle as we first thought. And the audio guide although additional cost is well worth it!!

wbstudiotour.co.uk

3. Warwick Castle

As much as it is a very commercially created castle attraction (operated by Merlin Entertainments then it wouldn’t be anything else, but in fairness it is done tastefully and in keeping with the castle theme. The activities are on theme and you can still marvel at the castle structure itself.  The thing that Warwick Castle does really well is the interactive activities; we did a workshop in the witches tower, a cross-bow workshop, watched storytelling and jousting! Great for all ages!

https://www.warwickcastlebreaks.com

4. A day out at Blackpool

There is often an impression of Blackpool that it is all about stag and hens and the pleasure beach! And as much as there are parts that are a bit tired and undesirable, it is still a great family weekend or day out for some traditional seaside fun. The recent regeneration of the promenade area has made the beachfront attractive, clean and brilliant for families. The tower and circus are brilliant – with the tower 4D show well worth it and show-stopping stunts at the circus! Sandcastle water park is one of the UK’s best water parks, the piers and pleasure beach you can simply have fish and chips, build sandcastles and stroll on the pier or you can have a thrill and action-packed weekend for the whole family!

https://www.visitblackpool.com

5. Ironbridge Gorge

Ironbridge Gorge is a heritage site which is not only beautiful but has some amazing museum and family experiences, away from the commercial nature of a lot of the attractions in this list but with the same level of interactivity and ability to create magical memories!

At Blists Hill Victorian Town, costumed actors give an insight into life in the valley as they go about their daily lives in their cottages, shops and places of work.  You can change your money into Victoria Money and spend it in the shops. There’s a Victorian fairground, an old-fashioned sweet shop, and horse and cart rides.

The nearby Enginuity science and technology centre, children can learn about locomotives and robots, while the Coalport China Museum and Jackfield Tile Museum run craft workshops where they can try out their pottery and painting skills

https://www.ironbridge.org.uk

6. Eureka the children’s museum

A visit to  Eureka ! is unique, interesting and FUN!  Eureka ! is a great, inclusive day out for families with children aged 0-11, in Halifax, West Yorkshire.

Explore the six zones, extensive grounds, creativity space, children’s mini village with bank, shop, garage and post office, or join in the regular workshops and creative activities. It’s a complete day out; and what’s even better is your admission ticket gives you annual admission meaning you can visit for free all year!

https://www.eureka.org.uk

7. The Forbidden Corner

The Forbidden Corner is a unique labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, follies and surprises created within a four acre garden in the heart of Tupgill Park and the Yorkshire Dales. A tourist visitor attraction unlike anywhere that you have been before, ideal for the adventurers and those young at heart!

There are paths and passages that lead nowhere, extraordinary statues, with decisions to make and tricks to avoid. This is a day out with a difference which will challenge and delight adults and children of all ages.

http://www.theforbiddencorner.co.uk/

8. Camera Obscura

This is one of Britain’s oldest attractions, having started in 1835 and is now s ix floors of puzzles, special effects, games and other interactive craziness.

Step into a world where real-life collides with technological trickery. Here, impossible doesn’t exist.

Tour Edinburgh’s streets without moving. Pitch your brain against mind-bending illusions. It’s all part of the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions experience

http://www.camera-obscura.co.uk

9. Bounce below

Housed at a Breath-taking site, in a former slate mine in Blaenau Ffestiniog, North Wales you can play, slide, jump and bounce from net to net in a cavern the size of a cathedral!

Great for all ages and to enjoy together as a family.

https://www.zipworld.co.uk/adventure/bounce-below

10. Llandudno

One of our favourite days out – a real traditional day out at the seaside. With a lovely, pebble beach, traditional pier and gorgeous beach front buildings. You also have to do the trip up the Great Orme (recommend cable car up and train down!) for the kids to go on the slide with the best view! With fantastic fish and chips, ice cream shops and an old fashioned vibe you truly feel like you are away from the 21 st century in a lovely way (espevcially if you go into the girft shop at the top of the Great Orme!)

11. Greenwood forest park

Another attraction in North Wales and another great one!! A theme park with a difference! With a non-electric rollercoaster and a whole load of sustainable rides and outdoor activities all set in the woods this theme park has a great feeling to it; outdoor fun with a few thrills and a good lot of exploring, climbing and imaginative play. Fantastic for under 10’s!

12./ Kidzania, London, England

This is the ultimate playground for the child who wants to be a doctor/chef/ballerina when they grow up. This indoor city is created to scale for children, with job roles for them to try out, including fire fighter, photographer and journalist with international sponsors giving the zones an extra sense of reality.

A great way to introduce your child to all the different ideas of various jobs and how the world of work works! And fantastic imaginative play!

https://www.kidzania.co.uk

13./ Cadbury World

Who doesn’t want to visit a Chocolate Factory?!  And this isn’t an ordinary factory visit!  You can discover the secrets behind Cadbury’s Dairy Milk launched in 1905, and have the chance to add your own extras like jelly babies, or mint chips to warm liquid chocolate to make your Cadbury creation.

It has 14 zones, where you can play in chocolate rain and have warm liquid Cadbury Dairy Milk poured over your favourite treat.

See the Cadbury pack-and-wrap process on the new 3D cinema screen and then meet ‘Flex6’ the robot at the factory as he shows how he wraps those famous Cadbury bars. A great whole family chocolate treat!

“All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.” Charles M Schulz (of Peanuts fame)

14. Chester zoo

One of the best zoos in the UK; they do a huge amount for animal conservation and research as well as having an amazing zoo. The recent creation of the multimillion pound ‘Islands’ development takes you to the islands of South east Asia and is wonderfully done complete with a boat ride. The animals are well taken care of and the whole site is clean and well maintained with children in mind throughout; important when you are planning days out with the kids.

With a load of new play areas and playgrounds recently created too the children will be happily exhausted on the way home after a day out at Chester Zoo!

http://www.chesterzoo.org

15./ Manley Mere Adventure Trail

Manley Mere Adventure Trail meanders through woodland, alongside a stream with obstacles and challenges on the way…it’s a great way of having fun and spending quality time with friends and family and all ages can enjoy the obstacles!

All equipment is self-propelled and cleverly fits into the surroundings. It is a country walk as well as an adventure so there is always an easy way around – just walk past! Wherever possible obstacles are made from recycled material and re-used agricultural equipment – see if you can guess what things were in a previous life!

The trail is about 1½ miles long and there is no set route – discovering hidden things is part of the fun! There are changing rooms (a change of clothes is advised!) and a cold water hose to get any mud off hands and face before getting into your car, as you are likely to get muddy, so don’t wear your best clothes and heels!!

https://www.manleymere.co.uk/adventure/index.shtml

16./ Dinosaur Roar Adventure

A monster family day out! Norfolk’s biggest visitor attraction and one of the UK’s best for days out with the kids! Armed with your Adventurers’ Guide, explore and play in 85 acres of woods and parkland containing over 100 static dinosaurs, two life size puppet dinosaurs and animatronic dinosaurs. Not forgetting “Dippy” Dinosaur Adventure’s Park Mascot.

On arrival set off to explore the Dinosaur Trail Meet the animals and Creepy Crawlies in the Secret Animal Garden, with educational activities and demonstrations. In Dinomite, Norfolk’s largest indoor adventure play area has 3 levels of fun and adventure for all the family, with a two-level area totally dedicated to the under 5’s. Inside you will find everything from climbing nets, bridges and ball pools right up to the three massive slides which go from gentle slopes to a terrifying vertical drop. With everything Dinosaur inside and outside, what’s not to give you a stomping good time?!

http://www.roarrdinosauradventure.co.uk

17. Clip ‘n’ Climb

There are dozens of Clip n Climb centres around the UK; with a lot of them existing within other entertainment centres. It’s a really unique climbing activity and kids from 4 years and upwards can try their hands (and feet!) at the different walls and challenges! Brightly coloured, exciting and active; what’s not to like for days out with the kids?

My kids love the centre at Chester near us and would happily visit every weekend!

https://clipnclimb.biz/en/centres-clipnclimb/

18./ Fairy Glen, Wigan

I had to throw this in the list as even though it’s not so much an attraction; as no one ‘runs’ or ‘operates’ it and there is no café or gift shop! What there is, is an amazing walk through the woods where Fairies are known to have their habitat! You will come across fairy dust and fairy doors at various points! With a stream for paddling, open meadows for picnic and rope swings it’s the ultimate low cost, low maintenance, low tech day out with the family – for family time together and connecting with nature it’s a winner!

http://www.westlancs.gov.uk/leisure-recreation/parks-and-countryside/parks-and-countryside-sites/fairy-glen-appley-bridge.aspx

We hope you enjoy your days out with the kids!

If you are considering taking the kids to a family friendly festival this summer see our round up of best family festivals in the Uk and tips for surviving a festival with the family here

Go here For 10 tips for parents to survive the school holidays 

Have you seen Ranger Ron’s free Dino club? If your kids love Dinosaurs then join up now…..

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101 must-visit UK attractions for families

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If you are wondering ‘ where can I find fun things to do with kids near me ‘ then you have come to the right place. This is my guide to UK attractions for families and days out including lots of recommendations on the best things to do in England with kids, as well as Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

*This post contains affiliate links*

Want more ideas for family holidays and days out? Read my tips for smashing family travel and sign up for my newsletter .

Contents - jump to what you'd like to know

Find fun things to do near you

This post brings together lots of suggestions for UK attractions for families and places to visit across the four home nations.

I’d be telling a massive porky if I said we’d been to all of these family attractions (how would that even be possible?!) but the ones I mention come highly recommended and none have paid to be included.

I have however included some links to where you can buy family attraction and tour tickets with one of my affiliate partners Tiqets *. If you click on one of these and make a purchase I may earn some commission. This doesn’t affect the price you pay.

You might also like to check out the following posts to find more UK family days out depending on who’s in your family group and the time of year:

• Dog-friendly UK days out
• Accessible and wheelchair friendly days out in the UK
• Things to do at Easter in England and Wales
• Days out in the UK for families this summer
• Outdoor days out this autumn
• Halloween days out
• Christmas days out with kids

UK attractions for families: things to do in England with kids

Buckle up because we’re about to take a deep dive into all the fun things to do with kids in England.

You’ll find this section is considerably heavier than the others because it’s where we live and have explored most.

Whether you are looking for days out to appeal to animal lovers, budding historians or thrill seekers there’s plenty of choice around these English counties and cities.

What to do in Bath with kids

Bath is a beautiful city, packed full of Georgian architecture and Roman history. It’s one of our favourite places for a UK city break with kids and for good reason – there’s so much to do in what is a very easily navigable area.

A lot of Bath’s main attractions for families, like the Roman Baths , Abbey and Jane Austen Centre, are in the city centre.

Expect a few hills to reach some of the parks and attractions on the outskirts of the city. Royal Avenue Gardens, The Royal Crescent and The American Museum are fab places to visit just outside the city centre.

To reach these hop on one of the many buses that run regularly from Dorchester Street near Bath Spa Train Station.

Not far outside the city you can find Avon Valley Adventure Park , which is a fun farm-themed day out with adventure play grounds and a model railway.

Have a read about when we go up to during our last stay i n Bath and more of our recommended places to visit in Bath and nearby.

Things to do in Berkshire

Royal Berkshire is where you’ll find Windsor Castle – our late Queen’s favourite residence.

Book tickets * to explore the state apartments and take a tour of its precincts. Or watch the changing of the guard outside for free. It’s an easy day trip from London * too.

Berkshire is also the home of LEGOLAND Windsor which has plenty of child-friendly theme park rides and the UK’s largest outdoor water play structure.

Find out more things to do in Windsor with kids .

Things to do in Birmingham with kids

England’s second city and the surrounding area are busting with days out and family attractions.

If your kids love LEGO then a trip the the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre * is a must. It’s a great option for wet days in Birmingham with indoor play areas, building zones and rides.

Another top thing to do in Birmingham when it’s raining is a visit to the National SEALIFE Centre * which has four zones to bring you closer to life under the sea.

For the super adventurous you can scale climbing walls, swim with sharks or try indoor sky diving at The Bear Grylls Adventure * near the NEC.

Check out my recommendations for even more indoor activities to do in Birmingham that guarantee fun whatever the weather including Cadbury World , crazy golf and family shows.

Days out near Birmingham include West Midlands Safari Park near Kidderminster, RAF Museum Cosford and the National Forest Adventure Farm at Burton-on-Trent.

Find more ideas for days out in the Midlands .

Family attractions and things to do in Bristol

Bristol is such a vibrant city with lots of interactive, animal and historical attractions that are ideal for families.

But days out in Bristol with kids don’t need to be expensive. We also love walking through the city centre to see what’s happening on the river and spot street art.

If you are looking for something free to do in Bristol then we can recommend  M Shed Museum . This tells the city’s story through interactive exhibits across several floors.

More places to go with kids that are ideal for rainy days are Bristol Aquarium , the We The Curious  science centre and  Bristol Museum . 

If your kids love animals then you can pick either Bristol Zoo  or the Wild Place Project which is just outside the city.

If your kids have been learning about Isambard Kingdom Brunel at school then you have to step onboard one of the most important ships in history, the SS Great Britain , and the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge .

Here’s some more ideas for things to do in Bristol .

Things to do in Buckinghamshire

You can’t go wrong with a National Trust day out and Buckinghamshire has more than any other English county.

We can recommend a visit to the enormous estate of Cliveden . There are miles of woodlands walks, play trails and den building areas as well as the beautiful architecture of the house itself. It’s a hotel now so it’s not possible to explore inside, but this is still a Buckinghamshire National Trust property that’s well worth visiting.

Aside from National Trust days out, what is there to do in Buckinghamshire with kids?

Mini theme park fans will enjoy the rides at attractions of Gulliver’s World in Milton Keynes. It’s best suited for pre-teens with lots of things for kids aged as young as two to do.

Somewhere to inspire budding writers and delight fans of The BFG is The Roald Dahl Museum in Great Missenden. The museum tells the incredible tale of Dahl’s life, from fighter pilot to the world renowned author.

There’s plenty of interactive exhibits in the museum allowing fans to capture their dreams in bottles, make their own movie and see some of the real places that featured in the books. 

Days out in Cornwall with kids

Ahh, Cornwall is my happy place. And the good news is the kids quite like it too!

Bringing a well stocked beach bag is a must when you are visiting Cornwall. There’s just so many beaches to pick from. Our favourites include Perranporth, St Ives, Porthcurno and Crantock Beach near Newquay.

There’s also lots of choice when it comes to family attractions.

If you are after roller coasters and theme park rides for the whole family check out Camel Creek near Newquay and Flambards at Helston.

For quirkier days out in Cornwall take the kids to the Hidden Valley Country Park in Launceston where they can solve riddles all day.

Of course, you can’t think of going to Cornwall without experiencing one of its most famous UK attractions for families, the Eden Project . We also rate the Lost Gardens of Heligan , the Cornish Seal Sanctuary at Gweek.

If you need to find something to do on a wet day in Cornwall we suggest visiting the PK Porthcurno Museum , Geevor Tin Mine or Lands End .

Here’s some more things to do in Cornwall on a wet day.

Find more days out and recommendations in my guide to family holidays in Cornwall .

Things to do in Devon with kids

With 450 miles of coastline and two national parks, Devon is a haven for outdoor loving families. We love it so much that we moved here!

But as well as exploring nature at it’s finest there’s plenty of family attractions in Devon. Whether your kids want to visit a Devon theme park , pick from more than 40 things to do in Plymouth , meet zoo animals or visit a Devon castle you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Of course, there’s also lots of purse-friendly things to do like visiting the beaches, walking on Dartmoor and visiting the many free family attractions in Devon .

Take a look at my other blog, Devon with kids , for even more inspiration.

Things to do with kids in Dorset

Looking for family days out in Dorset ? This is another part of south coast of England that we love and where we still have a lot to explore.

One of our favourite places to go is Moors Valley Country Park where you can follow the extraordinarily good play trail, book into Go Ape for a tree top adventure, hire bikes or ride on the model railway. Pay for parking and pick your activities from there.

Things to do with kids in Dorset when it rains include the SEALIFE Centre at Weymouth *, The Tank Museum at Bovington and The Tutankhamun Exhibition at Dorchester.

Of course, if the sun is shining, Dorset is home to the UK’s favourite beach at Bournemouth. But there’s so much more to do than lounge on the sand.

Find out about all the country parks, family-friendly attractions and dog-friendly activities in my guide to things to do in Bournemouth .

Just down the road you’ll fid Poole which is famed for its beaches, water sports and boat trips. Find out all the family-friendly things to do in Poole .

Here’s some more of the best things to do Dorset with kids including family attractions, country parks, activities and historic sights.

Attractions for families in Gloucestershire

With the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Forest of Dean, rolling countryside and various characterful towns to explore you’ll want give yourself plenty of time to enjoy all the things to do in Gloucestershire with kids.

For a day out packed with history don’t miss Sudeley Castle , which has links to Tudor England as well as the remains of a Roman villa.

If your kids love trains then take a trip through the Cotswolds onboard one of the vintage trains at Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway . The locomotive and carriages pass through six stations where passengers can alight to look around small exhibitions, have a go at changing the signals or get a closer look at the engines. 

For a more active day out whizz down the artificial piste of Gloucester Ski and Snowboard Centre close to Cheltenham.

We can also recommend a visit to  Cattle Country Adventure Park,  where there’s adventure playgrounds, farm animals and tractor rides. Visit in the school holidays for Easter and Halloween fun.

Things to do in Hampshire with kids

Take it from someone who lived in Hampshire for 35 years – there’s loads of things to do here with kids.

If you’re looking for places to visit with farm animals in Hampshire then check out Manor Farm near Bursledon, Longdown Activity Farm on the edge of the New Forest and Staunton Country Park in East Hampshire.

If you enjoy active days out, the New Forest is a wonderful place for a walk, as is the Forest of Bere newer Wickham. You’ll also find Go Ape at Itchen Valley Country Park .

Hampshire is home to plenty of historical attractions too, including castles and forts. Portchester Castle is a great place to visit. Climb to the top and you’ll have a panoramic view of the south coast.

For even better views visit Fort Nelson on Portsdown Hill. It’s also home to the Royal Armouries where you can find out about military life and defence of the nation.

We particularly love visiting Winchester where you can find family attractions like Winchester Science Centre , Marwell Zoo and Hinton Ampner National Trust .

Not far away at Romsey there’s another a lovely National Trust property, Mottisfont Abbey .

And of course you can’t talk about family days out in Hampshire without mentioning Paulton’s Park and Peppa Pig World – one of the most popular UK attractions for families with toddlers and teens.

For more inspiration for days out in and around Hampshire take a look at my posts about things to do in Portsmouth with kids and places to go in and around Southampton .

And if you’re visiting during the festive season, here’s some ideas for things to do at Christmas .

Things to do in the Isle of Wight with kids

We lived opposite the Isle of Wight in Hampshire for years and never really made the most of it. I still kick myself now.

The Isle of Wight is a wonderful place to explore with kids – it has brilliant beaches and lots of family-friendly attractions all in within a small but perfectly formed space.

Highlights for us during our last day out on the Isle of Wight were visiting the famous Needles and the yachie town of Cowes.

I can also recommend a visit to Queen Victoria’s favourite place, Osborne House , the Blacking Chine theme park and Carisbrooke Castle , which featured in the smuggling story Moonfleet.

These are all UK attractions for families that we visited before having kids and I’d love to take them back.

Things to do in Jersey with kids

One of our van adventures took us to Jersey were we spent a week exploring this lovely Channel Island.

The incredible coastline was an absolute highlight for us. We visiting several beaches that wowed us with wonderful views and sea front cafes serving delicious snacks.

We also visited some of Jersey’s attractions including Jersey Zoo and the Jersey War Tunnels.

Here’s our top places to visit in Jersey with kids .

Things to do in London with kids

Where do I start when it comes to things to do in London with kids? There’s just so much!

We had a great weekend in London in January 2020, visiting some of the free places to go like the Natural History Museum, the LEGO Store, Covent Garden and the royal parks in the city.

In the past we’ve also loved going for a spin on the London Eye *. The views are amazing, as long as you hit a sunny day.

If you’ve got older kids you might want to try Madame Tussaudes * or the London Dungeons *.

At the moment I think we’re more in zone for Sherks Adventure * and Sealife London *, which can be grouped together with the London Eye as they’re right next-door to each other.

Big savings on London attractions

If you’ve got a few days to spend in London, or are visiting on different occasions, why not take advantage of Merlin’s Big City Saver * deal?

It gives you access to some of London’s most iconic attractions for a discounted rate. Pick from a combination of attractions that suit you from the London Eye and Madame Tussauds to SEA LIFE London Aquarium and Shreks Adventure or a Big Bus Tour.

You can book any combination, any time within 90 days and move your bookings if your plans change.

Depending on the ticket combo you can save up to 46% on individual ticket prices.

Of course, there’s loads of family attractions near London too.

The RAF Museum London  near Hendon is a free day out that gives visitors the chance to discover the history of the Royal Air Force, the people who flew daring missions, and the aircraft they crewed. 

There are more than 70 aircraft and many interactive displays.

Twenty miles north of London, in Hertfordshire, you’ll find one of the top attractions for Harry Potter fans – J.K. Rowling’s world of wizards and wonder at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour .

This award-winning Making of Harry Potter experience takes you on a journey through sets used in the eight films including the Forbidden Forest, Dumbledore’s Office and Diagon Alley.

There’s also lots of budget-friendly things to do in Windsor and take a look on the sections of this post on Surrey, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire.

Things to so in Manchester

Like all of the UK’s city’s there’s an abundance of museums to visit in Manchester, many of them focussing on the city’s industrial past.

Manchester Science and Industry Museum explores 250 years of global innovations that began life here, with interactive exhibitions and events that will keep kids enthralled.

One of Manchester’s free days out is Manchester Museum . It’s where you can find out all about art, culture and natural history across four floors.

As well as the historic side of the city you’ll find well known attractions like SEA LIFE Manchester *.

There are 15 creature zones to explore from the shark ship wreak to the seahorse nursery and a new exhibition looking at the pre-historic sea creatures. You can also experience being part of a shoal of reef fish by walking through the ocean tunnel.

Got LEGO fans in your house? Immerse yourselves in a world of blocks at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre * in Manchester.

It’s an all-weather family attraction where kids and grown ups can have a go on three adventure-themed rides, get model building tips from LEGO experts and burn off steam through 10 build and play zones.

In Greater Manchester you’ll find Chester Zoo * and The Donkey Sanctuary for animal lovers, and Treetop Trek and Treetop Nets Manchester and Chill Factore for more active days out.

For even more ideas, read my full guide to things to do in Manchester with kids .

Days out in the Midlands with kids

Birmingham is a bustling place to visit with kids, but if you fancy a less urban experience then the surrounding Midlands has plenty of days out kids will love.

This used to be the industrial heart of England so there are attractions that will help you discover the heritage of the industrial era like the Black Country Living Museum .

If you prefer wildlife attractions then the West Midlands Safari Park has to be one of the best with a four mile safari, an animatronic dinosaur exhibition and theme park rides.

For the thrill seekers in your family there’s Drayton Manor Theme Park , which also has a zoo with 100 animals from all over the world, a 4D cinema, and rides suitable for all ages.

There’s also plenty of action adventures to be had at The Bear Grylls Adventure at the NEC. We really fancy this after experiencing the Gone Wild Festival in Devon . Buy tickets for the Bear Grylls Adventure *.

And who could forget Cadbury World for chocolate fans?!

Here’s a round up of all the top days out in the Midlands .

Things to do with kids in the New Forest

We are big fans of the New Forest and spent lots of time there when we lived in Hampshire.

You can walk for miles in the forest enclosures where you can see New Forest ponies, deer and pigs roaming free. Or you can enjoy its 40 miles of coastline stretching from the Solent to the Jurassic Coast in Dorset.

Some of the great things to do with in the New Forest with kids include visiting family attractions like Beaulieu Motor Museum . This is where you’ll find things to entertain the kids like the mini-motor play area, the World of Top Gear Test Track Challenge and the monorail.

Of course there’s also collections of cars from classic films and the beautiful Palace House stately home to look around.

We can also recommend a visit to Longdown Activity Farm with younger kids. They will love the indoor and outdoor play areas as well as feeding times with the animals throughout the day.

Things to do in Norfolk with kids

Norfolk is one of our favourite UK holiday designations for beaches and outdoor family attractions. You can even hire a boat and explore the Norfolk Broads .

One of the best outdoor adventure play places we have been with the kids is BeWILDerwood near Norwich . There’s incredible playgrounds with a great story to go with them.

We also love Whitlingham Country Park on the outskirts of Norwich. As well as waterside and woodland walks the Park has an outdoor activity centre offering paddle boarding, sail boating and raft building.

Another thing to do in Norfolk with kids is Pettitts Animal Adventure Park. It is a typical small  family theme park in Norfolk  that’s ideal for kids aged under eight. There are fairground rides, a bouncy castle, petting farm, train rides, a large adventure play ground and family shows.

Things to do in Northumberland with kids

If you have a young knight or princess in your house then they will be right at home in Northumberland where you can find 70 castles to explore.

There’s also plenty of Roman history with Hadrians Wall , the site of the Vindolanda fort and the Roman soldiers museum .

Northumberlandia and the Kielder Forest are epic outdoor attractions in Northumberland.

And if you want to visit a zoo or farm then choose from Whitehouse Farm near Morpeth, Northumberland College Zoo at Kirkley or Northumberland Country Zoo near Newcastle.

Find out more about these and more things to do in Northumberland .

Family attractions in Nottinghamshire

Kids love the story of Robin Hood. But did you know there’s much more to Nottinghamshire than a forest, green tights and a castle?

Active families should head to the National Water Sports Centre at Holme Pierrepont Country Park, which has world class facilities for kayaking, paddle boarding and rafting. There’s also a lazy river and activities on dry land like high ropes, a climbing wall and Segways.

A lovely option for families with toddlers is White Post Farm at Farnsfield. Here you’ll find the usual farm yard animals as well as meerkats, wallabies and llamas. There’s also a indoor play barn and tractor rides.

A great day out in Nottingham if you do want to visit the famous forest is Sherwood Pines . There’s an all-terrain segway tour suitable for kids aged 10 and up or you can hire bikes. Of course there’s also a Robin Hood themed adventure playground.

Things to do in Oxford with kids

One of the first places that comes to mind when looking for things to do near Oxford is a visit to  Blenheim Palace .

It’s famous for being the birth place of Winston Churchill and, in more recent years, as the set for several movies. There’s more than 750 hectares of gardens to explore and palatial state rooms brimming with intricate portraits, tapestries and furniture.

In Oxford itself go on a Harry Potter themed tour or visit the The University of Oxford Botanic Garden. This is one of the oldest botanic gardens in the country and has 5,000 different plant species.

Find more things to do in Oxford .

Things to do in Portsmouth

If you are looking for  things to do in Portsmouth with kids  then there’s plenty to keep your family entertained.

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is an epic place to visit to find out the history of the Royal Navy. And if you want to get a brilliant view of the South Coast then take a trip up the Spinnaker Tower *.

Of course there’s plenty of seaside fun to be had on Southsea Beach with the attractions of South Parade Pier and the Clarence Pier fun fair. Don’t miss Southsea Model Village and free to visit Natural History Museum too.

Check out the best museums, maritime heritage attractions, outdoor places and family-friendly places to visit in my post about things to do in Portsmouth .

Things to do with kids in Somerset

There’s so much going on in Somerset for families. From the world’s most famous festival, to the incredible Cheddar Gorge and historic Wells that have attracted tourists for centuries.

Then there’s the North Somerset coast which has been a popular English beach destination since the Victorian times.

Here’s some of our favourite things to do in Somerset with kids:

• Things to do in Weston-super-Mare
• Haynes International Motor Museum
• The Fleet Air Arm Museum
• Beaches for fami l ies in Somerset
• The American Museum in Bath
• Avon Valley Adventure Park

Also check out my guide to places to visit in Bath .

Southampton days out with kids

You’ll find lots of things to do in and around Hamphire’s largest city. Visiting is a must for anyone interested in the UK’s maritime history, particularly the voyages of RMS Titanic and the Mayflower.

SeaCity Museum is the place to go for the full low down on these two historic ships, followed by a trip to Mayflower Park to see some of the modern day cruise liners that traverse the oceans.

Not far from the city are days out like Peppa Pig World , Marwell Zoo and Winchester Science Centre.

Find more things to do in Southampton with kids .

Things to do in Surrey with kids

Surrey is all about breath-taking historic houses and beautiful gardens for me.

One of the very best that Mr Tin Box and I visited before having kids is Hampton Court Palace . I’d love to take them some day.

This was King Henry VIII’s favoured royal palace and the was stage for many historical events. It was where Henry’s third queen Jane Seymour died giving birth to the King’s heir, Edward. In happier times it was a palace for entertaining, with kitchens equipped for serving up 1,600 meals a day. Wowzers!

Another Surrey stately home that we have been to with the girls is Poleston Lacey , which is a National Trust property.

It once hosted lavish parties for royalty and has sumptuously decorated reception rooms. Children can dress up in Edwardian finery and try their hand at folding napkins fit for a banquet table.

Outside there’s 30 acres of formal gardens and a further 1,400 acres of estate including an adventure playground and an amphitheatre that hosts outdoor performances in the summer. 

If you enjoy exploring immaculate gardens then you must visit RHS Wisley in Surrey . It has no less than 24 different horticultural areas where you can admire exotic landscapes, native fruit trees, wild meadows and Mediterranean terraces.

There’s activity trails for kids and tropical butterflies in the iconic glasshouse in the winter months.

For a more active day out in Surrey head to Alice Holt Forest on the most northerly border of the South Downs National Park. Take a stroll through the woodlands, follow one of the play trails, hire bikes out Go Ape.

One of Surrey’s more unusual things to do and a hidden gem is The Sculpture Park at Churt. This is a woodland packed full of colourful, incredible and thought-provoking works of art.

Days out in Sussex with kids

Whether you want to explore the history of the Battle of Hastings, enjoy the iconic Brigton sea front or follow in the footsteps of A.A.Milne to discover the inspiration for Hundred Acre Wood, there’s plenty of days out in Sussex for families.

Take a look at our top recommendations for things to do in Sussex with kids .

Family days out in Wiltshire

It’s undeniable that Stonehenge is one of the most famous UK attractions also a great one to do with kids. The visitor’s centre is interactive and there’s a recreation of the type of dwellings that the people who built it might have lived in.

National Trust and English Heritage members can visit for free. Booking is essential.

If you have young children we can also recommend a visit to Cholderton Charlies as a great value day out in Wiltshire with kids. There’s animals, indoor soft play, outdoor adventure play and tractor rides. 

If you have teens who have read any of the Dan Brown books or particularly enjoy a ghost story then I’d suggest a visit to Salisbury where you can join a guided tour of the city’s most historic, spooky and symbolic sites.

Find bout more about family days out around Salisbury in Wiltshire.

Things to do in Yorkshire with kids

Yorkshire is somewhere I’ve been visiting since I was a child as we have family in the area. I’ve also been able to go with the kids a few times.

Here’s some places in Yorkshire that we have tried and others we’d like to visit.

Our girls couldn’t get enough of the hands on experiments and kid-friendly exhibits at Eureka in Halifax ! It’s not a museum with kid-friendly features; it’s a proper children’s museum – just for them (although I had fun too!).

There are six zones to explore each with their own theme from science and how the body works to art and role play. It’s a brilliant all-weather attraction that will keep kids aged 0 to 11 amused for hours.

Not far from the museum is  The Piece Hall . When you step through one of the grand entrances you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d been transported to Italy, especially on a bright day.

It definitely reminded me of  our visit to Venice . It used to be a centre for industry. Today it’s a place for local history, art events and independent shops.

You can find out more about Halifax’s industrial heritage at the  Calderdale Industrial Museum  next to The Piece Hall. Or take a short trip outside the town centre to the free  Bankfield Museum . This where there’s more to be learnt about the area’s people and history in the former mansion of philanthropist and MP, Colonel Edward Akroyd.

Other places I’m keen to visit in Yorkshire include York where I’d love to do the York Dungeons * (maybe when the kids are older) and Jorvik .

I’d also like to revisit Lightwater Valley , which I went to as a kid, and Flamingo Land for some fun theme park days out.

Things to do in Wales with kids

We’re big fans of holidays and days out in Wales, as are the kids.

Here’s a selection of days out a recommendations for things to do in Wales from our our experience.

Things to do in Cardiff with kids

Cardiff is a city oozing with culture, heritage and activities for the whole family to enjoy. It’s also a very compact city so you don’t have to travel far to find something new and interesting to keep your kids entertained.

We can recommend visits to Cardiff Castle , the Techniquest science centre , St Fagans National History Museum and the National History Museum .

Find out more about each of these places in my round up of things to do in Cardiff with kids .

Things to do in Gower

The Gower Peninsular is was Britain’s first area designated as an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. So, as you would expect, it is a top destination for families who love the outdoors.

There are beaches and coast walks-a-plenty, and lots of places to try out water sports like kayaking and surfing, as well as adrenaline pumping activities like coasteering and speed boat rides.

Our visits to Gower have been with young kids so we have concentrated on the beaches.  Caswell Bay is a well known surfing spot and  Rhossili Bay is one of Britain’s top beaches.

If you want to find out about the living history of the Peninsular then head to the  Gower Heritage Centre where you can see demonstrations of flour milling, pottery and woollen crafts that were staple industries in the area. There’s also a display of antique farming and cultivation tools.

Read about the things we did in Gower during a long weekend.

Things to do in Swansea

A visit to Swansea isn’t just about the city. You have a whole bay of fun on your doorstep stretching from The Gower Peninsular in the West to Port Talbot in the East.

We can recommend a visit to Oystermouth Castle – a Norman castle at Mumbles. In its heyday it welcomed royalty but it was attacked so many times that it eventually left in ruin. A major restoration project in 2010 saved the castleand allowed it to be opened as a heritage attraction.

In Swansea itself, there’s Wales’ largest indoor market,  Swansea Market ; the  Plantasia  indoor rainforest; and the  National Waterfront Museum .

Read about our long weekend exploring Swansea Bay .

Family days out in the Vale of Glamorgan and Bridgend

Every fan of Gavin and Stacey will know The Vale – it’s nestled between Cardiff and Porthcawl, and includes Barry.

But aside from hoping to glimpse Smithy and Nessa during a remake (please let there be another special!), what else is there to do in The Vale of Glamorgan with kids?

Parc Slip Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve at Bridgend is a wonderful place for a walk and to spot wildlife. It’s been created on the site of an old mine and is now home to some of Wales’ rarest wild creatures.

Another great day out for animal lovers is Amelia Trust Farm  – a charity in the Vale of Glamorgan working with vulnerable and disadvantaged young people. It is also open to the public.

You can visit to meet the animals, search for fairies and gnomes, and spot wildlife on the woodland trails. 

Family days out in Carmarthenshire

One of the very best things to do in Carmarthenshire is to visit Pembury Country Park. Not only are there plenty of family activities, like tobogganing, skiing and archery to try, there are also country walks and the stunning Cefn Sidan beach. It’s eight miles long!

We spent a family holiday just down the road at Llanelli from where we visited beaches, castles and the Brecon Beacons.

Read about all the things to do in and around Carmarthenshire .

UK attractions for families: Scotland days out with kids

We still have a lot to explore in Scotland. Here’s some of the days out in and around Edinburgh that come highly recommended.

Things to do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is famous for its castle and the Royal Tattoo. But if your kids aren’t excited by pomp and pageantry there’s more things to do in and around Edinburgh that they will love.

If you have teens then they’ll enjoy a trip through some of Edinburgh’s darker history at the Edinburgh Dungeon *.

Pay the National Mining Museum Scotland a visit to experience what it was like to be employed in Scotland’s mines in the 1800s when children as young as five laboured underground. As well as mine tours, your kids can dress up in Victorian clothes, and have a go on interactive exhibits in the museum.

Animal fans can visit Edinburgh Zoo , Five Sisters Zoo Park in West Lothian or the Scottish Owl Centre .

For a wildlife walk with plenty of drama visit the Falls of Clyde Wildlife Reserv e. Not only can you take in the three stunning waterfalls along this 2.5km section of the River Clyde, you can also spot king fishers, badgers and otters. 

UK attractions for families: things to do in Belfast & Northern Ireland with kids

I’m sad to admit that we’re yet to visit Northern Ireland with our kids, but I’ve taken the following suggestions from followers of my Facebook page who have been. What would you add?

Visiting the iconic basalt columns of the Giants Causeway should be on everyone’s bucket list. It’s looked after by the National Trust who provide visitors with audio guides at their Visitors Centre.

A walk across the Carrick a Rede rope bridge , suspended 30m above sea level is not for the faint hearted but it is a unique way to experience this part of the Atlantic coast.

Titanic Belfast is one of several museums that opened to mark the centenary of the ill-fated maiden voyage of RMS Titanic. There are interactive exhibitions and a ride telling the story of how the ship was built here in Northern Ireland. The museum is easily reached on the  Belfast hop on hop off  tour at Stop 5.

Belfast is definitely one of the UK cities that is well worth a visit .

Do you have a favourite UK day out with kids or a family attraction to be added to this post? Get in touch !

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THE 10 BEST Family & Kid Activities in England

Things to do in england with kids.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Westminster
• Central Liverpool
• Covent Garden
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Couples
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Tower of London

2. The British Museum

3. London Eye

4. Tower Bridge

5. Natural History Museum

6. The Roman Baths

7. Buckingham Palace

8. Borough Market

9. Hyde Park

10. Covent Garden

11. Sky Garden

12. Windsor Castle

13. National Railway Museum

14. St. James's Park

15. Chester Zoo

16. Royal Albert Dock Liverpool

17. The View from The Shard

18. Alton Towers Resort

19. Shambles

20. Stonehenge

21. Birmingham Back to Backs

22. Warwick Castle

23. Chill Factore

24. Blackpool Pleasure Beach

25. National Coal Mining Museum

26. Victoria Tunnel

27. Chelsea FC Stadium Tour & Museum

28. London Underground

29. Eden Project

30. Turbary Woods Owl and Bird of Prey Sanctuary

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20 UK attractions to take kids to before they grow up

The UK is blessed with an abundance of amazing days out for families, from educational sessions at museums to wild-and-free days getting muddy in an enchanted woods. Some UK attractions for families are so magical, they deserve to be seen through a child’s eyes. Here are 20 unmissable places to take the kids before they hit those pesky teen years!

20 |  Hobbledown Farm, Epsom, England

Hobbledown calls itself a ‘mysterical adventure’ and it has more than enough for a packed day out with little ones. A huge indoor play barn makes it an ideal venue for rainy days, while farm animals, an aerial adventure course and gigantic jumping pillows are just a small selection of the outdoor activities on offer. If you want to get up close and personal with the animals, meet and greet 17 magnificent birds of prey at the Raptor Centre.

Price: Tickets start from £18 in the morning, £16 in the afternoon

Find out more about Hobbledown Farm

19 |  Eden Project, Cornwall, England

This haven of lush greenery and nature is perfect for a day of digital detox. Walk through the largest indoor rainforest in the world with over 1000 species of plants, enjoy the canopy walkway and even see how rubber is tapped from trees to make wellie boots. For the thrill-seekers, soar above the Eden Project on the zip wire or the high flying giant swing.

Price:  £75 for a family ticket (two adults, two children)

Find out more about the Eden Project

18 |  St Fagans Natural History Museum, Wales

This unique gem in the heart of Wales offers an incredible insight into traditional Welsh life hundreds of years ago. Take a wander through the recreated rural village and try your hand at pottery on the outdoor wheel at Wales’ most popular heritage attraction. Local craftsmen demonstrate their trade around the museum and the grounds of the beautiful Grade I listed castle is the perfect place for a picnic.

Price:  Free entry

Find out more about St Fagans

17 |  Corfe Model Village & Fairy Garden, Dorset, England

Nestled at the base of historic Corfe Castle, the model village gives visitors a to-scale idea of what the fort would have looked like before its ruin. Kids will love the lawn games and enchanted fairy garden, willow shelters and even a tipi. The Dorset apple cake is not to be missed!

Price: £13.50 for a family ticket (two adults, up to three children)

Find out more about Corfe Model Village & Fairy Garden

16 |  Woodlands Park, Devon, England

The largest family theme park in England has everything you need for a fantastic day out. Little ones will love the zoo farm and water slides, while older kids can get their thrills on the theme park rides. Every spring, look out for their Easter Eggstravaganza where there are thousands of chocolatey treats to be discovered.

Price:  From £30 for a family ticket

Find out more about Woodlands Park

15 |  Legoland, Windsor, England

What kid doesn’t love a huge pile of Lego to play with? Take them on the ultimate brick adventure with themed rides, an around-the-world Lego experience featuring iconic buildings from around the globe (complete with marching guards at Buckingham Palace) and an epic splash park for sunny days. If you’re feeling brave enough, you can accept Lord Vampyre’s invitation to the Haunted House Monster Party…

Price:  From £35 per person over 110cm

Find out more about Legoland and family stays

14 |  Knockhatch, Hailsham, England

Knockhatch is a farm, soft play, waterpark and small theme park rolled into one. Visit the owl sanctuary, take part in a hands-on little critters show or ride on the carousel when the weather is fine. Grab some lunch at the cafe before the kids burn off steam at not one but two indoor play centres, while the parents kick back with a coffee.

Price:  From £14.99 (2yrs+)

Find out more about Knockhatch

13 |  Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, Edinburgh, Scotland

Immerse yourself in optical illusions at Edinburgh’s historic Camera Obscura. The museum has been attracting visitors for over 150 years, with its mind-blowing effects, tricks and puzzles. The five floors hold interactive exhibits where your kids will enter an altered visual reality. A great blend of art and history, you and your kids can also learn all about the intriguing history of the camera’s invention.

Price:  £11.25 for children, £14.85 for adults

Find out more about Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

Image credit: Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh

12 |  Techniquest, Cardiff, Wales

This science museum is perfectly set up for children to enjoy hands-on experiments all day long. Test your reflexes, try and make a hot air balloon float and get messy with giant bubbles in the light and airy museum. There are Teddy Bears’ Picnic days for toddlers and a Planetarium for budding outer-space buffs.

Price: £28 for a family ticket (two adults, two children)

Find out more about Techniquest

11 |  Hever Castle, Kent, England

The childhood home of Anne Boleyn is a fascinating and fun-filled visit for children and parents. See where Henry VIII slept, explore a miniature medieval village, get lost in the wooden playground or try to avoid the jets in the water maze. If the suns out, hire a rowing boat and take in the beautiful surroundings from the lake. Jousting displays are also on in the summer.

Price:  From £42.75 for a family ticket (two adults, two children or one adult and three children)

Find out more about Hever Castle

10 |  Sea Life Centre, Brighton, England

Located next to the iconic Brighton Pier, the Sea Life Centre is an underwater world of fun and adventure. Walk through a glass tunnel underneath sharks, watch huge sea turtles having their dinner or enjoy an ice cream in the cafe surrounded by tanks of exotic marine life. Pay a little extra for a magical glass-bottomed boat ride with the turtles!

Price: From £12.95 for children, £16.40 for adults

Find out more Sea Life Centre

9 |  Mattel Play Centre, Liverpool, England

This character-themed play centre is 13,000 square feet of wonder. Kids will love playing in the different zones, with Fireman Sam, Bob the Builder and Thomas the Tank themed play equipment in each one. Bring a camera so your little one can have their photo snapped with their favourite character. Maximum age limit: six years.

Price:  £12 for children, £3 for adults

Find out more Mattel Play Centre

8 |  Kidzania, London, England

This is the ultimate playground for the child who wants to be a doctor/chef/ballerina when they grow up. This indoor city is created to scale for children, with job roles for them to try out, including firefighter, photographer and journalist with international sponsors giving the zones an extra sense of reality.

Price:  From £76 for a family ticket (two adults, two children)

Find out more about Kidzania London

7 |  Natural History Museum, London, England

Although Dippy the Diplodocus has been relocated from its iconic position in the great hall, the Natural History Museum is still the place to come for a day of dino fun and historic adventures. See the amazing collection of animals and pick up fun facts about the ancient Egyptians in this English gem. A great educational day out and a chance for children to see that learning is fun!

Find out more about Natural History Museum

6 |  The Science Museum, London, England

If you have a budding Einstein in the family, the Science Museum in London is the perfect place to encourage their interests. Think like a scientist at the Museums Wonderlab, where you can immerse yourself in practical scientific experiments. Explore flight engineering, dive into outer space and even check out the iMax cinema for a fun-filled day of hands-on educational thrills.

Find out more about the Science Museum

5 |  Drusillas Park, Sussex, England

With a ride-on Thomas the Tank Engine and a pink Hello Kitty World, Drusillas is ideal for pre-teens. An extensive zoo will keep kids entertained for ages before they hit the banana boat swings, gigantic outdoor play area, indoor soft-play and rides.

Price:  From £70 for a family ticket

Find out more about Drusillas Park

4 |  Life Centre, Newcastle, England

Discover moments in history immortalised in Lego bricks, enjoy a 4D motion ride, try out some real science experiments and learn all about constellations at this dynamic science centre for under-12s. In the winter months enjoy a slippin’ good time at the Life Centre ice rink.

Price: From £6.50 for a child, £11 for an adult

Find out more about Life Centre Newcastle

3 |  Bewilderwood, Norfolk, England

Hailed as the anti-theme-park, Bewilderwood offers an unplugged experience full of fantasy and adventure. Explore treehouses, zip-wires, rickety bridges and meet some of the mystical creatures who inhabit the woods. Parents are encouraged to find their inner child and get stuck into the adventure too!

Price: From £14.95 for children, £16.95 for adults

Find out more about Bewilderwood

2 |  Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre and Aquarium, Scotland

Located just a 30-minute drive from Glasgow, Loch Lomond Centre offers visitors the chance to see some rare birds of prey in an up-close and personal setting. There are 35 species of birds and plenty of opportunities to meet them and enjoy a hands-on educational experience.

Price: From £4 for children, £8 for adults

Find out more about Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre

1 |  W5 Science & Discovery Centre, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Divided into seven fun-tastic areas of exploration and learning, the W5 Science centre has something for everyone. Whether it’s paddling in a virtual rock pool, scrambling through the Spacebase climbing rocket or racing your own K’Nex car there is a world of discovery awaiting your little ones. There’s even amazing augmented reality technology that transports families to exotic locations to meet incredible (virtual!) animals.

Price: From £7.50 for children, £9.80 for adults

Find out more about W5 Science & Discovery Centre

Here are 11 more magical places to take the kids before they grow up

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Italy Family Vacations

Spain family vacations, japan family vacations, australia family vacations, top holiday destinations in the united kingdom with kids.

• By Anna Tobin
• July 10, 2023

I’m putting myself in your shoes. You’re visiting the United Kingdom with kids for the first time. You want to see as much of our island as possible, but you don’t want to exhaust everyone in the process. So I’m thinking you’re here for a fortnight and you don’t want any more than five stopoffs. And, although I’d love to be wearing your Jimmy Choos, I’m expecting you to be mostly wearing your Converse and to have packed clothes for every weather system.

Anyway, I digress — you’ll discover we Brits love talking about the weather, because it’s so predictably unpredictable. Here are my five top holiday destinations in the UK with kids.

Family-Friendly Places to Visit in the UK

I’m guessing London is where you’re going to fly into, and I’m going to suggest you check in and check out our capital for four nights at least. It’s a very big city and you’re not going to see it all, but enjoy the tasting menu and then come back for a bit more when the kids are older.

Look for a hotel that is central and within walking distance of a tube station and one of the fantastic Royal Parks — Regents Park, Hyde Park, St. James Park, Green Park or Kensington Gardens. Ciao Bambino’s Family Vacation Advisor team can help you book just the right property for your family, with lots of vetted options in fantastic locations for sightseeing.

Whilst you’re in the centre, take in the London Zoo, Tower Bridge, the Science Museum, Buckingham Palace and the Museum of London (voted one of the UK’s most family-friendly museums), and hang out in Covent Garden enjoying the free street entertainers. Take in a show too. If the big musicals aren’t going to work, the Unicorn Theatre is a dedicated kids’ theatre, where there is normally something great playing.

I could go on and on, but you’re not here long and you need plenty of breaks in those parks I’ve already mentioned.

The Cotswolds

It’s so hard to pick a handful of must-see places for a visit in the UK, but I think the next stop from London should be the Cotswolds, about an hour and a half away from the city by car. It’s worth hiring a car for this leg as there are so many pretty villages to visit that relying on public transport could become irritating.

After the manic urban vibe of London, you’ll probably want to choose a cute country house hotel to unwind in for at least two nights here. That’s just enough time to visit the spa town of Bath and maybe even take a dip in Britain’s only natural thermal spa at Thermae Bath Spa; have a cream tea in a nearby village; explore the Cotswold Wildlife Park; and enjoy the activities on offer at your hotel.

We can help you create the perfect UK itinerary with kids!

Our expert Family Travel Advisors can work with you to decide where to go, book vetted accommodations, arrange private tours and guides, and more. Click to send us a request!

Next stop, York , either by train or car for a couple of nights. The historic centre of York has links to the Roman, Viking and medieval eras, and it’s a lovely walled city to spend time in. Kids of all ages will enjoy the Jorvik Viking Centre on the archaeological site of the Viking city of Jorvik. Board a time capsule and prepare to go back in time as they bring that era back to life.

York is also home to a huge Gothic cathedral, York Minster; the National Railway museum; and York Castle Museum, where a Victorian street scene is recreated for you to stroll along. If you have a car, you could also take off into the countryside and explore the rugged Yorkshire Dales National Park.

From York, I’d take a train over the Scottish border to Edinburgh and check straight into the Balmoral Hotel, a few steps from the station, for another couple of nights.

Edinburgh Castle wasn’t named one of the best UK heritage attractions for nothing, so a tour is a must. Then there is the rather wonderful Royal Botanic Gardens, just north of the city centre, which often has family events running, and the Museum of Childhood is fun to see.

The world famous Edinburgh Festival, held alongside the spectacular Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo throughout August, is a great time to visit the city, even with kids in tow as there are plenty of events aimed at them. But — you’ve been warned — you need to book accommodation months in advance. Edinburgh is very much a festival city and there are lots of other events held throughout the year geared towards families.

From Edinburgh you can also take a day trip out to Glasgow and the Scottish Seabird Centre, or you could drive up to the Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness to catch sight of the Loch Ness Monster. You’ll also find the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, in this region; the views are awe-inspiring.

From Edinburgh, I’d fly all the way down to the other end of Britain to Newquay in Cornwall for four relatively relaxing days before catching a flight back to London and then home. While there, you can visit the Eden Project, home to the world’s largest rainforest in captivity, and spend time exploring Cornwall’s picturesque coastal villages and golden stretches of sand. Be sure your time in Cornwall includes sampling the fish and chips!

If you’re not up for additional flights during your trip, consider heading south from Scotland and exploring the Lake District or Peak District en route back to London. Both are national parks known more for incredible natural beauty than tourist attractions.

Save Wales and Northern Ireland for your next trip.

Relevant Links:

Browse all accommodations and activities in the UK on Ciao Bambino

52 tips for traveling in England with kids

Best castles in England to visit with kids

8 favorite day trips from London with kids

The best London museums for families

Travel back in time in historic York, England with kids

72 hours in Edinburgh with kids: Things to do for the whole family

Our favorite luxury hotels in Scotland with kids

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Conquering the world…one city at a time.

Family Friendly Cities in England: 13 Of The Best Destinations

England may take your mind to the Tower of London, Big Ben, and the Buckingham Palace. But, just like France that we explored a couple weeks ago, there are plenty of family friendly cities in England scattered across the county that are perfect for your next family getaway.

Relax on the beach in the seaside town of Hastings, explore the museums in Birmingham, visit Liverpool’s parks and zoo, walk through Chester’s city center, and of course we can’t leave the Tower of London off the list. No matter what interests your family holds or what age you will be visiting with, there is something for everyone in England!

To help you narrow down your choices, check out these 13 family friendly cities in England as recommended by experienced travel bloggers around the world!

13 Family Friendly Cities in England

Page Contents

Recommended by Bev & Shams from Bev & Shams Adventures

The beautiful seaside town of Hastings, is packed with so much to see and do, that’s ideal for a family day out or a holiday to the coast. Hastings is famous for the Battle of Hastings that took place in 1066, but the location of the actual battle is said to have happened a couple of miles out of Hastings in a small town called Battle. To visit the battle grounds, take a short 20-minute train journey or drive to Battle. 

If you just want to get down to the coast for the day, then having a picnic on the seafront, during a hot summer’s day is a must. But beware, during the summer, Hastings can get very busy, with the beaches packed with tourists from far and wide making the most of the hot sunshine. The best time to visit Hastings would be during the spring or autumn months. The weather is still glorious but without the crowds. 

There are many other  things to do in Hastings , besides relaxing on the beach. The town is steeped in so much history, starting with the ruins of the Norman Castle that sits above Castle Hill overlooking the coast and the landscape around.  

What will really excite the children, are the smugglers Adventures. The caves would have once been used by smugglers over 200 years ago to hide, store and transport the smuggled goods around the country. Families will love the interactive displays, videos and the cold, dark caves, learning more about the smuggling adventures in Hastings. But fear not, there’s no longer pirates hiding their pieces of gold.  

Travel up the East Hill on the funicular railway, for one of the best views of the coast and the town below. 

Any trip to the seaside must include eating the famous fish and chips. Head to Hastings pier for the best fish and chips, but you must have mushy peas and curry sauce with it. 

Recommended by Hannah from Get Lost Travel Blog

York is a fascinating city just waiting to be discovered by visitors of all ages. First founded by the Romans in 71AD, York’s long history has resulted in a wide variety of attractions. You won’t be short of  things to do on your visit !

One of the top family-friendly things to do in York is visiting the Jorvik Viking Centre. You will be greeted by a Viking who will tell you about the York excavation where the Viking artifacts were discovered. Then, you will take a ride through the streets of Jorvik and learn about the day-to-day life of Vikings in York.

If you and your family have a sweet tooth, be sure to visit York Chocolate Story. York is the home of Rowntree’s and Terry’s of York (famously known for their chocolate orange!) At York Chocolate Story, you will be transported to the rainforests of Central America and follow the journey of cacao to York. You’ll even have an opportunity to try your hand at chocolate making!

The National Railway Museum is an attraction you will fall in love with, whether you are a train enthusiast or not. This museum is free to enter and has approximately 100 vehicles on display. You have a unique opportunity to get up close to the trains and climb aboard some of the most iconic vehicles in history.

York is a popular city which attracts tourists from all over the world, so it does get busy during weekends and school holidays. However, many of the attractions cope well with a high volume of visitors; simply book in advance to skip the line. If you are staying in York, get up early one day as this is the best time to see sights like York Minster and The Shambles without throngs of people.

Recommended by Rachel from Average Lives

Manchester is easily one of the best family friendly cities in England. There are educational, exciting and free museums, numerous great Manchester parks and large spaces to enjoy, and sensational sports to experience, and Roman ruins in its centre by the canals. 

The city is compact, and there is a free bus that can take you to all the main attractions. These include outstanding museums. Some of the most popular ones are the Science and Industry Museum for interactive exhibitions about Manchester’s contribution to the industry and its industrial past. The Imperial War Museum North to learn about the wars and conflict that have shaped our world. Finally, the National Football Museum, which is the largest football museum in the world.

If you’re a football fan, you can discover the two world-class stadiums of Manchester City and Manchester United. On the other hand, if you’re a Harry Potter fan or a lover of libraries, you should check out the mystical John Rylands library that looks like it is straight out of Hogwarts. 

Alternatively, you can hunt for street art in the trendy Northern Quarter, which is where you will find some of the best places to eat, including Mackie Mayor for an array of independent restaurants or Noi Quattro for some of the best pizza in the city.

There is never a bad time to visit Manchester, but carry an umbrella because it can rain a lot. Although, if you want to watch live football matches visit between August to May, when the season is on. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, there are plenty of options for any budget. There is something for everyone from the fancy and historic Midland Hotel to budget hotels and a YHA hostel.

Recommended by Jackie of Jou Jou Travels

Cornwall is a beautiful seaside town in the southwestern tip of England. It is the perfect family destination due to the many activities you can undertake including sailing, gorgeous walks or hikes with cliff views, relaxing at the beach, and more! It’s recommended to drive as there are many towns you’d want to explore and this is the easiest way to do it if you’re planning the  ultimate road trip through Cornwall.  

The most noteworthy spots to visit include Mousehole, a fishing village that has an amazing seafood restaurant called the Rock Pool Cafe. You can eat a crab sandwich and see the view of the sea right in front of you. St. Ives might be the most popular destination in Cornwall and the most lively. Go here for the amazing shopping, the stunning beaches, and the great pasties which you can grab at St. Ives Bakery.

If you want to go the less tourist route, stop by St. Agnes which is one of the smallest towns and the quaintest. It offers quieter beaches, pretty English homes, and beautiful walks. Penzance is a great area to base yourself for a visit to Cornwall and you can stay at Hotel Penzance. 

Recommended by Karen from Marvellous Middle England

Located right in the middle of the UK, England’s second city is a great place to visit with kids. Having gone through a huge period of renovation over the past few years, the city is clean and modern with heaps of family friendly activities. 

Kids will absolutely love a visit to the Think Tank. Birmingham’s very own Science Museum with heaps of learning opportunities, a mini city and outdoor science garden. A trip to the Sea Life centre will make every little animal lover happy. For an insight into the city’s history, head to the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, home to part of the famous Staffordshire Hoard and be sure to add a visit to the Ikon art gallery for their hands-on family friendly workshops.

If you need to cool off in the city there is a delightful splash play area in Centenary Square just outside the library and a walk along the many canals offer an opportunity to escape the city.

You’ll find plenty of family friendly big brand restaurants in the Bullring, Birmingham’s covered shopping area. Or for independent shops and restaurants, head to the Custard Factory in Digbeth and take in the brilliant street art while you’re there. 

For a fantastic family friendly place to stay, book the Hilton Garden Inn. It’s brilliantly located in Brindley Place, home to bars and restaurants and right on the canal. Making it easy walking distance to all the major sights of the city.

Birmingham is a wonderful place to visit in summer as there are plenty of places to explore outdoors. But I highly recommend a visit in November or December when one of the biggest German Christmas Markets sets up home in the city.

Find even more reasons to visit Birmingham !

Recommended by Ruma from The Holiday Story

Liverpool is a metropolitan city that falls under the Lancashire county of northwestern  UK . It lies on the eastern side of the Mersey Estuary, which is connected to the Irish Sea. Thus, it is an important port city in England. Several parts of the city were declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004. The town is also famous for being the origin of the most popular band, The Beatles. The Premier League football team Liverpool FC also helped in popularizing Liverpool worldwide.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, the city government built buildings resembling ancient Greek and Roman architecture. These buildings are still standing tall and give off an elegant view. The city’s parks are a sight to see. There are coastal parks like Crosby Coastal Park, Victorian parks like Sefton Park, etc. The Birkenhead Park, designed by Joseph Paxton, was the first publicly funded park in Britain. For a peaceful yet informative afternoon trip, you can visit one of the many museums of this city. Even though it is a lively city, you can also have some wildlife experience in Liverpool. The Chester Zoo, built on 128 acres, is one of the World’s notable zoological gardens. Knowsley Safari also exhibits the wildlife of Yorkshire.

Summer is the best time to have a trip to Liverpool with your family. During this time, the beaches are where the tourist crowd resides. Southport is every children’s favorite. They have a funfair at Southport Pleasurable with rides and ice-creams melting every kid’s heart.

Bold Street and Hope Street should be your go-to food destinations when in Liverpool. The restaurants and street stalls here offer various cuisines, including Indian, Italian, Lebanese, etc. For the night, you can opt for your regular hotels or go for the luxurious ones. Some of the historical buildings have also been turned into hotels for tourists.

Recommended by Kerry Hanson from  VeggTravel | Adventure Awaits

One of the friendliest cities in the UK is Sheffield, South Yorkshire. The whole of the Yorkshire region, no, in fact the entire North of England is friendly. Whether you’re going to the local shops or just out for a walk, expect to be greeted with ‘alreet luv’ as a subsite for hi or hello.

Sheffield is an old industrial city that is known as the steel city for its specialism in stainless steel.  Once a mining community, Sheffield has been redeveloped into a thriving cosmopolitan city centre. Due to it’s two specialist universities, Sheffield is a popular student choice and the night life is excellent. West Street is the main strip of late night bars where people start but there are bars and clubs scattered on roads nearby all throughout town.

If you’re looking for sophisticated bars and trendy restaurants then head to Ecclesall Road for a more laid back evening. The Lost and Found Bar is a top choice, although get’s busy quickly so pre-booking a table would be advised. This area also has boutique shops and a few large public parks and woodland areas, so is also good to visit in the day.

Sheffield has a tram service which makes it easy to get around. There are two large shopping centres, Meadowhall and Crystal Peaks that are worth a stop if you need some retail therapy. Sheffield is good to visit all year round, but Christmas is popular due to the markets in the town centre. July is also a good choice if you’d like to visit the Tramlines music festival which takes over the city.

Recommended by Joanna from The World in My Pocket

Whitstable is one of the most popular day trip destinations from London and one of the best family friendly cities in England. And no wonder, as it’s both beautiful and offers plenty of things to do. Due to its popularity, it often gets quite busy, so it’s important to remember to make your  trip to Whitstable responsible .

Whitstable has a long beach covered with pebbles, perfect for families to sunbathe and children to play in the water. The further away you walk from the harbour, the emptier the beach will be. The promenade follows the lovely fishermen huts, which you can actually rent if you want to stay overnight.

The harbour at Whitstable is full of life and can be a perfect learning ground for kids. Because it is a working harbour, you can often see the fish being brought to shore in the morning or people tending to different activities on their boats. Here there is a small arts and crafts market but also a few restaurants from where you can taste the oysters for which Whitstable is so famous for.

If you want to try the native Whitstable oysters, you should know that they are only in season between September and April. The local Whitstable Oyster Fishery Company, who farms the oysters, has their own restaurants in town, Wheeler’s Oyster Bar, and also supplies a few others, like the Forge or The Crab and Winkle. 

Recommended by Suzanne from Suzanne Meandering Wild

Plymouth is located in Devon and is a coastal city with close ties to the Royal Navy.  Although it is in Devon, the River Tamar that passes on the western edge of the city is the border between Devon and Cornwall.  It is perfect for a family visit year round although in the winter the winds off the sea can be bitter.

The city is like many others but the heart of the city is centered around the Barbican area which is the historic dock and where the Pilgrim Fathers set sail to America on the Mayflower in 1620.  This small area of the city has a number of old buildings and cobbled streets leading down to the harbour.  Behind the Barbican is the Hoe, a large grassy area with Smeaton’s Tower, an old lighthouse at the centre. Just below  Smeaton’s Tower  is the beautiful Tinside Lido which is an open air swimming pool and open during the summer months.  

Across the swing bridge from the Barbican and the Mayflower Steps is the National Marine Aquarium.  This large building is home to thousands of fish and marine creatures and is the perfect place to explore when the weather isn’t so good.  If you feel like getting on the water then nothing beats a ride on the small ferries that cross from the Barbican to Queen Ann’s Battery where there are walks along the cliff tops.  It’s compact size makes it perfect for family adventures especially as all of the main attractions are centered in one small area.  There are plenty of places to stay and eat.  Our favourite spot for a naughty snack is Cap’n Jaspers on the harbourside at the Barbican.

Recommended by Jacquie from Flashpacking Family

On the face of it, London, England’s capital city, may not seem like the most obvious place to visit with kids but look beyond the fast paced, concrete jungle and there are so many things to do for children of all ages.

Obviously, it is home to some of the most famous landmarks in the world including the Tower of London, Tower Bridge and Buckingham Palace, but there are also lots of hidden gems in London that are worth exploring with kids.

During the summer months, the park playgrounds come alive. If you want to escape the heat of the city, look at the Diana Memorial Fountains in Kensington Gardens and Coram’s Field close to the British Museum where you’ll find fun splash parks.

For the month of August, kids can catch a top West End performance for free with the Kids Go Free initiative or you can catch the street performers in Covent Garden.

If you are a fan of Christmas, London is a fabulous place to visit in December. The London Christmas lights and the Christmas markets (the largest is at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park) bring a lovely sparkle to the city. If you are looking to try something very British at Christmas, then watching a pantomime at the London Palladium should be top of your list.

But one of the main reasons that it is such a great city to visit is that there are so many  family-friendly restaurants in London , including some of the most exquisite afternoon teas. You will be totally spoiled for choice!

Recommended by Steph & Lewis from Book It Let’s Go!

Nottingham is the largest city in the East Midlands and there are many family friendly  things to do in Nottingham  that visitors of all ages will have fun no matter how long the trip. Nottingham can be enjoyed all year round with summer festivals along the embankment and the Nottingham winter wonderland in the Old Market Square taking place in December.

History lovers will enjoy visiting Nottingham Castle and National Justice Museum with the re-enactments of historic trials. Children will love the caves that stretch out under the city and learning the uses they have had over the years from wine cellars to Victorian slums. Wollaton Hall is also a must-see attraction, this open green space is just minutes outside of the city and has free roaming deer in the grounds. It is also the home of the Nottingham Natural History Museum inside the hall which is free for all ages to enjoy.

In the middle of the city centre families can enjoy learning the legend of Robin Hood around the city and tracing the footsteps of the famous outlaw. There is also plenty of shopping to do and unique experiences including a cat café and the lost city adventure golf.

For a special treat visit Dough Notts on King Street for handmade Instagram worthy doughnuts for the whole family to enjoy.

Recommended by Nele from The Navigatio

Because of its beautiful buildings, unique atmosphere, and interesting history, Chester is one of the best UK city breaks for families. The city centre isn’t very large, so you can easily explore it on foot in a day or two. While you’re never certain for a sunny day in the UK, your best chances are visiting between May and August.

Chester is very unique due to its beautiful Tudor-styled buildings. It’s a real treat to simply walk through the city centre and snap some photos of the Chester Rows, which date back to the 13th century. The cathedral is another must-visit. And best of all, you can enter for free!

With such a rich Roman history, Chester still has many sights where you can learn about its previous inhabitants. Chester’s city walls are the oldest, longest and best preserved in the whole of Britain – and you can walk them for free! They are over 2000 years old, and give you tons of great views over the city. Just outside the walls, you can also stop by the Roman Gardens and Amphitheatre. Especially on a sunny day, it’s lovely to walk through them.

Chester makes for the perfect weekend trip because you can see the city centre in one day, and visit Chester Zoo on the second. Especially when visiting with younger children, the zoo makes for a very fun day out. Chester Zoo is the most ethical zoo in the UK, as they fund many wildlife and preservation projects. That’s definitely worth supporting! 

Southampton

Recommended by Mal from Raw Mal Roams 

Situated in southeast England, county Hampshire, Southampton is a wonderful city to enjoy with the whole family. From historical monuments, great outdoor activities and excellent shopping, there is a myriad of fun  things to do in Southampton ! 

Take a stroll along the historic wall of Southampton starting from the majestic Bargate, one of England’s best-preserved medieval fortification. Pop into the 15th century Tudor House which is jam-packed with exciting family-friendly activities that will keep all the family members engaged. 

If you’re in need of some shopping therapy, visit West Quay, which is Southampton’s biggest retail centre. And just next door there is a newly built Watermark leisure centre with a wide selection of different restaurants, a cinema and a bowling alley. The city also organises various activities in front of the Watermark centre in the summer, so it’s worth checking out this area for the best free activities! 

For outdoor enthusiasts, Southampton has many great places to let off steam. There is Go Ape park situated in the Itchen Valley Country Park with exciting zip lines, suspension bridges and Tarzan swings. Woodmill Outdoor Activity Centre features a peaceful stream perfect for kayaking and stand up paddleboarding. Finally, the city also boasts many beautiful parks, excellent for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic. Try The Common or Victoria Country Park.  

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Southampton, Jurys Inn is a great option right in the city centre. 

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Published by Melissa

Hello! My name is Melissa (or Missy). I'm a nurse by day, but my true passion is travel. I'm a part time traveler, travel blogger, and photographer. Travel blogging allows me to share my experiences and knowledge with you as well as allows me to share in your experiences and learn from you. View all posts by Melissa

I’m Melissa, but you can call me Missy. I continuously crave a new adventure and love sharing those adventures with you! My sidekick is my 5 year old daughter. Together we are conquering the world, one city at a time! Find family travel tips and guides that will help you plan your next adventure!

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These are all great cities with so much to offer. Manchester is my favourite. I live just outside of Blackpool and it’s a great place to visit.

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50 Fabulous Places to Take Kids in the UK This Summer

June 2, 2017

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As parents, we are always on the lookout for great places to visit, that are truly child-friendly. So here is our pick of  50 Fabulous Places To Take Kids In The UK This Summer ! You’ll find a mixture of paid for and free places to visit, indoors and outdoors venues, old historical places and fun modern attractions. So what are you waiting for?!

Sign up  for our free Newsletter stuffed full of ideas, competitions and offers. PS Did we mention it’s free?

Places to Take Kids in Scotland

#1. camera obscura, edinburgh.

The Camera Obscura museum on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh offers amazing views of the city as well as 5 quirky floors full of a range of optical experiences which have been amusing visitors of all ages and nationalities since 1853.

It is a little on the pricey side but your ticket lasts all day so you could go in for a bit, out for lunch and back again.

#2. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Glasgow

The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in the West End of Glasgow is free to visit and is one of Scotland’s most popular attractions. I think it’s particularly fun for kids because as well as the art collection, it has displays covering e.g. mummies from Ancient Egypt, natural history with wildlife, birds, fossils and dinosaurs.

#3. Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, Stirling

• daily sea lion presentations,
• birds of prey flying demos,
• boat safaris,
• driving through African Asian reserves,
• petting farm,
• Adventure play area with pirate ship, climbing frames and buried treasure.

#4. Dalkeith Country Park, Midlothian

We visited Dalkeith Country Park with 5 children of various ages and there was plenty for everyone to enjoy. The park has walking and cycling trails, and offers fun things to do such as bushcraft, archery and ranger activities but the highlight is probably Fort Douglas (small entry fee for kids), a fantastic adventure playground with turreted treehouses, suspension bridges, slides, climbing walls and secret tunnels.

Adults will enjoy browsing the shop and cafe at Restoration Yard, we picked up sandwiches and drinks in there and enjoyed them in the courtyard but you could also bring a picnic with you and enjoy the various picnic areas throughout the park.

#5. Cocoabean Company, Dumfries & Galloway

The Cocoabean Company , aka the Chocolate Museum, is a fun place to visit with kids. When you arrive, book the kids in for the next available workshop where they will have fun making chocolate creations in a special factory section with glass walls so Mum and Dad can watch. Then enjoy lunch in the cafe or pick up some yummy treats in their factory chocolate shop. The other fun thing is they have created indoor play areas, outdoor play areas and soft play so the kids can work off some of that chocolate afterwards!

And immediately next door is the David Coultard Museum for any Formula 1 fans where you can browse memorabilia and try out their full scale, full motion Formula 1 simulator – as used by Formula 1 Drivers before a race weekend.

Places to Take Kids in the North West

#6. museum of science and industry.

The Museum of Science and Industry  in Manchester documents 250 years of discoveries and innovations that began in Manchester and went on to influence the world.

The museum is very child-friendly with lots of activities for kids of all ages. For younger kids, they can pick up a Blanket Bag, Treasure Basket or Power Pack and explore soft play areas while for kids aged 5+ there are shows, demonstrations and special events taking place all the time.

#7. Quarry Bank Mill

We visited Quarry Bank Mill with friends for an afternoon and we could easily have spent a whole day at the Mill. Quarry Bank Mill, in Wilmslow in Cheshire is a National Trust property and a working mill.

As well as extensive gardens that you can explore and picnic in, you can visit the Mill which walks you through the evolution of textile and manufacturing in the area, the culmination is entering the long rooms with ancient machines and clattering sounds giving you an idea of what it must have been like. Book in for a tour of the Apprentice House where you will find out how the pauper children who worked in the mill lived and were educated. This really brings history to life.

#8. Chester Zoo

No visit to the North West of England with kids is complete without a day out at Chester Zoo . Book your tickets online as they are cheaper booked in advance. With over 500 species of animals and 125 acres of habitats to explore it is a full day to see everything so plan your visit with the help of their interactive map before you go and avail of the plentiful rest stops, play areas and cafes to break up the day too.

And with a heap of events and workshops taking place, do check what’s going to be happening on the day of your visit.

#9. Thompson Park Railway

The Thompson Park Railway  in Burnley is a fun place to take the kids as it has a Miniature Railway operated at weekends and Bank holidays, as well as Wednesdays in the school holidays from April to October (weather permitting). Rides cost £1. There are also special events during the year like the Teddy Bears Picnic in July and Santa Specials in the run up to Christmas.

As well as the railway, there’s a boating lake, river with bridges and walking paths. There’s also a children’s adventure play area and sandpit. In nicer weather, bring towels as the kids will enjoy the outdoor paddling pool which is filled at weekends and school holidays between April and September on days when the weather is warm and sunny. If you want to check if the pool is full please call the Ranger Service on 01282 831053.

#10. World Museum Liverpool

The World Museum in Liverpool is a fun place where you can discover treasures from around the world, explore outer space and meet live creatures. From ancient Egyptian mummies to the Bug House to the Planetarium, this is definitely a fun museum for kids to explore. Follow their Dinosaur or World Culture trails and enjoy a heap of fun events throughout the year. Best of all, admission is free.

Places to Take Kids in the North East

#11. alnwick.

You should plan to spend a day in Alnwick as there are 3 very fun attractions there: Alnwick Castle, The Alnwick Gardens and Barter Books.

Alnwick Castle may be familiar to you as it was Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films. Visit the Castle and enjoy a tour of the Castle, then stop by the special area in the Castle Grounds for kids which offers medieval and Harry Potter themed activities, events and workshops.

Save 10% on tickets by buying them online and you can also buy combined tickets to visit the nearby Alnwick Garden , one of the world’s most contemporary gardens and home to one of the world’s largest wooden tree houses and the unique Poison Garden – you can take one of the regular tours of the Poison Garden where they will show you and tell you about all sorts of fascinating and poisonous plants.

Finally, don’t miss Barter Books , one of England’s largest second hand bookshops; it’s a converted Victorian train station and a welcoming wonderful place with open fires in the winter and a model train railway running up on tracks up above the bookshelves. There are plenty of cosy nooks and seats to sit and enjoy the books on offer, as well as a children’s room with enough toys to allow parents and grandparents to browse elsewhere in peace – provided one guardian is left to look after the children!

#12. Bamburgh Castle

#13. Discovery Museum Newcastle

Enjoy discovering both science and local history at the Discovery Museum  in Newcastle, where kids will love their PLAY + INVENT space where kids can let their imagination run wild in a special space for designing, inventing and making.

On the first floor you can find out all about Tyneside’s industrial and maritime past and you’ll also find the under 7s water play area called Play Tyne. On the 2nd floor have fun exploring the world of science in the interactive Science Maze.

#14. National Science and Media Museum

At the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford, visitors can explore the science and culture of light and sound technologies. There’s plenty to see what with 8 floors to explore, 3 cinemas, and the amazing Wonderlab  where you can touch, try and photograph your experience as you navigate your way through more than 20 mind-bending exhibits:

• Hear your voice echo through a 15m-long tube
• get lost in a mirror maze
• make art using light, and
• travel through a laser tunnel.

It’s free to visit Wonderlab, but booking in advance is recommended.

#15. Haworth and Bolton Abbey

The village of Haworth in West Yorkshire makes a fun destination with kids. It’s a picturesque village which feels a bit like stepping back in time, with cobbled streets and cute little shops and cafes. We had lunch in the  Cobbles and Clay , a café and pottery painting studio at the top of Haworth’s Main Street, where the kids enjoyed painting pottery ornaments.

It is also home to the Brontë Museum in the actual parsonage where the Bronte sisters lived. It’s interesting to wander around and find out a little about their lives and it also has a good shop with plenty of merchandise and books.

Bolton Abbey is also not far from Haworth and fun to take the kids to where they will enjoy building sandcastles on the beach, and having picnics then explore the woods and paths by the river, playing ball games or just generally running around!

Places to Take Kids in the Midlands

#16. warwick castle.

Warwick Castle is one of England’s most famous medieval castles, which promises history, magic, myth and adventure when you visit. At the Castle you’ll enjoy seeing battlements, towers, turrets, and visiting the Great Hall. There are interactive attractions and walk-through adventures including their Horrible Histories Maze where you have to choose your path through time to unravel history while facing fun challenges such as invading a Viking ship, uncovering evil plots and escaping the maze before things go horribly wrong!

There are extensive grounds, daily shows and activities with birds of prey displays and more. And if you dare to visit The Castle Dungeon you will find out about some of the darkest, bloodiest and most frightening times in the Castle’s history.

#17. Twycross Zoo

Twycross Zoo located between Birmingham and Leicester hosts over 500 animals, from over 100 different species, including some of the most endangered on our planet. It has the largest collection of monkeys and apes in the Western World, and is now known as “Twycross Zoo – The World Primate Centre”

At the Zoo, you can walk with ring-tailed lemurs in their walk-through enclosure; see the troop of emperor tamarins leap above your head in their treetop exhibit, and watch Humboldt penguins take their daily walk. The Zoo’s keepers present regular talks and feeds where you can learn a bit more about animals such as the chimpanzees, Asian elephants and South American coatis, as well as about their conservation projects.

#18. Cadbury World

Any chocolate fans in the house? then head for Cadbury World  in Bournville, near Birmingham, where you’ll enjoy the self-guided exhibition tour going through a variety of zones including 4D Chocolate Adventure, Purple Planet, Aztec Jungle and Chocolate Making of course. You can book online to ensure entry (and save 5%).

Bournville Village itself is worth a wander, the Cadbury brothers not only built their factory but also improved the lives of their workers by building houses, a school, and a hospital. Selly Manor Museum, in a 700 year old timber framed building offers events all year, children’s workshops, exhibitions, a lovely Tudor garden, games to play and armour to try on. You’ll get 20% off entry to the Museum by showing your Cadbury World tickets.

#19. Nottingham Castle

Was Robin Hood a heroic outlaw? Man in Tights? Highly skilled archer and swordsman? Find out more about Robin and his Merry band when you visit Nottingham Castle . For centuries the castle served as one of the most important in England for nobles and royalty alike.

As well as finding out about this history at the Nottingham Castle Museum there’s an Art Gallery with touring exhibitions, and at the Museum Of Nottingham Life at Brewhouse Yard you can step back in time and discover over 300 years of Nottingham’s history, find out how houses and shops would have looked like in the early 1900s and see a huge variety of items from toys to tools that span the years.

#20. Gulliver’s Kingdom

If you have younger and older kids, then you might like Gulliver’s Kingdom in Matlock, Derbyshire, which offers fun for families with children aged between the years of 2 and 13. With a wide range of rides and attractions and play areas, it caters for all ages. There’s free parking and families are welcome to bring their own picnics into the park.

The park is set on a hillside, so you get great views at the same time as enjoying the rides. Good news there’s a travelator and a chairlift (both buggy-friendly) to help transport you from the bottom to the top of the park quickly.

Places to Take Kids in the South East

#21. cotswold wildlife park and gardens.

Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens really does offer the chance to get closer to wildlife; it’s like a cross between a Zoo and a Safari park. You pay whilst in your car at the Pay Kiosk at the end of the drive into the Park. You then park your car (for free) and walk around the grounds. There are spacious animal enclosures which means you can ‘closer to wildlife’ than in many other zoological collections giving the Park the feel of a ‘walking safari’.

There are picnic shelters around the Park, or you can enjoy your picnic on one of the spacious lawns which overlook the enclosures for Rhinos, Zebras, Giraffes and Camels. The Park is 99% accessible for both wheelchairs and pushchairs, kids will enjoy discovering the 260 species of animals, the fantastic adventure play area, sky maze and Bella the train:

#22. Bletchley Park

Bletchley Park is the home of British codebreaking and a birthplace of modern information technology. It played a major role in World War Two, producing secret intelligence which had a direct and profound influence on the outcome of the conflict.

• Start at the Visitor Centre in Block C for a welcoming entry into Bletchley Park with a coffee shop, gift shop and an engaging multimedia, interactive introductory exhibition.
• Then visit the restored Codebreaking Huts 3 and 6, where Enigma messages sent by the German Army and Air Force were decrypted, translated and analysed for vital intelligence. In these iconic huts, the atmosphere is recreated with rooms dressed to resemble what they once were when Codebreakers worked there.
• Visit further Huts for more insights into life during the war and the efforts that went on there.
• Finish with a visit to the Museum in Block B to see Hitler’s “Unbreakable” Cipher Machine.

#23. Emirates Spinnaker Tower

Did you know that The Emirates Spinnaker Tower  in Portsmouth is taller than the London Eye, Blackpool Tower and Big Ben? Take the high speed lift to the Tower’s view deck at 100 metres, where you’ll see the South Coast’s most spectacular views, do some ship spotting with their Shipfinder tool and find out the stories behind the view with interpretation touch screens.

Then if you dare (!) cross the glass Sky Walk and feel the wind blowing on the highest viewing deck, the Sky Deck at 110m high!  Book in advance online to save 15% on tickets.

#24. Dinosaur Isle, Isle of Wight

If you have Dinosaur fans in the house, then head to the Isle of Wight for a visit to Dinosaur Isle , home to dinosaurs and other fossils housed in a purpose built interactive museum. Walk back through time, from the Ice Age of the recent past, back to the Cretaceous period when dinosaurs lived. Then be amazed in the large dinosaur gallery, with exciting displays including real fossils, skeletal reconstructions, life sized fleshed re-constructions and two animatronic dinosaurs. The Museum also holds regular fossil and landscape walks, these book up quickly so do book well ahead for those.

#25. Wakehurst, Sussex

Wakehurst is a country estate with formal and ornamental gardens, woodlands, wildlife and a nature reserve. It is also home to the Millennium Seed Bank, the largest wild plant seed bank in the world., part of the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew properties. There’s plenty to see and do at Wakehurst, Whether you want to have an adventurous journey through woods and gardens, or find out more about plants and nature, there are lots of family-friendly features , with fun festivals and family events run throughout the year.

Kids can pick up a passport from the Visitor Centre and fill it in as they travel around 8 specially designed outdoor play spaces on Adventurous Journeys. And during summer months kids will love the Wild Kids woodland adventures  with activities, games and crafts encouraging outdoor discovery.

Places to Take Kids in the South West

#26. eden project, cornwall.

You’ve probably seen pictures of the famous Eden Project with its two large geodesic domes, the Rainforest Biome where you can explore the largest indoor rainforest in the world and the Mediterranean Biome where you can discover the amazing variety of plants growing in the Mediterranean, South Africa, California and Western Australia.

There are plenty of other things here to make for a great family day out. Enjoy

• the Rainforest Canopy Walkway
• SkyWire: England’s longest zip wire
• The Nest climbing frame
• sculptures in the outdoor gardens
• fun trails including the Discovery trail for kids
• and fun seasonal events

#27. National Maritime Museum, Falmouth

At the family friendly National Maritime Museum you’ll find 15 fun galleries where kids can jump aboard a Viking ship, go under the sea without getting wet, learn how to sail & more. , There’s the National Small Boat Collection, a 100 foot Look Out Tower, and arriving in 2017, the Under the Sea Tidal Zone.

Kids will enjoy the Adventurers Playzone and there are regular fun events during holiday periods, as well as exhibitions about maritime history and famous people.

#28. The Lost Gardens of Heligan, Cornwall

Twenty-five years ago, Heligan’s historic gardens were unknown and unseen; lost under a tangle of weeds. It was only the chance discovery of a door in the ruins that led to the restoration of this once great estate. Today, The Lost Gardens  are among the finest gardens in Cornwall and they provide families with possibly the best natural playground ever, making them one of the top family days out in Cornwall!

From The Jungle with its acres of raised boardwalks, giant exotic plants, pools, wildlife and one of the longest Burmese Rope Bridge in Britain, to The Insect Hotel where you can discover a host of insect and invertebrate life, kids will have a ball here. And with plenty of seasonal events to enjoy, this really is super day out.

#29. Fashion Museum, Bath

We had a great time visiting the Fashion Museum in Bath , a surprisingly family friendly museum with plenty of activities for kids . As well as creative activities during the school holidays, they have drawing cards in the galleries and children can also take part in a sticker trail, ask at reception when you buy your ticket.

There’s an interactive lace game to try your hand at creating and sharing your own lace pattern, and the highlight for my kids was the chance to dress up! At the heart of the Fashion Museum, half-way through a visit, you can find out what it’s like to wear ‘make-believe’ Georgian and Victorian fashions. There are replica historical dresses, coats, hats and bonnets for adults and children to try on. And you can take your photograph in the dress up fashions from the past against a backdrop image of Bath’s Royal Crescent.

#30. South Devon Railway

The South Devon Railway , or SDR, is a seven mile former Great Western Railway branch line, built in 1872, which runs along the stunning valley of the River Dart between Buckfastleigh and Totnes (Riverside). Steam trains offer a fabulous chance to go back in time and it doesn’t matter the weather, you’ll have a great time riding the trains. You can also combine the Railway with two other family friendly attractions: Totnes Rare Breeds Farm and Dartmoor Otters & Buckfast Butterflies: 3 Great Attractions, 1 Amazing Day .

See otters from around the world and stunning tropical butterflies, enjoy a one hour’s round trip along the beautiful valley of the River Dart behind a Great Western Railway steam engine and stroke the owls, feed the red squirrels, meet the hedgehogs, what’s not to like?!

You can visit each tourist attraction separately or purchase great value joint tickets for all three; the Otters & Butterflies and Railway; or Rare Breeds and Railway.

Places to Take Kids in Wales

#31. st fagans national museum of history.

Enjoy one of Europe’s leading open-air museums,  St Fagans National Museum of History  in Cardiff, where you’ll discover over forty original buildings from different historical periods within a 100-acre parkland, among them houses, a farm, a school, a chapel and a splendid Workmen’s Institute.

• See traditional crafts and activities and find out about farming and animals.
• You’ll also enjoy regular events with music and dance celebrating Welsh traditions and lifestyles.
• For nature lovers, their beech woodland is great place to enjoy the outdoors and learn about nature.
• Kids will have fun with the activity trail packs (pick these up at the gift shop £3.50), you have to follow the map around the Museum to find some special hands on activities such as grinding some grain, spotting farm animals and taking home a special recipe to try in your own kitchen.

#32. Pembroke Castle

Pembroke Castle , birthplace of Henry VII, is a medieval fortress steeped in history, in a natural defensive position overlooking Milford Haven with spectacular views from the top. Kids will love exploring the labyrinth of passageways and towers, climbing the 75ft high Great Keep, descending into Wogan Cavern and enjoying the Great Map of Wales (at time of writing undergoing renovation).

In addition to regular family fun activities such as Knight School, Dragon Days and Living History Days, there is plenty to see at the Castle. There are five “Earl” rooms in which you can learn about the lives of the Earls of Pembroke, each room containing a larger than life Earl figure that will tell you their story. You can also meet the Castle Staff and characters who would have lived and worked in the castle walls in hundreds of years ago. These colourful figures are hidden in tricky to find areas of the castle, but once you discover them you will be able to use your smartphone or tablet to access their story and learn about their lives.

#33. Greenwood Forest Park

Voted Best Family Attraction in North Wales, Greenwood Forest Park  offers heaps of fun for kids in the Park including:

• the UK’s only solar powered water ride
• the world’s first people powered roller coaster
• the longest sledge run in Wales
• the super bouncy Giant Jumper
• TreeTop Towers
• the BareFoot Trail where you get to take your socks and shoes off!

#34. Snowdon Mountain Railway

Take a journey to the rooftop of Wales on the Snowdon Mountain Railway. The railway has been in operation since 1896 and carries visitors on a breathtaking journey to the summit of Snowdown to experience spectacular views over the Snowdonia National Park in North Wales.

Steeped in history with a rich diversity of flowers and  fauna, there is plenty to see as you climb ever upwards traversing the river Afon Hwch on a viaduct with the water below cascading into the gorge then onto Car Esgob, Bishops Field and the ruined  Hebron Chapel. Until finally reaching the summer of Snowdown, Land of the Eagles.

#35. Welsh Mountain Zoo

Just minutes from Colwyn Bay you will find the Welsh Mountain Zoo , home to  chimps, exotic birds, penguins, sea lions and many more animals.

Visitors can enjoy family shows throughout the day including a Chimp Encounter Show, a Winged Wonder Bird Display, Sea Lion feeding and training display and a Penguin Parade. In addition they can interact with farm animals or even become a Zoo Keeper for a Day!

Best of all from April to September there is a free mini bus service from Colwyn Bay railway station.

Places to Take Kids in London

#36. tower of london.

The Tower of London is a firm favourite place to visit with kids. Situated on the banks of the River Thames overlooking Tower Bridge, you will step back to a medieval time steeped in history.

Arrive early and spend 3 to 4 hours enjoying tours, historical re-enactments, and learning  more about the sometimes gruesome history of of the Tower. For an interactive experience, families can download the free Time Explorers app and take some digital missions as your journey around the Tower.

#37. London Wetland Centre

The London Wetland Centre is an oasis for people and wildlife in the centre of London, just minutes from hustle and bustle of Hammersmith.

Come and enjoy getting back to and exploring nature. Let the kids go wild in the Outdoor Adventure Playground with zip wires, a climbing wall and giant water tunnels. Or take a journey through coaral reefs and boglands at the Indoor Discovery Centre. Play interactive games to understand the importance of water and then move on to the Pond Zone where you get to use high-tech gadgets to explore underwater and create your own perfect digital pond!

Activities run throughout school school holidays to inspire, delight and teach children, and adults, about the wildlife around them.

My top tip would be to pack a change of clothes as there is amply opportunity for the kids to get soaked!

#38. Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum in Kensington, London, is one of the best places to take kids in London as it caters for alll ages and has a free general entry.

From sensational butterflies to whales, nature to science, the museum is full of permanent and special exhibitions and attractions for you and your family to enjoy. You can also take part in workshops, crafts and other exciting events throughout the year including that take place after dark!

#39. Science Museum

The Science Museum in Kensington is an educational, interactive haven over seven floors. You can learn, explore and interact with everything from underwater worlds to outer space and everything in between. Entry is free, although you are asked to make a donation.

At the science musuem you get a real sense of history and the advances we have made in technology, science, medicine, space exploration, robotics, air travel, transportation and communication.

Kids, especially younger ones, will enjoy Wonderlab where they can get hands on and interactive and be entertained by the shows. There is an extra charge for Wonderlab.

#40. London Zoo

According to wikipedia, London Zoo has been open since April 1829, making it the world’s oldest scientific zoo. You could easily spend a day (or longer) wandering around meeting animals from African harrier hawks to zebras and a whole array of species in between.

In addition London Zoo hosts events, animal meet and greets and other zoo experiences to suit all ages. I would suggest entering the zoo by one gate and leaving by an alternative gate as that way you will get to explore Regents Park and Camden Lock too, both amazing places to take kids in their own right.

Book you tickets online in advance for a 10% discount.

#41. London Sealife Aquarium

Situated on the banks of the river Thames alongside the London Eye and overlooking Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, the London Sealife Aquarium has an extraordinary array of fish and other sea creatures.

You will be wowed from the moment you enter, as you cross over the glass window and see sharks swimming below! Next comes creatures from the coast including octopus, sand eels and many more amazing creatures from our coastline.

At Ray Lagoon you will be mesmerised by the rippling water as the Rays come up to say hello. Move onto the Rockpool where you can touch sea anemone and starfish. Continue into the ocean tunnel where fish and other sea creatures swim above and around you and move through to Nemo’s Coral Reef, Ocean Invaders a cool new world of jellyfish and the Seahorse Kingdom.

Learn about Rainforests of the world and see some of the animals that call them home, before coming to Penguin Point where the temperature drops and you get to experience life with a colony of Gentoo Penguins.

Book tickets in advance online for discounts and special offers.

#42. Chessington World of Adventures

Hop on the train at Waterloo station and you will be at Chessington World of Adventures in just 35 minutes! Chessington South Station is in Zone 6 so your Oyster Cards will work here too. For the best park ticket prices, book your tickets online in advance. Your ticket gives you entry to the Theme Park, Sea Life Centre, Zoo and Live Shows and Entertainment.

From the Gruffalo River Ride Adventure to the Vampire Rollercoaster the flies you over the treetops there is something around every corner to suit all ages.

My advice would be to pack spare clothes, as you can expect to get wet while having the time of your life.

#43. Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter

For any fans of Harry Potter a trip to the  Warner Bros. Studio in Watford is a must. From the moment you step through the doors into the great hall you will be immersed in the magical world of Hogworts, Diagon Alley, Kings Cross Station, Privet Drive, Gringots, The Forbidden Forest and all your favourite places from the films.

From costumes to scale models to flying over the streets of London on your very own broomstick, magic is all around you.

Do book your tickets in advance to ensure entry at this attraction is extremely busy year round.

#44. Royal Observatory Greenwich

We spent a nice afternoon at Greenwich, first, taking the boat from Central London along the Thames to Greenwich. Next we enjoyed visiting Greenwich Market with its colourful stalls and cafes. We then wandered up the hill through the park to visit the Royal Observatory.

Here East meets West at a longitude of 0° on the historic Prime Meridian line, the home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). You will also find the planetarium where you can take a journey through space.

From North Greenwich you can also access the London Cable Car and take a unique trip across the River Thames.

#45. V&A Museum of Childhood

The Victoria & Albert Museum of Childhood houses the UK’s national collection of childhood objects. Enjoy the collection of teddy bears and dolls houses, or take part in daily activities including storytelling and treasure hunts.

Admission is free and families can collect a free Montessori designed backpack for under 5’s to enrich there experience further. There are events and workshops to enjoy during school holidays.

Places to Take Kids in Northern Ireland

whowhatwherewhenwhy – W5 is Ireland’s award winning science and discovery centre at Odyssey in Belfast. With over 250 interactive exhibits and a changing programme of events, shows and exhibitions, W5 is a great value day out. It has plenty of activities to suit all ages.

We spent several hours there, taking a break for lunch and then returning to check out even more exhibits.

#47. Titanic Belfast

At Titanic Belfast , discover the Titanic story in a fresh and insightful way. Explore the shipyard, travel to the depths of the ocean and uncover the true legend of Titanic, in the city where it all began.

With several levels of interactive exhibits, tracing the story of the Titanic from its origins in industrial Belfast to the final tragedy itself, you will find plenty for all ages.

#48. Gruffalo Trail

Colin Glen Forest Park near Belfast is home to Northern Ireland’s only official Gruffalo Trail .

Each character has been magically recreated by sculptor Andrew McIntyre and set against the backdrop of a stunning forest park. Entry is free and it take approximately 20 minutes to complete the trail making perfect for younger members of the family to explore.

#49. Ulster Museum NMNI

Ulster Museum , is located in Belfast’s Botanic Gardens, and admission is free. Pick up your free kid’s explorer map, complete with stickers in the welcome area, to help plan your way around the museum!

Do you know how big dinosaurs were or what a Mummy looks like? Have you ever wanted to see real treasure that was lost at sea? Well now you can – they’ve got all sorts of cool things that you’ll love to discover, and there are three interactive discovery centres (Discover Art, Discover Nature and Discover History) which are so jam-packed with exciting things to do that you will want to visit again and again!

#50. Ulster American Folk Park

The Ulster American Folk Park , just outside Omagh, is an outdoor museum which tells the story of emigration from Ulster to America in the 18th and 19th centuries. Follow the emigrant trail, meeting an array of costumed characters on your way, as you journey from the thatched cottages of Ulster, on board a full scale emigrant sailing ship, leading to the log cabins of the American Frontier.

About the Author: Jill Holtz

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14 of the best UK holidays for families

From tried-and-tested seaside resorts and holiday parks to sandy beaches, national trust knockouts and shoreline sights, these are the places to take your clan.

I t’s little wonder the UK is regularly hailed as one of the world’s greatest destinations for family-friendly holidays: it just knows how to make it all so easy. For starters, four nations bulge with sandy beaches, seaside resorts, theme parks, great outdoor adventures and more holiday cottages and forest hideaways than you could shake a stick of Blackpool rock at. Then there’s its slick mix of worry-free accommodation options, from quirky guesthouses to hideaway boutique hotels. And we’re not talking about London, with its studio tours, musicals, museums and Madame Tussauds. Or even glorious Edinburgh, Cardiff, Belfast, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow and the rest. The real delights to stumble on are in the terrific counties and Celtic shires in between — places that the camera loves: Cornwall and Devon, Yorkshire and Northumberland, Pembrokeshire and Fife. Here’s our guide to the best UK holidays for families.

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1. The Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland

A giant’s boot, a wishing chair, Finn McCool’s camel: the sights of the Giant’s Causeway are nature’s alternative to Disneyland, loaded with myth and meaning, but without the cost, queues, and stress of the Magic Kingdom. Northern Ireland ’s Unesco-worthy coastline of curious columns is a grand place for a family break, with the County Antrim coast distilling everything that is great about the country. The 120-mile Causeway Coastal Route marries beaches and coves for kayaking with sea safaris for spotting seals, dolphins, and seabird colonies. Then there are Game of Thrones locations aplenty for teens (plus the official studio tour to the south in County Down). Just as memorable for parents: a Bushmills whiskey from the source at trip’s end.

Where to stay Roe Park Resort, set in a country park, with family suites, self-catering lodges, and kid-friendly spa and pool.

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2. the lake district, england.

Families who love fresh air love the Lake District . Mountains, mirror-topped waters, chugging cruisers, toytown trains, tangled forests, and plenty of up-fell and down-fell places to potter make it a hard job to decide what to do here — so much is terrific. But demand is such that the Lake District receives around 20 million visitors each year, so book ahead for popular places like Windermere, Ambleside, and Grasmere. For those with little ones, Wray Castle and the National Trust’s Yewdale Valley were good enough to inspire Beatrix Potter, so they’ll do for you.

Where to stay Holbeck Ghyll Country House Hotel has rambling grounds to play hide and seek in, plus all manner of rooms and slick, kid-friendly service.

• Best hotels in the Lake District • Best things to do in the Lake District

3. The Trossachs, Scotland

In the road trip rush north to the Highlands, many families bypass the wooded glens, braes, and lochs of the Trossachs, Scotland’s heavenly gateway to micro-adventures north of Glasgow . More fool them. There are great boat trips on Loch Katrine, Canadian canoes to paddle on Loch Lomond, squirrel hides and monkey ziplines to discover at Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, and dozens of wee hills with big views.

Where to stay Slap in the thick of the most memorable scenery near Balquhidder is Monachyle Mhor, a near-perfect farm turned boutique retreat with terrific restaurant, lochside beach, and donkeys to feed with apples.

• Best hotels in Glasgow • Best Glasgow day trips

4. Cornwall, England

A cottage holiday in Cornwall is more popular than ever these days, at times, driving locals to the point of despair. Travel out of season, though, and England’s southwestern tip takes on a different personality and the contradictions seem starker: the worthy heritage of the coal and tin mining shafts versus the climate inspiring Eden Project; the natural adventure of hiking, biking, and surfing the coast versus the make-believe theme parks of Camel Creek and Flambards. Naturally, the seaside towns are terrific — and then there are all those beaches.

Where to stay Consider Three Mile Beach, a collection of handsome beach shack houses near St Ives.

• Best hotels in Cornwall • Best things to do in Cornwall • Best beaches in England

5. Fife, Scotland

The finest farm-to-fork produce and boat-to-belly seafood in Scotland ? Check. Golden sands, golfing for juniors, and a gorgeous wildlife park, island cruises, and clifftop hiking path? All that too. Fife makes up for its lack of shortbread tin Highland scenery by packing in plenty to do and St Andrews is both indecently pretty and a classic family spot to work magic. For those with babes and toddlers, the bites and sights of the East Neuk villages — namely, Elie, Crail, and Anstruther — are too good to leave for later. Oh, and did we mention the most acclaimed ice cream parlour in the country? You’re having a tablet cone from Jannettas Gelateria.

Where to stay Fairmont St Andrews is equally polished for golfers and families. The latter will especially appreciate the monster pool, indoor soft play and a best-in-class restaurant buffet.

• Best things to do in Scotland

6. East Sutherland, Scotland

Okay, we did say the NC 500 in the Highlands was busy, but the campers and caravans thin out in the shoulder seasons (April to May, September to October) and this is the stretch of the coast most whizz by. The lures are wild beaches like those in Dornoch and Brora, fairytale Dunrobin Castle outside Golspie and salmon-leaping the Falls of Shin near Bonar Bridge. To really get the whole coast to yourself, pack your waterproofs for winter.

Where to stay If you’re after a bagpiper at breakfast, kid-friendly menus and a pebble’s throw to a glorious beach, then look no further than Royal Marine Hotel, a Highland outpost worth swooning over.

7. Anglesey, Wales

A pipsqueak on the map, this northern Welsh island is a pleasure ground of lighthouses and castles, mini mountains and salty towns. The idea is everything can be reached within around 30 minutes (a brilliant idea for any road-weary family) and those country lanes take you to harbours for seal and puffin safaris and to headlands to walk the Wales Coast Path. Beaumaris is terrific, as is Llanddwyn Bay and semi-mythic Twr Mawr Lighthouse.

Where to stay Château Rhianfa is a creaky Cinderella castle transplanted to the Menai Strait, with beach access, romantic views and swanky bedrooms and suites.

8. The Devon and Dorset coasts, England

Kids old enough for Jurassic Park ? Then head to the seaside resort towns of southwest England for a great outdoor adventure trowelling for old bones and fossils. At the heart of the coast, Weymouth has a family-friendly sandy beach and mackerel-fishing trips from the harbour, while fossil-rich Chesil Beach has 17 miles of sand for every mood. Branscombe’s beaches also come up trumps, as do the fossil forests and National Trust dinosaur footprints at Spyway in Dorset .

Where to stay Your base for paleontological pandering is Silverlake, a staycation hotspot on a private estate near Dorchester.

habitatescapes.com/silverlake

• Best hotels in Devon • Best hotels in Dorset

9. The Yorkshire Dales, England

Cheese lovers Wallace and Gromit once helped bring foodies to Wensleydale in their droves, but while their popularity has waned the Yorkshire Dales is still Shaun the Sheep -tastic. Where the hills rollercoaster and farms fade out to the mist-topped hills, your family will find stonewalled lanes to cycle, waterfalls to hike to, and hands-on dairy farms and straw mazes to explore. The likes of Grassington, Hawes, and Aysgarth are perfect for families after a slow-paced break, while there are enough castles and tales for another series of Horrible Histories . And don’t forget The Oldest Sweet Shop In The World in Pateley Bridge.

Where to stay Aysgarth Lodge is a bells-and-whistles holiday park, renowned for protecting local habitats and a great hideout for wildlife spotting.

leisureresorts.co.uk/holidays/aysgarth

• Best hotels in Yorkshire

10. The Route YC, England

Hasn’t everyone done Scotland’s North Coast 500 by now? The latest road trip thriller is the Route YC (Yorkshire Coast), a series of six themed itineraries that dip in and out of the North York Moors National Park and the coastal towns of Bridlington, Filey, Hornsea and Withernsea. While the moorlands and iron age-to-industrial landscapes are prime territory for hiking and mountain bike rides, Whitby is for Dracula tours and Scarborough is for sandy beaches. Finally, it’s onwards to blue flag beaches and Spurn Point, Yorkshire’s take on Land’s End.

Where to stay Say “hot tub as standard” and you’ll reply “where’s the booking form?”. That’s one of the perks at Forest Holidays’ self-catering cabins at Keldy, located on the edge of the North York Moors.

forestholidays.co.uk/locations/yorkshire/keldy

11. The Isle of Wight

An English island packed with nearly as much holiday magic as Hawaii? Yes please. The deal is the Isle of Wight — brimming with family-friendly ideas, from Queen Vic’s favourite country home at Osborne to the UK’s oldest theme park, Blackgang Chine. Other crucial sources of entertainment are castles, adventure parks, a model village, steam railway, and a rippling backdrop of dunes and landmark cliffs. The east has the family-centric beaches — consider Shanklin, Sandown or Ryde — and there are beachfront holiday cottages by the bucketload.

Where to stay With lodges, apartments, caravans, and room for campers, Appuldurcombe Gardens Holiday Park also comes with a heated pool, kids play area, mini golf and yoga classes.

appuldurcombegardens.co.uk

12. Pembrokeshire, Wales

Southwest Wales is a hybrid of adventure park and holiday park and the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park throws up as many activities (surfing, sailing, foraging and fishing) as scenic views. Celtic myths and legends rear their head at both Carew and Pembroke castles and there are almost a thousand-strong holiday parks dotted along the coast. Marloes Peninsula is for rock pools and tidal beaches, while Broad Haven is for safe swims and seaside resort nostalgia; it’s been in the kiss-me-quick business since the 1800s.

Where to stay Bluestone National Park Resort, a 500-acre swathe with lodges and cottages, bikes, buggies, and — double yes — a bouncy castle and indoor water park.

bluestonewales.com

• Best hotels in Wales

13. Cheshire, England

The moon is a world apart for northwest England, but not at Jodrell Bank, where mind-blowing science and cosmic culture collide to brighten the eyes of wannabe astronauts and star-gazing mums and dads. You’re in Cheshire for all sorts of unexpected family-thrilling wonders, so add places like the Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker, Lion Salt Works, and Ice Cream Farm theme park to your holiday to-do list. For tradition’s sake, there are stately homes, narrowboat rides, and castles (Beeston is rather good), while this is also Lewis Carroll country, with his birthplace museum at Daresbury. “My dear, here we must run as fast as we can, just to stay in place,” Carroll wrote in Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland . He might as well have been talking about his home county.

Where to stay Opt for The Hollies’ self-catering forest lodges and log cabins, for the pine setting, farm produce picnic baskets and seedling nursery.

theholliesfarmshop.co.uk

14. Northumberland, England

The old-fashioned Famous Five never did make it to Northumberland. Shame, really, because its landscape of unspoilt beaches is ripe for an adventure and it’s not hard to imagine Enid Blyton writing about the gang sleuthing in seaside towns such as Bamburgh and Seahouses. The big tickets for active families are exploring Alnwick Castle and snorkelling with seals off the Farne Islands and the bits inbetween are best appreciated on a coastal safari hoovering up the beaches as you go.

Where to stay For a holiday rental with a serving of wow — think a leftfield bothy, byre, castle tower, or showman’s wagon — check out the holiday cottages from local specialist Crabtree & Crabtree.

crabtreeandcrabtree.com

• Places in the UK that look just like France

Take me there

Inspired to visit the UK but yet to book your trip? Here are the best hotels from Mr & Mrs Smith and Hotels.com .

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15 Best Cities in the UK to Visit With Kids

The United Kingdom is a country that is very family-friendly and with a wealth of different cities and towns, it can be hard deciding on a destination for your next UK family holiday. In this post you can discover the best cities in the UK to visit with kids from recommendations from myself and my fellow bloggers, many of whom are parents themselves.

When it comes to deciding where to spend your next family city break within the UK, how do you choose? Of all the great places to go with kids in the UK, how do you decide on the right one for your kids? Does it need to have great public transport? Do you want lots of things to do with kids in the city? The list of requirements can be endless when it comes to a family break. But with this list of the best cities to visit in the UK with kids, as recommended by those who have been, your decision just got a whole lot easier.

Liverpool, England

Best cities in the uk to visit with kids, london, england.

Regularly topping the list of 10 best cities to visit in UK, whether as a family, solo traveller or couple, London is by far one of the top places to visit for kids in UK. The capital city is a veritable playground for kids and their families with many of the top UK attractions for families located within the city or close by.

London has a great public transport system so getting around the city is easy. Many Tube stations have lifts and in many central parts of London, footpaths are wide enough for strollers/buggies. Restaurants and cafes are ten-a-penny and there is something to suit everyone’s taste. There is also a huge range of accommodations to suit families of all shapes, sizes and budgets. We tend to stay in AirBnB apartments in North Greenwich which is just 20 minutes from Waterloo station.

As for things to do, you simply cannot be short of ideas for things to do in London with kids. From the London Zoo in Regent’s Park, to the London Eye , Sealife Aquarium, London Dungeon and Shrek’s Adventures, all located at Southbank, to Kidzania at the Westfield Shopping Centre, you can never say you cannot find something to do with kids in London.

Got a history fan on your hands? Then why not take the sightseeing bus to visit Buckingham Palace, and head to the Tower of London which deserves a day to itself. Walk across the famous Tower Bridge and visit HMS Belfast too for s bit of different history.

Think London is only for older kids, think again! In a post I wrote you can discover why London is one of the best places to visit in the UK with toddlers and how you can still visit some of the big London attractions even with the younger members of the family.

If you are looking for one of the best places to visit in the UK for kids, then London has to be top of the list.

Cardiff, Wales

Having lived in Wales for over 11 years, and it being the country our son was born in, I can hands-down say that one of the places to go in the UK with kids is the capital, Cardiff.

While it isn’t the biggest city in the UK, Cardiff isn’t small either. What makes Cardiff so family-friendly is its city centre. Much of the city centre is pedestrianised, including Queen Street and the area around St Davids 2 Shopping Centre, meaning it’s safe to walk strollers and young kids around. It does get busy at weekends, so keep a tight hold on younger kids to ensure they don’t get swallowed up in the crowds.

There are hotels in the city centre to suit all budgets from Premier Inn to the Hilton. And there is also no shortage of restaurants for even the pickiest of eaters.

When it comes to things to do with kids in Cardiff , there is plenty on offer. In the city centre you will find Cardiff Castle, with a Norman Keep and Castle Apartments to visit, as well as secrets in the battlements to discover. There are also museums and Bute Park to enjoy within walking distance from the shopping areas.

Slightly further afield a visit to Cardiff Bay is recommended with Techniquest being a great place to visit with kids. If you are there in summer time, there is a treat in the beach brought into the Bay. Not far from Cardiff Bay is St Fagans, a living museum that is one of the best days out in the Uk in my opinion.

If you are looking for one of the places to go with kids in the UK for a great family getaway, Cardiff has it all.

Bristol, England

Home of Wallace and Grommit and pirates, Bristol is something of a kids’ dream destination. My boys have grown up here and, as mini-experts, I have consulted them on the absolute best bits. Fun, interactive museums and animal experiences come top of the list.

Bristol is a city built on shipping, and a stroll along the famous docks will bring to you Brunel’s SS Great Britain, where you can explore life beneath deck and dress up in Victorian costume. The brave can even climb the rigging like a real sailor.

From in front of the Great Britain you can take a boat tour of the harbour or a ferry into the centre (some even have sharks faces painted on the front). On a holiday weekend a steam engine will transport you along the docks to the M Shed museum, where you can board a traditional double decker bus and explore Bristol’s history as home of Frys’ chocolate, blue glass and sea farers. In front of the museum, why not join a pirate tour and learn about Bristol’s own Blackbeard, who would put lit fuses in his beard to strike terror into the hearts of his foes?

Other great Bristol museums include the We The Curious science museum where kids can get hands on with huge bubbles, stand in a mini tornado or create their own lightning. At the top of the iconic Park Street, is the grand (and free!) Natural History Museum, with its stuffed dodo, gypsy caravan, Egyptian mummies, fluorescent rocks and dinosaur bones.

Not to be missed is Brunel’s other Bristol landmark, the Clifton Suspension Bridge (or the slippy rock next to it that generations of children have used as a natural side). Visit the camera obscura next door for 360 degree views of the magnificent Avon Gorge.

A great place to stop for lunch and a coffee is the terrace at the White Lion, with amazing views over the bridge. If you are looking to treat yourself, the Avon Gorge Hotel upstairs is a lovely place to stay. Nearer the centre, the Mercure Grand is right next to Corn Street, with its weekend markets, or the Brigstow overlooks the docks.

Finally, one of the absolute best things to see in Bristol is the zoo. One of the oldest in the world, you can walk under a penguin tunnel, come eye to eye with a pack of piranhas, watch gibbons swing and hear lions roar in beautiful landscaped botanical gardens.

With so much to see and do, maritime Bristol really is a must-see kids’ destination.

Helen – Holidays From Hels

If you fancy combining a visit to Bristol with the Cheddar Gorge, then check out some of these Somerset lodges with hot tubs for your accommodation.

Manchester, England

There’s more to uber edgy Manchester than football and music. It has so much to offer visiting families with a range of free museums, loads of outdoor play space, super fun indoor activity centres, and family friendly restaurants and cafes on every corner.

Our favourite museum in Manchester is the excellent Science and Industry Museum (free entry) which has a strong focus on the history of the UK’s first industrial city. It also houses the world’s oldest surviving passenger railway station and the world’s first railway warehouse from 1830. Dinosaur fans should head to Manchester Museum, which is part of Manchester University, to see the huge T-rex skeleton along with other natural and worldly artefacts.

Kids will love the huge aquarium at Sea Life Manchester and LEGOLAND Discovery Centre, which feels like you’ve been shrunk and entered a huge LEGO box. But if you want to get active, head to the the massive indoor activity centre of Play Factore (this place redefines everything you have thought about soft play centres) or visit the snow (it’s real snow, not fake!) at Chill Factore for skiing, snowboarding and sledging. For outdoor bouncy fun, we absolutely love Treetop Manchester; a series of ropes and huge nets in the trees for your little monkeys to run wild.

But what would a trip to Manchester be without visiting Old Trafford? The Manchester United Museum and Stadium Tour offers a behind the scenes look at the world’s most iconic stadium. Get a feel for life in the Premier League and walk through the players’ tunnel towards the hallowed turf and find the seat of your favourite player in the dressing room. A must do for all footy fans and families are very welcome.

While Dad takes the boys there, mums and their girls could enjoy one of the many spas in Manchester too. Enjoy a few hours of relaxation before continuing to enjoy this great city.

Manchester has an excellent public transport system and kids will especially enjoy riding the trams. As for accommodation, you can never go wrong with a Premier Inn; family rooms are clean, have everything you need, and the generous breakfast energises everyone for a morning of sight seeing. There are are handful located in and around the city, but the best located one is Premier Inn Manchester Central. 

Jenny- Peak District Kids

And if you are visiting the city with older kids, why not try your hand at one of the Manchester escape rooms . See if your family has what it takes to break free!

Southampton, England

Southampton is a city located in South East England just 70 miles from London. It is a great city to head with kids with many things to do including one BIG thing.

You can walk along the Southampton Town Walls which are some of the best preserved medieval town walls in England. The SeaCity Museum is an interesting place. Among other things, it has the stories of people who have either arrived in Southampton or departed over the last 200,000 years. It’s an interesting way for your kids to learn some history. It also has an exhibit on the Titanic. Another fun place is the New Forest Wildlife Park where you can walk a trail while spotting wildlife in their natural habitat. Kids will also love the big play areas which are awesome.

However, the best reason to visit Southampton, particularly if you have younger kids, is to visit Peppa Pig World. We actually visited England primarily to visit here with our two young Peppa Pig fans and we were not disappointed. Part of Paultons Family Theme Park, there are many rides and attractions here that older kids will enjoy too, but Peppa Pig World is definitely the highlight. It’s so well presented that it really feels like you have walked into their world. You can take rides on Grandpa Pig’s train or Daddy Pig’s car or go on a helicopter ride among other things. We particularly enjoyed going early for breakfast where you can meet Peppa Pig and George.

While it is possible to get buses around much of Southampton’s attractions, a car will make things easier. For somewhere to stay, Ranvilles Farm House is a great choice if you have your own car just a couple of miles from Paultons.

Sharon – Baby Journey

Oxford, England

Most UK cities have great options of family-friendly activities, but Oxford is an especially good choice for a city break with the kids. Not only does the city have a really walkable layout, with plenty of green spaces, but they also have some interesting attractions that will be sure to keep the children entertained.

Whether you want to visit The Story Museum full of colourful character exhibits and storytelling sessions, take part in the Oxford Spy Mission Treasure Trail, step back in time at the  Oxford Castle  and Prison or explore the History of Science Museum, there really is something for everyone.

The joy of Oxford is that there’s always something to do come rain or shine, so whatever time of year you visit, there’s something great to do. Summer months are perfect for walking tours, open-top bus journeys and punting down the river, while rainy days can be spent at the Oxford ice rink, at the child-friendly escape room Escape Hunt Oxford or at one of the city’s many museums.

When the family starts to wilt and you need a pick-me-up, head over to Cowley Road which has a whole host of family-friendly restaurants such as Atomic Burger and Pizzeria Trattoria Mario.

For those who want to combine city attractions with some more outdoorsy activities, head over to  Cutteslowe Park, Port Meadow or the CS Lewis Nature Reserve, the place that was the inspiration for the Chronicles of Narnia!

Chrysoula – Historic European Castles

If you are visiting Oxford with kids and fancy treating the family, then you should read this post about the best places in Oxford for afternoon tea .

Glasgow, Scotland

Glasgow is an incredible city to visit for families because most of its attractions leave both kids and adults in awe alike! Not only is there a plethora of  free things to do in Glasgow , the city is also full of cool museums, street art behind every corner and a great place for outdoor activities.

Start with a tour on the city sightseeing bus to get an overview and use it as an easy-to-navigate means of transport around the city. Hop off at the Riverside Museum on the banks of the River Clyde. This is the city’s transport museum – architecture fans will love the stunning design by Zaha Hadid, while the kids can climb onto historic steam trains, out-of-use trams and even a replica of the Glasgow subway. During summer, take the small ferry across the river to visit the Govan Stones and learn about Viking history in this part of Glasgow.

Continue your tour to the West End: pretend you’re at Hogwarts at the University of Glasgow (look for the cloisters), stop for lunch on Ashton Lane and visit the beautiful Botanic Gardens to enjoy the greenery. The Gaelic word for Glasgow (Glaschu) means, after all, “Dear Green Place”. 

Back in the city centre, follow the Glasgow Mural Trail and use the free online guide to learn about the different artists who have put their mark on the city. If you’ve still got energy left, climb the tower at the Lighthouse for fantastic views of the city.

There are many hotels to choose from, with with the whole family a serviced apartment-hotel like Fraser Suites might be a great choice. That way you have a kitchen to prepare snacks for the day, and the parents can relax in the living room after the kids have gone to bed.

With these tips in mind, your family will fall in love with Glasgow! 

Kathi – Watch Me See

If you’re planning to visit the city and want to know best to spend your time, read this 2-days in Glasgow itinerary to get some ideas!

Edinburgh, Scotland

One of our favourite cities to visit in the UK is Edinburgh, Scotland. The city is easily accessible from all parts of the UK, and offers plenty of opportunities for family fun. We prefer exploring Edinburgh on foot, but there are plenty of city buses or trams that run through the major tourist areas and beyond. 

We recommend starting off exploring Edinburgh Castle, a prime place for taking in city views, learning about history, and a great area for kids to safely explore since it is car free. Afterwards, take a stroll along the Royal Mile, stopping to explore Camera Obscura, the Museum of Childhood, and watching street performers. Be sure to grab some shortbread treats from one of the many souvenir shops. When everyone is hungry, head to The Outsider with its family friendly atmosphere and stunning castle views, or pop in to a Pizza Express where you are sure to find something kids will eat. 

Other  fun things to do with kids in Edinburgh  include the Edinburgh Zoo, the National Museum of Scotland (think mummies and dinosaurs), the Royal Botanic Gardens, or even an underground tour through Mary King’s Close. 

Find a place to stay in the Old Town or New Town, both have easy access to parks, attractions, and restaurants. For families we recommend Radisson Blu on the Royal Mile or Kimpton Charlotte Square in New Town. Wherever you stay, you will never be far from the fun in Edinburgh.

Kirsten – Kids Are A Trip

Cambridge, England

As a beautiful city located nearly 2 hours north of London, Cambridge has a majestic feel to it, and is incredibly welcoming to families with children. Walking, biking, and lots of open space is one of the most enticing things Cambridge has to offer. As a university town, there is plenty of space to walk around, take in the beauty of the city and just tumble on the grass with children. 

The Magazine Beach Park and the very large Danehy Park has so much to offer families, with lots of open space and even family friendly activities at times in the summer.

The spectacular botanical garden in Cambridge is the perfect place to spend the day getting lost among wildflowers, running around fountains and learning about the thousands of species of plants collected from all over the world.  The botanic garden has over 16 hectares of walkways, gardens and greenhouses for visitors to explore.

Kids love to eat, and Cambridge has a great offering of restaurants, bakeries and kid friendly dessert shops.  The Tatte Bakery is a great place to take the kids for any meal and with its family friendly atmosphere, kids will love it.  After, treat them to a delicious ice cream cone from Toscanini’s.  

If you have slightly older children, or if you are curious to see other sides of Cambridge, a punting trip down the River Cam may be a great idea.  Punting is a great way to see another side of Cambridge and take part in a well known local tradition.

Taking a climb to the Great St. Mary’s Church Tower is another great family friendly activity, though there are some tight spaces in the staircase headed up.  Kids tend to love views and being high, so most will find the climb and the views quite delightful.

Diana – Travels in Poland

If you’d like to know what you can get up to in 48 hours in Cambridge, check out this post from Me, Him, The Dog and A Baby.

St. Davids, Wales

St David’s isn’t the most obvious city to visit with kids in the UK. It’s the smallest city in the UK, and the second smallest in Europe after the Vatican City.

Essentially, St David’s is a large village which happens to have the largest cathedral in Wales. It’s out in the far west of Wales, in a remote, wild peninsula in the county of Pembrokeshire, with some of the most beautiful scenery in the UK.

The city centre – which in most places would be called a village square. – has a few hotels, restaurants and a grand total of two pubs where you can eat. One has a beer garden where you can sit outside in the summer.

St David’s Cathedral is magnificent, easily the most impressive church in Wales, and the ruin of the Bishop’s Palace is next door. These may be of interest to kids – it depends on the individual. Our explorer son prefers exploring outdoors, and the staircases of the Bishop’s Palace hold far more allure for him.

St David’s comes into its own as a destination with kids because of its superb coastline. Whitesands Bay is an awesome beach two miles from the centre and this has the most facilities, including cafes and equipment hire. It also has glorious coastal walks in either direction, and budding climbers will love the volcanic outcrop of Carn Llidi above the beach.

Just to the south of the city, Caerfai Bay is another fantastic beach, with golden sands, red rocks and rockpools galore.

Regular boat trips run from St David’s to some of the nearby Welsh islands.  The closest is Ramsey Island, a mile west of the mainland, and trips there take you to see the puffins during the nesting season (May to July) and Atlantic grey seals.

David – Delve into Europe

York, England

The northern city of York is a great place to visit with kids. The city is small and the main attractions are easily reached on foot with the added bonus of a pedestrianised city centre. Any family visit to York should start with a trip to the Gothic cathedral of York Minster in the heart of the city centre. Children under 16 are free with a paying adult and the Minster provides special family friendly tours every week. On other days, children can borrow Explorer Backpacks complete with age appropriate activities and magnifying glasses to help them get the most out of their visit.

Kids of every age will enjoy the free-to-enter National Railway Museum. Families could easily spend a whole day at this world class attraction. There are engines and carriages from throughout rail history including a Shinkansen carriage you can sit in and a cross section from the Channel Tunnel. Watch the restorers at work in the workshop, have fun at the free, daily science shows or take a ride on the miniature railway next to the museum’s picnic area and small playground.

Walk through the charming cobbled and paved streets of York to reach the Castle Museum, opposite Clifford’s Tower. The huge Castle Museum charts the history of the city. Children will love exploring the toy gallery which will also bring back memories for parents. The highlight of the museum is Kirkgate, a reconstruction of a Victorian Street where children can enter the shops, police station and schoolroom to meet the ‘people’ who work there.

There are several family friendly accommodations just outside the city walls such as the Premier Inn near Micklegate Bar, one of the city’s medieval gateways.

Sinead – Best in York Guide

Plymouth, England

Plymouth is located in the South West of England and was once and still is a major naval base.  There is lots to do with kids and a lot of it is within a short distance of the main Barbican Harbour area.  This makes it perfect for family adventures as you can walk from each attraction to the next and not worry about parking. 

Whatever the weather the National Marine Aquarium is an essential place to visit.  It is a beautiful aquarium with some very large tanks and talks through the day.  It takes a couple of hours to explore so a perfect place to visit on a rainy day. 

From the Barbican it is a short walk to the Hoe where Sir Francis Drake was said to have played bowls before defeating the Spanish Armada in 1588.  It is now a large open space with Smeaton’s Tower Lighthouse that can be climbed for better views out across Plymouth Sound.  This is a great place for those who like to see big Navy vessels as there is always something buzzing about. 

Below Smeaton’s Tower is the gorgeous Tinside Lido which is an open air swimming pool with views out to sea.  Perfect for a swim in the summer months when it is open.

On the Hoe are a number of Cafe’s.  One of our favourites is Pier One that is cosy all year round or if you want something a bit different then Cap’n Jaspers at the Barbican is a unique burger experience.

Suzanne – Lighthouse Locations

Norwich, England

Norwich, located on the River Wensum in beautiful Norfolk, about 100 miles (160 km) north-east of London, is a friendly city positively teeming with family friendly fun. The most complete medieval city in the UK, Norwich was also England’s first UNESCO City of Literature. As the only English city located inside a National Park, it’s also one of the most naturally pretty, with a river at its heart and the waterways and beautiful countryside of the Norfolk Broads surrounding it. Hire a boat or take a river cruise under the city’s ancient bridges and out to explore the lock-free waterways of the Broads is a great idea for families.

An easy city to walk, its cobbled pathways, character-filled buildings and enormous outdoor market are a huge part of Norwich’s appeal. As is its impressive selection of family friendly eateries, pretty gardens and sprawling parklands, including the stunning Eaton Park, with its boating pond, children’s play area, pitch and putt golf and BMX park.

The city’s most famous landmarks though are Norwich Cathedral, the cloud bursting spire of which dominates the skyline, and the imposing Norwich Castle. The former is an architectural confection and my kids enjoyed exploring it cloisters and labyrinth and spotting the peregrine falcons who call the cathedral spire home. The castle too is a sure fire hit for kids, offering a variety of tours aimed at specific age groups, including one hosted by a costumed knight, plus kids dress ups, spooky dungeon tours and a fantastic 360-degree view from the top.  

For history buffs, the Museum of Norwich at the Bridewell is another must, sharing the city’s story from medieval to modern day through exhibitions, interactive displays and stories that are hands on and engaging for kids. Culture vultures will want to visit the Sainsbury Centre with its permanent collection of works from artists including Picasso and Degas and Lalique, though kids will probably be more impressed at the centres star turn in ‘Ant-Man’ and ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’.

As a city, there are lots of  things to do with kids in Norwich  making it a very family-friendly city in the UK.

Aleney – Boy Eats World

Bath, England

Bath is a great city to go to with kids. No matter what their age, they will find something amazing to do. Parking is easy with many park and rides on the outskirts of the city and the bus ride in often sparks excitement even from the older children especially if it is a double decker bus that arrives to take you in!

We can highly recommend staying in a lodge at Bath Mill Lodge Retreat. It is on the outskirts of the city but great if you have children as it has a small restaurant and playground on site. 

Our favourite thing to do in Bath with our young family was the famous Roman Baths but everyone from our 4 year old twins, to the grandparents loved this. There is an audio trail to follow with a children’s option available – I followed this with the girls and it was excellent. There is also a quiz for older children to follow as you move around the Baths.

Bath Abbey which is right next to the Roman Baths is absolutely stunning and somewhere I would highly recommend looking round. If your children are over 5, you can take the tower tour where you can make your way up to the top and have the most beautiful view over the city as well as seeing how the bells work.

Other places your family will enjoy visiting in Bath will include Bath City Farm, the American Museum, take an open bus tour of the city, and the famous Bath Royal Crescent. There are lots of  things to do with kids in Bath , making it one of the best UK cities to visit as a family.

Anna – Twins and Travels

One of the best UK cities to visit with kids is Liverpool. Having visited Liverpool many times for football matches with my hubby pre-kids, we got the chance in early February 2020 to bring our son to the city for the first time, also for his first football match.

Liverpool is one of the most family-friendly cities in the UK to visit with kids because the Scousers are generally a very friendly bunch of people. Whether you are there for a football match or not, it’s one of the best places to visit in the UK with kids.

Like many cities, the city centre is pedestrianised around the high street shops, making it stroller/toddler friendly. As with many UK cities, you will find a host of accommodation options to suit all budgets, along with both chain and independent eateries for every taste.

Some of the best things to do in Liverpool with kids include stadium tours at both Anfield (home to Liverpool FC) and Goodison Park (home to Everton). If you are lucky enough to be able to get your hands on some tickets, match day in Liverpool always has a good atmosphere. Plus, the kids will love shouting their heads off and cheering when their team scores a goal.

If you haven’t got a football fan in the family, then visits to the Royal Albert Docks might be better. There you’ll find Mattel Play for younger kids, the Maritime Museum, the Tate Liverpool and the Beatles Museum, as well as the Liverpool Wheel and a lovely little carousel near the Maritime Museum. You could also take a river cruise from here.

If the northern weather is against you, there are plenty of indoor soft play and trampoline parks dotted around the city. And if you want to venture slightly further afield, 25 minutes from the city centre you’ll find the Knowlsey Safari Park which will delight animal lovers of all ages.

Whether you are a football fan or not, Liverpool is one of the best cities in the UK to visit with kids.

Cath – Travel Around Ireland

With so many cities and towns to visit in UK, it can be difficult to decide on a destination for your next getaway but I hope my fellow bloggers and I have made it a little bit easier by sharing our recommendations for the best places to visit in the UK with family.

While London is home to some of the best UK attractions for kids, each city has lots on offer to choose from, no matter what your kids are into. There are accommodation options for families of all shapes, sizes and budgets and an abundance of places to reduce the risk of hangry kids.

Where will your next break in the UK be?

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The 11 best places for family holidays in the UK

Looking for an actually good family-friendly break in the UK? We’ve rounded up the best quirky, kid-friendly stays in the country

Travelling with kids is, as you’d expect, nowhere near as simple as travelling without ‘em. Not only have you got other whole human beings to be responsible for, but you’ve got to keep them entertained. But ‘family-friendly’ doesn’t have to mean ‘soulless holiday park’ or ‘drab all-inclusive’. 

The UK is very much the all-rounder when it comes to family-friendly breaks. It’s the kind of place that brings out the kid in anyone, from its nostalgic seaside towns and expansive national parks to its rich, complex history. And these are the pick of the bunch: the absolute best places for a family holiday in the UK right now.

RECOMMENDED: 🏊The best  outdoor swimming pools in the UK 🏔️The best  road trips in the UK 🌤️The most stunning  hidden beaches in the UK 🏰The best castles where you can actually stay in the UK 🌲The best   tree houses you can actually stay in

For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines  and check out our latest  travel guides  written by local experts. 

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Best family breaks in the UK

1.  Blackberry Wood, Sussex

It’s easy to see why securing a summer booking at this boutique campsite can be a little like getting your hands on a Glastonbury ticket. But while the Instagrammable woodland plots are a draw, it’s the highly coveted unusual lodgings – which range from a converted Routemaster and a grounded 1960s helicopter to a ‘curvy cabin’ and a pair of twisted, Disney-worthy treehouses – that will get your brood grinning. Activity-wise, a schlep or cycle up Ditchling Beacon from Blackberry Wood  offers the reward of a striking Sussex panorama, while The Jolly Sportsman pub does a nice line in attentively cooked Sunday roasts.

Best for: Hardy, transport-mad youngsters.

2.  Bournemouth Beach Lodges, Dorset

Seaside huts – even when they’re glorified cupboards – always have huge waiting lists and spark an oddly intense desire in people who don’t live near a beach. So you can expect a few envious glances if you manage to snag one of these new overnight beach lodges , right on the sand in Bournemouth. There’s just about room for six across each of the 15 slick, cleverly adaptable cabins, while wheelchair accessible and dog-friendly options are available. Plus, you can use an electric barbecue for sundown grilling. 

Best for: Watersports-loving junior beach bums.

3.  House in the Clouds, Suffolk

It may look like a crashed, balloon-free version of the house from Up , but this 1920s water tower – cunningly disguised by an architect as a floating abode – is actually a uniquely kooky bit of family accommodation. Spread out over five floors, the House in the Clouds comfortably hosts two or three sharing families and the top-floor games room gives you sweeping views of Suffolk during your fierce ping-pong battles. Plus, thanks to the influence of one-time Thorpeness regular JM Barrie, there’s a kid-pleasing ‘Peter Pan’ theme (and lurking model crocodile) at the neighbouring boating lake. 

Best for: Curious tweens with a taste for heights.

4.  Castle Howard cottages, Yorkshire

Historic splendour, manicured gardens set in rolling Yorkshire countryside, an adventure playground straight out of ‘Swallows and Amazons’, and the IMDb credits of a veteran thesp, Castle Howard is the country pile that does it all. The stately home itself, with its famous Sir John Vanbrugh-designed Great Hall, has appeared the BBC’s ‘Brideshead Revisited’ and ‘ Bridgerton ’ (Daphne landed a season 1 haymaker on hissable Nigel Berbrooke there, as Bridger-nerds will know). Handily, the estate rents six super-comfy cottages full of luxe touches in the hushed hamlet of Welburn a few miles away. 

We spent a deeply mellow weekend there – me roaming the castle, the collie pup sniffing about in the walled gardens, the seven-year-old on the big rope bridge, and mum checking out the Tony Cragg sculptures in the grounds (not at the same time) – topped off with steak and sticky toffee pudding in the friendly village pub. A car is a very big plus – York Station is a 25-minute taxi ride away – but for a family and pooch-friendly break, it’s bliss. Pop into the village’s café-deli Dogh to fuel up with a hearty brekkie and coffee to perk you up for a morning ramble. Best for : Glorious countryside, stately grandeur and Skelf Island, an adventure playground to impress Young Indy

5.  Loveland Farm Pods, Devon

Off-grid living and futuristic design collide in the form of these appealing geodesic Loveland Farm Pods , perched on farmland in distractingly pretty north-west Devon . Yes, there’s a compost toilet and a rustic surfer vibe (the dude-approved swells of Woolacombe are just an hour away), but the nine pods also feature kitchens, wood fires, modernist furniture, cool indoor tipis and the odd projector for atmospheric movie nights. If you do crave a touch more civilisation, Hartland’s time-warp village shops and welcoming coastal pubs are a short walk away.

Best for: Surf-crazy older kids.

6.  The Farm at Avebury, Wiltshire

You’re never too young to be captivated by Wiltshire’s magical and mysterious neolithic landscapes. Stonehenge, of course, is the rock star. But a little way to the north, the whole family can get up close and mystical with the stone circle at Avebury: a cryptic ancient monument that’s so big that it contains a whole village (complete with pub).

Both of these Stone Age marvels are easily reached from The Farm at Avebury , a smart little farm stay housed in six converted stables – we stayed in  Windmill Hill . Slightly older kids will love the ladders up to the mezzanine bedrooms, while younger ones will appreciate the communal courtyard with its array of ride-along plastic tractors – perfect for using up that last burst of energy after a big day out.

Best for:   Any kid yet to reach the ‘it’s just a bunch of rocks’ phase.

7.  Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve, Kent

• Attractions
• Wildlife centres

Ah, Kent . Oast houses, windswept beaches and, erm, inquisitive tigers peering in your hotel window. Yes, at this conservation-minded safari park – one of the Aspinall Foundation’s two Kentish facilities – you can (safely) spend the night a few furry footsteps away from bears, rhinos, big cats and more. Rooms at Port Lympne run the gamut from swish, savannah-ready tents to lavish treehouse suites (complete with private golf buggy). Recover from feeding the giraffes by heading to nearby Hythe to catch a dinky steam train bound for the atmospheric shinglescape in Dungeness.

Best for: Critter-crazy pre-school tykes.

8.  National Showcaves Centre, Wales

Okay, the showcaves themselves are an incredible experience for all the family, but we’re going to jump straight to the dinosaurs. Yes, dinosaurs. The National Showcaves Centre for Wales (located in Brecon Beacons National Park ) is home to one of the largest dinosaur parks in the world, where the coolest of all prehistoric beasts roam the land in search of salvation. Well, they stand around, but there aren’t many things cooler than an excellent dinosaur park. All kids love dinosaurs, too – that is a fact. The centre also has camping and caravan options for staying over.

Best for:  Dino-lovers of all ages.

9.  Warwick Castle Medieval Glamping, Warwickshire

• Historic buildings and sites
• West Midlands

Budding knights (and their ‘Game of Thrones’-obsessed parents) will get a huge kick from staying at this medieval-themed camping village near Coventry. Thankfully, plague-ridden historical accuracy is abandoned in favour of plush double beds and in-tent Wi-fi, while all manner of thrilling Dark Ages activities (sword training, archery, fiery nighttime weapons displays) will keep even jaded teenagers amused. You’re close to Stratford-upon-Avon ’s Shakespearean diversions, but the resort has so many attractions – including a terrific new Horrible Histories maze outside the castle – that you won’t need to stray.

Best for: High-octane history boys and girls.

10.  Gladwins Farm, Suffolk

If you’ve ever found yourself in a city farm, idly fantasising about a hot tub and an industrial-strength gin and tonic, this huddle of nine Suffolk cottages may be the place for you. Set within a former agricultural site, Gladwins Farm marries eco-consciousness (an indoor pool is heated by a wood chip boiler) and child-friendly animal interaction (kids can collect chicken eggs) with swanky, parent-pleasing touches (a micro-spa and hot tubs). Bonus: Colchester Zoo is only 30 minutes away if you fancy something more exotic than the farmyard regulars.

Best for: Old MacDonald-loving toddlers.

11.  The Raft at Chigborough, Essex

A stay on a houseboat? Frankly, that’s amateur hour compared with this rugged, custom-built cabin floating near Essex ’s newly ritzy Blackwater Estuary. A labour of love for the owners of the adjacent Chigborough Farm, The Raft ’s a two-storey lodge that can snugly fit four and brims with inspired touches: a removable floor panel for a view of the lake, a separate hot tub accessible by rowing boat, a vintage telescope. Whether or not you catch dinner in the trout-filled water, it’s practically compulsory to stroll to the waterside Tiptree Tea Room for some cake.

Best for: Outdoorsy adolescents.

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Planning an England trip in 2024? Consider these 16 top places to visit

Feb 26, 2024 • 10 min read

Gracious Bath is an excellent place to immerse yourself in England’s history and beauty © gowithstock / Shutterstock

The story of  England  stretches back more than 5000 years (and likely many more). Which means its impossible to escape the past here.

As you wander its historic urban centers, mysterious monoliths, misty landscapes and rugged  coastlines  and national parks , you’ll discover a country filled with unparalleled places to visit that are are the more compelling thanks to all those who have visited them before.

As you plan a trip to England this year, here’s our list of 16 historic, exciting and all-around fabulous highlights to consider.

1. The Seven Sisters 

While  Dover ’s iconic white cliffs grab the most attention, the colossal chalky walls of the Seven Sisters are a more spectacular affair, a four-mile roller-coaster of sheer white rock stretching along the Sussex shore and overlooking the waters of the English Channel. It forms an impressive southern border to the South Downs National Park , and is most dramatic at the towering headland of Beachy Head . Hikes through the grassy clifftop fields provide wide sea views, breathtaking in every sense.

Local tip:  Stop for a breather at the tiny seaside hamlet of Birling Gap, where the secluded beach is a sun trap popular with locals and walkers.

Oxford  lets visitors feel close to the brilliant minds and august institutions that have made this city famous across the globe. This rarefied world comes to life in the cobbled lanes and ancient quads where cycling students and eccentric academics roam. The beautiful college buildings and stunning architecture have changed little over the centuries, coexisting with a lively, modern, working city. As befits a city of students and professors, Oxford is one of the last bastions of the great British pub, with irresistible old watering holes dotted all over its central lanes and alleyways. 

3. Cambridge

In England’s other great historic university city, Cambridge , you can tour a  college , and spend time marveling at the intricate vaulting of King’s College Chapel . But no trip to Cambridge is complete without an attempt to take a punt (flat-bottomed boat) along the River Cam by the picturesque Backs , the leafy, green lawns behind the city's finest colleges – an experience that offers the best views of the exquisite architecture. Polish off the day with a pint at one of Cambridge’s many rustic pubs. 

In a nation packed with pretty cities, Bath  stands out as the belle of the ball. Founded by the Romans, who established the spa resort of Aquae Sulis to take advantage of the area’s hot springs , Bath hit its stride in the 18th century, when the rich industrialist Ralph Allen and architects John Wood the Elder and John Wood the Younger oversaw the city’s transformation into a model of Georgian architecture at its most refined . Bath is awash with golden stone townhouses, sweeping green crescents and Palladian mansions, along with appealing pubs and restaurants, and you’ll take great pleasure in plunging in. 

5. Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall is one of the country's most dramatic Roman ruins, a 2000-year-old procession of abandoned forts, garrisons, towers and milecastles marching across the wild and lonely landscape of northern England. While the Romans built the fortification to defend and control its territory, this edge-of-empire barrier also symbolized the boundary of civilized order in the ancient world: to the north of the Roman settlement lay the unruly land of the marauding Celts. Near Newcastle  you can visit Segedunum , the wall’s last stronghold, for an insight into life during Roman times.

Planning tip:  Hiking the full 84-mile distance coast to coast along the national trail takes around a week. If you have less time and your own car, you may want to select from a few of the wall's  highlights .

With its Roman and Viking heritage, ancient city walls and maze of cobbled streets, York is a living record of English history. A magnificent circuit of 13th-century walls encloses a medieval spider’s web of “snickelways” (narrow alleys), each one the focus of a ghost story or historical character. At the city’s heart lies the immense, awe-inspiring York Minster , the biggest medieval cathedral in all of northern Europe, and one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in the world. Admire feats of engineering of a more recent vintage at the National Railway Museum , the world’s largest collection of historic locomotives.

York’s long history and rich heritage are woven into virtually every brick and beam, and the modern, tourist-oriented city – with its myriad museums, restaurants, cafes and traditional pubs – is a carefully maintained showcase of that heritage.

Local tip: You’ll find some of the finest views of York from its old city walls, particularly the bucolic section behind the Minster. 

7. The Peak District

Curiously, you won’t find many peaks in the Peak District . You will find blissful miles of tumbling moorland, plunging valleys, eroded gritstone crags, lush farmland and ancient pocket-sized villages. This beautiful landscape attracts a veritable army of outdoor enthusiasts – cyclists, hikers, cavers and rock climbers – on summer weekends, while those seeking more relaxing enjoyment can admire the rural market and famous puddings of Bakewell, the Victorian pavilions of spa-town Buxton, and the architectural drama of Chatsworth House – the “Palace of the Peak.”

8. Brighton

Barely an hour’s train ride from the capital, the seaside city of Brighton has a quirky character that’s completely its own. Overlooking the English Channel on England’s pebbly south coast, this is a city that's long been known for its oddball, alternative character. The warren of streets known as the Lanes is a good place to soak up the vibe, with vegan cafes, espresso bars, chaotic pubs, record stores and bric-a-brac shops. (Browsers will be in heaven at local institution Snooper’s Paradise .) You'll also find the UK ’s biggest queer scene here, and the region’s best small clubs. The highlight for the sightseeing visitor is the Royal Pavilion , a 19th-century party palace built by the Prince Regent, who kicked off Brighton’s love of the outlandish.

9. Stonehenge

Mysterious and compelling, Stonehenge is England’s most famous ancient site . Even though people have been drawn to this myth-laden ring of boulders for more than 5000 years, we still don’t know quite why it was built. An ultramodern makeover at the ancient site has brought an impressive visitor center and the closure of an intrusive road (now restored to grassland). The result is a strong sense of historical context, with dignity and mystery returned to an archaeological gem.

Most visitors gaze at the approximately 25-ton stones from behind the perimeter fence, yet with enough planning, you can arrange an early-morning or evening tour and gain access to the inner ring itself. In the slanting sunlight, away from the crowds, it’s an ethereal place. This is an experience that stays with you.

10. Stratford-upon-Avon

The pretty town of Stratford-upon-Avon is where William Shakespeare was born and later shuffled off this mortal coil. Today, its tight knot of Tudor streets form a living map of Shakespeare’s life. Huge crowds of thespians and theater lovers come to take in a play at the famous Royal Shakespeare Theatre . Bard fans will love visiting the five historic houses owned by Shakespeare and his relatives and  the schoolroom where he was educated, before taking a respectful detour to the old stone church where he was laid to rest.

11. Liverpool

It’s hard not to be infected by Liverpudlians’ love for their hometown. The love endured despite decades of decay and all manner of social ills – finding its expression in a renowned gallows humor and an obsession with football. With some of the most passionate crowds in the country, taking in a game at either Liverpool FC or Everton FC is a rite of passage here.

Outside of the stadium, the rejuvenated waterfront is once again the heart of Liverpool . The focal point is Albert Dock, an iconic docklands flanked by protected buildings, including a batch of top museums. The Merseyside Maritime Museum and the International Slavery Museum ensure the good and bad sides of Liverpool’s history are explored in equal measure, while the Tate Liverpool and the Beatles Story museum celebrate popular culture and the city’s most famous musical sons (still).

12. The Cotswolds

A tangle of impossibly quaint villages of rose-clad cottages and honey-colored stone, The Cotswolds  is a region that spreads over six English counties. It’s a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and its most wonderful quality is that no matter where you go or how lost you get, you’ll still end up in a spot with a charming village green, a pub with sloping floors and fine ales, and a view of the lush green hills. Crisscrossed by long-distance trails including the 102-mile Cotswold Way , these gentle yet dramatic hills are perfect for walking, cycling and horse-riding.

Local tip: It’s easy to leave the crowds behind and find your very own slice of medieval England here – and some of the best boutique hotels in the country.

A little weird, occasionally weather-beaten and all-around wonderful, the classic northern seaside town of Whitby has haunted lanes, fossil-hunting and arguably England’s finest fish-and-chips. The huddle of 18th-century fisher’s cottages along the East Cliff are testament to its longtime role as a busy commercial and fishing port: it was here that 18th-century explorer Captain James Cook earned his sea legs. Atop the West Cliff, a sandy beach, amusement arcades and promenading holidaymakers show Whitby’s beach-resort side.

Keeping a watchful eye over the town and the River Esk that divides it is an atmospheric ruined abbey , the inspiration and setting for part of Bram Stoker’s Gothic horror story Dracula . But tales of witchery and ghostly legends have haunted Whitby ever since Anglo-Saxon St Hilda landed here to found a monastic community in 657 CE.

Planning tip: The town embraces its pseudo-sinister reputation, which culminates in two hugely successful Goth Weekends each year.

14. The Lake District

William Wordsworth and his Romantic friends were the first to champion the charms of the Lake District  – and it's not hard to see what stirred them. Already the UK’s most popular national park, the Lake District also became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017, in recognition of its long history of hill-farming. But for most people it’s the chance to hike the humpbacked fells and drink in the gorgeous scenery that keeps them returning year after year.

The region is filled with outdoor pursuits, from lake cruises to mountain walks – excursions that help reveal why the region has such deep literary connections. In addition to Wordsworth, writers who found inspiration here include Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Arthur Ransome and Beatrix Potter.

15. The Eden Project

A cross between a lunar landing station and a James Bond villain’s lair, the gigantic hemispherical greenhouses of the Eden Project  have become a symbol of Cornwall ’s renaissance. Built in an abandoned clay pit near St Austell to mark the start of the new millennium, and now considered one of Britain’s modern architectural wonders, the Eden Project aims to explore issues of environment and conservation, and point the way to a cleaner, greener future for us all.

Exhibits cover everything from global warming to rubber production and chocolate-making. The glass-domed “biomes” recreate major world climate systems in microcosm, from the lush jungles of the Amazon rainforest (complete with treetop walkway winding through the canopy) to the olive trees, citrus groves and colorful flowers of the Mediterranean, South Africa and California. It’s incredibly impressive – not to mention educational, and inspiring, too.

Shoulder-deep in history, London ’s rich seams of eye-opening antiquity appear at every turn. The city’s architecture pens a beguiling biography, and a multitude of buildings – the Tower of London , Westminster Abbey , Big Ben – are internationally recognizable landmarks. It’s also a tireless innovator of art and culture, a city of ideas and imagination. This legacy is enshrined at world-class institutions such as the British Museum , Natural History Museum  and the Science Museum , as well as such world-leading art galleries as the  Tate Modern , Tate Britain , the National Gallery  and the recently reopened National Portrait Gallery , all of which are free to visit. 

Local tip:  However you budget your time and money in London, make sure you take in a show. Big names perform on  the West End (London’s equivalent of Broadway), and on the South Bank at the National Theatre  and  the Old Vic . Smaller theaters from the Almeida to the Lyric Hammersmith are places to discover up-an-coming talent.

This article was first published Apr 13, 2021 and updated Feb 26, 2024.

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Resurgam festival, a massive yard sale and more things to do this weekend

Comedian Dave Attell is in town, Zephyr Ice is serving up cool treats and food trucks are out in force (there's an app that will tell you where).

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We’re not entirely sure how the weekend weather is going to shake out, but either way there’s a whole lot going on, so let’s get to it.

Maine Roller Derby skaters competing at Happy Wheels Skate Center in Westbrook. Photo by Jim Vernier

On Saturday and Sunday, Maine Roller Derby’s first international tournament happens at Happy Wheels Skate Center in Westbrook. There will be several exciting flat-track bouts, and if you’re a Mainer, tickets are half off.

Get a discount on tickets to Maine Roller Derby’s international tournament

Max Abraham runs through Moon Tide Park while performing with the band Corpus Chicanery at last year’s Resurgam festival. Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Staff Photographer

The Resurgam Music and Arts Festival is Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Ocean Gateway marine terminal and surrounding areas. The list of performers is about 17 miles long and includes Oshima Brothers Band and professional hula hoop and circus artist Nettie Loops.

Resurgam festival returns this weekend with music, arts and more

Local musician Toby McAllister, pictured here at The Press Room in Portsmouth, would of course play at a local venue on his perfect day. Photo by Corey Fitzgerald and courtesy of Toby McAllister

Another musician you can see at Resurgam is Toby McAllister from Sparks The Rescue. McAllister unpacked his perfect Maine day for us, and it includes a hike in Grafton Notch and a stop at Puzzle Mountain Bakery in Newry for cookies.

My Perfect Day: Hiking Old Speck, eating tacos and sweets, playing a show – for musician Toby McAllister, it all strikes a chord

Comic Dave Attell plays the State Theatre in Portland, June 8. Photo courtesy of the State Theatre

There’s plenty else cooking this weekend , including Yoga in the Park on Saturday and the Walk the Working Waterfront tour. Both are in Portland. Or you can shop till you drop at Maine’s Ultimate Spring Yard Sale Saturday at Cumberland Fairgrounds. Need a few laughs? Grab a ticket to see comic Dave Attell at the State Theatre Saturday.

Waterfront tour, giant yard sale, comic Dave Attell

Zephyr proudly tells its customers that everything is made in house with real fruit and no dyes. Photo by Megan Gray

Satisfy your sweet tooth with something a little different this weekend. Zephyr Ice in Portland serves shaved ice atop a scoop of regular or vegan ice cream. Choose from a variety of syrup flavors, all made in-house with real fruit.

For cool, customizable treats, breeze on in to Zephyr Ice

Mainely Burgers food truck. Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Staff Photographer

Should you fancy a food truck fix, check out our massive, always growing food truck guide and get busy chowing down.

A guide to 87 food trucks rolling through Maine

A Foodtruckalico Instagram post featuring the Ugly Dumpling food truck. Photo by Justin Velgos

For even more food truck fodder, we suggest heading to Food Truckalico on Instagram . A couple of times a week, the account shares details about where and when you can find trucks in the Portland area.

Follow the food trucks with Food Truckalico on Instagram

A newspaper article about a Comegato sighting from web series “Tracking the Comegato.” Photo courtesy of Kate Kaminski

If the weather does indeed relegate you to the indoors, curl up on the couch and fire up the new web series “Tracking the Comegato” about a beastly human-weasel hybrid that may or may not exist.

Could this human-weasel hybrid from Maine join the ranks of Bigfoot?

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