best cities to visit with toddlers uk

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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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)

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

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

• Family Life |

The best days out for toddlers in the UK

If you are looking for the perfect days out with toddlers, we've got loads of great suggestions for 1-year-olds and above. From exploring Peppa Pig world to a medieval duel at Warwick Castle , to heading to one of the UK's best water parks , or London for a city adventure, there is something to spark the imagination in every child.

Toddler days out uk

Jurassic Live

Jurassic Live is a thrilling stage show following our team of rangers on the hunt for a missing dinosaur. This is perfect for any dinosaur obsessed tot and their family

www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Balloon Museum

Looking for a unique experience for the whole family to enjoy in the school holidays? Visit the Balloon Museum at Old Billingsgate, London (10-minute walk from London Bridge station). The EmotionAir immersive exhibition (running until 18 Feb) explores the relationship between art and emotions through the medium of inflatables. Children (and adults!) will love diving into an enormous ball pit, crawling through a giant inflatable structure and swinging and rolling huge balls back and forth. There are Insta worthy photo opportunities galore, and the combination of lights and sounds make it a stimulating multisensory experience. There’s a sweet treats area at the end, selling popcorn, candyfloss, bagels, doughnuts, crêpes, and alcoholic drinks, and a gift shop. So, parents have your purse or wallet at the ready – two candyfloss will set you back £10, and a small flower balloon will cost you £7. Family tickets start from £90. But look out for 20% discount codes online. Go to balloonmuseum.world for more details.

balloonmuseum.world

Legoland, Windsor

Legoland boasts over 55 rides and attractions, as well as shows and events. There are plenty of areas suitable for tots, babies and adults - so everyone can join in the fun.

www.legoland.co.uk

Warwick Castle, Warwickshire

From epic bird shows to history museums to a medieval dining experience - there is lots of fun to be had at Warwick Castle for the whole family!

www.goldentours.com

Cbeebies Land, Alton

CBeebies Land is where your little one’s TV dreams come true. From In the Night Garden to Postman Pat, expect your tots to be star struck as you make your way around the attractions. CBeebies Land is part of Alton Towers, so there's plenty more to do if you have older kids too but if you are staying, we'd recommend a stay at the CBeebies Hotel !

www.altontowers.com

SEA LIFE Brighton

Whether your tot is up for feeding turtles or even Sharks (if they're brave), Sea Life Brighton is an aquarium like no other!

www.visitsealife.com

Glasgow Spy Mission Treasure Trail, Glasgow, Glasgow and Strathclyde, Scotland

An ideal safe day outdoors, follow the Glasgow Spy Mission Treasure Trail, solve clues on route as well as taking in the views and exploring the area.

www.visitscotland.com

Thomas Land, Staffordshire

Calling all Thomas and the Tank Engine lovers, Thomas Land will make all your dreams come true! Take a ride down the railway with either Thomas, Rosie or Percy, or take to the sky with James - there's plenty of Thomas and friends themed attractions to explore.

www.draytonmanor.co.uk

Gulliver's Land, Milton Keynes

This fun-filled park in Milton Keynes is well worth a visit with your tot! Pop into the Whispering Woods and take the Fairy Trail through the magical woods to turn all your toddler’s worries into wishes, and much much more at Gulliver's Land ...

www.gulliverslandresort.co.uk

Dublin Zoo, Dublin, Ireland

If you're based in Dublin, then why not head to Dublin Zoo? It promises a fun-filled day out for all ages and the place to learn more about animals too, with Dublin Zoo being one of the oldest zoos and home to 400 animals. You'll need to pre-book a timeslot to avoid disappointment.

www.dublinzoo.ie

The Deep Aquarium, Hull

Make some fishy friends at this award-winning aquarium in Hull, where your tot can learn about life under water and see a huge variety of sea life! Fancy some more water fun? What about an indoor or outdoor water park?

www.thedeep.co.uk

Aillwee Cave, Ballyvaughan, County Clare, Republic of Ireland

Aillwee Cave is located in the Burren In County Clare, with one of the best views of Galway Bay. It's one of the oldest caves in Ireland and has so much to offer. As well as a tour of the cave, you can sit down and watch flying displays at the Birds of Prey centre, the home to Eagles, Falcons, Hawks, and Owls from all over the world.

aillweeburrenexperience.ie

The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre, Aberfoyle, Stirling and Falkirk, Scotland

Treetop adventures and scenic trails, the Lodge Forest Visitor Centre in Aberfoyle should be on the top of your list when you're in the area. With something that everyone can enjoy. You can even take a gentle stroll to a waterfall too.

Treetop Adventure Golf, Cardiff, Glamorgan and Cardiff, Wales

Treetop Adventure Golf is perfect for a wet day in Cardiff, and something for all ages. With a theme of a tropical rainforest, you won't be disappointed.

Willows Activity Farm (featuring Peter Rabbit!), St Albans

Come and play with the much-loved stars of the animated CBeebies series ‘Peter Rabbit’ at Willows Activity Farm, near St. Albans. Visit Peter’s Secret Treehouse, Mrs Tiggy-Winkle’s Kitchen and Lily Bobtail’s Nature Discovery at this first Peter Rabbit themed adventure play area of its kind.

willowsactivityfarm.digitickets.co.uk

Peppa Pig World, Hampshire

From Miss Rabbit’s Helicopter ride, to Muddy Puddles Water Splash Park, to George’s Spaceship Indoor Playzone - Peppa Pig World has all you need for a family fun day out! Nestled in The New Forest in Hampshire, you and your tot are bound to have a ball in this beautiful setting.

paultonspark.co.uk

Slimbridge Wetlands Centre, near Dursley, Gloucestershire

Take your tot to feed an array of ducks, geese and swans at Slimbridge Wetlands Centre. Visit the flamingos, explore the watery world of Toad Hall, splash about at Welly Boot Land or enjoy the indoor soft play, it’s definitely the perfect day out during the warmer months.

wwt.digitickets.co.uk

Still looking for ideas? Check out the below, for more inspiration!

The best theme parks for toddlers

From Chessington World of Adventures to Pleasure Island, to Digger Land, there are so many brilliant theme parks for toddlers in the UK !

Seasonal days out

Click on the below to get some season-appropriate ideas on where to take your toddler:

Summer days out ideas

Autumn days out ideas

Christmas days out ideas

Spring days out ideas

Easter days out and activities

London days out with toddlers

If you're looking for fun days out there are interactive experiences, museums, Royal parks, and playgrounds to keep them busy on a fun day out in London .

If you have an animal lover, there are zoos and parks packed full of cute and cuddly critters and kings of the jungle.

Row a boat in Hyde Park

During the spring and summer months, the Royal Parks are the place to be. Whether it's to find the perfect picnic spot with the kids or go rowing in the water , it's a great place to spend a relaxing afternoon.

Let their imagination run wild at the Diana, Princess of Wales' Memorial Playground

If they need to burn off some energy, the Diana Memorial Playground is the perfect place to do that. With a giant pirate ship in the middle, teepees and sensory trail, it's an ideal spot to let their imaginations run wild and it's located just next to Kensington Palace.

See the sights on The Toot Bus

If it's their first time in the city, then it's understandable why they might want to see all the sights on a simple hop on hop off bus trip with Toot Bus . Designed for kids aged 5-11, there's plenty of information for them to soak up on this journey.

The best family-friendly pub gardens

Summer afternoons are made for lounging around in the sun, but it can be difficult with several tots in tow. A safe and fun family-friendly pub garden is a great place for your little one to get outside and have some fun!

The best adventure playgrounds in the UK

There are many fantastic adventure playgrounds across the UK you and your family can visit, with some offering free entry.

Days out inspired by children's books

Story-time with children can often be a magical, mysterious and exciting experience, but you may be surprised to know that you and your family can visit lots of the places that inspired children’s literary classics , right here in the UK including Winnie the Pooh, Paddington Bear, The Chronicles of Narnia and Beatrix Potter!

The best museums in the UK for families

There are so many museums to explore here in the UK . Most are themed with particular interests in mind such as science or dinosaurs while others encompass a variety of exhibitions. Plus, for many, small children under a certain age go free. Bonus!

Best free outdoor activities for kids

You don't have to pay a penny to have a brilliant day out, with so many classic outdoor activities such as hide and seek, cycling, sculptures on the beach, bug hunting and more – you really can have fun with your baby for free !

Alternatively, you could grab a picnic and let them burn off some energy while getting some fresh air with our pick of the best parks and fun-filled outdoor spaces for the whole family.

Outdoor Adventure Destinations

National Parks

Must-Try Food in the U.K.

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Top Cities to Visit

Best U.K. Destinations

Traveling by Train

Driving in the U.K.

Power Adapters

Tipping Etiquette

Top Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Family-Friendly Attractions

The Top 18 Family Attractions in the United Kingdom

brians101/Getty Images

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

joe daniel price/Getty Images

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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17 Top Family Attractions in Las Vegas

Best Southern California Family Vacations

10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Plan Your UK Trip

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The Best Spring Break Destinations for Families

20 Best Things to Do in London When It Rains

20 Fun Places to Take the Kids in NYC

• Worldschooling Topics
• Family Travel Resources
• Destinations
• Travel Tips
• Responsible Travel
• Family Gap Year Guide
• Places and Destinations

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

Want to explore other parts of Europe ? Click here for more posts.

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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12 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 no wonder that the UK is regularly hailed as one of the world’s greatest destinations for family-friendly holidays. The 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 at. 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.

Main photo: puffins on Skomer Island, Wales (Alamy)

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. 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.

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.

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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.

W here 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 Despite its golf credentials, Hotel Fairmont St Andrews is equally polished for families — cue a monster pool, indoor soft play, and best-in-class restaurant buffet.

• Best things to do in Scotland

6. 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

7. 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 an entire 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

8. The Route Yorkshire Coast, England

Hasn’t everyone done Scotland’s North Coast 500 by now? The latest road trip thriller is the Route 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 the quintessential sandy beach resort. 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

9. 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

10. 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

11. 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

12. 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

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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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Entertainment, experiences and learning for kids

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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The best things to do with kids in England

Jul 14, 2023 • 7 min read

Here are some of the best things to do as a family in England © Rebecca Spencer / Stocksy

You may have heard the old expression “children should be seen and not heard.”

Well, this dates back to 15th-century England , and unsurprisingly, some things have changed since then. Yes, of course there are still the occasional grumps who will turn up their noses at the sight of a child in a pub, or roll their eyes when a stroller laden with a babbling toddler is being pushed onto their train car, but for the most part, attitudes to kids in England are open and friendly.

Is England a good destination for kids?

One of the best things about traveling with children in England is that the bulk of the best museums have permanent collections that are completely free to visit and almost always have some kind of child-centric activity in progress, whether it's a table for coloring with markers and paper or something more elaborate, like a treasure hunt. 

Many mid-range pubs and restaurants have a children’s menu. Staples include nuggets, pizzas, burgers – all served with chips, aka fries – and pasta. It’s unusual to find much in the way of gourmet or healthy kids’ dishes, but if you have a more discerning little foodie on your hands, it’s worth asking about half-portions from the adult menu.

A relatively new development in many recently opened or refurbished places is that baby changing areas are not just found in a cubicle in the ladies’ toilets any longer, which means that carers of all genders can take their turn dealing with the dirty diapers.

On the transport systems around England you’ll find plenty of family-unfriendly foibles, such as steps or bus gangways that aren’t quite wide enough to fit a stroller down, but there are wide accessible ticket barriers at each train station and a dedicated storage area for strollers on long-distance trains. Old cities also often have cobbled streets, which can make you wish you had a baby carrier to transport your infant instead of a fancy set of wheels.

Where are the best places to travel in England with kids?

If you should be blessed to have decent weather (which locals will remark upon frequently ), then you’ll be delighted by the 10 national parks and many Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in England, all with vast landscapes that are free for you and your little people to explore.

Outdoor-loving kids will also appreciate time at any of the glorious beaches , with cliffs to gaze up at, sand or pebbles to dig in and rock pools to explore. If the natural coastal wonders don’t appeal, the flashing lights of the amusement arcades that line many seafronts or the old-fashioned piers that stretch out into the sea usually do.

Families looking less for landscapes and more for learning should head to the major cities. Places such as London , Manchester , Newcastle and Birmingham have got museums, theater and art galleries galore, perfect for those looking to load up their families with a culture fix . And given that England isn’t all that big, you can easily combine a city visit with the coast or the countryside.

The best things to do in England with kids

We’ve split these activities by age to help you plan the best things to suit your young adventurers, but in reality, whether you head out on a boat ride or to a theme park or a castle, each venue is likely to have something to appeal to all age groups. So let the children be loud and run free. Let them run, splash, dig, climb and explore as they learn.

From babies and toddlers to young children, tweens and teens, here are the best experiences for family travelers in England.

The best things to do with babies and toddlers: beaches, museums and raves

Babies, what do they know? They certainly didn’t get the memo about being seen and not heard. But luckily they’ll go where you take them, whether it's to the soft sandy shores  of a shallow cove in Kent or a dedicated baby morning in the Museum of Liverpool ’s Little Liverpool gallery. To stimulate them with light and sound, check out the joyful family-friendly raves run by Big Fish Little Fish at venues across England.

The best things to do with young children (ages 4 to 11): theme parks, wildlife and museums

There are major theme parks across the country, among the most popular being Legoland near Windsor , Alton Towers in Staffordshire and Paultons Park  (home to Peppa Pig World ) near Southampton. But look at those not-yet-redundant tourist brochures on display in the lobby of the reception wherever you’re staying and seek out the local gems.

Small-scale enterprises don’t have the big roller coasters, but they do have some curiosities that you won’t forget. Diggerland is a particular favorite – with four sites across England – where anyone over 110cm tall (43in) can be the solo driver of a JCB Skid Steer Loader through water and overland or the operator of a 5280kg (5.2-ton) giant digger, lifting dirt from one pile to another in a strangely hypnotic way. 

Animal-loving kids will merrily pass a day at one of England’s best wildlife parks or zoos, such as London  and Chester , or go out on a boat to birdwatch and look for marine wildlife at any of the coastal colonies. You can see puffins on Lundy Island off the North Devon coast or look out for minke, sei and fin whales off the north coast on a trip from Whitby with Whitby Coastal Cruises .

What if it’s raining? Don’t worry, it happens a lot, and this is when England’s many hands-on museums can be relied upon to capture imaginations. Nature-lovers will be wowed by London's Natural History Museum  and dazzled by the Eden Project in Cornwall, where they will learn about environmental matters in spectacular space-age greenhouses.

Other science and tech highlights include London's Science Museum (go to Wonderlab on the top floor for experiments or the Garden in the basement for water play, perfect for younger kids); Bristol's We the Curious (closed currently due to restoration work following a fire, expected to reopen by January 2024); the Science and Industry Museum in Manchester or the National Space Centre in Leicester . 

The best things to do with tweens and teens: historic sites and stadium tours

Notoriously hard-to-please teens and – to a lesser extent – tweens might not seem particularly engaged with literally anything you offer them, but guide them to the juicier details and some of England’s historic sites might just win them over.

Think the Tower of London is boring? Task them with finding out all about what happened to two princes in the Bloody Tower. Heading to Hampton Court Palace ? Well, the royal squabbling and backstabbing that went on there rivals popular soap-opera plotlines (and is even more scandalous than tabloid headlines about the current royals).

With thousands of castles each with their own gruesome or fascinating stories, there’s plenty to uncover. Failing that, they might recognize Alnwick Castle or Durham Cathedral as locations used in the Harry Potter films, or be captivated by Arthurian legends at Tintagel .

If there's a soccer (football) fan in your family, consider a visit to one of the many Premier League stadiums for a tour. They usually cover the history and achievements of the club and offer behind-the-scenes access to changing rooms, the press room, the commentary box and the tunnel to the pitch (field). Wembley in London is the home of the England national football team and hosts various competitions and finals.

Other big hitters include Liverpool's Anfield , Manchester United's Old Trafford  and  Manchester City's Etihad , plus in London,  Arsenal's Emirates Stadium ,  Chelsea's Stamford Bridge  and  Tottenham Hotspur Stadium . Sorry, kids: if it’s Ryan Reynolds' and Rob McElhenney’s Wrexham you’re after, you’re in the wrong country – Wrexham is in Wales , a few miles from the Wales–England border.

Planning tips for traveling in England with kids

Children between ages 0 and 4 travel for free on rail throughout the UK, providing they are traveling with a fare-paying adult. Once your little one turns 5, train tickets tend to cost half that of an adult ticket, although some train companies run a Kids for a Quid deal. Travel costs for children within cities varies depending on the network, so check locally. For long-distance train journeys, book three months in advance to get the most affordable tickets.

While many pubs are very welcoming of families during the day, not everywhere is kid-friendly – and certainly not later into the evening. If you’re keen to keep your little one out with you late, check with the bar staff before settling into your seat. Licensing laws vary, and it’s not always immediately obvious where and when children are allowed.

Glossary: Diapers are called nappies. Pacifiers are called dummies. Strollers can be known as prams, pushchairs or buggies. 

This article was first published April 2021 and updated July 2023

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Best Places to Visit in the UK with Kids

Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links to the products we earnestly love and recommend, meaning at no extra cost to you, we might make a teeny-weeny commission if you click on the link and decide to buy something. The money will be used to sustain this little cozy blog we call our virtual home.

Planning to visit the UK with kids? Thinking about what to do in the United Kingdom? There are so many awesome places to visit in the UK and a mind-boggling number of things to do in the United Kingdom that might overwhelm you. Fret not. We have put together a list of the most beautiful places in the UK you must add to your UK itinerary so you can have the best UK vacation with your family.

The UK or the United Kingdom of Great Britain is a complete package deal for families. An unusually beautiful country packed with endless kid-friendly attractions and small enough to be explored without rushing around. What more could you ask for?

With such breathtaking cities and towns, lush countrysides, beautiful islands, and diverse attractions within small distances, it can be a daunting task to decide where to start.

We asked fellow family travel bloggers to share their expertise in compiling the list of best places to visit in the UK with kids to add to your UK bucket list .

Best Places to Visit in England

London, england.

David Angel from Delve into Europe

We knew London inside out before having our son five years ago, and we always thought it was somewhere he would enjoy. He certainly did – indeed, he absolutely adores the place. The beauty of London is that there is so much to do, and there’s something for everyone no matter what their niche or niches may be. London is unarguably one of the best cities in the UK . This is why we’d recommend London to anyone traveling with kids. London has many amazing attractions for kids, and this includes its many parks and playgrounds. Our little man loved the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens , one of the best parks and gardens in London . This brilliant playground is free but you may end up having to queue to get in sometimes. Nearby, the Museums in South Kensington are outstanding, The two that kids are most likely to be interested in are the Natural History Museum and Science Museum . Our son was so enamored of both that he wanted to return to them the following day.

The Science Museum has plenty of hands-on exhibits, perfect when you’ve got a curious little one wanting to explore.

He also loved visiting some of the famous buildings in London . He was particularly keen on St Paul’s Cathedral and joined me on a climb to the Golden Gallery , the viewpoint at the top of the famous dome.

South Kensington is a very convenient area to stay in London with kids, as it’s right next to the Museums and within easy striking distance of Central London. The Meininger Hotel London Hyde Park is, despite its name, across the street from the Natural History Museum, and an ideal choice for families. The best way to explore London is on foot. Here are some of the best self-guided London walks to explore the city like a pro.

Grab your London Oyster Card along with a London Pass to effortlessly get around and explore the town.

Tip: Take a self-guided walking tour with kids to discover some of the most beautiful neighborhoods and prettiest streets in London . Let your kids admire the colors and creativity.

Greenwich, England

Greenwich, a borough in London is located to the south of River Thames. Greenwich gives its name to the famous GMT or the Greenwich Meridian Time.

The Prime Meridian, where the Longitude Zero passes through is located in the Royal Observatory. Take the iconic picture by standing with one foot in the Western hemisphere and the other in the Eastern hemisphere across the Prime Meridian. The Prime Meridian has been used for reference of GMT time since 1884. 

The Royal Observatory Built way back in 1676 has a major role in the work in the fields of astronomy and navigation. Getting into the world of stars, it has one of the world’s greatest telescopes and other historic clocks and instruments in the museum. 

Royal Observatory, a part of Greenwich Park sits atop a hill overlooking the beautiful Park. Standing at the entrance of the Royal Observatory gives some mesmerizing vistas of the manicured landscape with backdrops of the National Maritime Museum and the London skyline.

Another great way to Enjoy soak in the beauty of the London skyline and the River Thames is the Emirates Air Line Cable car between the Greenwich Peninsula and Royal Docks.

Greenwich is a historic city and home to the Royals a long time back. It is eminent through the architecture and important buildings like the Queen’s House, Old Royal Naval College, and National Maritime Museum that can be visited.

The Queen’s house built in the 17th century is a living example of grandeur and stunning architecture. Entry to the Queen’s house is free and must be made.

On the Greenwich Pier is docked the Cutty Sark , a restored 19th-century tea trading ship considered the fastest ship of its time. It was used as a tea clipper to bring tea from China to England fast. Walk below the hull or check the history in the docks, it is surely going to be a great time.

Greenwich is easily accessible from London by tube, train, or bus. 

Cornwall, England

Victoria from Bridges and Balloons

Looking for Big Sur California vibes in Europe? Then head to the Cornwall coast where you’ll find some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK , if not Europe. The rugged cliffs, sweeping bays, and golden sandy beaches make for the perfect family playground, and it’s also home to gorgeous countryside and endless things for kids to do. You’d love to visit Cornwall with the kids . One of the region’s most popular attractions is the Eden Project , which features two huge biomes, housing plants from across the world – including the world’s largest indoor rainforest. Filled with fun and educational activities, it’s an ideal day out, come rain or shine. Other popular attractions include the Camel Bike Trail , Flambards Theme Park , St Michael’s Mount , and the Lost Gardens of Heligan . Plus there’s plenty to do on the many beaches, including learning to surf.

Cornwall is also home to some of the UK’s best family hotels . Watergate Bay is a favorite and is the ultimate  luxury Cornwall family holiday . Situated right on the beach at the picturesque Watergate Bay, it goes above and beyond to provide a holiday that both children and parents won’t forget. Everything from the hotel rooms to the restaurants to the children’s playroom is stylishly done, and highlights include an indoor infinity pool looking out to the ocean; a fabulous on-site spa; a free children’s club; a surfing school, and endless views of the epic bay. It’s also possible to arrange for a baby monitor in your room, so adults can have dinner together or enjoy some live music while the children sleep safely upstairs.

The Isles of Scilly, England

Annabel from Smudged Postcard

If you’re looking for a peaceful, old-fashioned seaside holiday for families, the  Scilly Isles  takes some beating. Located off the coast of Cornwall in southwest England, the Isles of Scilly are a bit of a secret. The archipelago is made up of five inhabited islands and scores of uninhabited isles. The main island is St Mary’s: it has a lively main town and scores of beaches to explore. There are also ancient ruins and an interesting museum charting the history of the islands. If you’d prefer a more escapist experience, the island of St Agnes is the most remote and has limited holiday accommodation. One of the highlights from our family holiday was spending our days on empty beaches, despite it being August. We loved exploring the islands by boat and bike: You can’t bring your car to the Scillies so it’s a really safe destination for young children. It’s possible to hire a golf buggy but most places can be reached on foot as the islands are so small. There are plenty of water sports in the Scillies: we enjoyed stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. It’s also possible to swim with seals and go diving. There’s a great range of restaurants and plenty of great places to stay in the Isles of Scilly. If you’re after luxury accommodation, try the Sea Garden Cottages on the island of Tresco, If you’re on a budget Longstone Lodge on St Mary’s is an excellent youth hostel. The Isles of Scilly are best reached by ferry from Penzance in Cornwall although there are also regular flights from a range of airports in southwest England.

Peak District, England

Jenny Lynn from Peak District Kids

When people think of England they perhaps think of Buckingham Palace, red phone boxes, historical towns like Bath or Cambridge, or fish n chips at a traditional seaside town like Blackpool or Brighton. But for me, it’s the green, rolling countryside that’s the true England, and overlooked by so many travelers is the Peak District nestled in the heart of the country with its stunning landscapes, drystone walls, and quaint villages. With the kids dressed in puddle suits and wellies, we love nothing better than a family walk in the Peak District. Our favorites 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 . We always try to 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 at the grand gardens. A good family day out in the Peak District is always The Heights of Abraham or Crich Tramway Museum . But if you’re seeking thrills head to the Gulliver’s Kingdom or nearby Alton Towers !

However, the best thing to do after a long walk across the dales is to warm up in front of a fire at one of the many old and characterful pubs with your favorite tipple and some home-cooked food. Pubs like The Bull in Monyash have a playground in the back garden, and almost all have a separate children’s menu. And as this is the Peak District, muddy boots and muddy paws are always welcome! Check out  Peak District Kids  for everything you need to know about visiting this beautiful National Park in the UK.

Public transport is VERY limited here and whilst there is the odd bus from Derby, or you could take the train from Sheffield or Manchester to Edale, a car is very much advised as the transport network is so limited.

Book a day trip to Derbyshire and the Peak District from Manchester

Lake District, England

If you are looking for natural beauty closer to London, then think no further and head to the Lake District. As the name suggests, this region is blessed with many beautiful lakes nestled by green mountains that make it a popular destination.

We chose to spend a few days in this beautiful area exploring some of the magical lakes and feasting on the magical vistas. Spending time in this countryside, away from the hustle-bustle of the city is so much relaxing and refreshing. We instantly fell in love with this place and its charm.

Some of the lakes that are a must-visit are Lake Windermere, Ullswater, Bassenthwaite, and Grasmere . Lake Windermere is England’s largest lake and the most popular in the Lake District.

This is a great place to travel with kids and enjoy multiple outdoor adventures. Take a cruise in Lake Windermere or kayak leisurely through the waters seeping in the beauty around, walk around the lakes , or just sit by the lake. Camping is a great way to enjoy the wilderness of the district. There are so many walking routes perfect for even kids to enjoy. And if walking is not your type, hop on a bus tour of the Lake District .

Also, don’t forget to visit the prehistoric Castlerigg Stone Circle thought to be built around 3000 BC which links to religious and astronomical activities and gives the kids a first-hand experience of history.

Yorkshire, England

Sinead Camplin from Map Made Memories

England’s largest county, Yorkshire, is one of the cheapest places to visit in the UK as well as one of the best family holiday destinations in Europe as there are lots of diverse, family-friendly attractions, many of which are free to experience.

Spend time in the historic city of York visiting the majestic Gothic cathedral, York Minster which offers weekly tours, especially for families with young children. Walk the impressive medieval city walls, (the longest city walls in England), or the atmospheric, cobbled street, The Shambles, which was voted ‘Best Street in Britain.’ Train fans will be free to enter the National Railway Museum or learn about York’s rich Viking and Roman history at the Yorkshire Museum or the Jorvik Viking Centre . York is a small city that can easily be explored on foot and has several urban green parks and playgrounds for a good runaround! One hour’s drive west of York brings you to the stunning green landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales .

Book your day tour from York to the Yorkshire Dales here. Take a guided trip into a cave at Ingleton or visit England’s highest single-drop waterfall, Hardraw Force . Attempt one of many family-friendly hikes in the Dales ; our family’s favorite is the circular hike around Malham Cove which is featured in the Harry Potter movies. Take a one-hour drive east of York to explore the wild, windswept landscapes of the Yorkshire Moors. Travel across the Moors on the North Yorkshire Railway steam train and make a stop at Goathland whose station doubled as the arrival point for Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films.

Book your tour from York to North Yorkshire Moors and Whitby by a steam train here.

On the other side of the moors, the dramatic North Yorkshire coastline is dotted with picturesque fishing villages such as Robin Hood Bay or long stretches of sandy beaches like Cayton Bay . This Jurassic coastline is full of fossils so keep your eyes open for a lucky find! For an affordable, budget stay in York, I would recommend Travelodge or Premier Inn .

Best Places to Visit in Scotland

Edinburgh, scotland.

Editor’s Pick

Edinburgh is one of the best cities in the UK to take your kids to. From exploring Edinburgh Castle, visiting the Edinburgh Zoo, walking the hilly cobbled old town, taking a Harry Potter tour, to climbing the extent volcano, Edinburgh is no less than a live history lesson with fun for kids. Overall, the city is kid-friendly. It can be explored easily with a stroller except for some cobbled areas of the old town. Edinburgh Castle has to be the first attraction you visit when in Edinburgh. Kids will love the Great Hall, Mons Meg, and Honors of Scotland. Explorer Quiz is quite a powerful way to keep the kids engaged. Our kids particularly enjoyed Camera Obscura and World of Illusions , right next to the castle. Spy cameras, Light Fantastic, and Bewilderworld are some of the most enjoyable attractions here. How about climbing the extinct volcano right in the heart of the city? It’s not only fun to climb Arthur’s Seat but the views from it are to die for. Harry Potter fan or not, you can never go wrong with a Harry Potter Tour .

Taking one of the many Harry Potter tours is one of the best things to do in Edinburg with kids . You are sure to be transported to the Harry Potter world. There is an overwhelming number of family-friendly hotels in Edinburgh to choose from, our favorite remains Old Town Chambers .

Conveniently settled on the Royal Mile , Old Town Chambers offers easy access to most of the attractions and restaurants making it a perfect fit for families with kids.

Best Places to Visit in Wales

Cardiff, wales.

Cath from Passports and Adventures

The capital of Wales is an extremely family-friendly holiday destination in the UK and families are well catered for in Cardiff.

With many of the streets in the city center pedestrianized and a great public transport system, the city is an ideal place for a family break. Cardiff is only two hours by train from London and has a range of hotels to suit all budgets.

Voco St David’s hotel in Cardiff Bay is a five-star hotel with an amazing spa and great views across the Bay but there are budget-friendly options like Premier Inn and Travelodge hotels in the city center. There is also a host of places to eat with kids in the city and there is a great choice in St David’s 2 Shopping Centre and around Mill Lane .

One of our favorites is Bill’s Restaurant . Keeping kids entertained in the city isn’t hard either as there is a huge range of things to do with kids in Cardiff . Within the city, you’ll find Cardiff Castle and adjacent to it, Bute Park . Once home to the Marquess of Bute, with the park being part of the castle grounds, Cardiff Castle offers kids the chance to let off steam on the grass, check out the Norman Keep, and discover the hidden secrets of the Castle walls. Outside the castle walls, Bute Park offers more grassy areas for playing and has a playground and an arboretum.

Further afield, St Fagan’s is a must-visit with kids. The Welsh National Museum of History is an extraordinary place to visit with kids with houses and buildings from across Wales painstakingly brought, brick-by-brick, to the site in Cardiff and they date from as far back as the 12th century. It is a chance to see Wales’ history close up. You will also find the National Museum interesting for kids and Techniquest in the Bay is worth a visit.

No matter what your kids are interested in, there is something for children of all ages in Cardiff.

Gower, Wales

Ric from Surfatlas

Gower was actually the UK’s first-ever Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s easy to see why it was right at the front of the queue way back in 1956!

Its south coast is a medley of long, scything beaches and rugged bays, all topped by gorse headlands and cut through by wiggling rivers.

The north coast comes dashed with pine forests and swamps, kitschy Celtic pubs, and small Welsh villages.

Spring, summer, and autumn visits can either be packed with adventure or – Welsh weather permitting – about lazing on the shoreline.

For the latter, check out Three Cliffs, which has big dunes where the little ones can run around while you get lost in your book.

Port Eynon is also worth a look at. The big tidal difference there opens up a tract of rock pools filled with all sorts of crabs and anemones – an aspiring Attenborough’s dream!

To get the adrenaline pumping, it might be better to head for Llangennith Beach. It’s home to some of the best  surfing Wales  has to offer.

Drop into PJ’s Surf Shop in the nearby village for info on the latest conditions and affordable rentals. Alternatively, there are strawberry farms on the South Gower Road, and hidden tree swings in the dune forests behind Nicholaston Burrows – a local’s favorite.

For sleeping, there’s arguably no better spot than the front-row camping pitches at the Three Cliffs Bay Holiday Park .

The folk there recently added a few yurt-style glamping tents if you’re after more luxury. Winter visitors might be a tad cozier at the King Arthur Hotel .

It’s a classic Welsh inn with a roaring fireplace, Gower-made ales, and quaint cottage accommodation. Nice.

Best Places to Visit in Northern Ireland

Belfast, northern ireland.

Cath from Travel Around Ireland

Belfast, as a city, is becoming a more popular holiday destination for families, not least because it is a great base for visiting the Game of Thrones filming locations in Northern Ireland but also for the Giant’s Causeway . But, if you don’t want to travel further afield and want to stay locally, it caters to families because there are lots of great things to do with kids in Belfast. Belfast is easily reached from within Ireland, the UK, or further afield and has a good public transport system for those wanting to explore the city without needing a car.

A great place to stay as a family in the city is the Clayton Hotel which is within walking distance to most of the sites and places of interest. And speaking of the places of interest for families, there are lots of things to see and do in Belfast. If your kids like animals, you could visit the Belfast Zoo or the Streamvale Open Farm .

Belfast Castle and Gardens are worth a visit, just be aware that the castle itself is not open to the public. Belfast is also a great place to visit if you have fans of the Chronicles of Narnia books with its CS Lewis Square , where you will find sculptures in homage to some of the famous characters of the books. And no visit to Belfast would be complete without visiting the Titanic Museum . While it might not be the first place you would think to bring kids, exhibits are well presented with lots of interactive elements to keep kids engaged.

These are just a few things that families can enjoy together in Belfast, making it a great holiday destination for families in the UK.

We sincerely hope that one of these kid-friendly countries in the UK inspires your next trip and the trip turns out to be one of the best UK vacations with kids 🙂

Recommended Reading:

• Things to do in Edinburgh with Kids
• Best National Parks in the UK for Families
• Best Family Day Trips from London
• Coolest London Quotes to Inspire Your Next Visit

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• 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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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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An Epic Guide To The Best Toddler-Friendly Holidays in the UK

Table of Contents

I’ve often been asked if it’s easier to go travelling with a baby or with a toddler. Both throw up different problems from what to pack and bring , to how to keep them entertained on flights or long journeys. But the simple answer is, toddlers are harder work because they can move – and fast – and can express themselves in a much more forthright way than any baby can. Toddlers’ attention spans are short at best, and their explorative natures are heightened. With this in mind, I’ve pulled my resources to compile an epic round-up of the Best Toddler-Friendly Holidays in the UK – from those in the know… And with the coronavirus pandemic changing the face of travel as we know it, more families will be looking to domestic travel and having holidays in the UK. 

A guide to UK holidays for toddlers

It can be a minefield when it comes to choosing toddler-friendly holidays. But for those who live in the UK, there is a myriad of toddler-friendly options from accommodation, destinations, resorts and attractions that are great for the whole family. And without the added stress of taking a trip abroad, it’s easier to plan, organise and feel less worried, because you can essentially throw everything in the car. Just don’t forget the travel games !

Best UK Holidays For Toddlers by other parents!

So I, along with some of the UK’s best family travel bloggers have rounded up what we think are the highlights and must-sees for toddler-friendly holidays in the UK, from toddler-friendly hotels to specific destinations, attractions and resorts across the country. And hopefully, this comprehensive guide will give you some inspiration as to where to find your next favourite UK holidays with toddlers or short break in the UK.

Top Tip: To use this amazing guide for UK holidays with toddlers click on the links within the post for more information about each area or recommendations for hotels and family accommodation.

Bournemouth

If you’re looking for stunning stretches of coastline, some great accommodation options and some good old-fashioned seaside fun, then Bournemouth is a fantastic destination for a UK seaside break. While Bournemouth Pier has plenty of activities to amuse the whole family from crazy golf (there is two to choose from), a big wheel, plenty of ice-cream shops and pretty gardens to explore, it is the lovely swathes of sandy beaches that are the real draw. 

We stayed at Bournemouth Beach Lodges and had a wonderful break. Being able to step onto the beach from our luxury beach hut was sublime. And situated 10 minutes away from Bournemouth town, Boscombe Beach is less crowded and much more of a locals hangout. And as you can see in the photo above, the kids loved it too. Read my full review here . This is definitely a contender for one of the best places to go with toddlers UK.

On a recent long weekend in Bristol , we were blown away by the multitude of family-friendly activities, family-friendly restaurants , and things to do in the city. And with young kid and toddler in tow, we really did manage to fit a lot in – with much of the city flat, pedestrianised and very easy to get about. Bristol is a perfect city for a weekend break or even longer. Voted the best place to live in the UK a staggering three times, it is a city with a big heart and shaped by centuries of history. Full to the brim with artists and creatives, independent shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars – it’s a hive of activity where old sits in harmony with the new. We really enjoyed walking along the harbour front and along the river, exploring all the great street art, as well as HMS Britain – Brunel’s historic passenger ship.

For long car journeys…

Check out this post:

Cornwall has been one of our best UK holidays for toddlers over the years. From wonderful beaches and harbour towns to farm stays, as well as so much to discover and explore – you really can’t go wrong with visiting Cornwall.

Cathy from Mummy Travels agrees but it’s also about finding the right toddler-friendly accommodation and she found the perfect one when visited Newquay.

If you’re fans of camping and glamping then you can also find out where some of the best holiday parks are in Cornwall, too, over on this post .

We’ve been visiting the Cotswolds in Gloucestershire for many years and it’s a wonderful region for toddler-friendly holidays. Quite simply, there is as much or as little to see and do – from exploring the Cotswold Water Park to eating cream teas and ice-creams in pretty historic villages , feeding penguins and getting to see lots of cool motorcars .

We have stayed in self-catering properties in the Cotswolds, as well as luxury family-friendly hotels including Cowley Manor – which really welcomed our kids and gives ample opportunity to explore Cheltenham nearby.

The choice of family-friendly hotels in the Cotswolds is extensive as there are hundreds of family-friendly hotels in the area and Karen from Travel Mad Mum shares her experience of Calcot Manor:

“There are plenty of hotels to choose from in the Cotswolds but when it comes to travelling with kids, we stumbled across probably the most family-friendly hotel in the UK! There is a wealth of family-friendly activities and sites on offer and Calcot Manor Hotel and Spa strikes the perfect balance between a family-friendly hotel and true luxury. They are fully geared up to cater for kids, offering a range of services including an onsite Ofsted registered creche, a childcare centre, afternoon family pool hours and child-friendly high tea. For the adults, they have a beautiful hot tub, disk-golf and more! Ten minutes down the road from the Manor is Westonbirt Arboretum with its TreeTop Walkway and Gruffalo walk, the perfect place for little ones to burn off some steam.”

Some of the best beaches in the UK can be found in Devon and many of them are extremely toddler-friendly. Even in the rain, there are plenty of attractions and fun things to do with toddlers and kids, as we discovered when we spent a week near Ilfracombe . But one of the best toddler-friendly areas in Devon is Dartmoor National Park, says local resident Claire from Tin Box Traveller, and is full to the brim with beautiful landscapes and amazingly child-friendly activities.

“With its rugged tors and outstanding scenery, Dartmoor National Park in Devon is a haven for walking families. It’s also a place steeped in history and it inspired Arthur Conan Doyle’s  The Hound of the Baskervilles , so budding storytellers will thrill at the atmosphere. But aside from myth, legend and landscapes, what’s there to do on Dartmoor with toddlers? Plenty – so check out this post for more , including an otter sanctuary and castle.”

Dorset and the Jurrasic Coast

With over 95 miles of coastline, the Jurassic Coast Dorset stretches from Exmouth in Devon all the way to Studland Bay in Dorset and spans a staggering 185 million years of geological history. Not only is there the promise of fossil hunting and dinosaurs, but beautiful family-friendly beach resorts, attractions and breathtaking landscapes. We took a road trip along the Jurassic Coast and discovered many of the fantastic sights along the way – all the while, basing ourselves in a great, toddler-friendly holiday park which was also reasonably priced. Highlights for us included eating ice cream in Lyme Regis and seeing Durdle’s Door on a misty day.

Potty training Your Little Ones?

After spending a week exploring the North East and Durham, we were spellbound by the area. Not only in how much there was to see and do as a family, and the friendly welcome we received, but the sheer beauty of the region. From stargazing in the Pennines to learning about how we lived in the past at the highly recommended Beamish Museum, we even got to explore castles and walk with alpacas . Meanwhile, we ended our toddler-friendly holiday by staying a luxury family-friendly spa hotel Rockliffe Hall , which really knows how to put families first from a fantastical playground to splash park.

If you’re looking from a break from the norm, and one where you’re at one with nature then perhaps a Forest Holiday might be what you’re after. We spent a glorious break at Blackwood Forest in Hampshire , riding bikes, building dens and going on bug hunts. There is so much for toddlers and young children to do, and they’ll particularly like the spaces of the cabins – some of which, even have hot tubs. Imagine a home away from home but under a canopy of trees.

Isles of Scilly

Situated just off the coast of Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly is a small, unspoiled haven which is perfect for young families and toddler-friendly holidays in the UK, as Katy from Otis and Us explains:

“We wanted to visit the Isles of Scilly for so long and I am so pleased we decided to wait and visit with our three children. It is such a beautiful place and I would even say it is one of my favourite places that we have visited over the last couple of years. The Isles of Scilly is around 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall and  consists of a large number of uninhabited islands, and five inhabited islands: St Mary’s , Tresco , Bryher , St Agnes , and St Martin’s . All so different, yet equally spectacular.  We stayed at Karma Resort on St Martin’s. With its laid-back way of life, beautiful beaches, clear turquoise waters, and incredible sunsets it is a place that stole our hearts.  The islands are so family-friendly and the people welcoming. From St Martin’s we hopped on a boat to Tresco where we hired bikes and a bike seat and spent the day exploring the island, stumbling across honesty stalls, play parks and the beautiful Abbey Gardens . The girls still talk about seal spotting and kayaking!  I would return in a heartbeat.”

Lake District

The fact that the Lake District has been awarded UNESCO Heritage status isn’t the only reason why the Lake District is a must-visit destination for a family holiday in the UK. I was blown away by the sheer beauty of the natural surroundings which comprises of epic lakes, mountains, national parks and picture-perfect villages and towns. It truly is a sight to behold and there really is so much to do even with toddler or baby in tow. Highlights for us include taking a steamboat gondola on Lake Coniston and exploring the different National Trust sights which included waterfalls and mountain passes.

It may not be the most elegant resort in the world, but if you are looking for a cheap and cheerful break with your toddlers then Morecambe delivers in spades for toddler-friendly holidays in the UK. This small town in Lancashire is located on a stunning bay and offers simple, free pleasures like making sandcastles on the beach. The prom hosts some great annual events like the Catch the Wind Kite Festival and Vintage by The Sea. Brucciani’s has been making ice cream since 1939 – pop in and enjoy the old fashioned vibe. For a luxury art deco experience, have tea in the refurbished Midland Hotel. There are loads of things to wear the kids out before bed; bounce an hour away at Jump Rush, follow the bird art trail along the prom, go bowling and eat pizza at Soul Bowl and Vista Italian Kitchen and sing Bring Me Sunshine in front of the statue of Eric. For more ideas see The Family Adventure Project’s post on 30 family friendly  things to do in Morecambe.

Northumberland

Staffordshire peak district.

Penny from The Mayfield Hideaway recommends the Peak District as a fantastic toddler-friendly holiday in the UK.

“We recently moved to the Staffordshire Peak District and regularly host toddlers in our self-catering places at Mayfield Hideaway . Nearby National Trust Ilam Park and Dovedale are great for mini-adventures, you play pooh sticks, walk along the tree stump trail, roll down hills, paddle, cross the famous stepping stones and make the most of the flat and pushchair friendly walk to Dovedale. Meanwhile, Alton Towers , including C Beebies Land, is under 10 miles away. Matlock Bath has Gulliver’s Kingdom , another toddler-sized theme park.

Peak Wildlife Park is the perfect size for little ones to get close to animals from meerkats to penguins. RSPB reserve Coombe Valley was recently voted a Hidden Gem by Visit Britain, it has dens, fairy villages, tree walkways and pond dipping to break the walking up.

The Tissington and Manifold Trails , beginning in Ashbourne and Waterhouses, are excellent traffic-free cycle tracks, both with family bike hire, including trailers. For rainy days head to one of the Peak District’s four caves and caverns , to Sudbury Museum of Childhood .

Peak District

Nell from The Pigeon Pair and Me also agrees that the Peak District makes for a fantastic family-friendly UK break:

“ Landal Green Parks Darwin Forest , in England’s scenic Peak District, really is a treat for families who want to enjoy a peaceful, natural environment. All 120 of its wooden cabin-style lodges are made locally, in the town of Bakewell . Some even come with their own hot tubs. We really made the most of ours. From delicious morning soaks to quiet evening sessions under the stars, we might have broken the record for the number of hot tub dips a family can have in 48 hours. The cabin as well comes fully equipped – which is what you need when you have a toddler.

Darwin Forest’s 47 acres of mixed woodland is managed, with trails for walking or cycling – hire bikes which have seats for toddlers, too. But it doesn’t feel overly manicured. We spotted a fair number of the highly poisonous fly agaric mushrooms, which we warned the kids not to touch. But they looked just like fairy toadstools. My daughter called it ‘the Magic Forest’, and we really did have an enchanting long weekend there, searching for fairy doors at the bottom of trees, enjoying lazy breakfasts on our terrace, and doing a spot of water zorbing in the resort swimming pool. It was just what our London family needed, to get rid of the stresses of city life.”

For more Peak District information and places to visit check out this great site by Travelynn Family.

Pembrokeshire

We recently spent a week exploring Pembrokeshire in Wales and loved every minute, despite the weather. From eating fish and chips on Tenby Beach to spending the day at Folly Farm we found so much to see and do. In fact, here is my ultimate guide to Pembrokeshire with kids .

If you’re wondering where one of the best holiday destinations with toddlers is – then Reading may not instantly spring to mind. But after our stay at the fantastic Buckleberry Farm, we’d definitely add it to the list. Glamping in Feather Down’s rather luxurious tents, where you can hear deer rutting in the field next door, was quite an experience. But when you add in an adventure park, giant slides, a working farm, and deer safari – you won’t even have to leave the site. The kids absolutely loved it here, even in the pouring rain. So that’s saying something. You can read all about our stay at Buckleberry Farm here . 

Suffolk has so much to explore. From heathland and rolling countryside to miles and miles of coastline – including Southwold and Aldeburgh – is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. 

On our staycation to Suffolk, we stayed in the peaceful and pretty hamlet of Pin Mill  on the banks of the River Orwell. which we found was a perfect base to explore the nearby coastline. We even found quirky accommodation in the form of a houseboat. Find out all about Suffolk stay and what to see and do in Pin Mill . For my boys it was heaven – and my youngest would have easily claimed this was one of the best places to stay with toddlers in the UK. 

Meanwhile, Center Parcs has long since been a staple when it comes to providing families with toddler-friendly holidays in the UK. Lisa from Travel Loving Family loves them and in a particular, a stay at Elveden Forest in Suffolk .

“My husband and I have always been huge fans of Center Parcs, even more so since becoming parents.  We’ve been taking our boys to Center Parcs since they were babies and we’ve always had a brilliant time.  For toddlers, the parks work really well because everything is just so convenient.  Within a few minutes walk/cycle you can be in the village centre where you can go swimming, dine at a child-friendly restaurant, let them burn off some energy in the playgrounds, pop into the shops, have fun on the arcades or simply just enjoy a drink at Starbucks or a bar. One of the features we particularly love for toddlers at CenterParcs is the soft play areas in the restaurants.  It just takes the stress out of trying to keep a wriggly toddler at a table whilst waiting for food to arrive.  There are plenty of activities for toddlers too including kids clubs, Teddy Bear picnics, balance bikes, sports and art classes. All of these activities cost extra so a word of warning for parents, there are also many free activities so only book one or two and save your money!”

Because Sussex is close to our home, we often take short breaks and day trips to the county. Not only has it got miles of coastline and award-winning beaches from Brighton, Lewes, Littlehampton , Eastbourne and Camber Sands, but tons of attractions for the whole family. Some of our favourite spots include Seven Sisters Country Park and West Wittering Beach . I believe it is a great destination for toddler holidays in the UK.

You’re also spoiled for choice in terms of accommodation options including f amily-friendly camping sites – but we particularly loved our stay at Bailiffscourt Court in Climping . From a welcome basket for the kids to a treasure hunt around the hotel, it really caters for children of all ages. Plus the beach is just a short stroll away…

Staffordshire

With Alton Towers being one of the main attractions in Staffordshire, the theme park isn’t the only big draw in the region. When we were last there, we had a great time exploring Tamworth and its historic castle . Meanwhile, there is much to see and do in Stoke-on-Trent, including discovering all there is to know about the pottery industry as well as the stunning Trentham Estate – which Chloe from Picture-Taker Memory-Maker tells us about:

“Trentham Gardens is a fantastic day out for the whole family and there is plenty to do for toddlers, in particular, come rain or shine.  In fact, it might be tricky to know where to go first! You could head off on an adventure around the mile-long lake: completing the treasure trail along the way to find all sixteen  beautiful fairies and various impressive wooden sculptures; hopping  onto the Trentham Fern miniature train to save tired little legs; and maybe even enjoying a leisurely ride aboard the Miss Elizabeth ferry to see the lake from a different perspective. Or you could choose to make your way to the energising Barefoot Walk,  the challenging Maze, the delightful Sensory Gardens, the thrilling adventure playground and the nautically-themed sandpits before devouring a delicious Snugbury’s ice-cream or a hot chocolate in the cafe.  It’s a tough decision. It really is an action-packed and fun-filled day out that you’ll want to head back to time and time again.”

Elizabeth from Wander Mum wants to give a shout-out to toddler-friendly hotel Woolley Grange in Wiltshire.

“ Woolley Grange is a hotel which understands families – inside and out. The Jacobean manor on the end of the Cotswolds can give you a perfect family break in the UK. We went for three nights with our 6-year-old daughter and two-year-old toddler. The pair happily ran into the creche (you get two hours of free childcare) while we enjoyed some time together, got treatment at the spa and relaxed in front of its roaring fires. The cosy hotel has shelves filled with children’s books and games to play. It also has indoor and outdoor heated swimming pools and 14 acres of gardens to explore. Spot the giant Connect Four, trampoline and sheep statues placed throughout the grounds. There’s no shortage of kids activities and their mealtimes are catered for at appropriate times. The kid’s cinema club was also a hit. In the evenings they have a listening service so you can enjoy a meal as a couple while the little ones sleep. Located close to the village of Bradford-on-Avon in Wiltshire, it’s a short journey to the city Bath but, really, there’s no reason to leave.”

Family-Friendly UK Breaks and Attractions

I hope that our suggestions for toddler holidays in the UK have given you inspiration on where you can visit with your little ones. However, you may not have the time to travel too far, or might just be looking for a fun family day out or weekend break? Here is a list of some brilliant toddler-friendly attractions around the UK, as well.

Drayton Manor Park

The one thing that my toddler wanted desperately was “Thomas the Tank Engine!” and a weekend visit to Drayton Manor Park was just the ticket! Thomas Land is pretty epic in the eyes of a two-three-year-old, and put that together with a large theme park with numerous rides, a zoo, and even a dinosaur park, as well as a themed hotel, it’s definitely one of the best children’s holiday parks in the UK. You can read all about our visit to Drayton Manor in this post .

Diggerland Kent

Diggerland is a kids’ paradise with big boys’ toys such as tractors, cranes, racing cars and the like! The benefit of visiting Diggerland apart from the obvious is that there it is fairly small – so perfect for toddler’s legs. You can read all about our visit to Diggerland here.

Howletts Wild Animal Park

Carrie from Flying with a Baby has fond memories of her time at Howletts Wild Animal Park and suggests it’s a great extension for any toddler-friendly holidays in the UK:

Legoland Windsor Resort

What child, big or small, wouldn’t love Legoland Windsor? For those who live far away from Windsor in Berkshire, visitors can make a real weekend break of it, the theme park is certainly big enough to explore over several days. With hotel breaks, there is much to enjoy with over 55 interactive rides, as well as shows throughout the day. It really is a child’s paradise. You can read all about Legoland Windsor here.

Longleat Safari Park

Get up close and personal with a wide range of exotic animals from tigers, lions and monkeys in the UK’s first-ever drive-through safari park located in Wiltshire. With over 500 creatures there is much to discover, as well as train rides, Postman Pat Village, a Jungle Cruise, huge outdoor play areas and much more – a great day out for toddlers and kids. You can read all about Longleat here.

Peppa Pig World

As any parent who has toddlers will know all too well, Peppa Pig and her family will be an integral part of life. So a trip to Peppa Pig World in Paultons Park in Hampshire will be inevitable. Like a moth to a flame, toddlers just love Peppa Pig World – after all, their favourite characters are brought to life through a mini-kingdom that is pink and colourful. And there are many places to stay nearby including the New Forest and Southampton. You can read all about Peppa Pig World here .

* Do you have any other suggestions for toddler-friendly holidays in the UK – I’d love to hear them?

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10 Best UK Holiday Destinations For Toddlers

Read More – 50 Awesome Baby And Toddler Friendly Places To Stay In The UK

Best Holiday Destinations For Toddlers In The UK

#1. Cornwall

Where To Stay – Award winning Bosinver Farm Cottages is a great place to stay with babies and toddlers. Toddlers can get stuck in with the daily animal feeding and egg collecting before having a pony ride and taking a dip in the indoor swimming pool.

Read More – 50 BEST Baby And Toddler Friendly Places To Stay In Cornwall

Discover More –  Click here to see our full range of gorgeous places to stay with babies and toddlers in Cornwall

Where To Stay – Knowle Farm Cottages are heaven for babies and toddlers who can drive cars on the toddler race track, meet the friendly farm animals or play to their heart’s content in the play barn. The cottages are just 30 minutes drive away from Devon’s famous sandy beaches.

Finlake Holiday Resort has a range of log cabins plus an outdoor play area, outdoor heated pool and an indoor water playground and soft play to keep boredom at bay on rainy days!

Read More – BEST Baby And Toddler Friendly Places To Stay In Devon

See More – BEST Baby and Toddler Friendly Cottages In Devon

#3. The New Forest

Where To Stay – The Sandy Balls Holiday Village has loads for babies and toddlers including an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, cycling, alpaca walks, bush craft school, an adventure playground and a soft play. There is also an onsite restaurant, shop and evening entertainment.

Chewton Glen is a 5* country house hotel with treehouses which are suspended 35 feet above ground and have forest views, hot tubs and a luxury children’s bedroom. Outside there is an outdoor play area, bug hotel and a heated outdoor swimming pool.

Read More – 10 of the BEST Places To Stay With Babies & Toddlers In The New Forest And Hampshire

#4. The Cotswolds

Where To Stay – Bruern Cottages is an exclusive collection of 12 baby and toddler friendly luxury cottages, near to Chipping Norton, sleeping from 2 people to 14. There’s a superb indoor swimming pool, gorgeous gardens, playground and fab playground.

Woolley Grange is a beautiful Jacobean manor house on the edge of the Cotswolds, near to Bath. Little ones can get involved in egg collecting, exploring the Good Life garden, pond dipping and meeting Simon the rabbit and the pigs.

Read More – 5 Baby & Toddler Friendly Places To Stay In The Cotswolds

#5. Loch Lomond

Where To Stay – Loch Lomond Holiday Park has a great range of log cabins on the shores of Loch Lomond. There is also a little playground for little ones.

Read More – Best Places To Stay In Scotland With Babies And Toddlers

#6. Yorkshire

Where To Stay – Flamingo Land is a well-known zoo and theme park with a Peter Rabbit themed playground near Malton in North Yorkshire. Families with toddlers can choose to stay over at the onsite Flamingo Land Resort, which offers luxurious accommodation and an entertainment and leisure complex, and is perfectly place for easy access to the zoo and theme park.

Aysgarth Falls Holiday Park is in a peaceful area of the Yorkshire Dales within walking distance of Asgarth Falls waterfalls. Families can stay in luxury lodges with their own hot tubs and stunning Wensleydale views. Asgarth Falls has its own petting farm where little ones can meet alpacas, goats, Wensleydale sheep and even the resident kune kune pigs called Pepper and George.

Read More – Best Places To Stay With Babies & Toddlers In Yorkshire

#7. The Peak District

Where To Stay – Darwin Forest Lodges is a 5* holiday park set in a forest in the Peak District. Some of the holiday homes even have their own hot tub. There is an indoor swimming pool, indoor soft play and outdoor adventure playground for babies and toddlers.

Read More – Best Places To Stay With Babies & Toddlers In The Peak District

#8. The Isle of Wight

Where To Stay – Nettlecombe Farm Cottages are ideal for families with babies and toddlers. Little ones can meet Comet and Dancer – the resident reindeer and there is a toddler play area including a big Wendy house, wooden tractor and rustic climbing play facility.

Whitecliff Bay Holiday Park has loads of facilities for toddlers including 2 playgrounds, an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, onsite entertainment – and best of all its own private beach within walking distance of the park.

Read More – Best Places To Stay With Babies And Toddlers In The Isle Of Wight

#9. The Lake District

Where To Stay – Fallbarrow Holiday Park is a 5* holiday park in one of the best locations in the Lake District; on the shores of Lake Windermere and a 5-minute stroll into Windermere town centre itself. Toddlers will love the outdoor playground, sports court and feeding the ducks from the shores of the lake.

Ullswater Heights holiday park   boasts luxury lodges and a secluded glamping village with deluxe safari tents complete with their own hot tub. Toddlers will love playing in the playground and best of all – visiting the park’s own petting farm!

Read More – Best Places To Stay With Babies & Toddlers In The Lake District

#10. Norfolk

Where To Stay – Home Farm Cottages is a collection of 20 baby and toddler friendly holiday cottages in Norfolk. There is an indoor swimming pool, outdoor play area and a brand new indoor soft play just for pre-schoolers!

Norfolk Woods is a brand-new holiday resort with luxurious lodges (some with hot tubs!) in Norfolk. There is an indoor swimming pool with a splash area for toddlers, as well as a sauna, steam room and jacuzzi.

Read More – 15 BEST Places To Stay With Babies And Toddlers In Norfolk

Can you recommend any great holiday destinations for toddlers in the UK?

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Best UK holidays with toddlers

Looking to go away with your toddler in tow? Here are the best toddler-friendly UK holiday spots, recommended by Mumsnetters.

By Louise Baty | Last updated Dec 20, 2023

The indisputable truth is that parenthood brings huge changes to your lifestyle. Oh so many. Let’s start with swapping music gigs for toddler groups and giving up on posh meals out and making do with swiping your DC’s leftover fish fingers, chips and beans.

Another area of your life that may look very different these days? Your choice of holidays. However, whilst holidays with toddlers probably won't include long lie-ins and lazy evenings sipping sundowner cocktails, they can still be a lot of fun. Honest.

How do we know this? Because all of our suggestions in this line-up have come via recommendations from Mumsnetters, who are an adventurous and discerning bunch. In fact, we reckon that the travel experts on our boards have tried and tested most holiday destinations, both far flung and closer to home. With over 10 million users each month, that’s an awful lot of travel expertise.

How we chose our recommendations

Family holidays are precious - and can be eye-wateringly expensive too.  We know how important it is to get it right when you’re choosing yours.

To find the best UK holidays with toddlers, we firstly consulted a range of travel expert sites, looking at their recommendations for the best places to stay with toddlers in the UK.

We then consulted the well-travelled Mumsnetters on our forums to see which destinations they rated for UK holidays with toddlers, and which ones they’d steer clear of too. Next, we collated all this information and looked at other independent online reviews to see how consumers rated various holiday destinations for families with toddlers.

Finally, we cross-referenced all that information to compile a list of the best UK holidays with toddlers that performed well across the board so that we could bring you a definitive selection.

Here are 11 of the best UK holidays with toddlers, as recommended and reviewed by families.

What is the best UK holiday location with toddlers?

North Norfolk

Tenby, Wales

Peak District

Northumberland

1. North Norfolk, England

Find accommodation in North Norfolk

“Wells Beach/Holkham is world-class - absolutely stunning (google it). Miles of golden sand and the pinewood forest behind. Magical. Car park fills up early (by 9.30) so worth getting there early.” littlebauxpeep 

“We’re just back from North Norfolk - we loved Holkham beach (we accessed from Holkham one day, and Wells another). Great for walks, playing games on the sand and splashing about in the water.” macaronip1e 

As UK family holiday destinations go, North Norfolk is a Mumsnet favourite. Our travel talk boards are ablaze with glowing recommendations from Mumsnetters who’ve been there, loved it and immediately rebooked.

Accommodation in North Norfolk doesn’t come cheap. As a general rule, the further from the coast, the cheaper. But, as a holiday destination, there’s something for everyone and it’s particularly suited to preschoolers, as well as being very dog-friendly.

How about beaches which stretch as far as the eye can see and offer excellent opportunities for rock pooling and seal spotting? Or the vintage steam railway from Sheringham to Holt? There are plentiful family-friendly cafes, pubs, boutiques and cottages and stately homes to poke around, including Holkham Hall and Felbrigg Hall - along with the Queen’s own holiday home, Sandringham . Theme parks Roarr Dinosaur Park and Bewilderwood are also within driving distance.

Pinewoods is ideally located beside the beach in Wells-Next-The-Sea and is very much Mumsnetter approved. You won’t find a rowdy clubhouse at this immaculate caravan site but there is a well-stocked shop, along with food vans during high season and a playground and miniature train into the village. It’s ideal for preschoolers who love building sandcastles and getting covered in ice cream and don’t want to toddle far back for an afternoon nap.

Bucket and spade holidays

Dog-friendly

Plenty to do

Suits all ages

Related: The best travel cots, as recommended by Mumsnetters

2. Tenby, Wales

Tenby, Wales | Find accommodation in Tenby

“Tenby is lovely. The beach is great, and it's a good base for seeing other bits of the area. Caldey Island is a nice trip out too.” StiffyByng

“Bluestone. Nice food in the restaurants, much more family feel and staff were lovely. Some free parades and music on during the week, and we are looking forward to seeing the new play dome. The local area is beautiful, so much to do in Tenby and surrounding areas.” DustyD2

If your toddler is into all things nautical, there’s lots to entertain them in Tenby , one of Wales’s best loved seaside towns. For starters, visit picturesque Tenby Harbour and take a boat to Caldey Island.

There are seven blue flag beaches, including Castle Beach which was named a Sunday Times Beach of the Year. Whichever beach you choose should please your preschooler as the sand is excellent for digging and the water ideal for supervised paddling.

The town is steeped in history, with ancient castle walls to explore and loads to discover at Tenby Museum and Art Gallery . One criticism from reviewers is that Tenby offers a rather limited selection of restaurants, although this may not bother you if you prefer to feed your DC at home.

There are many family-friendly cottages within the town to suit families. An alternative for accommodation is Bluestone, a holiday ‘free range’ holiday park set within a private 500-acre Pembrokeshire countryside and offering lodges plus on-site activities including kayaking, cycling and forest walks along with an indoor water park, restaurants and shops.

Seaside fun

Beautiful beaches

Outdoorsy activities

Related: The best toddler toys, according to Mumsnetters

3. New Forest, England

New Forest, England | Find accommodation in New Forest

“Go to one of the New Forest villages and just walk - my dc loved seeing the ponies.” CocktailQueen

“Sandy Balls is fab! You will have a great time. Go out for a drive across the New Forest to see the wild ponies.” Barefootinthecarpark

The New Forest National Park is famed for its forest trails, heathland, forest trails and adorable native ponies, wandering free. Make sure you only let your toddler admire the horses from afar though. They’re wild animals, after all, and have been known to kick and bite.

Any vehicle mad preschooler will enjoy the National Motor Museum, which houses vintage racing cars and motorbikes, along with Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway. New Forest Wildlife Park is home to many animals including wolves. No trip to the New Forest with toddlers is complete without dropping into Peppa Pig World , with rides and attractions featuring every preschooler’s favourite piglet.

There are eight beaches in easy reach including Avon Beach and Highcliffe-on-Sea, along with quaint villages featuring chocolate box cafes serving afternoon teas. While you can travel to the New Forest by train from London in 90 minutes, a car is advised for getting around and seeing the sights. The traffic can be a nightmare in peak season.

Sandy Balls - and yes, it really IS called that - is a New Forest holiday village offering  family-friendly lodges, some with hot tubs. During term times, you can book PLAY Tots Breaks aimed at toddlers, with preschool friendly entertainment.

Outdoorsy holidays

Spotting wildlife

Fun days out

4. Peak District, England

Peak District, England | Find accommodation in the Peak District

“Visit Matlock Bath, pretty and interesting. If you don’t mind heights take the cable car there up to the heights of Abraham.” MissyB1

“Darwin Forest is amazing and has a lovely pool and a soft play. We are going for the second time soon. We do like to self cater though and prefer to leave our accommodation /Park rather than be fenced in. Plus preschoolers are fairly easily entertained and don’t need slides etc like older kids.” Nan0second

Based in the southern Pennines and accessible from many parts of the UK, the Peak District reaches over Derbyshire, Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Staffordshire, West Yorkshire and South Yorkshire.

The area offers toddler-friendly outdoorsy activities from romping through rolling fields and hills and woodland to hitching a ride on a canal boat.

Matlock Farm Park is open seven days a week and is home to a variety of animals. Don’t miss the nearby village of Matlock Bath , a quirky Victorian holiday destination featuring a cable car up to the hidden caves of the Heights of Abraham. Every autumn, the village plays host to the Matlock Bath Illuminations light show. Gulliver’s Kingdom theme park, aimed at children between two and 13, is nearby. Be warned, Matlock Bath gets very busy and some Mumsnetters reckon it’s a tad tacky, but that’s a matter of personal opinion, of course.

Accommodation can be found nearby at Landal Darwin Forest, which has woodland lodges, some with hot tubs, and child-friendly activities including an indoor swimming pool, soft play and playground.

Toddler friendly country walks

Easily accessible from many areas

Quirky entertainment

5. Northumberland, England

Northumberland, England | Find accommodation in Northumberland

“Love Northumberland. Loads of great places to stay. Seahouses, Bambourgh or Warkworth on the coast, or Alnwick a bit further inland. It depends what you want. Berwick is a nice market town. We've stayed in Newton by the Sea- just a short walk from the beach (and pub!). Days out followed by evenings on the deserted beaches.” EeeByeGummieBear

“Alnmouth is utter perfection.” ElizabethMainwaring

Another UK holiday favourite with Mumsnetters is Northumberland, located up in the very north of England on the border with Scotland. If you’re used to having to scrabble for space on busy beaches, you and your toddler will no doubt find the wild, expansive and secluded beaches in Northumberland a blessed relief. Just be sure to bring your wellies and waterproofs - the area can get chilly and damp even in peak season.

Activities to entertain preschoolers are plentiful and mainly outdoors. How about exploring dramatic castle ruins? There are more than 70 castle sites to choose from in the area. You can even try broomstick flying at Alnwick Castle, on the spot where Harry Potter had his first flying lesson in the film production of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, although the activity is recommended for kids aged six and over so your toddler might not get a look in until they’re older.

Accommodation wise, there’s a huge range of family-friendly cottages, apartments and hotels. Mumsnetters particularly recommend Estuary View Caravans in Alnmouth, Northumberland as providing a great base for beach breaks and exploring.

Secluded beaches

Miles of countryside

Castle ruins

Harry Potter themed fun

6. Isle of Wight, British Isles

Isle of Wight, British Isles | Find accommodation in the Isle of Wight

“Isle of Wight, absolutely loads to do. We've been for the last 4 summer holidays. We stayed in Ryde, it's near the ferry and very accessible. The beach is great (although the tide goes out very far) there is a little funfair, parks with play areas, nice shops. The island is not very big so easy to explore. Loads of tourist attractions but lovely beaches, scenery, walks etc too.” 5BlueHydrangea

“Nettlecombe Farm is brilliant for kids and has all the outside space you could want.” Fivemoreminutes1 

Only two hours from London, the Isle of Wight is accessible by ferry or hovercraft from the south coast of England. Neither travel option is particularly cheap - in fact, the ferry is renowned as being the most expensive crossing in the world per mile covered.

To cut costs, consider leaving your car at home and purchasing a train/ferry/train combination ticket. Once you’re on the island, it’s small enough to zip around by train as there are stations at Ryde town, Sandown and Shanklin.

Toddler friendly activities include enjoying the sandy beaches and visiting visitor farms, such as Tapnell Farm , which also offers glamping accommodation. Amazon World comes recommended by animal lovers while Blackgang Chine amusement park is ideal for imaginative kids.

The spectacular Ryde Carnival brings magic and colour to the streets of Ryde every September. Ryde also has a lovely sandy beach, pier and harbour to enjoy along with a play area which toddlers will love.

Nettlecombe Farm is family-friendly and dog-friendly, offering nine award winning self-catering rural cottages and the opportunity to try your hand at feeding animals, fishing and joining yoga and pilates classes.

Accessible from London

Rural accommodation

Lots to see in a small area

7. Devon and Cornwall, England

Devon and Cornwall, England | Find accommodation in Devon and Cornwall

“Coombe mill in Cornwall. It's just fantastic and has other bits and pieces on site. We didn't feel like we had to go out loads as there was so much to do. My daughters bottle fed baby lambs and we used to go out every evening to feed our scraps to the pigs!” Toomanycats99

Located on the far southwest tip of the UK, Devon and Cornwall may be a bit of a trek to reach from many areas of the UK. However once you’ve made the pilgrimage to this section of coast which juts out into the Atlantic Ocean, it’s so worth the effort.

Boasting arguably the most beautiful beaches in the UK and enjoying balmy summers thanks to its southerly location, beach lovers will feel right at home here. Must sees include Tintagel Castle perched on the edge of the cliffs, and the tiny fishing village, St. Ives, which has a sweet little harbour beach, tiny cottages and sweet cobbled streets - along with its very own Tate Gallery.

 For animal lovers, there are plenty of places to visit including The Butterfly Farm and Otter Sanctuary, Buckfastleigh, the National Marine Aquarium, Plymouth and the Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth, which is responsible for rehoming donkeys nationwide. Crealy Theme Park in Sidmouth is home to the newly opened SootyLand , which is aimed at younger kids.

Coombe Mill in Cornwall comes highly recommended by Mumsnetters. It offers family-friendly rural accommodation on a working farm - kids can feed the animals and collect eggs to satisfy all their wannabe farmer needs.

Rural breaks

Stunning beaches

Wonderful weather

Family-friendly days out

8. North Yorkshire, England

North Yorkshire, England | Find accommodation in North Yorkshire

"From Whitby, you've got Robin hoods bay, Staithes, north Yorkshire Moors and railway. Easy travel up to Sandsend, Scarborough, Malton, Pickering, Helmsley, Stokesely and Thirsk are all worth a visit. Miles of walking through coast and countryside. Malton has a food market once a month, there is Castle Howard which is worth a visit too.There is plenty too do and see!"  Harpydragon

North Yorkshire boasts both urban and rural delights. Visit Harrogate or York for some history and culture or head to the countryside; you can choose between the North York Moors National Park and the Yorkshire Dales. Toddlers will enjoy the beaches at Scarborough and Robin Hood’s Bay and have a high chance of finding prehistoric fossils too. If you visit Whitby, don’t forget a trip up the stone steps to the atmospheric Abbey ruins, although it’s probably best not to mention Dracula before bedtime if you want to avoid nightmares.

From country walks to farm visits, there’s loads to do. The interactive and child-friendly Ryedale Folk museum is a great day out - little ones will love buzzing around in the mini tractors. It’s dog friendly too, as are many venues and accommodation options in the area.

Fancy trying glamping with your toddler? Well, located 9 miles from Scarborough is Humblebee Farm - a campsite with a twist. Along with offering standard camping and caravanning pitches, there are pretty Nomadic Yurts, cosy Merry Dale Bell Tents and luxury cottages.

The site’s deluxe Wigwam Lodges sleep two adults and two children and boast heating and running water, along with a fully equipped kitchen with toaster, microwave, kettle, fridge, cooking hob and work surface along with a dining table and chairs. It’s not cheap by any means but then each Wigwam Lodge has its own ensuite, hot tub and private patio. Activities include a nature Trail, bird hide, football area, playground and duck pond. There is also a new shop and licensed cafe bar called ‘The Hive’, with pre-ordered pizza and burger nights at peak times.

Coast, urban and rural all in one area

Lots of history

Toddler friendly farms

9. The Lake District, England

Lake District, England | Find accommodation in the Lake District

“Ullswater, get the ferry across to Howtown, have cream tea at the café. Back across, drive to Pooley Bridge, wander the touristy shops, have lunch/tea in the Sun, paddle in the river.” Cherrysoup

There are many reasons why the Lake District is renowned for being magical, mystical and atmospheric - all those stunning, shimmering lakes for starters. Then there are the winding roads through quaint villages crammed with slate cottages. The cosy pubs…

Ideal for outdoorsy types, the Lake District is the sort of place where you’ll live in your walking boots the whole time. Meandering around the lakes, along country paths and through gorgeous woodland, it’s ideal for laidback family breaks. There’s lots for younger children too.

Embrace the wonder of Peter Rabbit and friends at The World of Beatrix Potter , in Bowness, where you can enjoy interactive models and scenes of all the best loved characters. Take a boat trip across majestic Lake Windermere or Lake Coniston. Meet the animals at South Lake Safari Zoo .

For staying over, Mumsnetters rate Ullswater Heights in Greystone, just a few miles from beautiful Ullswater, which boasts lodges and deluxe safari tents with decking and hot tubs. For kids, there’s a petting zoo on site.

One thing to note is that it’s pretty hard to get around the Lake District and cover any considerable distance without a car as public transport is fairly sparse.

Outdoor activities

Stunning scenery

Peter Rabbit fans

Boat lovers

10. Butlins Just for Tots, various

Butlins Just for Tots, various | Book your trip to Butlins now

“There’s always things going on for kids and they love going too. I would go during a  Just for Tots week if you can because you get special benefits like the pool having quiet times in the morning.” Daisychainsandglitter

Offering UK-based family breaks for almost a century now, Butlins has three seaside resorts, at Bognor Regis, Minehead and original site, Skegness, which first opened in 1937.

Although British holiday camps lost some of their appeal after package holidays boomed from the 1970s, ‘staycations’ have now become more popular again and Butlin’s have made great strides in modernising their resorts.

Each site offers something different. Skeggy has the blue flag beach and luxury spa. Bognor Regis boasts an art-deco style pool with Stick of Rock water slides. Minehead has those iconic traditional chalets, vintage fairground and indoor waterpark.

Some Mumsnetters say that Butlins is too loud and brashy while others reckon it’s ideal for families with kids, especially littlies. It really depends on what you’re after from your UK toddler break. But, if your kids aren’t at school yet, you can book a Butlins Just for Tots break.

These term-time only stays offer early morning shows, bedtime stories and appearances from preschool A-listers such as Justin Fletcher, Mister Maker, Peppa Pig. Your toddler will also be able to enjoy the pools, soft play and other attractions without getting elbowed out the way by bigger kids.

Child friendly

Loads of entertainment

Everything on one site

11. Centerparcs, various

Centerparcs, various | Book your Centerparcs trip now

“Feed the ducks. Go to the beach (take a bucket and spade, and wear wellies for paddling). Soft play areas at the restaurants. Hire a bike trailer. Not only do my dc love it, but it also doubles up as a handy shopping cart for trips to the ParcMarket – providing the kids aren’t in it, of course – and a means of carrying picnic stuff around. There’s a blackboard and chalks in all the lodges at Woburn Forest – an absolutely genius way of keeping toddlers entertained while you unload the car and get everything sorted.” Ricekrispie22

Yes, it’s a holiday park but Mumsnetters reckon it’s worlds away from traditional sites -  less noisy slot machines and more feeding ducks in the woods.

Still, there’s plenty to keep you busy at Centerparcs, from splashing in the Subtropical Paradise waterpark to joining activities including archery, cycling, fencing and painting. Although many sessions are aimed at older kids, younger children can try age appropriate activities such as Football Fun Factory for Tots, suitable from 18 months and Mucky Pups messy play, from 18 months to 3 years.

That said, Mumsnetters who’ve visited with toddlers advise against overbooking expensive activities as there is so much for little ones to enjoy ‘for free’, such as scooting through the woods and building sandcastles on the man made beach. Each site has an Aqua Sana spa - ideal if you can wangle child free time.

The negatives? Well, there’s no getting around the fact that Center Parcs isn’t a cheap UK break. Also, some folk find it odd that guests generally stay on site rather than venture out to the wider area.

On site restaurants include Bella Italia and Café Rouge but you can self-cater in your lodge. Every site has a well-stocked, if pricey, ParcMarket. There are five UK sites including Whinfell Forest in Cumbria, Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire, Longleat Forest in Wiltshire, Elveden Forest in Suffolk and Woburn Forest in Bedfordshire, UK.

Lodge stays

Woodland walks

Family-friendly activities

Where is the best holiday with toddlers in the UK?

The best locations for a holiday with toddlers in the UK is North Norfolk , an area which is truly loved by Mumsnetters, families and travel experts for the stunning coastline and beaches and the family-friendly activities and days out.

Where can I go on holiday with toddlers in the UK?

There are so many options or holidays with toddlers in the UK. Mumsnetters and families particularly rate Tenby in Wales for the history and beaches, the New Forest for the opportunity to get close to nature, the Peak District for toddler-friendly walks and activities and Northumberland for the expansive, secluded beaches and fun days out.

What to pack for a UK holiday with toddlers

Though you may be in the UK and technically closer to home than you would be if you travelled, say, to France or even Turkey, but that doesn’t mean you should assume you have everything you need for a UK stay with a toddler.

Before you start packing, it’s recommended you write your own toddler holiday checklist, and tick items off as you pack them. This makes things so much faster - and means you won’t forget anything.

To help you create your list, here’s some suggestions useful items you may wish to pack for a UK holiday with a toddler:

Your pushchair or lightweight stroller

Car seat if travelling by car

A baby carrier/backpack for toddlers

A black out blind

Sunshade for your pushchair

Picnic/beach blanket

Beach trolley cart

Why you should trust us

Mumsnet users are famously, and rightly, choosy when it comes to booking for the best locations for their family holidays. We believe that the best people to offer recommendations are real people, who have been there, tried it and aren’t afraid to tell the truth about their experiences.

For that reason, we always begin our research with Mumsnetters themselves. We use experienced consumer journalists to work through the recommendations made, and check that the products we recommend are of a high standard and come from companies we’d be happy to deal with ourselves.

We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.

Toddler friendly holidays and breaks

Start planning your toddler friendly holiday with our collection of the best things to do with toddlers in the UK. From secure parks and playgrounds where they can run around to their hearts delight to exciting animal parks and seaside breaks, there are attractions and events to suit every family.

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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

Experience steam-age travel on the Nene Valley Railway

Visit one of England’s leading steam engine and locomotive attractions, based in Northamptonshire's Nene Valley.

Location: Peterborough, Cambridgeshire

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

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

Catch some waves at Woolacombe Beach

North Devon has some of the county’s most popular family beaches, including award-winning Woolacombe.

Location: Woolacombe, Devon

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

See London in miniature at the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort

See the London Eye, Big Ben and Tower Bridge made entirely of LEGO in the LEGOLAND Windsor Resort's Miniland attraction.

Location: Windsor, Berkshire

Discover dinosaur footprints on the beach

Everyone who has been to the beach has seen footprints left in the sand, but have you ever seen ones that have been left by a dinosaur?

Location: Brook, Isle of Wight

Build sandcastles at Bamburgh Beach

Do you know your cockles from your winkles? St. Aidan and Grace Darling certainly did. And what better place to learn than on Bamburgh Beach.

Location: Bamburgh, Northumberland

Blast off to the National Space Centre

From astronauts to rocket towers, satellites and meteorites, there is plenty of space to explore at this fun, family-friendly attraction.

Location: Leicester, Leicestershire

Get lost in the twists and turns of Wistow Maze

Over the summer, pay a visit to the famous Wistow Maze, a versatile puzzle in the English countryside that changes shape each year.

Location: Wistow, Leicestershire

Step back in time on the Severn Valley Railway

Enjoy a combination of rolling countryside views and hints of a bygone era on a superb day of steam-hauled splendour.

Location: Kidderminster, Worcestershire

Go on an exotic adventure at Woburn Safari Park

Explore the habitats of lions, zebras, giraffes and much more at this family-friendly, conservation-focused safari park.

Location: Woburn, Bedfordshire

Picnic in Blackpool’s largest park

Stanley Park, in the heart of Blackpool, is renowned for being one of the region's finest parks.

Location: Blackpool, Lancashire

Step into Peppa Pig World at Paultons Park

Meet their favourite characters and enjoy a variety of toddler-friendly rides at the first official Peppa Pig theme park in the world.

Location: New Forest, Hampshire

Spy on endangered wildfowl at Rutland Water Nature Reserve

Visit Rutland Water's famous wildfowl sanctuary, covering a 1,000 acres of bird hides, mucky nature trails and interactive visitor centres.

Location: Rutland Water, Rutland

Take the kids to Fantasy Island

Round up your little devils and set off to Fantasy Land - a fun-packed amusement park, in the seaside resort of Skegness, with attractions for all the family, even the smallest members!

Location: Skegness, Lincolnshire

Go bananas for Trentham Monkey Forest

Pay a visit to the only place in Britain where you can walk among 140 Barbary macaques roaming free in 60 acres of forest.

Location: Trentham , Staffordshire

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The best places to stay in the UK with a baby or toddler

By Harriet Jones and Rosalyn Wikeley

A hotel may trumpet its family-friendly credentials, but anyone who has  travelled with a baby  will know that it’s a completely different ballgame to holidaying with children. Babies refuse to observe etiquette codes or minimalist design appeal; they’re as unpredictable as the British weather, and their routines dictate the agenda of some – if not all – of their travel companions. So it takes a real expert, or at least a  hotel  willing to do its homework, to cater to the needs of babies and their sleep-deprived parents. The word here is convenience. Leaving the nest is stressful when the routine is thrown, baby paraphernalia is muddled in transit, and changing-feeding-sleeping stations are adjusting to a new context. Luckily, a handful of  family-friendly UK hotels  deserve this baby-friendly stamp by flawlessly navigating this convenience minefield and turning a trip into an actual holiday for weary parents.

The Four Seasons, Hampshire

Possibly the worst-kept secret among inner family circles, the Four Seasons – set on 500-acres of parkland just 90 minutes from London by car – shines head and shoulders above the rest when it comes to catering for families, babies included. New parents, already engulfed in the fog that dominates those early months, can relax – everything you could need for your newborn is already here, from bottle sterilisers and microwaves to nappies, and even special baby toiletries and bathtub, meaning the de-stressing starts even as you’re packing the car to set off for your staycation. Dogmersfield Estate, though vast, is surprisingly accessible for those looking for buggy-friendly walks, with a variety of routes carved out around the grounds. Older children are well-catered for too, with Sharkie’s Reef – a designated kid’s pool (meaning you aren’t limited to restrictive ‘childrens’ swimming hours’ – a highwire adventure course, a playground and all sorts of other activities included in your stay, so you needn’t worry about any younger members of your party getting bored while you’re inevitably busy feeding or trying to settle your newborn. Plus, your little one will head home with a special teddy, exclusive to the Four Seasons, for them to cuddle up to for years to come. Anya Meyerowitz

The Fairmont, Windsor

The Fairmont in Windsor would still be considered relatively new to the UK hotel scene. Indeed, some parts of the hotel are still being built, yet it has already embedded itself as a firm favourite among young families looking for a break. Space is the real key here: there are plenty of routes around the grounds for buggy pushing, meaning those endless naptime walks need never get dull, and the plethora of roomy restaurants and bar areas can all easily accommodate a buggy in a quiet corner. Rooms also come fully stocked with baby bath-time products, as well as at least one of the hotel’s special teddies to take home, and requesting a balcony room means you’ll be able to enjoy some vistas across the grounds or a sundowner in peace while your baby naps inside. A hotel deemed best for newborns couldn’t be considered, so if it didn’t also cater for the older children in the group, thus allowing tired parents a bit of a break where possible, this countryside property does so in abundance. From remote-controlled mini Land Rovers and bikes for exploring to children’s spa treatments, an outdoor playground and various other sporting activities, the family fun on offer here is endless. Anya Meyerowitz

The Langley, Buckinghamshire

Even outside of the launch of their latest family day, which took place over a sunny bank holiday Sunday in late August and saw animated children (and their parents) enjoy horse rides, retro fair games, a BBQ and all sorts of other revelries, The Langley’s reception to newborns and their parents could not be warmer. From elevated European-style dining at Cedar (where we dined among various pram-clad tables) and smoky cocktails at the sultry Churchill Bar to laps around the pool amidst a palatial subterranean spa, there is nowhere off limits to your babe in arms. Staff faces genuinely light up whenever a baby checks in, and the entire team are on hand to help carry buggies, car seats, or even the baby themselves, should you so wish. The neighbouring parkland makes for a scenic naptime buggy stroll, and if you’re bringing slightly older children along too, the hotel’s miniature goats are tucked away behind the outdoor pool, ready and waiting to make new friends. The atmosphere here feels generally much calmer than many other family-friendly hotels, a real commodity for new parents. Anya Meyerowitz

Artist Residence, Whitney, Oxfordshire

If holing up in a honey-hued Cotswold hotel with your little tiddler(s) is on the agenda, along with a roaring fire and kitsch-but-cosy interiors, Artist Residence Oxford is a stellar choice. This reimagined 16th-century inn honours its squire-era character with exposed beams, velvet touches and dark sultry hues, a cosy canvas for zeitgeisty tasselled benches and driftwood four-posters. The service mimics the hotel’s warming, home-from-home design agenda, with niche requests never too much trouble, say, for instance, sterilising bottles or mashing food up for tots’ teatime. While all Artist Residences share this trait (and the fabulous backstory), the Oxford outpost’s Stable room, Stable Suite and Barn Suite – all converted outbuildings – offer up oodles of space for cots and the inevitable cavalcade of baby clobber, as well as private entrances (a blessing for prams). Here, parents can sink into armchairs, warming their toes in front of the log fire while feeding the baby, or in summer months enjoy a glass of wine on the rooms’ private terraces. Focaccia with lashings of olive oil, baked scallops and double beef burgers with sweet potato fries can be delivered to parents for a cot-side supper – a popular style of dining for those without childcare provisions.

Price: Doubles from £120

Buxton Crescent, Derbyshire

By its very design, Buxton Crescent is one long, curvy, chic corridor, ideal for walking a restless babe during supper or breakfast without inordinately disrupting other restaurant guests. The staff certainly don’t mind a little grizzling, instead sharing sympathetic smiles and stories of their own kids. All areas of the recently renovated Georgian stunner are step-free and therefore buggy-friendly, bar the subterranean spa and thermal pools which are adult-only anyway. Instead, little rascals get to splash as much as they like in the show-piece half-inside, half-outside pool upstairs.

The children’s menu includes a generous number of simple options (fish, chips and peas suited our fussy one), and the pull-out bed and cot provided in the junior suite are just as unforgettably roomy and marshmallow soft as the king-size, which itself is (almost) large enough to fit all your extended family for long, lazy lie-ins. Are they already bored of frollicking in the beautiful waters? Pop to the playground, tea house and little train in the exquisite Pavilion Gardens next door, via the reassuringly quiet road right outside the hotel. Becky Lucas

Price: Doubles from £125

Heckfield Place, Heckfield

Heckfield Place has scrupulously studied the pain points of travelling with babies. From nappy bins to baby baths, bottle warmers to muslin cloths, this elegantly unfussy country house hotel serves up a genuine restorative break for bedraggled parents. A polished, earthy design revives the building’s noble bones – within which young families can feel at home and not tip-toeing around Ming vases and dated decorum. The pronounced exhale and five-inch drop of parents’ shoulders must have something to do with Heckfield’s Executive Housekeeper, Florence Yorwarth, who is ‘constantly looking for goodies for our little guests.’ This is manifested in the baby baths, cots and newborn pods added to the stylish rooms overlooking the Georgian pleasure gardens, the arboretum and stately lake. The hotel even provides breast pumps on request – ideal for nursing mothers looking to buy a few hours for a spa treatment or simply a time out in one of Heckfield’s many armchairs. Organic design tones and textures reflect the hotel’s earthy ethos, particularly on Skye Gyngell’s menus in both the light-filled Marle and cockle-warming Hearth, where parents can refuel and nourish their exhausted bodies with plates of farm radishes with creme fraiche and wild nettle risotto.

Price: Doubles from £350

Gleneagles, Scotland

Whether you have toddlers, teenagers or none of the above, Gleneagles is one of those high-end, cosseting hotels that you will want to visit at least once in a lifetime. It happens to also be extremely family-friendly, so no need to steel yourself when arriving with a baby – they really are welcomed with open arms. For this specific age range (0-30 months), it’s super easy to add a cot to your double room, and they come full-size and with little wooden cars and a ferris-wheel toy. The childcare at The Little Glen creche, for 2-9 year olds, is superb (the first hour is free), plus it’s a beautifully designed space with an indoor treehouse , toy stables with hobby horses and a Gleneagles steam train. Read our full Gleneagles review .

Price: Doubles from £485

Another Place, Lake District

This smart country-house crash pad, one of our Best Hotels in the UK , is visually uplifting. A contemporary delight with its sleek pool, bold textiles, modernist furniture and exposed light bulbs, it also manages to remain very low-key – nobody cares what you’re wearing or blinks an eye when a baby cries or a toddler throws a tantrum. There are cute children’s menus in the Living Room (barbecued sticky wings, hummus dipping plates); in more formal restaurant Rampsbeck little ones are also very welcome and most dishes can be tweaked easily – if you want to eat on your own there’s a baby-monitoring service. You’ll also find clever little pantries dotted about the place with microwaves and fridges for storing or warming milk.

Price: Doubles from £269

CNT Editors

Adam Turner

Connor Sturges

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

Glebe House, Devon

It helps that the couple behind Devon ’s recently opened foodie guesthouse have their own little boy, so the baby phase challenges are fresh in their minds. Hugo and Olive have created a calm and stylish home-from-home, where young parents can cocoon themselves in pink and pistachio hues and snuggle their babes in one of many cosy armchairs (the bedroom chairs are ideal for breastfeeding). If solids are already on the agenda, Hugo and Olive’s agriturismo-style kitchen garden is a goldmine for organic vegetables, which can be mashed up and enjoyed in high chairs alongside more grown-up plates of seasonal bounty for parents (expect organic pork from a local farm and fresh fish from Lyme Bay). Travel cots can be added to the rooms, and while you won’t find sterilisers, the team are more than happy to sterilise bottles on request. For families travelling to this pretty former vicarage by train , the taxi to Glebe House is a golden 10 minutes (avoiding yet another stop off for changing and feeding). Read our full Glebe House review .

Price: Doubles from £129

The Pig on the Beach, Dorset

With pretty clifftop views of Studland Bay – some days with a calm, Mediterranean -grade sea, others, a capricious temper bashing the shoreline – The Pig on the Beach is the coastal reverie most parents hold on to when cooped up inside. Its team recognise this, and as soon as the pram wheels roll in or the car seat swings through the home-from-home hall, a palpable sense of support and nurture for parents is manifest. While it may not have the particulars (the sterilisers, baby bouncers and baby baths), the staff’s resolve to ensure parents are well fed and watered, with a flexible approach to time and place, makes this hotel and its county cousins genuinely relaxing escapes for young families. Trusted babysitting companies can be called on for parents in need of some ‘us time’, or single parents craving some well-deserved ‘off time’. Beach walks are easily accessible from the hotel (ideal baby carrier territory), without being too far, should any accidents or poor time planning demand a brisk walk home. And, as is so often the case with babies, if the day seems to melt into the late afternoon and very little has been achieved, an eclectic mix of Gothic grandeur and seaside Victoriana – open fires, velvet chairs and wallpaper rooms – provides a cosy nest with seafood small plates and Dorset Gin & Tonics to mark the occasion.

Price: Doubles from £265

Middleton Lodge, North Yorkshire

Rambling Palladian beauty Middleton Lodge Estate is a siren call for families with babies with its warm and upbeat sensibility, but also for restorative country walks through its 200 acres of rolling fields and the famously pretty Yorkshire Dales yonder. Crucially, these are easily accessible from the hotel without the dreaded car or taxi ride (and the necessity to then lug a car seat through the wilderness). Closer to home, a walled English garden with soft lawns offers up less arduous strolls and nature’s answer to ‘soft play’ for babies. New mums can take refuge in Coach House’s treatment rooms, opting for the gentle and restorative REN ‘Mama Massage’ or ‘Nurturing New Mum Massage’ before sauntering back through the courtyard stippled with lavender and apple trees. Highchairs are jovially pulled up at the lo-fi Coach House restaurant , whose estate-to-plate menu – Saltburn dressed crab and pillowy slow-cooked aubergine – can be kept well away from curious little fingers. Four family rooms with cots and on-request baby monitors give deserving parents their own space while well-fed babes doze off next door, sleepy after a blast of fresh Yorkshire air.

Price: Doubles from £215

Beaverbrook, Surrey

It's one of our favourite family-friendly hotels in London , and while it may be expensive to stay here, it's well worth it. The buttermilk pancakes at the Garden House for breakfast and the Bolognese linguini for lunch are a toddler’s dream and the service (iPads loaded with Hey Duggee or appropriate children’s books, pencils, paints, pens, paper delivered to your room/table/picnic spot) make for a captivated stay. If you’re travelling with a toddler and a baby and want interconnecting rooms so you can put them down to sleep with space for yourselves, go for the Coach or the Garden House. To cut down the spend on the activity bill, visit Bocketts Farm Park nearby, a popular attraction for kids.

Price: from £630 for one night

Fowey Hall Hotel, Cornwall

This incredibly handsome hotel overlooking the smooth-as-glass Fowey estuary is part of a tiny collection of properties that is geared entirely towards young families. Crucially though, they are still grown-up and aesthetically pleasing, so are a joy for adults too. Ninety minutes of childcare is included for every night of your stay (the service is Ofsted-registered and unusually takes very young babies) and there’s even a breakfast club on Sundays when nannies will pick up toddlers from their rooms and whisk them away so that you can enjoy coffee and the papers in bed. It’s also now one of very few properties in the UK that still offer a baby-listening service – put your little one to sleep in your room then carry the provided video monitors with you for the evening.

Price: Doubles from £175

Camp Hox, Sussex and Kent

An innovative response to the pandemic, hotel brand The Hoxton has launched a VW campervan itinerary taking in the rolling hills and seaside stops of the South East for summer 2021. Each van is kitted out with goodies you would find at the hotels (Origin coffee and Minor Figures oat milk, Blank bathroom products, Hoxton-curated playlists) and all bedding and kitchen kit is provided, including a barbecue and mini fridge stocked with beers, wines and soft drinks. It's one for adventurous, hardy parents – you can take a baby or a young child along for free as there’s an additional cosy bunk up top. Campsites along the way are all pre-booked and paid for and the final night of the trip is spent at one of the group's London hotels ( Southwark Hoxton is the latest London addition).

Price: From £795 for a three-night itinerary

Harbour Beach Club and Spa, Devon

The pastel-hued fishing village of Salcombe is a holiday magnet for families who flock from all over the country to squeeze into not nearly enough accommodation. Luckily this 50-room offering, new for summer 2021, blows all the tired self-catering cottages out of the water with its fresh, peppy, Californian style, alongside all the hallmarks of an upmarket hotel. Expect valet parking, lobster rolls and Mojitos enjoyed on bean bags in the Beach Bar, and LA vibes in the enormous gym and spa, where there’s also a spa creche for little ones. There’s a big focus on wellness here, so while the kids are in the creche (or being cared for by on-site childminders) it’s time for a toes-in-the-sand yoga session followed by a green shake at the juice bar.

Price: Doubles from £340

The Grove, Hertfordshire, London

It’s not especially well-known that The Grove , a place famous for its mega spa and serious treatment plans, also caters superbly to small children. New Anouska’s Kids Club is tucked behind the walled garden and is more like a full-blown nursery, open on Saturdays and every day during school holidays for three-hour sessions. There’s a dedicated children’s pool and splash pool for babies, plus woodland walks, a playground and even a musical trail in the grounds for toddlers. The property just had a major refurb of its rooms and dining spaces, but many come back for Ralph’s Beach, a retro-chic sandy set-up around the heated outdoor pool with mini candy-coloured deck chairs and buckets and spades. Read our full Grove hotel review .

Price: Doubles from £325

Babington House, Somerset

There are certain brands and experiences people don’t want to give up when travelling as a family and this collection is likely to be one of them. Babington is arguably the most family-friendly of the Soho House set, with Soho Farmhouse in the Cotswolds perhaps coming a close second. At the latter, it’s a few months’ wait for a hard-to-come-by family room, or you can book a studio cabin with a crib and bring an under-one-year-old for free. Back at the original country outpost, Babington has fabulous split-level accommodation in the Stable Block, with the children’s bedroom downstairs and an adult en-suite upstairs. In the cinema room there are films screened daily for younger guests and the Teeny House kids’ club can be used twice, which tots up to a pretty unrivalled four hours of childcare per day.

Price: Doubles from £250

Tredethick Farm Cottages, Cornwall

There’s a plethora of baby- and toddler-friendly farm stays in the UK, but most are large enterprises with primary-coloured lodges packed tightly together and a million children vying to use the pool/soft play/feed the chickens. This small farm run by Jenny and Ashlyn is none of the above. It has just eight cottages on the land, all designed in calming blues, creams and greys, with everything you could possibly need for babies (blackout blinds, stair gates, bed guards, night lights, sterilisers). All activities, including the indoor playground and the soft play with Lavazza coffee, are concealed behind soothing slate-grey stone walls, and the rest are outdoorsy affairs in small groups – riding Shetland ponies or feeding the pigs. For the adults there’s a hot tub and chillout area, and the help-yourself farm shop has local Cornish ciders and wine as well as frozen meals by Cook.

Price: Cottages from £565 for four nights (sleeps four)

Feather Down Farm, Northumberland

The original family glamping company, launched nearly 20 years ago by the founder of Center Parcs, Feather Down has outposts all across the UK that are sought after for their ability to cater to children of all age ranges. From proper solid cots for babes-in-arms to their signature cupboard beds for toddlers (little wooden hidey-holes built into the tent structure), you know just what to expect from each site in terms of quality. And the Northumberland branch run by the Douglas family is really upping its foodie game post-lockdown and will be hosting supper clubs where food miles are at the absolute minimum. Think wild salmon line-caught one mile from the farm or Lindisfarne oysters from down the road, plus there are pizza nights for the kids too.

Price: From £485 for three nights

Limewood, New Forest, Hampshire

Limewood’s secluded location, nestled deep in Hampshire’s New Forest, and its scattering of room options are music to the ears of parents who have endured the cruel mix of crying babies and paper-thin walls. While the main house has gently breathed fresh life into undeniably English Regency rooms, the Forest Cottages and lake cabin (all of which don microwaves for sterilising and baby food warming) lean more towards American mountain retreats in aesthetic. And for the main event (Limewood’s much-lauded Herb House Spa) the hotel provides Neoprene nappies for family dips in the lap pool, during the dedicated baby and children hours of 8 to 10am. While the usual sprog accoutrements are ticked off: the high chairs, changing mats and travel cots, it's the warm reception of the staff and their attention to detail that makes this vanilla-hued hideaway a marvellous choice for families with babies.

Price: Doubles from £515

Woolley Grange, Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire

A sure-fire for families with its impressive roster of activities for children and well-researched parental accoutrements, it follows that this Wiltshire wunder-hotel is also a hit with the baby brigade. Don’t be fooled by the rather austere, ‘to the manor born’ exterior, inside the agenda is extraordinarily accommodating – the hotel will even discuss your packing gaps in advance… can their team add a nappy bin, a changing mat, or a bottle warmer? This rare, conscientious approach when booking the ‘Baby’s First Stay Away’ package extends to complimentary baby monitoring and on site babysitters for grown-up candlelit suppers and spa jaunts, cots alongside the pool (so you can actually swim while your little one snoozes), puréed food and a bottle cleaning and steriliser service. Beginning to sound like nirvana? Read on. Babies can swing into the mirror-clad sensory room, with its baby gym and wall toys, followed by a ‘baby’s first swim’ session with a qualified instructor. And the best part: 90 minutes of complimentary childcare for babies from 12 weeks. Somehow, this is all achieved while keeping Woolley Grange a soul-nourishing, hearty country stay for adults too, with creative locavore menus, genteel, antique-clad bedrooms and a pampering spa peering across the walled garden.

Price: Doubles from £620

Calcot and Spa

This bucolic Cotswoldian bolthole, lost in acres of soft green paddocks and rewilded meadowland, is a haven for frazzled families with babies. City types with their broods in tow descend on this handsome country pile and spa to exhale over a glass of rosé in its lavender -lined courtyard and stew in its fireside hot tub . While the family-friendly nature of this hotel is well-documented (the Playbarn creche is bursting with toys, arts and crafts equipment), it offers the full baby compendium, from sound monitors and smart wooden cots to blackout blinds and nappy bins. But the holy grail is the ‘Baby Box’ – a steriliser with a cleaning brush and washing up liquid, which any formula-making or milk-pumping parent will know is a colossal pain to lug across the country. Babysitting services are an affordable £12 an hour, buying parents time to lean into the polished pub grub at the Gumstool or sample the cheese soufflé and Wiltshire lamb rump at the refined Conservatory. For those who like to scoop their sprogs up for a nighttime feed without leaving their own bed, next-to-me cots are available on request, as are baby baths, bouncers and even gentle organic wash and shampoo products. No honey-hued stone has been left unturned, as the feeding regalia for the not-so-chic transition to solids, or the adorable little bathrobes for tiny tots would attest.

Price: Doubles from £259

Bedruthan, Newquay

With its watercolour cliff top views and direct access to Mawgan Porth beach ’s buttermilk sand, Bedruthan is a proverbial exhale along the Cornish coast for zonked parents. Interiors appear to have captured the region’s creative and crafty quirk – a bright, busy concoction of prints and colour that render any sensory baby mats redundant. But it’s that view, that far-reaching, eye-stretching lovely view out to sea that delivers parents that sense of escape they’re craving, along with the clever waist-high dividers in the family rooms between the grown-up bed and the cot. Most parents will have replaced the drawn-out suppers and subsequent bar jaunts with rare snatches of daytime enjoyment, which is where Bedruthan’s crafty classes, from pottery to art, come in handy, especially once everyone’s beached out. The adult-only relaxation rooms following a dip in the spa’s lavender caldarium is another insider escape, or the stylish adult-only bar for a gin & tonic, courtesy of the hotel’s babysitting services. But perhaps the greatest escape of all can be found in the highchair-friendly Wild Café, where freshly puréed baby food can be arranged as effortlessly and as willfully as a board of Cornish cheese.

Price: Doubles from £178

15 Absolute Best Cities to Visit in the UK (+Map & Travel Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: September 12, 2023

The United Kingdom’s rich and vibrant culture make its cities among the most fascinating to visit in the world. Whether you’re looking for stunning architecture, world-class museums, or the cool vibe of contemporary art and music, you’ll find it all in the best UK cities.

However, with so many great cities throughout England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland (the four countries of the UK) it can be difficult to decide which ones to visit in a limited amount of time.

So in this guide, we list the very best cities to visit in the UK that are worth your time the most . For each city, we include the main attractions that you simply must see. We also listed a few extras that are well worth visiting if you have enough time. For each town, we also indicate how much time you need for a visit.

Good to know: The great thing about visiting the UK is its small size and good transport links. This makes it quite easy to travel from one part of the country to another. Furthermore, quite a few of these cities can also be visited with organized tours from London (or other nearby towns). So if you plan well, you can visit several of these UK towns in one trip.

To help you plan your trip and see several of the nicest cities and towns in Great Britain, we asked our writer Christine, a UK local, to share the best places and tips for your visit. We also created a map indicating each town. That way, you have a better idea of where everything is and can plan your trip accordingly. Take a look!

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

These are the most beautiful cities in the UK that are worth a visit the most:

London really has to be number one on any list of the best places in the UK! And there are so many reasons to visit the nation’s capital. Located on the banks of the River Thames, London is the country’s financial center, the seat of the Government of the United Kingdom, and home to the Royal Family.

All of this is reflected in its magnificent and historic architecture and a huge variety of things to see and do.

The diversity of London’s population is evident in its wonderful food scene. From traditional British food in local pubs, the finest cuisine in world-famous restaurants, to the ethnic street food in its many markets, London has it all. London also offers some of the very best shopping in the world. You’ll find designer stores, vintage boutiques, eclectic craft fairs, and quirky markets all over the city.

If you want to escape the bustling streets, museums, and galleries, London has some very beautiful and tranquil green spaces too. Don’t miss the scenic Hyde Park! If you have more time, visit the lesser-known Kew Gardens, with its stunning collection of tropical flora and fauna. London is truly a city that offers something for everyone.

Must see: The Tower of London, Buckingham Palace (don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ), Westminster (including Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament), Tower Bridge, the London Eye , the British Museum, St Paul’s Cathedral, Trafalgar Square (home to Nelson’s Column), and Piccadilly Circus. Thames Cruise is also a must.

Nice to see: Greenwich , Hyde Park, Covent Garden, Kew Gardens, Borough Market, Camden Town & Camden Lock Market , National Gallery, Harrods, and Oxford Street. If you are visiting London with kids , don’t miss Madame Tussauds , the Natural History Museum, Leicester Square stores, and the Royal Mews. Also, don’t miss at least some of the best views in London !

How much time do you need. You can quickly see the major sites with just one day in London . However, if you want to be able to visit a few places inside and get a good feeling of the city you really need two days in London . To fully appreciate all of London’s major sights, visit a few of them inside, and check out a few different neighborhoods, you will need at least 3 to 4 days.

If you want to experience the diversity of attractions across the city, discover some of London’s hidden gems , or take a day tour to Windsor Castle or a day trip to other popular places near London , you can easily spend a week or even more.

Where to stay: Best areas to stay in London for first time .

Travel tips: Please see London travel tips for more information for planning your trip.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in London (Must-See!)

2. Edinburgh

Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh is truly a tale of two cities! It has a New Town – packed with modern shops and trendy eateries – on one side, and a historic Old Town on the other.

The imposing Edinburgh Castle – one of Europe’s oldest fortified places – overlooks the entire city. Surrounding it are rolling green hills which often draw a comparison with Rome. Indeed Italy’s capital, like Edinburgh, was said to have been built on seven hills. Its neoclassical architecture, along with its reputation for philosophy and learning, have earned Edinburgh the nickname of the ‘Athens of the North’.

Edinburgh has a rich history, awesome views, incredible green spaces, and several world-class museums and galleries. In contrast, it also has an intriguingly dark past that you can learn more about by exploring its creepy kirkyards (churchyards) and a fascinating underground street that shows you just what life used to be like in the city.

Scotland’s capital is also known for its many festivals, including the world-famous Hogmanay at New Year.

Must see: Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill or Arthur’s Seat (for the views), the Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, National Museum of Scotland, and Royal Yacht Britannia.

Nice to see: Royal Botanic Gardens, St Giles’ Cathedral, Princes Street Gardens, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions (nice views of the city), Scottish National Gallery, The Real Mary King’s Close.

How much time do you need. Given the city’s relatively small size, it’s possible to see the main sights of Edinburgh in 1 day , but it would be quite a rush. We recommend 2-3 days to take in and fully appreciate everything the city has to offer.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Edinburgh

3. Cambridge

Cambridge is probably best known for its University (the world’s 4th oldest surviving university). Which is home to more winners of the Nobel prize than any other university in the UK.

Cambridge is also a beautiful town, with lots of well-preserved historic buildings that are mostly centered around its 31 (!) colleges. Cambridge has some world-famous Alumni too. 14 British Prime Ministers studied here, world-famous physicist Stephen Hawking, and many others who have made a real impact on the world.

A must-do in Cambridge is taking a punt tour along the beautiful River Cam. Punt is a traditional flat bottomed boat and a very typical thing to do here. The river runs through the heart of the city offering great views of the ancient architecture of the city.

Being a student town, this medieval city still has a very modern vibe too. So there’s plenty of music, festivals, and a strong performing arts scene. There are several art galleries exhibiting everything from the classics to contemporary works. And you’ll find some lovely, quirky shops to buy souvenirs.

Must see: King’s College Chapel, Queen’s College and the Mathematical Bridge (built without nails), Trinity College (and other collages if you have more time), Fitzwilliam Museum, Great St Mary’s Church (climb to the top of the tower for incredible city views), the River Cam and punting tours .

Nice to see: The Botanic Garden, Angelsey Abbey, Wren Library (the Trinity College Library where you can see Newton’s “Principia Mathematica”; it’s only open between noon and 2 pm on weekdays, and Saturday morning), the Round Church, the Bridge of Sighs, The Backs (behind the colleges).

How much time do you need. You can see much of Cambridge within one full day, and it’s also possible to visit with a tour from the capital . But to give yourself time to browse the main museum and to go punting along the River Cam, it’s worth planning two days for your visit.

Of all the cities in the UK, the wonderful, walled city of York boasts the most attractions per square mile. Although it has all the modern shops and amenities you’d expect from a major UK city, the main appeal of York is in fascinating history.

As you wander the cobbled, medieval streets – some with beautifully preserved buildings from the 14th and 15th centuries – you can also see hints of its Roman roots and signs of Viking influence.

Among its many attractions, York has 30 museums, the UK’s best racecourse, and festivals on an almost monthly basis.

The city’s Cathedral – York Minster – is one of the largest in Europe. You can enjoy some incredible views of the city from the top. You can also view the city from the water by taking a boat trip along River Ouse or on Foss River. Another fun thing to do is learn about the history of chocolate-making at the place where the famous UK confectioners Terry’s and Rowntree were founded.

Must see: York Minster (formally known as the Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of Saint Peter in York), the 14th century City Walls (you can walk along the top), National Railway Museum, the Shambles (one of the world’s best-preserved medieval streets), views along the River Ouse and river cruises .

Nice to see: York Maze, York Castle Museum, Castle Howard, York’s Chocolate Story, Clifford’s Tower (great views), York Racecourse.

How much time do you need. You can see the highlights of York in a day, but we recommend 2 full days to see things at a more leisurely pace. If you want to also explore the Yorkshire region, plan a few days extra. See the best suggestions for places to see via the link below.

READ ALSO: Best Day Trips from York

Whilst it may have an interesting history and plenty of period architecture to admire, Glasgow is hip and happening. So much so that it is sometimes referred to as ‘Scotland’s city of cool!’.

A mecca for creativity, Glasgow has a strong art scene. You’ll find unique and original products sold everywhere from the city center to its cobbled lanes. You’ll also see impressive murals on walls throughout the city, depicting various figures who have played a large part in Glasgow’s culture.

There are several excellent museums, an architecturally stunning Cathedral, and a full-size sailing ship to explore. Many of Glasgow’s attractions are free to visit, making a visit here much more affordable than in many other UK cities.

There are also some beautiful green spaces throughout Glasgow to sit and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. You’ll find that locals are more than happy to share stories with you of their beloved home. In fact, Time Out magazine once named Glasgow as ‘first for friendliness’. The warmth it extends to its visitors is the reason that Glasgow remains one of the UK’s most popular destinations.

Must see: Glasgow Cathedral and the adjacent Necropolis, Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery, Riverside Museum, and The Tall Ship.

Nice to see: George Square, Gallery of Modern Art, Scotland Street School Museum, Botanic Gardens, Celtic Park Stadium , the Science Museum, University of Glasgow, Hunterian Art Gallery & Museum.

How much time do you need. Glasgow is relatively compact and most attractions are within walking distance of each other. So you can see the very best of Glasgow in a day (see below for more information). But because there is so much to see and do in the city, we recommend planning 2-3 days here. If you have a day to spare, you can also make some really nice day trips to Loch Ness and see some of the Scottish Highlands.

READ ALSO: How to See the Best of Glasgow in One Day

Located in the county of Somerset in south-west England, Bath is famous for its Roman ruins. The city is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bath grew around its ancient Roman baths. Nowadays, you can still experience bathing in Britain’s only natural thermal hot springs at the modern Thermae Bath Spa.

In addition to museums and galleries, there is a great deal of beautiful architecture to enjoy in the city. From the individual honey-colored Georgian buildings to the neo-Classical style of many of its public buildings, Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK!

Bath’s iconic sights, such as the Circus and the Royal Cresent, have become world-famous thanks to TV and film. Some of Jane Austen’s works discussing city life were based on the five years she spent here. Much of the architecture is still just as she described it. A visit to Bath truly feels like taking a step back into history.

Must see: The Roman Baths, Bath Abbey (take the Tower Tour and climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city), Royal Crescent park, The Circus, Pulteney Bridge.

Nice to see: River cruises , Thermae Bath Spa, the Jane Austen Centre , No. 1 Royal Crescent (museum), Fashion Museum, Royal Victoria Park, The Museum of Bath Architecture.

How much time do you need . It is possible to see all the main sights of Bath in half a day to a day. This makes Bath one of the most popular day trips from London , often in combination with Stonehenge and Windsor Castle . However, a lot of the city’s charm is to be found in the evening. So if you have the time, stay a little longer and include an overnight stay in your visit.

Belfast is Northern Ireland’s capital and largest city, but it is still relatively small compared to the other capitals. Nevertheless, there is a lot to see and do here. The close proximity of all its attractions makes it easy to see Belfast’s main sights in a short amount of time.

The city where the Titanic was built, Belfast has several excellent museums that look back over its shipbuilding past. You’ll also find museums celebrating its connection to the linen industry. And – more recently – Belfast’s time of political upheaval (known as The Troubles).

Alternatively, you can head to the lively Cathedral quarter with its lovely Victorian architecture and cobbled streets. It’s a popular place with an ever-developing pub and restaurant scene.

Belfast’s historic market gives you the opportunity to buy some authentic arts, crafts, and souvenirs whilst enjoying some stirring live music. Throughout the city, you can see some incredible street art, with hundreds of murals depicting all sorts of key moments in Belfast’s past.

Must see: Titanic Belfast , St George’s Market (every Friday/Saturday/Sunday), Belfast City Hall, Crumlin Road Gaol, Ulster Museum.

Nice to see: Stormont (the home of Northern Ireland’s Parliament), Queens University, Botanic Gardens, C.S Lewis Square, St. Anne’s Cathedral, Cave Hill Country Park (for the excellent views).

How much time do you need. We recommend planning 2 days in order to see all of Belfast’s main attractions. In addition, you can take a day tour to Giant’s Causeway , which is not to be missed when visiting here!

8. Liverpool

Liverpool’s main claim to fame is as the birthplace of the Beatles. If you’re a fan, it’s a great place to visit the city where the band started and drew their inspiration. But there’s so much more to this city that makes it a fantastic place for anyone!

Liverpool is located on the River Mersey. One of the nicest things to do is walk around the docks, which are teeming with cool boutiques, fantastic eateries, and lively bars. The streets of the modern city center are filled with shoppers and street entertainers. But there is lots of history and culture to explore too, with more museums and galleries than you’ll find anywhere else outside London.

Liverpool really comes alive at night! So make sure to stay the night. Dine at one of the many fine restaurants, ending the evening with live music at the iconic Cavern Club. This is the venue at which the Beatles performed nearly 300 times.

READ ALSO: The Beatles in Liverpool (Best Places to See)

Must see: The Cavern Club, the Beatles Story , the Royal Albert Dock, World Museum, Liverpool Cathedral, Mersey River Cruises .

Nice to see: Tate Liverpool, Anfield Stadium , Sefton Park, Western Approaches WWII Museum , Liverpool Library, British Music Experience , Museum of Liverpool, Strawberry Field , and the views from Royal Liver Building 360 .

How much time do you need. You will need 1-2 days to see Liverpool’s main sights. If you are a Beatles fan and want to be sure to see all the Beatles-related exhibitions and tours, then you may even need 3 days in the city.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Liverpool & How to visit Liverpool from London (travel info & 1-day itinerary)

Oxford is best known for its university which was established in the 12th century. It’s one of the oldest and most famous universities in the world, and so many of the city’s attractions are related to it.

There are 38 separate college buildings and their architecture is incredible! You should definitely see the Christ Church with its impressive Hall (Harry Potter fans will instantly recognize it!) and Cathedral. The gardens of this cathedral are said to have inspired Lewis Carroll’s ‘Alice in Wonderland’.

This beautiful English city was also used as a filming location for some scenes in the Harry Potter movies. While you can probably spot a few of them on your own, fans should really consider a walking tour of the filming locations .

Oxford also has a few interesting museums, a nice riverside ( sightseeing cruises are available), and even its own ‘Bridge of Sighs’, Hertford Bridge. It connects two parts of Hertford College allowing students and professors to quicker travel between different parts of the university.

Must see: Oxford University with the Bodleian Library and some of the oldest colleges (Christ Church College, All Souls College, Magdalen College, Keble College), Radcliffe Camera, Ashmolean Museum, and Hertford Bridge.

Nice to see: Oxford University Museum of Natural History, University Church, Sheldonian Theater, Oxford Castle and Prison, The Pett Rivers Museum. Boat trips are also nice to do, especially in the warmest months.

How much time do you need. You can see many of the main landmarks in Oxford in half a day to a day. With two days, you should be able to cover most of the best attractions in Oxford.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Tips for Traveling to Europe

10. Cardiff

The Welsh capital, Cardiff is quite small in size. It only takes about 15 minutes to cycle from one side to the other. But it has a lot to offer its visitors! With a 2000-year-old castle and more green space per capita than any other UK city, it offers lots of opportunities for scenic strolls. Make sure to explore the banks of the River Taff which runs through its beautiful Bute Park.

Just outside the city center is Cardiff Bay. Here, you can visit the seat of the Welsh Government or enjoy everything from cultural attractions to boat trips. Cardiff is a quirky, vibrant, and creative city with numerous music and arts venues and an up and coming culinary scene.

Cardiff is also known to sports fans for its world-famous stadium, the home of Welsh rugby, and the venue for Britain’s Speedway Grand Prix. You can enjoy a meal and a drink at a sports bar and restaurant Elevens Bar And Grill, which is owned by professional footballer Gareth Bale.

Must see: Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Bay, Principality Stadium, St Fagans National Museum of History, National Museum, Wales Millenium Centre.

Nice to see: Bute Park, Roath Park, Castell Coch, Cardiff International White Water Centre, the Senedd (the main building for the National Assembly of Wales), Spillers Records (the oldest record shop in the world). Doctor Who tours (popular TV series filming locations) are also very popular.

How much time do you need. Because of Cardiff’s compact size, you can see the best of its attractions in 1-2 days. But there is much worth exploring on its outskirts. So you might want to give yourself an extra day to venture outside the city center.

11. Nottingham

Nottingham is another really nice city that’s worth your time when touring the UK! This city’s imposing, wide streets and scenic parks have earned it the nickname of the ‘Queen of the Midlands’. However, to most of us, Nottingham will always be the home of the legendary outlaw Robin Hood!

Boasting its own castle, a magnificent cathedral, a network of underground caves, and the vibrant Lace Market – teeming with independent cafes, restaurants, and bars – Nottingham is a city with something for everyone.

Yet just minutes away from its center you can enjoy the serenity and beauty of its green spaces. You can also venture a little further into the enormous Sherwood Forest, home to Robin Hood and his Merry Men.

Must see: Nottingham Castle , Wollaton Hall and Park, City of Caves, Old Market Square (Slab Square), Robin Hood Way & the Sherwood Forest.

Nice to see: National Justice Museum, the Arboretum, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem (believed to be England’s oldest pub), Nottingham Contemporary Art Gallery, Highfields Park, D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum.

How much time do you need. You can see most of Nottingham’s main sights in one full day. For a more relaxed experience (especially if you plan to include a trip out to Sherwood Forest), plan two days for your visit.

12. Manchester

Probably best known for its Premier League football teams, Manchester has a lot more going on than football! Located in the northwest of England, the city has a rich industrial past, but nowadays, you’ll find a vibrant place where history and modern-day life go hand in hand.

Manchester is a lively city with a warm atmosphere and plenty to see and do to suit all interests. You’ll find some world-class museums, beautiful architecture, great dining and shopping, and lots of fun activities for young and old. 

Be sure to explore the city center and visit some of its historic landmarks! Manchester Cathedral is an absolute must-see, just as John Rylands Library. For contemporary architecture, head to the Quays, where you’ll find the impressive Imperial War Museum North and The Lowry cultural center. River cruises are a great way to explore this part of town as well!

It would be unthinkable to visit Manchester and not check out at least one of its major football stadiums – Old Trafford, home to Manchester United F.C. or Etihad Stadium, home to Manchester City F.C. In addition, the city is also home to the National Football Museum, the largest football museum in the world.

Must see:  City center, Manchester Cathedral, one of the football stadiums , John Rylands Library, and Science and Industry Museum.

Nice to see:  National Football Museum , Imperial War Museum North, Salford Quays, river cruises , People’s History Museum, Manchester Art Gallery, and Castlefield conservation area.

How much time do you need.  It’s possible to see the main sights of Manchester in a day , but you won’t be able to explore much deeper. If you want to visit a few museums and do some shopping as well, you could easily spend 2-3 days here.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Manchester

13. Norwich

Norwich is a historic city in the heart of rural East Anglia. It was medieval England’s largest walled town. Because of its isolated location, Norwich was virtually bypassed by the Industrial Revolution. So the town has retained many of its medieval Churches and Tudor architecture. All this makes it a truly fascinating place to visit!

A UNESCO City of Literature, Norwich is also the only city in England to be located in a national park (the Norfolk Broads). It boasts a beautiful nature reserve with a river running through the city and an impressive Romanesque cathedral with scenic, peaceful grounds.

Thatched buildings and brightly colored merchant’s houses are just some of the historic sights that give the city its unique and ancient character. You’ll also find cozy pubs dotted everywhere, serving the finest craft beers and ales.

Must see: Norwich Cathedral, Norwich Castle, Norwich Market. Norwich Quayside. Outside the city – Blickling Estate.

Nice to see: The Forum, Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, Plantation Garden, Strangers Hall, City of Norwich Aviation Museum, Norwich Guildhall.

How much time do you need. You can see the main sights of Norwich in one day.

14. Bristol

Bristol in the southwest of England is one of the country’s coolest cities. The home town of famed UK street artist Banksy has a strong reputation for creativity. Ultra-modern museums and trendy restaurants make it a fun and lively place to visit, particularly around the port and harbor area which is full of bars and cafes.

But the city has an interesting history, too, with stunning ancient churches, a cathedral, and galleries. Perhaps most fascinating of all is Bristol’s seafaring links. It was the birthplace of the notorious pirate Blackbeard and inspired parts of the famous maritime novels Treasure Island and Robinson Crusoe.

There are some lovely green spaces to explore in the city. Or you can choose to get away from the crowds by taking a boat trip along the River Avon. from the water, you can admire the unusually brightly colored buildings and houses that overlook it.

Must see: Bristol Cathedral, Waterfront, Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, Clifton Suspension Bridge (looks great at night too), SS Great Britain, Brandon Hill Park & Cabot Tower (great views from the top).

Nice to see: St Mary Redcliffe church, Bristol Zoo Gardens (the 5th oldest zoo in the world), At-Bristol Science Centre, Queen Square. Also, Avon Valley Railway and Blaise Castle Estate (outside the city).

How much time do you need. Bristol is a relatively small city but has lots to see and do. You can cover the highlights in a day, but you need at least 2 days to enjoy it properly.

15. Brighton

The coastal city of Brighton is one of the UK’s most diverse places to visit. It offers everything from vintage seaside attractions to Bohemian markets and Victorian architecture. The city has Britain’s biggest gay scene and some of the best independent shops and boutiques, largely concentrated around the iconic Lanes.

Its pier – packed with rides and entertainment – is one of the biggest attractions in the southeast of England. Brighton even has an exotic palace, Royal Pavilion, that would look more at home in India or China than on the UK’s south coast!

Brighton is also a great UK city for foodies. You’ll find everything from traditional British fish & chips to the finest cuisine at gourmet restaurants. There are lots of bars and eateries lining the pebbled beach, which immediately gives you a vacation feel.

You are never far away from the raw beauty of nature either. Brighton is perfectly positioned to enjoy stunning walks along the England Coast Path. Be sure to visit the white cliffs of Seven Sisters and South Downs nearby!

Must see: Brighton Palace Pier, Brighton Royal Pavilion and Gardens, Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, British Airways i360 Viewing Tower, The Lanes, North Laine.

Nice to see: Regency Square, Brighton Marina, Brighton Toy and Model Museum, Brighton Beach and Promenade, Old Steine Gardens, Brighton Festival (3 weeks every May).

How much time do you need. You will definitely need at least 3 days in Brighton. There is so much to do in Brighton that you could easily spend 5 days in the city, especially in summer.

So, this is our guide to the best, most beautiful cities in the UK.

As you can see, there’s so much more to the UK than just its cities! But even if you visit just a few of these, you’ll get to know a very different country than just by visiting London!

TIP: If you are looking for a more ‘local’ city/ beach holiday in the UK, check out Blackpool . It’s one of the most popular seaside resorts in the UK! Here you can learn all about what there is to see and do in Blackpool . Check it out!

More travel tips and inspiration for all over the UK:

• Must-see in London:  Top London Attractions
• Different London :  Hidden Gems of London  &  Best Views in London
• Good to know:  London Travel Tips & Best Areas to Stay in London
• With kids:  London with Kids  &  Family Afternoon Tea in London
• Greenwich:  Best Things to Do in Greenwich
• Cornwall: Best Places to Visit in Cornwall & Where to Stay in Cornwall
• Yorkshire:  Yorkshire Day Trips
• Blackpool: Best Things to Do in Blackpool & Tips for Visiting Blackpool & Best Day Trips from Blackpool
• Scotland:   Isle of Skye  &  Scotland Whisky Tour
• Edinburgh:  Top Edinburgh Attractions  &  One Day in Edinburgh
• Glasgow:  One Day in Glasgow

READ ALSO: Traditional British Food & Where to Try It in the UK

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Photos: Personal collection and Depositphotos.com. Additional credits: Featured image: TTstudio/Shutterstock.com// Cardiff Bay – photo by phil_bird/Depositphotos.com// Belfast Titanic – photo by zhuzhu/Depositphotos.com// Beatles – gianliguori/Depositphotos.com// Cambridge Bridge of Sighs – chrisdorney/Depositphotos.com// Cambridge University – Umdash9/Depositphotos.com// Manchester Castlefield – cowardlion /Depositphotos.com//.

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Thursday 21st of September 2023

Go to Southampton if you want to see nice cruiseships and the New Forest is very close too.

Tuesday 1st of August 2023

Thank you for sharing useful information ...

Saturday 5th of August 2023

Glad to help. Have a great trip!

Saturday 11th of February 2023

I can't believe Birmingham is not on the list, it's the most underrated city in the UK, perhaps it's because once the heart of the Indudtrial Revolution the slums of back to back houses were there until the 1970's, and its maze of run down underground canals. Most canals have now been restored with many nice bars and restaurants on the side of the canals, in and outside the City. It's a compact City Centre that is easy to walk around. The Art Gallery is one of the best I have ever been in, and each time I'm in the City I can't resist going in there, and it is free to go around, unlike in Venice where you have to pay and is nowhere near as interesting as Brums Art Gallery. For those who like to shop it is a City Centre renown for its Bull Ring Shopping Centre. Eating and enjoying Asian food, there is no-where better in Europe. But go and see the City for yourself. The only thing is traveling into the City by train looks awful, but don't judge the book by its cover. Brum has everything, and is a multi cultural City. I live in Spain these days but my heart is in Birmingham, and it's surroundings Remember Stratford upon Avon is only 20 miles away. 👍👍

Sunday 12th of February 2023

Thanks for your suggestions and tips. I'm sure it can be helpful for some of our readers who are looking for even more cities to explore in the UK. Happy travels!

Jessica Fletcher

Sunday 22nd of January 2023

London does not belong on any list of good cities, end of story. Miserable people, ugly buildings, expensive, nothing worthwhile to see except contrived tourist fodder and obscene wealth. One of the worst cities I've ever been to and I've been to most of the major towns and cities in the UK. Otherwise a great list! Glasgow is one that surprised me a lot, considering its bad reputation but it was surprisingly beautiful and the people were very friendly and down to Earth.

@Jessica Fletcher, Jessica you need to use the underground and look around different parts of the City. London is steeped in history and has something for all tastes..Dont be put off by being expensive. There are a lot of reasonably priced places just be adventurous and seek them out. Including places to stay.

Friday 10th of February 2023

@Jurga, now you know second person 😅 as I just hate London, anytime I have to go there it is a nightmare for me.

Monday 23rd of January 2023

Wow, that's a strong opinion about London, Jessica. You are literally the first person I ever 'met' who doesn't like London. I guess that just proves that everyone is different and likes different things. And that's ok. We all have our experiences and our opinions. For us, London is one of the most interesting cities in the world. No matter how many times we go back, there's always something new and exciting to discover, and so many amazing places everywhere you look. Perhaps you should give London a second chance and look beyond the main tourist attractions... We have a 'hidden gems' guide with some suggestions ;). Happy travels!

Friday 13th of January 2023

cardiff and Oxford do not deserve to be in that list, no where near as good as the others!

Sunday 15th of January 2023

Ha ha, we literally just added Oxford to this list because quite a few people thought it deserved a mention. :) And many of our American readers absolutely love it as a day trip from London too. I guess everybody has their own opinion and I'm sure our readers can make their own decisions on which places look the most interesting to them. Happy travels!

The 27 Best Cities In The UK And Ireland To Visit With Kids

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: February 24, 2023

Categories Europe , Family Travel

Are you planning a vacation to the United Kingdom or Ireland with your family? Or wondering which Ireland or UK cities to visit with kids? You have come to the right place!

From busy London to quaint and quiet Kilkenny and from lively Galway to historic Bath and Oxford, there is a perfect child-friendly city break for every family.

27 best UK and Irish cities to visit with kids

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Best cities in the UK and Ireland for families

Since becoming parents, we've taken our kids on several (city) trips. Traveling as a family , sharing travel adventures and learning about new cultures with your kids is a wonderful and enriching experience.

To provide you with lots of travel inspiration, I’ve asked family bloggers about their favorite kid-friendly cities in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

The result is this list which includes 27 of the best places to visit in the UK and Ireland with kids, but it’s by no means exhaustive.

Nevertheless, I hope it will give you lots of ideas when planning your (next) family UK/Ireland trip!

Plan your trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Get the best car rental deal for your road trip on Rentalcars.com . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Get Your Guide , Viator or Klook . ? Plan your journey with the  Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Cities in the UK and Ireland with kids: map

You can find all the UK and Irish cities for families included in this post in the map and list below.

Click here for the interactive map

20 best UK cities with kids

• Bangor, Northern Ireland
• Bath, England
• Belfast, Northern Ireland
• Brighton and Hove, England
• Bristol, England
• Cardiff, Wales
• Chester, England
• Derry, North Ireland
• Durham, England
• Edinburgh, Scotland
• Fort William, Scotland
• Glasgow, Scotland
• Inverness, Scotland
• Leeds, England
• Liverpool, England
• London, England
• Newcastle upon Tyne, England
• Oxford, England
• Salisbury, England
• York, England

7 best cities in Ireland with kids

• Cork, Ireland
• Dublin, Ireland
• Galway, Ireland
• Killarney, Ireland
• Kilkenny, Ireland
• Limerick, Ireland
• Waterford, Ireland

Family-friendly cities in the UK and Ireland

1. bangor, northern ireland.

Allan from It's Sometimes Sunny in Bangor : Bangor is one of the UK's newest cities being awarded city status (2022) at the Queen’s Jubilee. It is also an up-and-coming tourist destination with a lot of investment and development in the years ahead.

Bangor has always been a popular seaside destination in Northern Ireland with many coastal attractions and plenty to offer families and kids.

One of the main tourist attractions in Bangor is Pickie Funpark, found next to the main marina and seafront.

Here you'll find lots of fun activities for kids of all ages, such as Pedalo Swans, Disco Ducks, Mini Golf, and playgrounds. Pickie also marks the start of a scenic walk along the North Down Coastal Path which is perfect active families who love the outdoors. 

Bangor is relatively small and can be easily navigated on foot, with more highlights to explore in the more central areas, including two large parks which are always popular with kids.

Castle Park is where Bangor Castle and the Museum are located. Ward Park is a typical British park with duck ponds, aviaries, playgrounds, and lots of activities and events during the summer months. 

Click here for the best family hotels in Bangor

2. Bath, England

Ann from The Road Is Life: visiting the historic city of Bath (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) makes an excellent day trip from London for the whole family.

While the adults can soak up the city's fascinating history, there are plenty of activities on offer to keep the kids busy as well. 

The historic center of Bath is fairly compact which means that you can easily see the most popular attractions on foot.

Instead of walking, you could also take the Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus which is a fun way for kids to see the sights. 

? Make the most of your time in Bath with a combined boat and walking tour . See the highlights of the city both on foot and on the water on a fully guided tour. Check availability .

The biggest draw to Bath is the Roman Baths museum where you'll get the chance to see some amazingly well-preserved Roman sites.

With costumed characters and audio guides for children, this is a fantastic way to begin your explorations around the city.

Take a stroll across the famous Pulteney Bridge, one of the only bridges in the world with shops lining both sides. There are some lovely little shops to browse and let the kids pick out a souvenir or two.

A visit to Bath isn't complete without stopping for lunch at the oldest building in town, Sally Lunn's tea house. This historic building dates back to the 15th century and is the home of the famous “Bath Bun”.

There is also a little museum below the teahouse showing what the original kitchen looked like.

Click here for the best family hotels in Bath

3. Belfast, Northern Ireland

Faith from XYU and BEYOND : Belfast was named one of the coolest cities on earth by National Geographic.

Leaving its troubles far behind, Belfast is one of the best cities to visit in the UK with children.

Due to the popularity of the HBO series Game of Thrones and the Titanic Experience, more and more people are visiting Belfast.

An incredibly vibrant city, Belfast is easily one of the greatest places in the U.K. for families and children. It's a very walkable city with plenty to see and do.

St. George's Market is one of the oldest covered markets in Europe. This is where the city's residents hang out on weekends. Grab some amazing paella or French crepes, or simply enjoy a full Irish breakfast while the kids explore.

You can take in the city's history on a Black Taxi Tour and learn about the story of the conflict between two communities and see stunning artwork with a local guide.

Or hang out and enjoy the craic in the Cathedral District with its outstanding pubs and restaurants and brilliant street art.

Children are allowed in all pubs until 9 o'clock at night and can enjoy traditional music sessions.

Wander around the University District and check out the Ulster Museum . There are loads of funky little shops, a gorgeous park, and plenty of time to just wander around.

Go for a pint at one of Belfast's oldest pubs the Crown across the road from The Europa , Europe's most bombed hotel.

Or head up the Black Mountain in the Divi's for spectacular views of the city, a brisk mountain walk, and a lovely cuppa at the Stone Tea House.

Click here for the best family hotels in Belfast

4. Brighton and Hove, England

Danni from Live in 10 Countries : a proper seaside holiday is one of those memories we all treasure with family – and that's exactly what the twin city of Brighton and Hove delivers!

Of all the UK's seaside resorts, this one in Sussex has a unique colorful culture and a host of attractions that will suit kids and adults.

Long stretches of the beach are the perfect place for dog walking, but even better, in summer you can BBQ on the beach or picnic on Hove Lawns, just behind the seafront.

All that and brightly colored beach huts, set between cafes serving delicious ice cream and sticks of rock will make your visit a day to remember.

Central Brighton will tempt kids with its Toy Museum , featuring an enormous electric model train and all the glitz and funfair rides of Brighton Pier.

Kids will love to ride up the Brighton i360 , a 138-meter-tall futuristic glass viewing pod. It's the perfect spot to admire panoramic views of Brighton and the South Coast. Book a skip-the-line-ticket .

Round off the perfect day with a stroll to the Royal Pavilion . As an iconic building, it's a must-see, but it's also home to a fun museum that's full of exhibits from the past and will suit families who like to uncover the past. Check ticket availability .

Click here for the best family hotels in Brighton and Hove

5. Bristol, England

Claire from Europe in Winter : the capital city of the West Country and arguably the UK’s coolest city, there’s plenty on offer for kids in Bristol. 

The main highlights of the city center are walkable, making it easy for active families to get around.

That being said, if your feet get tired, there are Hop-on Hop-off buses connecting different points of interest in the city. 

For a quintessentially Bristolian experience, climb on board the SS Great Britain, a historic ocean steam liner that always has activities for children.

Explore the Clifton Suspension Bridge, which has children’s trails to help kids understand the history in a fun or interactive way.

Afterward, take a stroll through the gorgeous Ashton Court, which is a huge country park and the ideal place for an outdoor picnic!

More contemporary attractions include We The Curious, which is Bristol’s science museum and is specifically catered for kids, Aerospace Bristol, or the Bristol Aquarium.

Or, head into Cabot Circus, the main shopping center, and enjoy a range of kid-friendly restaurants and an indoor crazy golf course. 

Many of Bristol’s main attractions are all-weather, which makes it one of the best places to visit in England in winter too! 

Click here for the best family hotels in Bristol

6. Cardiff, Wales

Cath from Passports and Adventures : another great city in the U.K. to visit with kids is Cardiff.

The Welsh capital has a lot to offer families, from museums to parks to a beautiful castle. The city center is very family-friendly with the main shopping streets fully pedestrianized.

The center also boasts a magnificent medieval castle with many different areas for kids to explore.

Kids will love to venture into the Norman Keep, the castle apartments, and the walls of the castle, which hold a secret. I won’t spoil it for you…

The city center also plays host to Bute Park, a beautiful park with an arboretum and playgrounds sitting behind Cardiff Castle itself.

Just across the road from the castle, you will also find the National Museum which often plays host to special exhibitions to accompany its permanent ones.

Slightly outside the center (located near Cardiff Bay), you can find Techniquest , one of the best things to do in Cardiff with kids. This interactive science center hosts special toddlers’ days on certain Fridays throughout the year.

Combined with the playgrounds and other family-friendly sights and activities, Cardiff is one of the best towns to visit with toddlers.

If you've got more time to spend in the area, also pay St. Fagan’s a visit. The Welsh National History Museum is a great family day out and chronicles Welsh life for over 1000 years.

Click here for the best family hotels in Cardiff

7. Chester, England

Paulina from UK Every Day: Chester is a beautiful city with many historic buildings. It's a fantastic place to visit for families and is located not far from the Welsh border.

Exploring Chester with kids is easy because the city is very walkable. That being said, you can also get tickets for the Hop-On-Hop-Off double-decker bus for effortless transportation as well as panoramic views of the city.

Grosvenor Park is a lovely spot to see squirrels or have fun in the park play area.

This park is close to many attractions, such as Chester Roman Amphitheatre or Queens Park Bridge. Enjoy an ice cream while sitting at the bank of the river Dee.

Or set sail on the River Dee to see a different side of the city of Chester. Cruises leave The Groves every hour, offering marvelous views of the city and countryside from the water. Get your tickets here .

One of the best attractions in Chester for kids is Chester Zoo, with species from all over the world. Kids will love the elephants and tigers as well as the playgrounds inspired by Madagascar or the Indonesian city of Manado.

With so many things to do in Chester, your kids will surely have a great day. Plus, outdoorsy families will enjoy going on a day trip from Chester to admire some of the  best waterfalls in Wales .

8. Cork, Ireland

Maria from Maptrekking: Cork is a wonderful Irish city with kids. It's not a big city, however, there is a lot of history in Cork that they can learn about.

And while there are much fun paid activities, there are also lots of free things to do in Cork in case you’re on a budget.

Visiting the Cork Public Museum is free and this museum has a lot of nice displays. Plus it’s located right next to Fitzgerald’s Park on the River Lee.

Fitzgerald’s Park is the nicest green space in the city and a great option if your kids want to play instead of visiting the museum.

Another short stop should be at Elizabeth Fort since it has a lot of historical significance, but also great views of the city.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, stop at the largest covered market in Ireland, the English Market.

And if you have any science lovers in your family, make sure to visit Blackrock Castle Observatory. This 16th-century castle is now an education center for all things science tech, and engineering.

The city center is on an island in the middle of the River Lee with many bridge connections, making traffic congest a lot. Walking or taking the bus or a taxi is the best way to get around Cork City.

Click here for the best family hotels in Cork

9. Derry, North Ireland

Faith from XYU and Beyond: Londonderry or  Derry  as many prefer is a walled city in Northern Ireland that is surrounded by the only ancient walls in Ireland to survive.

It's a great place to visit with kids as there is so much history here and it's a very easy walkable city. The Walls around the city were built in 1619 and you can walk around the city along them for 1.5 kilometers.

From the walls, you can see many of Derry’s famous areas such as Bogside where you will be able to check out the famous murals, the Bloody Sunday Memorial, and the Free Derry sign.

From the Tourist Centre by the River and the Peace Bridge, you can easily walk to the Guildhall, where you can see the incredible stained glass windows, and learn about the Plantation of Ulster.

The Guildhall is the place in 1995 where Bill Clinton the President of the USA spoke about the Peace Accord in Northern Ireland.

Enjoy superb views over the city while walking the city walls, posing by the ancient cannons, and in front of the Derry Girls mural.

Along the way, you can stop at some of Derry’s great museums such as The Tower Museum with permanent exhibitions that include The Story of Derry and An Armada Shipwreck.

Another great Museum to check out is the Museum of Free Derry which is about the people’s story of the struggle for civil rights, the descent into conflict, Free Derry and Bloody Sunday.

If you plan to visit multiple sights in Derry it's worth looking into the Derry Attractions Pass . You'll get access to 10 attractions in Derry for one great price. Click here to learn more .

Click here for the best family hotels in Derry

10. Dublin, Ireland

Eoin from Dolly's Quest : Dublin is one of the most visited cities in Europe and rightly so! This stunning little city has something for everyone.

From famous breweries and nightlife to one of Europe’s largest parks, Dublin can accommodate all interests.

Summer is peak season as visitors tend to avoid the rain as much as possible, but there is still plenty to see in winter.

? Discover the city of Dublin at your own pace with a ticket for the hop-on hop-off tour bus . With stops at Dublin’s major attractions, it is the ideal way to explore the city.

Some of the best attractions in Dublin include the Guinness storehouse, Collins barracks, and Phoenix Park.

Phoenix Park is especially popular with families and kids. Visitors can try to catch a glimpse of the president in Aras An Uachtarain, feed the wild deer who call the park home, or take a trip to Dublin Zoo.

For those interested in history, Dublin has more than enough to offer. You can visit the home of the authors James Joyce and Bram Stoker, and learn about Ireland's fight for Independence, or the largest Viking settlement outside Scandinavia.

And the places mentioned here are just a glimpse of what this astounding city has to offer all year round!

Click here for the best family hotels in Dublin

11. Durham, England

Sinead from York With Kids: Durham is often overlooked as a U.K. destination to visit with kids.

However, there are several attractions that kids will enjoy and, as Durham city center is compact and mostly pedestrianized, it is easy to visit the major attractions on foot on a day trip to Durham.  

Start your visit at an impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Durham Cathedral. Kids will instantly recognize the cathedral’s cloisters as Hogwarts from the Harry Potter movies.

Don’t miss the Chapter House which is featured in the movies as Professor McGonagall’s office. Durham Cathedral is also known for its unusual architecture and colorful stained-glass windows.

Older children can climb the 365 steps of the central tower for a bird’s eye view of the city.

Nearby the cathedral is the Durham Museum which charts the history of the city and the Palace Green library, a small archaeological museum.

A one-minute walk from the museum is Durham Castle. Visitors can pre-arrange tours of the 11th Century privately owned castle.

Kids will also enjoy wandering Durham’s cobbled streets or visiting the Victorian indoor market and ornately decorated Town Hall.

Alternatively, enjoy a quiet walk along the banks of the River Wear which runs through Durham city center. 

Click here for the best family hotels in Durham

12. Edinburgh, Scotland

Kaylie from Happiness Travels Here : Edinburgh in Scotland is a fantastic city to visit with kids! Edinburgh has family-friendly attractions, a compact and walkable city center, child-friendly restaurants, and excellent public transport.

The city's top attraction is Edinburgh Castle.  Join an engaging English-language guided tour to discover its incredible 3,000-year history and the significant role it has played in shaping Scotland.

Book fast-track entry tickets for Edinburgh Castle here.

Don't forget to pick up the kid's quiz from the audio guide desk in the Castle and head off on a treasure hunt. This will take you past crown jewels, canons, dungeons, and grand halls.

Visit the Royal Mile, Edinburgh’s most famous street. Here you’ll pass historic landmarks like St Giles Cathedral and the Scottish Parliament. You’ll also find plenty of street performers and bagpipers. 

The Royal Mile sits along the crest of a hill with narrow passageways called Close’s running off to the sides. These steep, historic alleys give interesting views and are fun to explore. 

The National Museum of Scotland is also found in Edinburgh. This museum is free to visit and has multiple interactive exhibitions that are perfect for kids.

Download the free app or pick up a map in the lobby. Kids will love the Natural History, Explore, and Imagine exhibitions best. Plan to spend at least half a day visiting the museum!

Alternatively, visit Camera Obscura & World of Illusions where you can experience and take part in over 100 interactive exhibits.

The museum actually encourages a ‘touch everything' attitude, perfect when visiting with kids.

Take your kids to discover the regal splendor of Edinburgh’s Palace of Holyroodhouse complex . Explore the State Apartments, see Mary Queen of Scots' historic chambers, the Throne Room, and more.

Got more time to spend? Rent a campervan and hit the road for an amazing Scotland family road trip! 

Click here for the best family hotels in Edinburgh

13. Fort William, Scotland

Priyanko from the Constant Traveller : Fort William, a tiny town in the Scottish Highlands, means different things to different people.

Mountain climbers revere Fort William as the base camp from where they try to summit Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the U.K.

Families that lead stressful lives come to live an idyllic life away from the big cities and enjoy the many things to do in Fort William .

Harry Potter Hogwarts Express

And then there are my brethren – fans of Harry Potter who book the Jacobite Express train as soon as it opens for reservations. Why? Because the Jacobite is the real Hogwarts Express!

In fact, the first thing I did after booking my tickets to the U.K. was reserve my seat on the Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William to Mallaig, a port town in the Scottish Highlands.

For families looking for some history, there's the excellent West Highland Museum and the Jacobite Uprising to learn about, which most likely gave the now-iconic train its name.

The natural surroundings also encourage camping as well as walking at least part of the famed West Highland Way , an excellent way for families to bond together.

Enjoy a Jacobite train ride

But nothing beats the steam-billowing Jacobite train ride. When I finally took my seat, I was surprised to find the level of enthusiasm amongst fellow Potter fans, a large number of whom were traveling families who had made the journey here as part of a pilgrimage of sorts.

An entire group of Japanese tourists of all ages was dressed in Gryffindor costumes while an elderly couple who loved the Potter books held hands throughout the train ride.

The Japanese grandfather passed rare Japanese whiskey to show his appreciation for the train ride while his extended family ran around the train taking selfies. 

As for me, passing the Glenfinnan viaduct meant the culmination of a long-cherished dream to visit an actual Harry Potter filming location.

And what better place than the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands to do it in!

Click here for the best family hotels in Fort William

14. Galway, Ireland

Pamela from the Directionally Challenged Traveler: the wonderful city of Galway is like Dublin's younger sister situated on Ireland's western coast. This underrated city is a great city to visit with kids.

There is a variety of  things to do in Galway  for travelers of any age. Its personality can be found just by walking the streets.

Visit the Latin Quarter and Quayside for multicolored, local shops and restaurants and enjoy live music and street performers on each street corner.

The history of the city intertwines with the modern city. The Galway Cathedral, Lynch's castle, and the Spanish Arch are in the center of the city and offer insight into the history of the area.

Head down the Long Walk for a great view of the water and city. Colorful homes line the waterfront and in summer, ducks and swans swim around the shoreline.

Connemara National Park is a breathtaking nature break right near Galway, possibly one of the greatest National Parks Ireland has to offer.

Families can learn about native woodland and wildflower meadows on the children's discovery trail at Brigit's Garden right outside the city.

Galway's cobblestone streets, warm personality, and charming accommodations make it a great family destination!

If you've got an extra day to spend in Galway, I highly recommend joining this day tour to the Cliffs of Moher and The Burren.

Experience the beauty and wonder of the Wild Atlantic Way as your driver and guide take you from Galway to the majestic Cliffs of Moher with plenty of stops along the way. Check availability here .

Click here for the best family hotels in Galway

15. Glasgow, Scotland

Kathi from Watch Me See : Glasgow is an exciting destination for any kind of city traveler, but particularly for families with kids, there is a lot to do and see!

The city is small and very walkable – but whenever one of your (younger) children get tired, the hop on hop off bus is nearby and easier to navigate than public transport.

The city is incredibly budget-friendly, not only when it comes to accommodation, but also because there are so many free things to do.

Most of the museums in Glasgow are free to enter and museums like the Riverside Museum for Transport and the Kelvingrove Museum are particularly family-friendly.

Active families will love the number of parks in Glasgow, which is actually Gaelic for “Dear Green Place”.

Some of the best parks in Glasgow are Kelvingrove Park, the Botanic Garden, and Glasgow Green and they boast playgrounds, playing fields, skate parks, and plenty of open green spaces for playtime or picnics.

In addition, there is always a wide range of family-friendly events, whether it is kids' cinema at the GFT, the theater at the Scottish Youth Theater or Tramway, or special workshops and classes at institutions around the city.

There is never a shortage of things to do in Glasgow with kids!

Click here for the best family hotels in Glasgow

16. Inverness, Scotland

Alex from Just Go Exploring: the capital of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness has many family-friendly activities both in the city and its tranquil surroundings.  

Start by taking a walk along the banks of the River Ness. Along the way, you'll have excellent views of the beautiful Inverness Castle.

About 20 minutes walk south from the center of town are the Ness Islands, a series of little wooded islands connected by bridges. 

This is a great place for wildlife spotting, and there are many ( stroller-accessible ) trails that your kids will love exploring.

The Eden Court Theatre puts on child-friendly shows throughout the year, and the grounds of Inverness Castle make a great place for a family picnic.

The best way to get around the city is on foot. Inverness is a fairly small place and most destinations are easily walkable.

? Consider joining this walking tour with a knowledgeable, local guide to learn more about the beautiful city of Inverness.

For those wanting to see some of the stunning scenery of the Highlands, Inverness’ location in northern Scotland also makes it a perfect base for outdoor activities.  

Some excellent places to visit nearby include the picturesque Black Isle and Rogie Falls – one of the best places in the UK to see leaping salmon (especially during the autumn months).

To give your kids a taste of real adventure, consider taking them for a night of wild camping , which is permitted in most parts of Scotland. 

Some of the best camping spots near Inverness include the shores of Loch Ness (keep an eye out for the legendary Nessie!) and the northern edge of the Cairngorms National Park.

Click here for the best family hotels in Inverness

17. Killarney, Ireland

Janelle from Make The Trip Matter: Killarney is the perfect town to stay in with kids to explore the stunning nature of southern Ireland.

The town itself has adorable shops and restaurants (such as Garret’s or Porterhouse) that are nice to walk through, or you can visit St. Mary’s Cathedral. 

The most popular thing to do  in Killarney is the Ring of Kerry , a coastal driving route that starts in town and runs through some of the most popular natural attractions in the area.

If you don't have your own wheels , you can book this Ring of Kerry day trip from Killarney . Your kids will love exploring the forest, admiring the Torc Waterfall, and gazing over Dingle Bay looking for seals.

Other must-see sights within the Killarney portion of the Ring of Kerry are the Muckross House (which has a garden, abbey, and traditional farm onsite), Killarney National Park, and the 15th-century Ross Castle.

If you want to go a bit further to the other side of the lake, kids especially love taking a pony and carriage ride through the gorgeous Gap of Dunloe . 

Or book a cruise on Killarney’s largest lake , Lough Léin, and drift through the islands with a backdrop of the beauty and splendor of the Killarney region.

It’s possible to get around the town of Killarney, the closer parts of the National Park, and Ross Castle (about 35 minutes) on foot.

However, to get to the rest of the attractions you will likely want to take a short taxi ride or rent a car . 

Click here for the best family hotels in Killarney

18. Kilkenny, Ireland

Isabelle from Cultured Voyages : not only is the city of Kilkenny a great city in Ireland to visit with kids, but it should also form part of any Ireland travel itinerary .

This medieval city is linked to Dublin by train, making getting there straightforward and its center is compact and highly walkable, making it easy to get around with children in tow.

Kilkenny is particularly unique to Ireland because the majority of its older buildings date back to medieval times.

It holds a distinctly medieval character and appearance that isn’t so common around the rest of the island. 

Enchanting for both children and adults alike is its warren of central streets and lanes that are fun to explore.

Look out for the street art from Cartoon Saloon, which is a Kilkenny-based cartoon creator that has been nominated no fewer than five times at the Academy Awards.

Kilkenny’s most famed attraction is its castle, which sits imposingly alongside the River Nore. A visit inside the castle will take less than an hour, so older children will enjoy a visit to take in the impressive interiors of the castle.

Castle Park is a real boon, however, with massive green space, walking trails, and a great playground for children. 

Just outside of Kilkenny, is Castlecomer Discovery Park. Set in 80 acres of woodland this activity center will keep even the most active of children entertained, offering activities like tree-top walks, Ireland’s longest zipline, paddle boats, and an Elf Village.

Click here for the best family hotels in Kilkenny

19. Leeds, England

Coralie from Grey Globetrotters: Leeds  in West Yorkshire is a brilliant city to explore with kids.

It’s well connected to the rest of the UK by road and rail and small enough to explore on foot. Leeds also has a great bus service when little legs get tired.

Exploring some of the city’s museums is one of the best things to do in Leeds with kids.

The national collection of arms and armor at the   Royal Armouries is always a popular destination for families, as is the gory Thackray Medical Museum with its depictions of Victorian medicine and surgery.

Families also enjoy following the Leeds Owl Trail around the city, spotting places where the owl – the symbol of the city – has been used.

Roundhay Park is the largest urban park in Europe, perfect for letting off steam, while the ruins of medieval Kirkstall Abbey never fail to inspire kids to explore.

Don’t miss visiting Abbey House Museum, where the kids can explore a real Victorian street, and peep into Victorian homes, an inn, shops, and the undertakers!

At Thwaite Mills, kids can see one of the last water-powered mills in Britain and learn what life was like for mill workers.

Alternatively, take a trip on the Middleton Railway which is the oldest working railway in the world.

Click here for the best family hotels in Leeds

20. Limerick, Ireland

Cristine from Ireland Travel Guides : Limerick City is one of the largest and most populous cities in Ireland.

Limerick is also considered one of the most beautiful Irish cities with plenty of things to do for both grown-ups and kids!

The 13th-century King John’s Castle tells centuries of history through state-of-the-art technology that connects visitors to the tales of medieval Ireland.

There are also several museums in Limerick that hold various artifacts such as Limerick City Museum, Frank McCourt Museum, and the Maritime Museum (a place kids can both enjoy and learn from at the same time)!

Limerick has several parks and gardens, such as People’s Park and Terra Nova Fairy Garden (just a bit outside of the city), where a traveling family can relax, play or just enjoy nature.

Charming villages and districts punctuated with stone buildings, medieval designs, and Georgian architecture dominate the city as well. 

From medieval castles, museums, and parks to activity centers, there are enough things to see and do for everyone!

This makes Limerick City one of the best places to visit with kids in Ireland.

Click here for the best family hotels in Limerick

21. Liverpool, England

Rachel from Average Lives: Liverpool is a great place to visit with kids. It's home to a vibrant music scene, inspiring architecture, and world-class museums and is synonymous with music, football, and the arts.

Scousers are friendly and fun, and the city is bustling with attractions. Luckily, the center of Liverpool is compact, and you can reach most places on foot, which means it is easy to get around. 

Alternatively, avoid tired feet and book hop-on hop-off bus tickets . Learn about all the major sights and historic landmarks from a knowledgeable tour guide.

There are wonderful  free things to do in Liverpool , which are great if you travel with kids as entrance fees add up quickly.

Many of these free sights are centralized at the Albert Docks, which means you can walk around the water, see the Beatles statues and venture into the fabulous museums.

Undeniably, Liverpool's interactive museums are world-class and provide exhibitions, which you and your kids will love.

Visit the Maritime Museum, where through a fascinating exhibition, you can learn more about the city's connections to the slave trade and the history of slavery.

Liverpool's rich history is fascinating and is displayed beautifully at the Museum of Liverpool.

It houses over 6000 objects and offers excellent displays that allow you to learn more about Liverpool's past and current issues by getting all the family involved from football to a karaoke machine. It's a lot of fun!

Click here for the best family hotels in Liverpool

22. London, England

Emily from Kids and Compass : when listing the top places to visit in the UK with kids, there is one city that can't be omitted… London is perhaps the greatest city in the world.

Ride the London Eye ( book fast-track tickets here and avoid waiting in the long queue) and admire Big Ben.

Or go for a stroll in the Kensington Gardens and visit Kensington Palace to learn the surprising stories of many of its inhabitants over the centuries, from Queen Victoria to Diana, Princess of Wales.

London is full of history, culture, and arts. You could spend months here and still feel as though there’s plenty left to do. 

London has also got a huge amount of things to do with kids, especially fun but educational attractions. 

There are world-class museums that are entirely free (except for special exhibitions) like the Natural History Museum and the British Museum. 

Older kids will enjoy learning about over 1000 years of history at the Tower of London as well as admiring the famous Crown Jewels. Get Tower of London tickets here .

Also be sure to attend the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, definitely something that will impress them. Check the schedule here .

Not everything has to be about history or culture though, as London’s parks are second to none.

Besides the aforementioned Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park and St James’ Park are central London standouts, while Kew Gardens is one of the best gardens in the world (though a little further afield).

London is great for shopping too. Little ones will go crazy for Hamley's toy shop, while older teens will love the buzz on busy Oxford Street.

In the evening, if you’ve got the energy that is, London’s theatre scene also has several shows suitable for kids of all ages, including The Lion King, Wicked, Aladdin, and many more. 

Also, consider spending Christmas in London, your kids will love the festive lights, lavishly decorated Christmas trees, and beautifully designed Christmas displays in Harrods and Hamleys.

There are also plenty of great places to eat and young foodies will love one of these London food tours (except for the Twilight one, that's more of a grownups activity;).

Whatever you decide to get up to in London, one visit definitely won’t be enough!

Click here for the best family hotels in London

23. Newcastle upon Tyne, England

Moumita & Sankha from Chasing the Long Road : Newcastle is situated on the bank of River Tyne in North East England.

The city is famous for its gorgeous bridges, colorful past, football, stunning architecture, and museums.

There are plenty of wonderful family-friendly  things to do in Newcastle upon Tyne  for an enjoyable holiday with kids.

Take a tour of the historic Newcastle Castle , after which the city is named. You can explore the castle’s narrow passageways, chambers, dungeons, and prison cells.

There are quite a few free museums around Newcastle. You can see an impressive display of historical objects from Hadrian’s Wall at the Great North Museum: Hancock.

The nearby Discovery Museum is filled with fun and interactive displays about local history and science. 

Also, kids will enjoy a visit to the Beamish, the Living Museum of the North, a beautifully preserved open-air museum to make the visitors take a glimpse at how life was in Northeast England in the era of the industrial revolution.

Once here, hop on the vintage tram and explore the different sections. It’s fun, interactive, and educational, making it suitable for young kids and adults alike.

Newcastle has an extensive network of public transport. Most of the attractions are close enough to explore on foot.

Click here for the best family hotels in Newcastle upon Tyne

24. Oxford, England

Alice from Adventures of Alice: Oxford is a great city  and there are lots of things to do there that’ll be fun for both you and the kids.

It’s full of history and architecture for you to enjoy and also some lovely parks where you can sit down with the kids and have a picnic.

One thing that you can do is visit Oxford Castle , which was built by William the Conqueror and has been used as a fortress, prison, courthouse, royal residence, and college. 

If you or your children love Harry Potter, consider booking this Christ Church Harry Potter film locations tour . You'll get to see the famous Great Hall, and also one of the staircases in Harry Potter.

Being a major UK city and one connected to the famous university, it is quite easy to get around.

The bus times are quite good and they also offer a good all-day park and ride service which is great if you’re driving into oxford as otherwise, parking can get quite expensive.

Click here for the best family hotels in Oxford

25. Salisbury, England

Sarah from Slow Travel : Salisbury is a popular city for families visiting the UK.

Ideally placed just a short distance from London, the south coast, the New Forest, and the Cotswolds, it is the ideal place to base yourself if you want to fit as much into your family holiday as you can.

This ancient medieval city with its traditional buildings and the soaring spire of Salisbury Cathedral.

With several museums, Salisbury it's a beautiful place to explore. there are also lots of green parks which offer activities from paddling in the river to ziplines.

In case of inclement weather, Salisbury has indoor play centers, a trampoline park, LaserA, bowling, and a medieval cinema, which is always a unique experience.

Stonehenge and the surrounding UNESCO landscape are close by, as are the ruins of Old Sarum which kids love to play in, rolling down the ramparts and clambering over the stone walls.

Wilton House has a large outdoor adventure play park set in immaculate grounds, and ten miles away is Paultons Park, a huge theme park that has the famous Peppa Pig World for toddlers as well as plenty of thrilling rides for teenagers.

Marwell Zoo is a few miles away, as is the New Forest Water Park with lakes covered in inflatables to play upon.

For those looking for quieter pursuits, the county is filled with luscious green countryside for walks, cycling, horse riding, and exploration.

The whole area is well served by buses and trains making it the ideal place for a family holiday without a car.

Click here for the best family hotels in Salisbury

26. Waterford, Ireland

Cath from Travel Around Ireland: one of the best cities to visit with kids in Ireland is Waterford.

Located in the southeast of Ireland, Waterford is Ireland’s oldest city, established over 50 years by the Vikings before Dublin. And its Viking heritage is visible in the aptly named Viking Triangle.

Take the kids into Reginald’s Tower and see Viking artifacts. Don’t forget to see if you can spot the canon hole in the outside wall. For older kids, there is a walking tour of the Viking Triangle near Reginald’s Tower.

There are several museums to visit in Waterford and a great little tourist train that will give you a tour of the city, great for train fans.

Just a short drive from the city center is Waterford Castle Resort . This 4-star hotel and golf resort is located on a private island and can be visited using the car ferry.

Once there you can enjoy walks on the grounds, watching out for the herds of deer. You can even pop into the castle or golf clubhouse for lunch.

Waterford City is one of the  best places to visit in County Waterford  and there is plenty on offer for families with kids, young or old.

Click here for the best family hotels in Waterford

27. York, England

Leona from Wandermust Family : one of the best places to visit in the UK with family is York!

Easy to get to either by car or train from most major UK cities and close to Leeds international airport, York is very accessible wherever you are coming from!

There are tons of family-friendly things to do in York whatever the weather, such as the fabulous National Railway Museum , river cruises, and the yummy Chocolate Story Museum.

For older children, you can learn about some of York’s more gruesome history on a ghost-walking tour or a trip to York Dungeons! 

It is also a great place to visit for the budget-conscious family! A trip to York doesn’t have to be expensive for families.

There are plenty of free activities, such as walking the historic city walls, visiting the national railway museum, or taking a trip to the Shambles!

On top of that York is full of historical gems that no visit to the city is complete without.

First, be sure to visit the York Minster and marvel at the stained glass. With older children, climb the tower for unrivaled views across the city!

Clifford Tower is another gem that explores some of York’s more unpleasant history! And, at any time of year, children will love the Museum Gardens!

My little one especially loves a visit to York during Christmas to see the beautiful illuminations!

Click here for the best family hotels in York

Cities to visit in Ireland and the UK with kids: in conclusion

I hope this list has given you lots of ideas about which city in the UK or Ireland to visit next with your family.

Feel free to ask any questions you may have by leaving a comment below. Happy travels!

This post was updated in December 2022.

Looking for more family travel inspiration? Read which kid-friendly cities to visit in Scandinavia and Europe .

Sunday 21st of April 2019

The pictures are very beautiful. I am getting inspired to plan a trip just from looking at the pictures.

Monday 22nd of April 2019

Thank you Anna! I hope to visit every single city on this list:-) So far only London, Dublin and Edinburgh...

I've visited 93 countries, 57 of them with kids. These 5 underrated spots are great places to enjoy with your family.

• Karen Edwards has traveled to 93 countries, and 57 of them have been with her young children.
• Edwards said that her family has had more fun exploring underrated spots than the popular ones.
• Her favorites include Tanzania for its safari tours and Abu Dhabi for its vibrant festival scene.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Karen Edwards , who blogs about her family's travels around the world. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

Since 2000, I've visited 93 countries and 57 of them have been with my four children who are all under the age of 10.

I am a nurse by background, but I have been blogging about traveling with my husband and kids since 2014. I cover a lot of off-the-beaten-track destinations and write itineraries for places I've been to, explaining how they work for families with children.

Many popular family destinations tend to be overcrowded. They're usually the ones that get a lot of media exposure or are shown in viral videos on social media. In America, it'd be places like Disneyland in California or Disney World in Florida, while for Europeans, it might be some of the Spanish resort areas.

Although my family and I have visited these places, we have always come away disappointed. They often lack educational experiences, feeling like pointless affairs.

I think traveling to underrated spots makes trips feel more exclusive and you can learn more about the cultures of the countries you visit — it also keeps you away from tourist traps.

We went on a safari tour in Tanzania

Our family visited Tanzania in 2019 in collaboration with a tourism brand. We were there for 12 days.

Our flights to the country were kind of expensive; we paid about $9,000 for our then-family of four, including a stop in Zanzibar at the end of the trip for a few days. However, overall, the entire trip didn't end up costing us that much.

We had some really unique experiences in Tanzania. We went to Mto Wa Mbu village , which is beneath a banana plantation, and we went on a safari tour in its Lake Manyara National Park .

Interestingly, Tanzania is one of the few places in the world where lions are known to climb trees. I remember seeing them sit in tall trees; it was quite unusual, but my kids really enjoyed how close they were to the animals.

Throughout our trip, we actually felt like we were experiencing life in Tanzania. Our campsite was on a river's edge in the depths of nature. It was nice not to feel surrounded by tourists.

My kids fell in love with Abu Dhabi's culture

Many people mistakenly believe that Dubai is a country, but in reality, it's a city in the United Arab Emirates, with Abu Dhabi being its capital.

My family and I moved to Abu Dhabi in 2021 and lived there for 18 months. The city does have a lot of similarities to glitzy and glam Dubai , but you get a more down-to-earth experience.

There are amazing festivals in Abu Dhabi where they display their culture in different formats, whether that be through local food or crafts. It does feel authentic because it's usually mainly locals participating and organizing them.

The city is also 1.5 hours away from Al Ain, which sits at the foot of  Jebel Hafeet , one of the tallest mountains in the region. Along the way up, you'll find many ancient artifacts, such as beehive huts, which have been there for thousands of years. At the top, you can watch incredible sunsets.

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The city also has the Al Ain Oasis , which uses an ancient irrigation system. It has these beautiful paved pathways that look like cobbled streets.

My kids loved Abu Dhabi and are constantly asking me to go back — they really liked all the cultural celebrations.

We love Sri Lanka so much, we're building a villa there

In 2022, my family and I moved to Sri Lanka from Abu Dhabi. We thought we'd have more family time here, and it was going to be an affordable place to live.

We're building a family-friendly villa here that should be completed by August. The area where we are building has a lot of nice cafes, bars, and restaurants nearby.

Overall, Sri Lanka is an amazing country that has so many diverse experiences. There are tea plantations, mountains, and beaches. As for wildlife, their national parks have loads of elephants and leopards.

On one occasion, we went on a safari boat tour to an isolated national park where we watched elephants swim across a lake and onto a tiny island. It was amazing.

The beaches in Sri Lanka are pristine. They have beautiful scenery with swaying coconut palm trees, clear water, and perfect waves. Our favorite is Kabalana Beach .

Because we're always on the beach, my children have learned how to surf. I think it's the most fun thing that we do on the weekends as a family.

The ski resorts and spas are amazing in Andorra

We visited Andorra in 2018 for about six days. It's a tiny country nestled in the Pyrenees between Spain. It's a two-hour drive from Barcelona and three hours from Toulouse, France.

The city has a unique fusion of cultures, though I think Catalonian is the strongest influence. During our trip, my family and I toured many ancient churches.

We also went to some amazing spas and resorts in Andorra. The hotel and ski system there is really family-friendly.

During our visit to the Grandvalira ski resort , my daughter learned how to ski and my husband got to snowboard — the resort has a kindergarten at the foot of its mountain, where kids can play or ski.

Andorra also has amazing spa facilities that are suitable for families and are sectioned off for different age groups.

Our trip was in collaboration with Andorra's tourism board, but I feel like it wasn't overly expensive in comparison to some other places around the world.

I was treated like family in Macedonia

Macedonia is a Balkan country just north of Greece. I haven't been there with children, but I wouldn't have any issues taking my kids there.

It has many beautiful small villages and it's great for skiing too.

The country is also home to one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe named Lake Orchid, which borders Albania. There's this beautiful, small village on the lake that has charming restaurant and a lovely atmosphere for relaxing and enjoying good food.

I visited the country in 2008, and then again in 2012 with my then-boyfriend and now-husband.

The first time I visited, I went with two girlfriends, and we were backpackers. We arrived in the middle of the night by bus and had no idea what we were doing. The bus driver just made a call, and a stranger came and picked us up in his car — I thought I was going to die.

The opposite happened. He took us back to his home with his family, and we stayed there with them for a few days. We ended up extending the trip because he and his family were so amazing.

They didn't speak a word of English, and we couldn't speak a word of their language either. We'd just gesture at each other, and they'd give us food and red wine.

I just totally fell in love with them and their country.

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The best cities to visit with kids

Posted: April 17, 2024 | Last updated: April 21, 2024

City breaks tend to be hugely popular with child-free singles, couples, and groups of friends, but parents with young kids often ditch the big cities in favor of beach resorts or trips to the countryside. But having kids, toddlers, or babies along for the ride really doesn't have to mean taking city breaks off the travel agenda. Many cities around the world have a host of attractions aimed squarely at family visitors, along with stroller-friendly sidewalks and restaurants that make junior diners feel like valued customers.

Ready for some inspo for your next family trip? Click through the gallery to discover the best cities to visit with kids. 

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Copenhagen, Denmark

The Danish capital is safe, scenic, and filled with family-friendly attractions. One major highlight is Tivoli Gardens—an oasis of green space in the city, filled with beautifully-designed rides and amusements.

Portland, USA

Portland, Oregon has a reputation as a hipster hub, but it's a great destination for families too. There are tons of parks to explore, and a host of hands-on educational attractions such as the World Forestry Center Discovery Museum. 

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Florence, Italy

Adults can appreciate the stunning scenery and amazing architecture, and kids can enjoy feeling like they've stepped back in time. Florence is compact and walkable, and the historic downtown is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The incredible pizzas will be a major selling point for kids, too. 

The city of Vikings, York is great fun to visit with kids. The city's history comes to life at attractions such as the Jorvik Viking Center and the bloodthirsty York Dungeon, and there's a major rail museum where kids can admire centuries-old carriages used by royalty. 

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Manchester, UK

Another northern English city that's well-geared up for kids, friendly Manchester has excellent kid-friendly museums, and the city center is built around a large green space with splash-able fountains. A modern tram system is fun to ride and makes getting around a cinch for families. Soccer-loving kids will appreciate the chance to visit the stadiums of Manchester City and Manchester United. 

Rome, Italy

Kids of toddler-age and above will love the opportunity to step right into Rome's fascinating history at the Coliseum and see the home of the pope at Vatican City, plus the abundant ice cream is a delicious way for the whole family to cool down after a hot day's sightseeing.  

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Barcelona, Spain

The crazy Gaudí architecture at Park Güell will fascinate parents and kids, and Barcelona has a whole host of other attractions including a family theme park and even a chocolate museum. The aquarium and zoo are excellent, as are the beaches!

Edinburgh, UK

This ancient Scottish city is a fun place to explore as a family. Visits to the castle feel like stepping back in time, bagpipe players and other street artists keep everybody entertained, and the city takes great pride in its fish and chips!

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San Francisco, USA

The rattling trams and iconic Golden Gate Bridge make San Francisco a pleasure to visit with kids, and the city has a huge number of fun-yet-educational attractions: the California Academy of Sciences is among the most popular museum in the city. 

Vienna, Austria

Beautiful Vienna is a treat for families at any time of year, and its outdoor ice rinks make it a lovely city for a family winter break. Carriage rides around the city's parks, admiring giant pandas in the zoo, and visiting the Children's Museum should all be high on the list. Kids under six travel free on public transport, too!

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Coimbra, Portugal

Still flying under the travel radar compared to busy Portuguese cities like Porto and Lisbon, Coimbra is perfect for kids. Sunny plazas, riverside parks and gardens, walkable cobbled streets, and there's even a theme park featuring child-size versions of Portuguese cities and attractions. 

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is a year-round destination for families—expect plenty of outdoor public pools for cooling down during the summer, and pretty ice rinks in the winter. Budapest's extensive public transport system is easy to navigate with strollers, and taking a boat trip down the Danube River is a scenic way to see this gorgeous family-friendly city. 

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Singapore, Southeast Asia

Singapore is absolutely packed with attractions and activities aimed at families with kids. The year-round warm weather means you can travel light, and there are countless kid-focused restaurants as well as a wealth of theme parks, gardens, and even the world's second-largest Ferris wheel. 

Seoul, South Korea

Safe, clean, and walkable, Seoul has abundant parks and two major theme parks —Lotte World and Everland. Public transport is very easy to use with kids, and the whole family can enjoy local activities such as Karaoke singing and visiting a bathhouse. 

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Rouen, France

One of the most historic cities in France, Rouen is easy to explore on foot, and the colorful buildings make it feel like stepping into a painting. The locals give children a warm welcome, and the delicious cakes and pastries make dining out feel like a treat. There's even a chance to see where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake!

Melbourne, Australia

Sunny Melbourne is jam-packed with family activities. There's a 3D art gallery, interactive museum, excellent aquarium and indoor ice-skating, and a branch of Legoland. And if the kids are acting up, there's always Old Melbourne Gaol, where they can play at getting arrested and locked up!

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Amsterdam, Holland

Amsterdam might be well-known for its adult-oriented activities, but it's great for a family trip. The flat, canal-side roads are a breeze to navigate with a stroller, and the many cycle lanes are safe for all ages. Adults with older kids can take a powerful history lesson at the house where Anne Frank wrote her famous diary. 

Montreal, Canada

Hip Montreal has a surprising amount to offer families with kids. There are excellent museums and science centers, lovely parks and gardens, and a well-maintained zoo housing native Canadian species including black bears and arctic foxes. Public transport is extensive, easy to use, and free for kids aged five and under. 

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Venice, Italy

Car-free streets, epic ice creams, and the chance to explore the city by taxi-boat, Venice is an exciting city for families! The excellent pizza and pasta takes the stress out of dining out, too. 

Dublin, Ireland

Friendly Dublin is a fun place for a family trip. There's a huge number of hands-on museums and immersive tours, a mouth-watering chocolate museum, and Ireland's largest zoo. And when it comes to eating, the city's many traditional pubs are wonderfully informal places for a hearty lunch (and a pint of Guinness for the grownups).  

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Lisbon, Portugal

Europe's sunniest capital is also one of the prettiest. Clattering trams take the legwork out of exploring the steep cobbled streets, and attractions such as the hilltop castle, an awe-inspiring monastery, and an epic aquarium will impress all ages. 

Los Angeles, USA

The home of movie stars, the Hollywood sign, Disneyland, and Universal Studios, Los Angeles won't be a hard sell for kids. It has a whole lot more to offer, too, including peaceful botanical gardens, an enormous interactive Children's Museum, and, of course, bright blue skies. 

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New York City, USA

Don't write off a visit to the Big Apple with kids. As well as a chance to pose for pics in front of the Statue of Liberty, there are epic strolls at Central Park, delicious pizza and ice-cream in abundance, and some seriously impressive museums and galleries. 

Paris, France

The Eiffel Tower is impressive whether you're five or 55, and it's just one of the big-ticket attractions that make Paris a good bet for a family break. Pack babies into a sling to admire the many galleries and museums, although older children may be more excited about Disneyland Paris!

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Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament...London is filled with images from movies and TV. Harry Potter-loving kids (and grownups) can even take tours of the city that visit locations from the famous films. 

Stockholm, Sweden

Safe, scenic Stockholm is an extremely family-friendly city. Kids will be made to feel welcome in restaurants, streets and public transport are easy to manage with strollers, and the city has a plethora of interactive museums and exhibitions. 

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Reykjavik, Iceland

Magical Reykjavik has a lot to offer visitors with kids. Lagoons and geothermal spas generally welcome kids aged two and over, and animal lovers can enjoy whale-watching boat tours or even take a horseback ride. 

Buenos Aires

Argentina's colorful capital is an exciting place to visit with kids. The street tango dancers are an enthralling spectacle at any age, and many restaurants have staffed playrooms so that the kids can burn off energy while their parents finish their meal. A history of Italian settlers means that there's excellent ice cream on virtually every corner, too. 

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Berlin, Germany

Known for its buzzing arts scene, Berlin is exciting at any age. School-age kids might appreciate a chance to visit important sites such as the Holocaust Museum, while the sheer abundance of green open spaces, friendly cafes, and excellent public transport make for a relatively stress-free visit with babies and toddlers. 

Sources: (Budget Travel) (Learning Escapes)

See also: The most popular destinations for fall travel

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