10 of the best UK holiday ideas for families

Looking for the best UK holiday ideas for families?  The UK offers a stunning coastline, rich heritage, and countless family-friendly attractions, making it an ideal destination for a memorable trip.  The best part? You can skip the stress and expense of international travel.

In this post, we’ve rounded up 10 of our top UK holiday ideas for families, all tried, tested, and guaranteed to deliver fun-filled adventures.  From must-see attractions to exciting activities for kids, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to plan an unforgettable holiday close to home.

Read on for the ultimate inspiration for family-friendly breaks in England and Wales, with top suggestions for weekend getaways and longer stays.

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The first of our top UK holiday ideas for families is Wimborne Minster in Dorset, a charming town that offers something for everyone.

If you’re seeking family-friendly holiday inspiration, Dorset is an excellent choice, with its stunning coastline and rich history.  Home to the famous Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Dorset is known for its incredible geological wonders and abundant ancient fossils—perfect for curious young minds.

But don’t worry, it’s not all about rocky cliffs and fossils.  Dorset also boasts miles of beautiful sandy beaches, ideal for a classic bucket-and-spade family holiday.  Whether you’re building sandcastles or exploring the coast, Dorset has everything you need for a memorable staycation in the UK.

With its charming honey-coloured cottages, cosy tea houses, and picturesque villages, the Cotswolds is a perfect destination for a family holiday or a romantic weekend getaway.  Explore the enchanting village of Snowshill, the intriguingly named Slaughters, or Bibury, often regarded as the most beautiful village in England.

The Cotswolds also boasts an abundance of stunning countryside, making it a haven for walkers.  If you’re up for an adventure, why not try the famous Cotswold Way?  This 100-mile national trail stretches from Chipping Campden to Bath, offering breathtaking views along the way.  And don’t worry—you don’t have to tackle it all in one go!  Whether you’re in the mood for a short stroll or a longer hike, there’s something for everyone.

The Cotswolds isn’t just about rolling hills and postcard-perfect villages; there’s a wealth of family-friendly activities to enjoy as well.  If you’re looking for things to do in the Cotswolds with kids, start with a trip to Bourton-on-the-Water.  Here, you can visit the fascinating model village, Birdland Park and Gardens, or the Cotswold Motoring Museum, perfect for a fun day out.

Animal lovers in the family will adore the Cotswold Wildlife Park, where you can get up close with exotic animals, or the Cotswold Farm Park, with its farmyard animals and exciting play areas.

In the picturesque village of Snowshill, head to Snowshill Manor, where you’ll find an eccentric collection of memorabilia, or take a stroll through Batsford Arboretum, home to some of the most beautiful gardens in the Cotswolds.

Outdoor enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice with scenic countryside walks.  Take a hike to the iconic Broadway Tower or up Dover’s Hill, offering panoramic views or climb Dover’s Hill, located at the start of the Cotswolds Way.

Read more:  A perfect 5-day itinerary in the Cotswolds

No list of UK holiday ideas for families would be complete without mentioning Wales.  Our first Welsh recommendation is the breathtaking Gower Peninsula.  Located in south-west Wales, this stunning destination was designated the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1956.  With its dramatic landscapes and some of the best beaches in the world, it’s a must-visit for families seeking adventure and relaxation.

For charming seaside villages, you’ll be spoilt for choice on the Gower Peninsula.  One of our favourite destinations is Oxwich Bay, just 13 miles from Swansea.  With its golden sands, sheltered waters, and surrounding natural beauty, it’s the perfect place for a family day out by the sea.  Whether you’re exploring rock pools, enjoying watersports, or simply soaking in the scenery, the Gower Peninsula promises unforgettable memories.

With its own nature reserve and long golden beach, Oxwich Bay offers plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy.  Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the area’s rich wildlife and sports enthusiasts will find plenty to keep them busy.

Start by exploring some of the other stunning beaches on the Gower.  Our favourites include the dramatic Three Cliffs Bay and the breathtaking Rhossili Bay, often ranked amongst the best beaches in the world.  If you visit in August, you may be lucky enough to see the stunning sunflower field at Rhossili too.

For families who prefer to keep active, there are fantastic family walks in Gower.  Take in the views from the Gower Coastal Path or, for a touch of adventure, head to Port Eynon, where you can explore a smugglers’ cave.

Oxwich Bay and the wider Gower Peninsula truly have something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for your next family holiday.

Alternatively, the Victorian seaside town of Mumbles. offers a range of family-friendly activities.  Explore Oystermouth Castle, which sits on a hill overlooking the town or take a stroll along Mumbles Pier.  If the tide is out, you can cross the causeway to Mumbles Lighthouse.

For active families, cycling is a great way to explore the area.  hire bikes and take the scenic coastal route from Mumbles to Swansea, which is a whole lot of fun.

Does your family love nature and the great outdoors?  If so, the Wye Valley is an ideal destination for your next UK staycation.  This National Landscape straddles the border between England and Wales and spans three counties, offering a diverse range of landscapes.

The Wye Valley is renowned for its breathtaking woodlands, including the enchanting Forest of Dean, which is perfect for family activities, including caves, a heritage centre, and nature trails.

For those who enjoy water-based adventures, the River Wye offers fantastic opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Lydbrook, a charming village on the English side of the Wye Valley, is the perfect base for exploring the region’s villages and top attractions.

For the best views, head to the iconic Symonds Yat Rock, where you’ll have stunning views over the River Wye.  For adventurous families, there’s no better way to experience the river than getting out on the water and canoeing down the River Wye.

If you prefer forest adventures, head to Beechenhurst to follow the famous Sculpture Trail.  Or if you’re cycling enthusiasts, hire bikes at the Cannop Cycle Centre and explore the trails of the Forest of Dean on two wheels.

Whether on foot, by bike, or on the water, the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean offer endless opportunities for outdoor family fun.

Without doubt, one of the best things to do in the Forest of Dean with kids is a visit to Puzzlewood.  This magical forest near Coleford has inspired everything from film sets to fairy tales.  Kids will love wandering through its twisting pathways, moss-covered trees, and hidden nooks.

After exploring Puzzlewood, head to the nearby Clearwell Caves for an underground adventure.  These fascinating caves have been mined for thousands of years and now offer guided tours that bring their rich history to life.

No list of UK holiday ideas for families would be complete without mentioning Devon and Cornwall.  These two counties in the South-West offer the perfect blend of coastal charm, spectacular beaches, and rugged countryside, making them ideal for a family holiday in the UK.

Among the many stunning locations, we’ve chosen the picture-perfect village of Noss Mayo, nestled in the tranquil South Hams area of South Devon.  This quieter spot is a true hidden gem, offering a peaceful escape with all the charm of traditional village life.

Situated on the River Yealm estuary, Noss Mayo is a quaint and welcoming destination. Across the water from Newton Ferrers, this village boasts two cozy pubs, a delightful café, and a handful of small shops.  Whether you’re looking to relax by the river, enjoy the scenic countryside, or explore nearby coastal trails, Noss Mayo is a fantastic choice for a family getaway.

Noss Mayo is ideally located near some of South Devon’s most beautiful sandy beaches.  Bantham Beach and Bigbury-on-Sea are both fantastic family-friendly options.  At low tide, you can walk from Bigbury to Burgh Island, a charming tidal island steeped in history.  For a unique experience, wait for the tide to come in and hop aboard the iconic sea tractor.  Once on the island, visit the historic Pilchard Inn, once a favourite haunt of local smugglers.

South Devon also offers excellent opportunities for family hiking.  The South West Coast Path runs through Noss Mayo, providing breathtaking views from the cliff tops. If you prefer inland adventures, head to Dartmoor National Park, where you can explore rugged landscapes and discover hidden tors.

For a touch of history and culture, Plymouth, one of England’s most significant maritime towns, is just 6 miles away.  Visit the National Marine Aquarium, the UK’s largest, or take a stroll along Plymouth Hoe for iconic views.  Alternatively, explore Totnes, a fascinating historical town bursting with charm and character.

Animal-loving families will also find plenty to do nearby.  Visit the Otter and Butterfly Farm in Buckfastleigh for an up-close encounter with these fascinating creatures, or spend the day at Dartmoor Zoo, a favourite for kids and adults alike.

Whether you’re after seaside fun, outdoor adventures, or family attractions, South Devon has something for everyone and is one of our favourite ideas for UK family holidays.

Take a visit to East Sussex for a holiday filled with magnificent castles, stunning white cliffs, and traditional seaside charm.   Located along England’s South Coast, this region is home to the popular staycation hotspots of Brighton, Eastbourne, and Hastings.  All three towns are easily accessible from London and are ideal for a weekend break.

For a more tranquil experience, head along the coast to the picture-perfect village of Rye.  With its cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and charming shops, Rye is a step back in time and the perfect destination for a leisurely stroll or a quiet escape.

Rye is a charming, medieval market in East Sussex, full of old-world charm and character.  With its cobbled lanes, half-timbered houses, and ancient pubs, Rye transports you back in time and offers a delightful setting for families and couples alike.

Make sure to visit the famous Mermaid Street, one of Rye’s most picturesque spots, and wander through the quirky galleries along Strand Quay.  For families, Rye offers plenty of activities for kids.  Nature lovers will enjoy a trip to the Rye Nature Reserve, a beautiful wetland area that’s home to a wide variety of wildlife.  Or, you can also take a stroll to the ancient Camber Castle, a fascinating historical site.

For beach lovers, a short drive from Rye will bring you to Camber Sands, a stunning 3-mile stretch of golden sand.  It’s an ideal spot for a family day out, with plenty of space for picnics, beach games, and water sports.

Head in the other direction to explore the historic seaside town of Hastings.  On the beachfront, families can enjoy a visit to Hastings Aquarium or take a ride on the miniature railway.

For added adventure, hop on one of the funicular railways that take you up to the clifftop.  Once at the top,  you can visit the ruins of Hastings Castle or dive into the fascinating world of smugglers at the Smugglers Adventure Caves.

Although Hastings is famous for the 1066 Battle of Hastings, the battle actually took place in the nearby town of Battle.  A short drive away, Battle is home to the historic Battle Abbey, where you can explore the grounds and stand on the very spot where King Harold lost his life.

You’ll also find good options for glamping at Freshwinds Campsite in Pett or Bluebell Coppice Campsite near Battle.

The second of our UK holiday ideas for families in Wales takes us to the seaside town of Saundersfoot in Pembrokeshire.  Pembrokeshire is a fantastic destination for families, offering a perfect blend of stunning beaches, historic castles, and a range of exciting family attractions.

Saundersfoot is a particularly family-friendly town, located just 5 miles from the popular coastal resort of Tenby.  With its large, sandy beach featuring plenty of rock pools for children to explore, a picturesque harbour, and a vibrant town centre filled with cafes, shops, and attractions, Saundersfoot is an ideal spot for a relaxed family holiday.

Saundersfoot offers a fantastic variety of things to do with children, .ensuring a memorable family getaway.  For wildlife enthusiasts, Folly Farm, Manor House Wildlife Park, and the Reptile Experience are all great options.  However, the ultimate adventure is a boat trip to Skomer Island, where you can get up close to the island’s vibrant puffin colonies and seals.

If your family has an interest in history, Saundersfoot is close to several stunning castles, including the impressive Carew Castle & Tidal Mill and the grand Pembroke Castle, birthplace of Henry VII.

In addition to its historic and wildlife attractions, Saundersfoot is located within the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.  This beautiful area offers miles of open countryside and a breathtaking coastal trail.

A family walk from Saundersfoot to Tenby is a great way to enjoy the scenery and see Tenby’s iconic coloured houses, or you could take a boat trip to Caldey Island for a peaceful day of exploration and nature.

Whether you’re hiking along the coast, spotting wildlife, or discovering local history, Saundersfoot has something for every family.

With stunning beaches, historic houses, and wealth of family attractions, it’s no wonder that Norfolk is a top choice for a UK holiday with kids.  What makes Norfolk even more special is its very own National Park, the Norfolk Broads.  This network of navigable rivers offers the perfect setting for a unique family boating holiday, allowing families to explore the area from a completely different perspective.

Located in North Norfolk, the charming market town of Fakenham is a fantastic base for exploring the region.  It’s not only ideally situated for discovering Norfolk’s best beaches and historical sites, but it also offers a variety of exciting days out with kids in Norfolk.

Read more:  30 best things to do in Norfolk with kids

Norfolk is home to some of the best beaches in the UK, including the popular Wells-next-the-Sea, Hunstanton, and Brancaster Beach.  If you’re after something truly special, take a boat trip to Blakeney Point Nature Reserve, where you’ll see the largest Grey Seal colony in England, a fantastic experience for wildlife-loving families.

For families who enjoy outdoor adventures, Thetford Forest offers woodland trails and exciting activities like Go Ape, perfect for older children looking for a bit of adrenaline. For younger kids, Bewildered is a must-visit attraction, featuring magical treehouses, zip wires, and lots of fun for the little ones.

History buffs will appreciate exploring Norfolk’s magnificent stately homes, such as Sheringham Park and Blickling Hall.

Of course, you can’t visit Norfolk without a trip to the Norfolk Broads.  Head to Wroxham or Hoveton to hire a boat for the day and explore some of the magical waterways.

With ancient Roman cities, beautiful beaches and some incredibly famous cheese, Somerset is a superb choice for a family holiday in the UK.  This scenic, rural county in South West England offers a rich blend of history, spectacular landscapes, and family-friendly attractions, making it an ideal destination for all types of holidays.

Plus, its charming countryside and vibrant towns provide plenty of opportunities for memorable days out with kids.

Best known for its iconic music festival, Glastonbury is a quirky town, steeped in magic, legend, and folklore, making it an exciting place to explore on a family holiday in Somerset.  Its central location within the county makes it the perfect base for discovering the beauty of Somerset.  Be sure to visit Glastonbury Tor, a hilltop landmark with sweeping views of the area.

One of the best attractions in Somerset is Cheddar Gorge, nestled in the stunning Mendip Hills.  Here, families can enjoy hiking up the cliffs for breathtaking views of England’s largest gorge or take an underground tour of the famous Cheddar Caves.  Afterwards, visit the charming village of Cheddar for a taste of the local Cheddar cheese or enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in one of its quaint cafés.

For history-loving families, the ancient city of Bath offers a fascinating day out.  The Roman Baths, built around natural thermal springs, provide a glimpse into life during Roman times.  This World Heritage Site is a popular family attractions and makes a great family day.

If your family enjoys the great outdoors, head to Exmoor National Park, known for its picturesque landscapes, wildlife, and extensive walking trails.  Alternatively, for a cheap, laid-back day, visit one of Somerset’s stunning beaches, such as Minehead or Weston-super-Mare, both offering plenty of space for family fun and relaxation by the sea.

Our final suggestion for UK holiday destinations with kids is the Peak District.  With its miles of beautiful, unspoilt countryside, the Peak District offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, making it a perfect destination for families looking to explore nature.

Bakewell, a charming market town located in the heart of the Peak District, is an ideal base for exploring the region. Famous for its delicious Bakewell pudding, this picturesque town is steeped in history and offers a range of family-friendly activities.

From walking along the River Wye to exploring nearby Chatsworth House, Bakewell is the perfect blend of nature, culture, and family fun.  Whether you’re enjoying a traditional afternoon tea or discovering the beautiful countryside that surrounds the town, Bakewell offers something for everyone.

There are plenty of exciting things to do near Bakewell for families looking to explore the Peak District.

For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, there’s a good choice of family hikes in the Peak District, including the iconic Chee Dale Stepping Stones, Padley Gorge, and Thor’s Cave.

For a family adventure, head to the Heights of Abraham, a hilltop park in Matlock with cable car rides and stunning views, or take the kids to Gulliver’s Kingdom, an amusement park full of rides and attractions for younger children.

Thrill-seekers will also enjoy a trip to Alton Towers, one of the UK’s top theme parks, which is on the outskirts of the Peak District.

If cycling is more your style, the Monsal Trail provides a fantastic, family-friendly cycling route through the heart of the Peak District, passing through tunnels, viaducts, and stunning countryside landscapes.

Whether hiking, cycling, or exploring theme parks, there’s no shortage of family activities near Bakewell.

If you’re interested in exploring historic houses, the Peak District is home to the magnificent Chatsworth House, the seat of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire.

This iconic stately home is set within 105 acres of stunning estate, where families can enjoy the beautifully landscaped gardens, explore the vast grounds, and visit the exciting adventure playground and farmyard.

Or you could have a relaxed day in the historic town of Bakewell, sampling some of the famous Bakewell tart.

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Have you tried any of these UK holiday ideas for families?  Where is your favourite place to go?

We’d love to hear your comments below.

Pin for later:  10 of the best UK staycation ideas for families

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