Top 15 family holiday destinations in the UK
Nothing beats a great family holiday! Whether you’re relaxing by the seaside, chilling out in the countryside or exploring a new city, this is the perfect time for the whole family to have fun and reconnect with one another. What’s more, the UK is brimming with top family-friendly holiday destinations, meaning you don’t have to splash out on long haul flights to have the family break of your dreams. So, here are 15 of the best family holiday destinations in the UK.
1. Whitby
Whitby holidays feature a charming seaside town and plenty to keep the family happy . For those who love running about in the fresh air, there’s a long sandy beach, Pannett Park and the great North York Moors right on your doorstep. For an educational element, there are several places to choose from. Whitby Museum, Captain Cook Memorial Museum, The Dracula Experience and of course, the famous ruins of Whitby Abbey.
2. Windermere
Nestled within the Lake District, the pretty town of Windermere is great for the whole family to appreciate the outdoors. On any trip here be sure to bring your walking boots as the walking possibilities are endless! If you’re looking for something you can tackle with young kids or a pushchair, be sure to check out the National Park’s Miles without Stiles.
3. Blackpool
Famous for its Pleasure Beach and ballroom, Blackpool is definitely a fun place to visit with the kids. At Blackpool Pleasure Beach you’ll find over 125 rides, attractions and shows, as well as plenty of stalls selling ice cream and candy floss. From the UK’s fastest roller coaster to SpongeBob’s Splash Bash, there’s something here for kids of all ages. If the weather is looking a bit dismal, then a trip to Sandcastle Waterpark, the UK’s largest indoor waterpark, will be appreciated by everyone.
4. Eden Project
At the Eden Project, in Cornwall, you’ll find two magnificent biomes with plants from various climates and environments. Positioned within a reclaimed crater, the Eden Project is home to the biggest rainforest in captivity. There are family events held here all year round but even if you only visit the plants, there is plenty to see and do. In the Rainforest Biome look out for bananas, cocoa and chocolate, rubber trees and even a waterfall.
5. Kielder Water and Forest Park
This remote area of Kielder Water and Forest Park in Northumberland is a great place to visit if you’re looking for some quality time together on your family holiday. With minimal light pollution, the dark skies here are perfect for stargazing. If you have animal lovers in your family, this spot will be popular with them too as the wildlife here is both varied and impressive. Keep your eyes peeled for badgers, bats, roe deer, red squirrels and birds of prey.
Peppa Pig World
Found within Paultons Family Theme Park, Peppa Pig World is the perfect adventure park for those that love everything Peppa Pig. There are nine different rides for your little one to enjoy, from Daddy Pig’s Car Ride to Miss Rabbit’s Helicopter. In the summer, look out for Muddy Puddles, where kids can splash about like Peppa and her friends. What’s more, there are plenty of lovely holiday cottages in the local area too.
7. Purbeck, Dorset
Bordered by water on three sides, the stunning area of Purbeck in Dorset is known for its breathtaking beauty and favourable amount of sunshine. The incredible Purbeck Heritage Coast, which is part of Dorset’s famous Jurassic Coast, makes this location a great place to enjoy a seaside holiday or a spot of coastal walking. What’s more, you’ll find plenty of seaside resorts and holiday parks dotted through the area, perfect for families with kids of all ages.
8. Keswick
The stunning Lake District town of Keswick has always been a popular holiday spot with Snaptrippers and here’s why. This gorgeous market town is nestled in one of the most beautiful areas of the world, with lots to offer families of all shapes and sizes. The landscapes here are stunning and there are numerous outdoor activities to get stuck in to, no matter the age of your kids.
9. Edinburgh
Scotland’s beautiful capital is a treasure trove of activities for families. No matter the age of your kids, or what you love doing, Edinburgh will have something for your family holiday. What’s more, despite being a capital city, there are actually a surprising amount of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors here too. From Princes Street Gardens and Arthur’s Seat in Holyrood Park to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, this city is dotted with green spaces.
10. Isle of Wight
Known for its award-winning beaches, dramatic cliffs, quaint villages and dinosaur remains, the Isle of Wight is the ultimate family holiday destination. Just over two hours from London, by ferry or (more excitingly for the kids) hovercraft, this easily accessible vacation spot is ideal for short and long breaks alike. What’s more, the isle recently became a Unesco Biosphere Reserve, highlighting the natural beauty and diverse range of wildlife which can be found there.
11. Belfast
Northern Ireland’s capital city is a great location to base yourselves for an unforgettable family adventure. A great year-round destination, there’s plenty to see and do around Belfast itself. Take the kids to discover Titanic Belfast or else let their imaginations run loose at W5, a popular scientific discovery centre with lots of interactive displays. What’s more, not far away from the city you’ll find major attractions such as Giant’s Causeway, as well as beautiful coastline and countryside to explore
12. Bideford
A firm holiday favourite with Snaptrippers, the coastal town of Bideford in North Devon is a great spot for a relaxing family getaway. Close to both the stunning Westward Ho! Beach and the start of the Tarka Trail, there’ll be plenty of opportunities to get out and about in nature during your stay. If the weather decides to take a turn for the worse, then head to The Big Sheep where you’ll find a host of rainy day activities for the little ones.
13. Scottish Highlands
Gather up the family and escape the wild and windswept beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Surrounded by majestic mountains, magical woodland and picturesque rivers, you’ll find yourselves having the outdoor adventure of a lifetime. What’s more, the area is so remote and secluded, you’ll have plenty of time to properly reconnect with one another. Spend days exploring the wilderness and evenings curled up next to a roaring log fire, playing a board game or simply chatting and enjoying each other’s company.
14. Bournemouth
Named the UK’s best beach in 2019, Bournemouth Beach is a great holiday spot for those who like to be beside the sea. With miles upon miles of soft, golden sand and clear, azure waters, this beach in Bournemouth is a lover’s paradise. What’s more, it’s also known to be one of the safest beaches in the whole of the UK, with official lifeguards based all along the seven-mile stretch. The four-legged family member doesn’t have to get left behind either, as there are certain parts of the beach where dogs are allowed.
15. London
Last but not least on our list, London always has and always will be the ultimate spot for a family break. Jam-packed with museums, parks and interactive days out, England’s hustling, bustling capital will keep the kids bouncing on the edge of their seats from dawn ‘till dusk. What’s more, there’s plenty here that parents will enjoy too, with an array of excellent bars, restaurants and pubs, as well as art galleries, boutique shops and theatre shows.
