20 Of The Best British Family Days Out
High in captivating landscapes, historical landmarks, and stimulating activities, the United Kingdom is no stranger to family days out. With everything from Scotland’s rugged coastlines to the quaint villages of England, there is something to suit all age groups in Britain.
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Magical Moments in the Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands provide families with charming scenery and exciting outdoor pursuits. Your trip begins at Loch Ness, said to be the home of the mythical Loch Ness Monster. Families can also go on boat tours to see the lake’s extent and its beautiful scenery. And in the Cairngorms National Park, you can hike, watch wildlife, and even ski when it’s winter.
Exploring the Mysteries of Wales
Wales has a tapestry of history and natural splendor, making it an ideal place for Family Days. Start your Welsh trip with a visit to Snowdonia National Park, where you’ll find the highest mountain in Wales–Mount Snowdon. Those wanting to take in the views from Snowdon can do so by taking the scenic railroad up to the summit. For history romance fans, a trip to medieval Conwy Castle or the ruins of ancient Caerphilly Castle will take them back in time.
If you visit Wales, consider staying in a Welsh Fairy House:
Cultural Delights in England’s Lake District
England’s Lake District is famous for its beautiful scenery, quaint villages, and literary tradition. Lush greenery and rolling hills surround England’s largest lake, where families can take boat trips on Lake Windermere. Potter fans should visit Hill Top, the idyllic former home of the much-loved author. Hiking enthusiasts can hike across a multitude of trails, from easy ones like family-friendly Catbells to more difficult ones for adventures and adrenaline junkies alike. Still, no matter which trail you choose, there will be breathtaking scenery every step along you.
Seaside Family Days out on the Jurassic Coast
When looking for coastal escapades, the Jurassic Coast of southern England is a UNESCO World Heritage site chock full of fossil-laden cliffs, gorgeous beaches, and seaside charm. Take a day of sun, sand, and exploration at the beach’s natural limestone arch, Durdle Door. At Lyme Regis, kids can find their ancient treasures in the form of fossils scattered along the shores of the English Channel.
Historical Wonders in Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland’s castles, legends, and natural beauties. Take your first steps with a trip to the famous Giant’s Causeway, an area of interlocking basalt columns. Families can visit Carrickfergus Castle to taste Northern Ireland’s medieval past. You might also recognize the haunting Dark Hedges from watching Game Of Thrones; fans used it as Kings Road deadlocking area in King’s Landing).
If you visit Northern Ireland, tour The Belfast Peace Walls in The Black Cab Tour to see the Peace Walls.
Enchanting Isles of Scilly
If you are looking for some adventure guaranteed to be unforgettable, travel the Isles of Scilly, an archipelago off the southwestern tip of Cornwall. It is accessible either by boat or a short flight away, with crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and a laidback atmosphere, making this a subtropical paradise. Walking and cycling on scenic paths take families inland through secluded coves and ancient ruins. Enjoy snorkeling or kayaking Family Days out, and don’t miss Tresco Abbey Garden, a botanical world populated by exotic plants from around the globe.
Adventurous Days in the Peak District
Situated in the middle of England, this is a home ground for lovers of outdoor activities. Families can go on cycling trips along the Tissington Trail, enjoying the fabulous scenery of rolling hills and quaint villages. Castleton caving experiences provide a thrilling ride for underground adventures, while the Heights of Abraham offers cable cars with striking views and hands-on exhibitions for educational elements.
Maritime Marvels in Portsmouth
Portsmouth, a historic naval city on England’s south coast, brings history to life. See the remains of Henry VIII’s flagship at Mary Rose Museum, located inside the Historic Dockyard. The National Museum of the Royal Navy uses interactive exhibits to intrigue visitors from all walks of life. Take a day trip to the Isle of Wight for beach fun, or climb above everything on the Spinnaker Tower.
Countryside Charms of the Cotswolds
Known for its honey-colored stone villages and rolling hills, the Cotswolds make a lovely retreat from city life. Start exploring Bourton-on-the Water, also known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’, with its scenic bridges and riverside walks. In Burford, the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens provides a family-friendly wildlife experience; other popular excursions include paddleboarding on one of the lakes in its own Cotswold Water Park.
Family Days Out Awaits in the New Forests
Escape to the New Forest, a heady blend of ancient woodlands and heathlands amidst grassier plains in south England. Families can ride the forest trails on their bikes and even have a pony trek, meeting New Forest’s famous free-roaming ponies. A day at Beaulieu is fascinating, with its vintage cars and historic artifacts in the National Motor Museum alongside lovely gardens.
Mystical Journeys on the Isle of Skye, Scotland
The Isle of Skye, located off Scotland’s Northwest Coast, is a giant calling with its splendid and majestic scenery. Families can take scenic hikes to the Old Man of Storr or visit crystal-clear pools amidst dramatic mountains, such as the Fairy Pools. Dunvegan Castle, Medieval and the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, gives a clue to the island’s rich history and folklore. Take boat trips along the coastline to see seals and seabird colonies, bringing some wildlife Family Days into your Scottish escape.
Historical Marvels in Bath, England
Or, for a bit of history, architecture, and relaxation, head to the historic city of Bath in southwestern England. The Roman Baths are an ancient bathing and socializing complex exquisitely preserved to this day. Explore Bath Abbey and the famous Pulteney Bridge, or take a leisurely walk along Royal Crescent, an 18th-century row of Georgian terraced houses. The Thermae Bath Spa offers a modern alternative, where families can relax in the rooftop pool looking down on glittering city lights.
Coastal Wonders of the Northumberland Coast
The Northumberland coast extends from Berwick-upon-Tweed down to the River Coquet with nothing in between but ancient history and breathtaking beauty. The imposing Bamburgh Castle, on a rocky outcrop overlooking the North Sea and accessible by two causeways, or discover the Holy Island of Lindisfarne with its 12th-century monastery. Wildlife enthusiasts take thrilling boat tours of the Farne Islands, home to puffins and seals. Family Days out and beachcombing are ideal in places like Alnmouth’s sandy beaches.
Family Days out on the Norfolk Broads
The waterways of the Norfolk Broads in East Anglia provide a novel aquatic Family Days out. Rent a family-friendly boat to explore simple villages, lovely landscapes, and nature reserves. Fishing, bird watching, and watersports also contribute to the thrills. Wroxham, the ‘Capital of the Broads,’ is another stop where you could get off to discover some Family Days out, and attractions among them are a craft village and junior farm.
Quaint Villages of the Yorkshire Dales
An area of idyllic charm, where limestone formations and picturesque villages break rolling hills clothed with heather. Make a trip to the village of Haworth, associated with the Brontë sisters. See what The Brontë Parsonage Museum has on offer. The Swale Trail, where families can enjoy cycling along its picturesque route through beautiful Swaledale or White Scar Cave. The Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes presents an engaging and educational look at the cultural history of this region.
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Adventurous Isle of Man
Hidden in the Irish Sea, Isle of Man combines history and nature with Family Days Out. On the Isle of Man Steam Railway, visitors can make a steam train journey through rich scenery and pretty villages. Walk through time in the medieval castle of Castle Rushen. Coastal walking and birdwatching are popular pursuits along the island’s rugged coastline. At the same time, a short ferry ride across to a small nearby islet provides lawless seals and birds alike with pleasant refuge.
Fairytale Escapes in the Forest of Dean
The Forest of Dean is a fairytale refuge for families in this corner on the border between England and Wales. Visit Puzzlewood, an old woodland full of moss-covered rocks and twisted paths. It was the inspiration for J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle Earth! A network of underground caverns known as the Clearwell Caves offers an exciting excursion, while outdoor activities such as bicycling and hiking are in no shortage. Take a steam train tour of the enchanting forest through the Dean Forest Railway.
Cultural Marvels in Liverpool
Another major attraction is The Beatles Story, a museum in the famous UNESCO World Heritage site Albert Dock. World Museum Families can discover the interactive exhibits of world culture, admire the Merseyside Maritime Museum, and cross River Mersey by ferry to enjoy a panoramic view over Liverpool’s skyline. Guaranteed a vibrant Family Days out is Liverpool’s diverse culinary scene.
Epic Family Days out in the Brecon Beacons
The Brecon Beacons National Park is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and families. The highest peak in southern Britain, Pen y Fan, is an easy hike to the summit with a rewarding view of local landscapes. Tour underground caves with stalactites and stalagmites at the Dan-yr-Ogof Showcaves, or go for a scenic canal boat trip along the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal. And the park’s dark skies make it a great place to gaze at the stars. It lends your night-time escapades an element of magic.
Serene Moments on the Shetland Islands
If you’re looking for a remote and tranquil Family Days out, the Shetlands are where to set your sights. With a mix of Nordic and Scottish influences, these isles lie northeast of the mainland. Visitors can go to the archaeological site Jarlshof, which contains traces of life over 40 centuries; there is also nature watching for seals, puffins, and orcas. Visitors are introduced to Shetland’s Viking heritage through Up Helly Aa, which is held yearly in Lerwick. It is a blazing spectacle.
Quaint Villages of the Northumberland Coast
It is an area of idyllic charm, where limestone formations and picturesque villages break rolling hills clothed with heather. Make a trip to the town of Haworth, associated with the Brontë sisters. See what The Brontë Parsonage Museum has on offer. The Swale Trail, where families can enjoy cycling along its picturesque route through beautiful Swaledale or White Scar Cave. The Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes presents an engaging and educational look at the cultural history of this region.
FAQs
Why is the Isle of Skye in Scotland such a great family spot?
You don’t get something for nothing. With its dramatic scenery and mysterious image, the Isle of Skye combines thrills with culture. Fok hits take families to ideal scenic spots such as the Old Man of Storr, fairy pools, and Dunvegan Castle. Boating trips along the coastline lend a taste of wildlife. Family Days out and make Skye an unforgettable destination for nature-loving families looking to combine history with natural beauty.
How family-friendly is the Forest of Dean, and what can we do there?
Families can enjoy a fairytale escape in the Forest of Dean, which lies on the border between England and Wales. The maze-like paths of Puzzlewood and fairytale depths of Clearwell Caves provide magical adventures, while other outdoor pursuits such as cycling and hiking put you in touch with nature. There is a nostalgic touch to journeys by steam train through the ancient woodlands of the Dean Forest Railway, which provides an excellent family bonding and exploration environment.
What cultural experiences can families enjoy in Liverpool, and is it suitable for all age groups?
Liverpool, a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, caters to all age groups. The Albert Dock houses The Beatles Story and the Merseyside Maritime Museum, providing interactive exhibits for families. Ferry rides across the River Mersey offer panoramic views, and the city’s diverse culinary scene ensures everyone in the family finds something to enjoy. Liverpool’s lively atmosphere and historical significance make it a captivating destination for cultural exploration.
How family-friendly are the Norfolk Broads, and what activities are available for children?
The Norfolk Broads, a river and lake network, provides a family-friendly aquatic adventure. Renting a boat for a cruise offers a unique way to explore picturesque landscapes and charming villages. Children can enjoy wildlife spotting, fishing, and watersports. Wroxham, known as the ‘Capital of the Broads,’ offers family attractions like Wroxham Barns, featuring a craft village and a junior farm, making it an ideal destination for families with children.
What makes the Shetland Islands a serene and remote family destination?
The Shetland Islands, situated northeast of mainland Scotland, offer a serene and remote escape. Families can explore the archaeological site at Jarlshof, showcasing thousands of years of history, and embark on wildlife-watching tours to witness seals, puffins, and orcas. The annual Up Helly Aa festival provides a cultural experience, and the islands’ Nordic and Scottish influences create a unique backdrop for families seeking tranquility and a touch of Viking heritage.
Closing Thoughts
Britain’s varied scenery and rich history make it the perfect setting for unforgettable family days out. Whether it’s wandering among mythical Scotland, solving the riddles of Wales, savoring the cultural wonders of England, or exploring Jurassic Coast seaside miracles on your doorstep, whether you head to historical treasures across Northern Ireland or cannonball through any number of water-based activities from windsurfing and rock climbing at Devon & Cornwall Well then, pack your bags and head out to explore the magic of Britain. Inspired by AWE365: Best UK Family Adventures in Britain
Looking For More British Family Days Out? Start Here:
- Belfast Peace Walls – The Black Cab Tour
- Castle Howard – Yorkshires Brideshead Revisited
- Chatsworth House – England
- Harewood House – England
- Harrogate Majestic Hotel: A Luxurious Stay in the Heart of North Yorkshire
- North Yorkshire England – The Complete Guide
- Turkish Baths In Harrogate, England
- York – The Heart Of The Viking Territory
- Yorkshire Lavender Explored
- Whitby Abbey – The Complete Guide
Author Bio:
Meet Pratyush, an avid explorer, and storyteller passionate about uncovering the world’s wonders. With a background in cultural exploration, Pratyush weaves together narratives that celebrate the beauty of diverse landscapes and traditions.
Inspired by family days out, particularly in the United Kingdom, Pratyush encourages others to create lasting memories through travel. Join Pratyush on exciting journeys, embracing the joy of discovery and fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity.
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