family travel uk

Welcome to UK Family Travel!

Helping you discover the best of the uk.

We’re a UK-based family of 4 who has travelled the world extensively over the years, with a fair bit of UK travel in between. For a long time, we’ve been saying that we should explore our own backyard more. We’ll be exploring everything the beautiful British isles have to offer and on this UK Family Travel site, we aim to share our experiences and our knowledge. Browse around for the very best things to do in the UK with kids and to help you plan your next UK family holiday.

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Family Tours & Trips in UK and Great Britain

With Hogwarts-style castles dotted in a land full of myths and legends, it's hard not to get spellbound by the magical setting of the UK. With hearty pub-style feeds, ancient cities full of attractions, and a countryside with an action-packed history,  England ,  Scotland ,  Wales  and  Ireland  present a storybook of adventures. From seaside towns in Cornwall and cozy Cotswalds cottages in the South, to the  Causeway  Coastal roadtrip and  Highland  Fling performances in the North - the  United Kingdom  is a hub of family-friendly adventures.

250+ Family tour packages in UK and Great Britain with 19,210 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

Britain and Ireland Experience (12 Days)

A fantastic well organized tour, we saw and experienced more than expected, our guide Hamish was very knowledgable and humorous and went out of his way to help. Would highly recommend Thanks Brian & Delwyn New Zealand

Britain and Ireland Delight (Summer, 8 Days)

We had an awesome experience, made possible by our tour director Damian and driver Dave. Damian’s knowledge was exceptional and Dave was an amazing driver.

Wonders of Britain and Ireland (12 Days)

Emma was amazing. Most of the accommodation was excellent especially Apex. Most places were great dealing with my dietary requirements.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Britain & Ireland Explorer (Classic, 13 Days)

We had a great holiday and highly recommend insight tours . We had lovely hotels and a fantastic tour guide who was very knowledgeable with places and the history.

Britain and Ireland Panorama (16 Days)

Anna was amazing. I really enjoyed the trip it actually was more than I expected. Our guide ANNA really made the trip.

Best of Ireland & Scotland (Classic, 14 Days)

Greg and Arther did and excellent job above and beyond great knowledge of all the history and culture made everyone feel so welcome

• Sightseeing

Isle of Skye, Loch Ness & Inverness

The tour was absolutely amazing! Doing it this time of year (October/ November) made it even more magical (with the trees turning orange) and i was blown away by the things that we were able to do.. our tour guide, Dusty, was brilliant! Best guide I’ve had anywhere! His knowledge on the area, with some of his own cheeky stories thrown in the BEST!

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Isle of Skye & Outer Hebrides

The tour includes spectaculate natur, an exellent storyteller in the guide Rich, great castles - all in a little group.

Highland Experience's Scottish Choice

Highland Experience was a very enjoyable tour. Chris, our tour guide made the tour interesting, historical and adventurous, despite all the challenges he faced with road closures and weather conditions. Thanks for making our tour memorable. ??

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Exploring Britain & Ireland featuring England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales (Edinburgh to Dublin) (2024)

6-Day Outer Hebrides & Skye Adventure Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

The tour guide was nice and informative and entertaining. The weather was really great and Scotland is quite beautiful. It was pretty tiring though.

Exploring Britain & Ireland featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (Edinburgh to Dublin)

• Christmas & New Year

Discover Wales 5-Day Small-Group Tour from London

Neil was an excellent tour director/driver. His local knowledge as we passed thru villages was very helpful in understanding how Wales 'works'. I liked the late start in the mornings-9a.m., and the fact that we stayed for 2 nights in 2 locations. I would have liked the opportunity to walk in Snowdoniia

Essential Britain & Ireland

Very knowledgeable, professional, and courteous.

Hebrides, Skye & The Far West

Steven A was excellent, told relevant stories, waded into history in depth and for all his flippancy cared about his job. Tommy was there for the last 3 days and suffered by contrast. He had to repeat a lot of Steven’s anecdotes because the other 6 members of the tour hadn’t heard them.

What people love about Family Tours in UK and Great Britain

The driver, Billy, and tour director, Speedy, made the trip very interesting and informative. They were both very helpful. We were disappointed that some of the hotel didn’t really cater for the older tourist with rooms a fair distance from reception, climbing stairs and dragging our luggage.

I really enjoyed the trip

Travel Styles

• 10 Best Family Travel Agencies 2024
• One week in England and Scotland (for Seniors) 2024/2025

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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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Family-Friendly Attractions

The Top 18 Family Attractions in the United Kingdom

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

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

Tour the Making of Harry Potter

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

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

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

Roleplay at KidZania

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

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

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

Watch Live Theater

 Gautier Houba / TripSavvy

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

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

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

Stay at Legoland Windsor Resort

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

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

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

Get Lost in Longleat Safari Park

Mohamed Sadikeen/EyeEm/Getty Images

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

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

Wave at the Swans in Abbotsbury

Josie Elias/Getty Images

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

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

Observe Sharks

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

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

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

Explore Museums Near Ironbridge Gorge

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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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.

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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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Planning a First Trip to the UK with Kids and Teens: Our 10 Day Itinerary

July 14, 2019 by kokotg Leave a Comment

Before I get into recapping all the stuff we did in England on our trip, I want to talk a bit about the planning process and what worked and didn’t work well for us. This was our first trip overseas as a family, and I certainly don’t claim to be an expert, but I always find it helpful to read about how other people approach trip planning when I’m doing it myself and trying to nail down the elusive perfect itinerary for a new location.

In summer of 2018, my in-laws made the very generous offer to take the whole extended family (our family plus my husband’s sister’s family) to Ireland in summer of 2019. This left us with a year to plan, and we used all of that time. I’ll talk about Ireland planning later on; here I’ll stick with the ten days in England that we added on for just our immediate family at the beginning of the trip.

So first up I’ll just give you our final itinerary: where we went and what we did. Then I’ll talk about how we settled on it and how it worked out for us.

Day 0:  Atlanta to London

This actually bled over into Day 1, as we left our house at 9 AM our time and arrived at London City Airport, 3 flights later, at about 8:30 AM London time/3:30 AM EST.

Day 1: London

We were very tired, but we couldn’t check into our Airbnb until afternoon, so we dragged ourselves to the National Maritime Museum for a couple of hours.

Checked in to Airbnb and tried, with mixed success, to stay awake until a reasonable bedtime.

Day 2: London

Morning: British Museum

Lunch at Museum Tavern

Afternoon: Museum of London

Day 3: London

Vauxhall Farms

Westminster Abbey

Late lunch/early dinner at the Laughing Halibut

Treasure Trail in Westminster area

Day 4: London

Victoria and Albert Museum

Lunch at Honest Burger

Hyde Park/Diana Memorial Playground

Day 5: London

Tower of London

Day 6: London to Bath

Pick up rental car at Heathrow

Arrive in Bath and check into hotel

Dinner at Slug+Lettuce

Day 7: Bath

Roman Baths

Bath Treasure Trail

Dinner at Cosy Club

Day 8: Bath to Bakewell (Peak District)

No. 1 Royal Crescent museum in Bath

drive to Bakewell and check in to Airbnb

Day 9: Bakewell

Old House Museum

Bakewell Treasure Trail

Dinner at The Woodyard

Day 10: Bakewell

walk to Chatsworth House (bus back)

Try Bakewell Pudding

Day 11: Bakewell to Dublin!

Okay, so now for the ambitious part where I get into how we put the itinerary together and planned the trip in general.

Deciding where to go

The main decision here was whether to spend all of our time in London (with maybe some day trips to Stonehenge, et. al.) or to split the time between two or more different areas. And, as you can see, we opted for the latter. This was partially because staying in London was just far more expensive than anywhere else, but mostly because we didn’t know when we’d be back and we wanted to see as much as we could. Or as much as we could without packing up and going somewhere new every night, at any rate, because that’s not how we like to travel.

We did still spend five nights in London, which gave us a good amount of time to settle in, get over our jet lag, and hit a lot of highlights. Then we did two nights in Bath, with a stop on the way to see Stonehenge (which Dave REALLY wanted to do) and then three nights in Bakewell, in the Peak District. I can’t remember how we landed on the Peak District. I think I wanted something a little less obvious (and maybe less crowded) than, say, the Lake District or the Cotswolds, and I thought it might position us better for getting to Dublin after (although I’m not sure it really did). But, really, the kids and I had never been to England at all and Dave had been only briefly in college, so we could have gone pretty much anywhere and had plenty to do and see. As it was, we were really happy with all three of our stops and with how much time we allowed for each one.

Transportation: Getting there and getting around

I always expect living right by the busiest airport in the world to mean lots of cheap, direct flights, but it doesn’t seem to work out that way most of the time. For example, it was MUCH cheaper for us to fly out of Boston to Ireland or England than it would have been to fly straight from Atlanta. Our trip over ended up being three separate flights: Atlanta to Boston, Boston to Dublin, then finally Dublin to London. This was a lot of flights.

I was very nervous about my first transAtlantic flight, but it turned out to be no big deal. It was very smooth, and I caught up on some Doctor Who. The flight to Boston was much bumpier and less pleasant.

Getting around London via the tube is super easy and efficient. We landed at London City Airport–a tiny airport that you probably won’t see unless you’re taking a short flight from, say, Dublin like we were–and took the Docklands Light Rail first to the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich and then on to London. Our rental house was close to two different Underground stations, so it was very easy to get wherever we needed to go. Very often there was a train arriving right when we got to the station; I don’t think we ever waited more than ten minutes, and usually it was much less. It was definitely the best and easiest to navigate public transportation system I’ve ever used.

We rented a car at Heathrow when we left London. Dave lost his license (and credit card) on, we would discover eventually, the very first flight to Boston. We managed to have a replacement sent while we were in Dublin, so he drove in Ireland, but it was all me in England. I can say confidently that if I had known that was going to happen, we would have stayed in London the whole time and not rented a car at all. But I did fine! I didn’t hit anything or anyone (except the curb a few times the first day)! The wrong side of the road and car thing is not the hardest thing to deal with; it’s the tiny roads you often encounter in small towns and rural areas. That and the smaller than I’d like parking lots and spaces (I’m a nervous parker under the best of circumstances).

But the single worst part was driving in Bath at the end of my first day of driving. I had triumphantly taken us all to Stonehenge and then most of the way to Bath without incident. Then we took a wrong turn just before we got into Bath. “This CAN’T be right!” I shrieked as I started driving down a road about the width of the average bike path in the US. It was not right. We had to get turned around and make a very tricky turn to get headed in the right direction again, and it was all downhill from there. First I somehow managed to activate a setting on the rental car that prevented the car from going over 20 miles per hour, only it took me a long time to figure out that it was that and not just a suddenly broken car, so the people behind me LOVED that. Then we got into Bath itself, which is a very old city with a maze of tiny one way roads and a ton of traffic. We were just trying to find the carpark where we were going to leave the car while we were staying there, but it took way longer than it should have owing to our less than direct route. We finally made it, and I was very, very happy.

So narrow roads and all that aside, renting a car great if you want to see areas outside of London. We considered getting around with public transportation, but there really wasn’t a reasonable (time or money-wise) way to, for example, get from London to Stonehenge and then on to Bath. If you’re coming from the US or Canada, everything in England will feel very close together. I was nervous about gas prices in Europe, but honestly, between how short the drives were and how fuel-efficient the cars were (even the big 8 passenger van we had in England), it wasn’t a big deal at all. We pre-paid 70something pounds for the rental car in England and wished we hadn’t because we ended up using only about half a tank in the 5 days we had it (we were told it would save money to do it that way if we returned it with less than a quarter of a tank). We used it exclusively for traveling between towns; once we got to our destination we parked and explored mostly on foot.

And then we dropped off the rental car at the Manchester airport after leaving Bakewell and took three trains and a ferry to get to Dublin. We went back and forth about the ferry vs. flying to Dublin, but finally decided that it would be fun to take the ferry and save a little money over flying and that we were really getting plenty of airplane time in on this trip already. I’ll try to do a separate post about our Rail Sail experience. To sum up: the ferry itself was great, but the transportation on either end was a little logistically challenging.

Surviving the first day:

If you fly from the US to England, you’ll very likely arrive early in the morning, which is to say in the middle of the night according to your body. And this after a very long, tiring day of travel. We didn’t feel like doing anything except sleeping when we landed, but we couldn’t check in to our Airbnb for several more hours. We picked the National Maritime Museum for our first day activity for a few reasons: it was more or less on the way from the airport and wouldn’t add a lot of extra travel time; it was free, so we wouldn’t feel like we’d wasted a lot of money if we were too tired to enjoy it; it was something that we’d  like  to see but didn’t consider an absolute must see–so, again, we wouldn’t feel like we’d missed out by being too tired to explore thoroughly. This worked well for us. We sort of wandered aimlessly through the museum, saw some cool stuff through an exhausted fog, and spent a long time at the little restaurant drinking coffee and hot chocolate.

We left as soon as we could to get to our Airbnb close to check in time, and then Gus and Abe immediately fell asleep on the couch:

But we managed to wake them up after a little while, head out to the store for some dinner stuff (I think we did rotisserie chickens that first night), and keep everyone up until around 8 so we could get back on schedule. Which mostly worked. The first couple of days we were still pretty tired, though.

Oh! Ideally you’ll sleep on the plane to make that first day a little easier. But our plane from Boston took off around 6 PM, which isn’t really our bedtime, and landed around midnight our time (which is closer to our bedtime). So it wasn’t really the best window for sleep. Some of us slept a little, but certainly no one got in anything resembling a night’s sleep. Here’s what my Fitbit looked like that week; see if you can spot which night we traveled and which night was our first in London!

Where we stayed:

Finding places to stay with six people, particularly in Europe, is not always easy. I didn’t get very far into looking at hotels in London before realizing the prices for the two or even three rooms we’d need were out of reach. So an Airbnb it was! You can spend plenty on an Airbnb, too, though. We kept things relatively affordable by expanding our search outside of the typical tourist areas (while still making sure to find somewhere with good transportation options).

We ended up staying in a townhouse in Kennington (not Kensington! Important distinction when it comes to price!) It was in a nice neighborhood that was convenient to everything but not at all touristy. We could walk to some things (Westminster Abbey/Big Ben, the London Eye), or it was a 5 minute walk to the closest Tube station (or a 10 minute walk to Vauxhall, which was sometimes more convenient, depending on our destination) for anything else. Plenty of shopping and restaurants in the area. And the house itself was lovely, with 3 bedrooms, laundry, and a full kitchen. It came in under $300/night after all the fees.

View from the window:

For Bath, we made good use of our Chase Sapphire credit card points and booked a 2 bedroom apartment at the Halcyon Hotel . We loved it here: great central location, everything within easy walking distance, nice apartment, and it came with a “breakfast hamper” which means there was tons of food that was refreshed every day (cereal, muffins, coffee, milk, orange juice, eggs, bacon…it was magical!) This was our view:

Couple of things to note: there are several flights of stairs to walk up to get to the apartment. That’s how you get that view! There’s no dedicated parking, but there is a car park with long term parking a few blocks away. It’s 15 pounds/day, so be sure to factor that in to pricing if you’re planning to drive. And lastly, there’s no office onsite, so you’ll need to make sure to let them know when you’re planning to check in so they can make arrangements to let you in. We were running late (see above re: getting lost on the way to Bath) and had no data on our phones, so we didn’t see the e-mail they sent about how to get in once we missed our check-in window. This caused a bit of panic, but eventually we found someone at the bar downstairs who was able to help us out.

Then it was back to Airbnb-ing it in Bakewell . That’s actually how we wound up in Bakewell: I searched for Airbnbs that would fit all of us in the Peak District and Bakewell had the best one I found. This was again very centrally located and and easy walk to anything in the town. It was a tiny little place spread over 3 floors, but everything we needed for the few days we stayed. And it was only $130/night including fees!

Our only issue was that tiny parking space you see right in front of the house. I didn’t think there was any way to fit the big van we’d rented in it (and there was a smallish gate opening to get into the parking area and other cars parked right across from that space). Our host came over to make sure we’d gotten settled and direct us to some free on street parking at the edge of town….and when he did this he swung expertly into that tiny space in his big SUV like it was nothing at all! But I’m not experienced with UK parking, so I was happy to leave it outside of town and walk. There did not seem to be any overnight paid parking available anywhere in Bakewell (there are several car parks, but as far as we could tell they all prohibited overnight parking), which was a little frustrating.

How we plan:

I’ve given you the final itinerary meaning what we actually did. But, of course, it bears little resemblance to the first draft itinerary or, in fact, to the proposed itinerary the day we arrived in London. I’m an obsessive planner, and I love nothing more than spending winter evenings planning every detail of summer trips. But I believe that the key to being a happy obsessive planner is being flexible when it comes to the actual execution of said obsessive plans.

A bit more about what the whole process looks like (I’ll focus on London, for simplicity’s sake): First I made a list of all the things I wanted to see in London, divided into “must sees” and “maybes.” Then Dave broke out the map (virtually speaking) and we started to group things together by geographic area and figure out what things it would make sense to do on the same day. Then we added potential restaurants in the area for each day. Dave likes spreadsheets, so he put all of this into a spreadsheet. I don’t like spreadsheets (at least not making them), so I did a more narrative day by day with more extensive notes about each day’s plan. Then when we got to London everything went totally out the window! Just kidding. But things did get moved around quite a bit depending on our moods and the weather, and we ended up doing way less than what we had on the itinerary (the itinerary is intentionally more aspirational than realistic).

How the obsessive planning worked out for us/what we’d change:

We were all pretty happy with our London experience. I wish we’d managed to see more but 1. I always wish we’d managed to see more and 2. We were really tired the first couple of days. Beyond that, a few fairly random notes:

*The British Museum was one of the first things we did, and we weren’t quite prepared for how SUPER crowded it was. We were also worried that everything in London was going to be that crowded and relieved to find out that was not the case. In retrospect, we might have saved the British Museum for later in the trip when we were a little more well rested and able to get an earlier start to beat the crowds. Going later in the afternoon might have been another option.

*We had tickets (free) for the Sky Garden, which we’d planned to see as an alternative to the very pricey London Eye. We’d booked the tickets weeks in advance, but when the day arrived it was rainy and cold; we’d spent the morning shivering at the Tower of London and just wanted to get inside…so we skipped it, reasoning we likely wouldn’t be able to see much anyway through the clouds. I have some regrets about not seeing London from up high, but given that the tickets needed to be booked in advance, I’m not sure how we could have done things differently.

*The Victoria and Albert was the surprise hit in London. It was like a way less crowded British Museum! It was a last minute addition to the itinerary; originally we’d planned on doing the Natural History Museum instead, but Gus really doesn’t like taxidermy, so we thought this might be a better plan.

*We did the Tower of London all wrong. We somehow ended up going on the most miserable day of the trip, weather-wise, which made things unpleasant. And then we had big plans to get there right when it opened, only we went on a Monday when it opened an hour later than usual, which meant pretty much everyone got there at the same time and the lines and crowds were huge.

A few kid-specific tips:

*You’ll note that our itinerary was pretty museum-heavy. But we found that nearly every museum in London had some way or other to make for kid-friendly visits. I’ll talk more about specifics as I get to individual posts, but, for example: the British Museum has scavenger hunts you can print out before you come. The Tower of London has an app you can download with “missions” to complete while you’re there. The Victoria and Albert has  great  backpacks you can check out with tons of activities in them. And most places we encountered with audio tours had a kid or family friendly option (Westminster Abbey, Stonehenge, the Roman Baths).

*I mentioned that we did several Treasure Trails in the itinerary. I came across these in some blog post or other pre-trip and ordered a few because they weren’t too expensive. These are scavenger hunts that take you all over a town or part of a city solving clues. I wasn’t sure how much we’d get into them, but they turned out to be a great addition to the trip. I always feel like we should spend more time just wandering around when we’re in new cities, and this was kind of a way to do that but with a little direction so it didn’t feel aimless (which equals fewer complain-y kids) and so that we were actually seeing very cool stuff–little tucked away streets, pretty parks, etc. The theming (a treasure hunt! a spy mission!) was VERY loose, but no one much cared. Super fun. I wish I could find something similar for everywhere we visit!

*In the UK, Ireland, and Canada, we’ve found family rates at museums and attractions to be very common. Make sure to check for these wherever you go! And if your kids are too old to be kids for admission purposes, most places at least have a student rate.

I’ll end this (very long!) post here. Much more to come about specific places we went!

Any questions about things I’ve left out? Any planning tips of your own you’d like to share?

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12 of the best family adventures in the UK

It’s adventure all the way with these active, creative and educational UK experiences for children and teenagers, from a week-long outdoor expedition to an evening in a planetarium. 

If we adopted a child’s-eye view of the world, how would we choose to have fun? It’s likely to be about more than the usual incentives, such as an ice cream, suggests research from Nature Communications . According to the journal, children as young as four seek experiences that deliver positive results, guide action, answer questions about the world — and are just plain fun. Whether it’s getting up-close with crustaceans on a rockpooling adventure, diving into a good book at a literature festival, learning to surf, taking to the stage or gazing at the stars, these 12 UK-based experiences deliver hands-on learning and creativity.  

1. Safaris with the Rock Pool Project Plymouth, Devon and Falmouth, Cornwall

Few activities for kids get as close to exploring alien worlds as rockpooling, in which bizarre-looking marine invertebrates reveal themselves with every rock or shell inspection. From shape-shifting sea hare slugs to spiky urchins, there’s plenty of marine wildlife to discover on the South West coast — but it’s after dark that this unique ecosystem gets really interesting. Fluorescent snakelocks anemones glow green under UV light while pink starfish flex their knobbly arms as they move between pools. A marine biologist leads the activity, teaching how to identify the creatures and demonstrating ethical and responsible ways to explore the rockpool habitat — a habitat that is highly sensitive to wandering hands and feet.

How to do it: The Rock Pool Project runs day and night safaris all year round in Plymouth and Falmouth. Specialist equipment is supplied. Wear suitable shoes with good grip to protect against sharp rocks and warm, waterproof clothing. Group tickets (maximum four people) cost £59.

2. Belfast Children’s Festival 8-16 March 2024, Belfast, Northern Ireland

Hosted by Young at Art , an educational organisation catering for the needs of babies, children and young adults, this festival promises “events to entertain, surprise and delight.” Things get a little crazy at the Baby Rave, the festival’s most popular event. Held in Belfast Cathedral, the dance party is suitable for toddlers up to four years old who don’t mind getting lost amid colourful parachutes and inflatables. Elsewhere, expect interactive painting, dancing and theatre workshops, with performances by local students.

How to do it:   Events are ticketed separately and cost a maximum of £10 each (2+ years). Initiatives are in place to assist children with special educational needs or disabilities.  

3. The Children’s Garden at Kew Richmond, London

One of the most extensive botanical gardens in the world, The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew features multiple unique attractions, including a dedicated area designed specially for young minds. The Children’s Garden at Kew is an enchanting space that is home to interactive play areas, hands-on planting beds and treetop walkways that celebrate the world’s flora. The garden hosts educational workshops too, aimed at shining a light on the ecological significance of plants. All of this is set over four distinct zones: earth, air, water and sun — everything a plant needs to survive. Quiet Garden Sessions are aimed at children with special educational needs and disabilities, and take place once a month from March to October. Visitor numbers are reduced for those sessions, and there are specialists onhand to host the sensory play.

How to do it: The Children’s Garden is fully accessible, with a supervising member of staff onhand every day during busier months. Tickets are required for the Quiet Garden Sessions (free, maximum four children). Children’s entry tickets for Kew cost £5 (ages 4-15).  

4. Lilidorei Play Village at Alnwick Garden Alnwick, Northumberland

Having masqueraded as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films, the diminutive market town of Alnwick and its centuries-old castle have hit the headlines again. Lilidorei, touted as the world’s largest adventure play structure, opened in June 2023. The £15.5 million project, brainchild of the Duchess of Northumberland, is in the Alnwick Garden, next to the castle. The plastic-free play village has plucked scenes from fairytales and brought them to life — think Hansel and Gretel’s gingerbread house, hidden among conifers, and a gigantic elves’ castle that conceals a 24m slide.

How to do it: Tickets £16.50 ( Lilidorei only, not the castle) and under 2s are free. Wheelchair-accessible.  

5. West End Stage Summer School 5-11, 12-18 or 19-25 August 2024, Covent Garden, London

Drama, dancing and singing masterclassesfrom the pros, and tickets to thrilling West End theatre shows — as well as a chance to perform at the 1,200-seat His Majesty’s Theatre in Haymarket — are the highlights of these week-long summer schools. West End actors and choreographers are the tutors, and the kids will come away with a certificate and a T-shirt, as well as skills and memories to last a lifetime.

How to do it: The course plus seven nights’ accommodation costs £1,345 per person (£695 without accommodation).  

6. Bath Children’s Literature Festival September/October 2024, Bath, Somerset

Kids can jump into their favourite tales and meet best-selling authors and illustrators at this book bonanza. Alongside storytelling sessions and film screenings, children can practise their wordsmithery at writing workshops and illustrate their own comic heroes, villains and monsters. In 2023, Lenny Henry, Cressida Cowell, Dermot O’Leary and Katherine Rundell met fans and gave readings, and there were events focusing on themes such as nature and mystery.

How to do it: Tickets are sold for specific events and vary in price.  

7.   Outer Reef Adventure Activity Weekend Pembrokeshire, south-west Wales

Amid the UK’s only national park designated for its coastline, Pembrokeshire’s reef breaks draw surfers from all over the country. This corner of Wales is excellent for beginners too, as gentler waves make training more accessible. On Outer Reef ’s adventure weekends, kids can learn to surf and paddleboard like pros. Training is fully supervised — and, for the adventurous, there are thrilling trips out to sea.

How to do it:   From £160. All specialist equipment is included; accommodation and meals are not.

8. Night Sky Live Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium, Hampshire

Kids can indulge their interest in space at Winchester’s stellar planetarium. At the Night Sky Live event, they hear about the stars and learn to identify planets and constellations. Afterwards, they head outside to explore the sky above South Downs National Park (an International Dark Sky Place) with a stargazing guide.

How to do it: Tickets cost £15 and include a planetarium show , visits to science exhibitions, an expert-led outdoor session and a stargazing guide to take home.  

9. Teen Research Expedition Hebrides, Scotland, 27 July to 2 August 2024

Budding environmentalists aged 16-17 can join the Hebridean Whale & Dolphin Trust on this seven-day expedition in the Southern Hebrides. Garnering industry-recognised marine biology and conservation skills, they’ll learn from leaders in the field. Wild and remote Scottish isles are visited en route, including Mull, Islay, Jura and Tiree. There’s plenty of time to catch sight of rare marine wildlife and to make lifelong friendships.

How to do it:   A spot on the expedition costs £1,450 per person and includes transfers, meals, accommodation and specialist kit.  

10. Adventure Summer Camp Conwy, North Wales, from July 2024

Orienteering, coasteering, kayaking, hiking and rock climbing are on offer for 12 to 17-year-olds at this five-day camp. Hosted by the National Outdoor Centre and guided by experienced instructors, the camp’s adventures make the most of the craggy terrain in the heart of the Snowdonia National Park.

How to do it:   £749 (or £469 non-residential). No previous experience is required, with easier and more challenging routes available to cater to mixed abilities. Bunkhouse accommodation with wi-fi, and specialist equipment are included.  

11. Co-op Live Arena Etihad Campus, Manchester, from April 2024

Concerts from Olivia Rodrigo (3-4 May), the Jonas Brothers (17 June) and former One Directioner Niall Horan (27 August) are among the first attractions at Manchester’s new, music-focused indoor arena. Set to open in April 2024, it prioritises sound quality and innovative audiovisual experiences, with capacity for 23,500 people.  

How to do it:   Concert tickets can be booked online. Co-op members receive first dibs and discounts. The venue is wheelchair-accessible and has assisted hearing technology. Under-14s must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.  

12. Forest Live Cannock Chase, Staffordshire; Delamere Forest, Cheshire; Thetford Forest, Suffolk; The National Arboretum, Gloucestershire, June 2024

A small but perfectly formed area of outstanding natural beauty, Cannock Chase is among the venues for these woodland-based music festivals. The 2023 lineup included Jack Savoretti, and 2024’s stars will be announced in the spring. Ecologists ensure wildlife disturbance is minimised, while profits support the forests’ sustainability.

How to do it: Day tickets from £44.50. No overnight camping allowed. Under-16s must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.  

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• OBSERVATORIES

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Italy Family Vacations

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

• By Anna Tobin
• July 10, 2023

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

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

Family-Friendly Places to Visit in the UK

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

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

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

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

The Cotswolds

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Save Wales and Northern Ireland for your next trip.

Relevant Links:

Browse all accommodations and activities in the UK on Ciao Bambino

52 tips for traveling in England with kids

Best castles in England to visit with kids

8 favorite day trips from London with kids

The best London museums for families

Travel back in time in historic York, England with kids

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

Our favorite luxury hotels in Scotland with kids

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Let Ciao Bambino! Plan Your Dream Trip with Kids

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The Best UK TRAVEL BLOG for Family Travel

INSIDE: Roam the Gnome’s UK Travel Blog for Family Travel Inspiration in Great Britain & London. Updated 2019.

Hi! Thanks for popping by ROAM THE GNOME Family Travel Website.

Want a one-stop shop for SUPER DOOPER FUN ideas & activities for family travel in the UK with Kids? You are in the right spot.

Scroll around our Roam the Gnome UK Travel Blog posts and you’ll find:

• playground reviews
• first-person stories
• video clips of our travels (we are striving to become better UK travel youtubers!)
• useful tips
• fun London itineraries

Disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links. If you book a product or service after clicking on one of these links, we may receive a small commission at NO extra cost to you.

Roam the Gnome’s UK Travel Blog Tips

Correct at time of publication. Please check with venue for updates. We apologise in advance if there have been any changes we are unaware of. All prices in pounds.

At Roam the Gnome, we don’t just feature the  UK or London.

You can also search other nearby cities, like Paris and Rome.

Or go further afield to New York , Tokyo and even Australia !

Our goal is for Roam the Gnome to become one of the best UK travel sites for families, and one of the best Uk travel websites in the world.

One thing we hope is that Roam the Gnome Family Travel Blog will help save you time, stress & money when planning to BOOK YOUR NEXT TRIP to the UK and London.   

FEATURED CITIES – UK WITH KIDS

London is one of our top three cities in the world to visit with kids, and our London travel blog will prove it.

Most families stick close to the centre, but you don’t have to go far by the tube or train to find more unique, epic, amazing SUPER DOOPER FUN things for kids and families.

One of our favourite places to visit in London is Stratford.

Stratford is home to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, home of TWO amazing playgrounds, a pocket of sideshow-alley style rides,  a GIANT Westfield shopping centre, and the best place for kids in London – Discover Children’s Story Centre. (Don’t miss it!)

Buckingham Palace , Kensington Gardens, and Covent Garden are wonderful London attractions, but the hoards of tourists and big crowds make it less appealing for kids.

Our tip is to dig a little deeper and save your precious time for those less touristy, but just as amazing, spots.

London has plenty! Take a look at our complete guide below.

Click here for the ULTIMATE GUIDE OF THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN LONDON WITH KIDS. 

Best Things to do in London with Kids

We love the British culture, the pageantry of the Royal life and traditions, and at least five cups of tea a day so I fit right in.

London has a spectacular collection of kid friendly London museums , super fun shopping opportunities, and awesome London playgrounds.

There’s unique London attractions such as the London Eye ( this is the tour we did ) and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, plus one of the best public transport systems in the world.

We are heading back soon, and can’t wait to bring you some more fun places to visit in London including Kidzania!

WEEKEND TRIPS

If you are visiting London, there’s a good chance that someday you’ll want to take advantage of London’s close proximity to two of the world’s greatest cities – Paris and Rome.

We’ve started to gather some of our favourite kid-friendly places to visit in Paris and Rome.

Take a peek!

Paris Travel Blog

Paris on a clear sky, blue day is perfection. Even when the wind is cold, and the air is chilly, if the sun is shining, Paris is pure magic.

Take a look at our comprehensive guide below.

Click here for the ULTIMATE GUIDE OF THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN PARIS WITH KIDS

Rome Travel Blog

Rome is the epicentre of the country that paved the way, in more ways than one, for the world we live in today.

See Roman architecture and bold works of art and sculpture, plus visit some of the most famous buildings in the world, all on one day – the Colosseum is a must do.

We LOVED the Rome Explora Children’s Museum , and highly recommend a visit. Book ahead to secure your time slot, or you might miss out.

We also found the BEST shopping street in Rome to buy leather goods and leather handbags. Take a peek here.

Rome with kids is a must-do.

Click here for the ULTIMATE GUIDE OF THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN ROME ITALY WITH KIDS

Gladiator Tour in Rome

And if you are travelling to Rome with kids, take our advice and book the Gladiator Tour in Rome.

This rates in our top FIVE travel experiences EVER!

(Pick up a Roman Gladiator dress up suit for the kids too. It’s the best souvenir in Rome for kids.)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When is the best time to go to the uk.

It depends on where you are going – England, Ireland, Scotland or Wales.

Aim to visit the northern parts of Great Britain in the warmer months – June and July for the best chance of blue skies, and warmish temperatures.

The best time to visit Ireland and Wales is in April and May, and then again in August- early October. These shoulder seasons are less busy, with milder temperatures.

The best time to visit London, and Britain in general, is on either side of the summer holiday break to avoid peak crowds.

Spring and autumn weather is pleasant for travelling and touring too.

Where should I visit for two weeks in the UK?

Plan to visit at least two or three of these iconic popular cities in Britain. Start in London for a minimum of three-four days.

• Edinburgh – Scotland’s Capital. Visit the Royal Mile shops and Edinburgh castle.
• Glasgow – Clyde waterfront
• St Andrews – famed home of the St Andrews golf course, and university.
• Bath – spectacular Georgian architecture, Roman baths
• York – wonderful Gothic architecture, narrow streets, lots of character and atmosphere
• Oxford – medieval university colleges, riverside walks
• Liverpool – home of the Beatles
• Brighton – beachside resort town, Brighton pier, old school amusement arcades
• Cornwall – Land’s End, the most southern tip of England, spectacular coastline views
• Manchester – home of one of England’s premier soccer teams, Imperial War Museum
• Lake district – beautiful scenery and landscapes that inspired many a poet and writer including William Wordsworth
• Windsor- home to Windsor castle, the location for Meghan and Harry’s wedding, and Frogmore Cottage. Also Ascot racecourse, and LEGOLAND Windsor.
• Stratford upon Avon – Visit Shakespeare’s childhood home in this medieval town around the river.
• Dover – see the White Cliffs of Dover, and Dover Castle
• Belfast – Titanic Belfast Museum, Ulster Museum, St Anne’s cathedral

What visa do I need for the UK?

Click here for details of what visa you will need for the UK.

What travel insurance do I need in the UK?

Never travel without travel insurance. Our motto is ‘if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel’.

We’ve researched lots of different travel insurance companies and have written a Travel Insurance cost comparison to work out the best travel insurance for the UK. Take a look at our findings.

What travel accessories do I need in the UK?

• UK travel adapter

Click here for more of our favourite travel products for family travel. 

LOOKING FOR MORE FUN CITIES TO VISIT WITH KIDS?

We’d love to help. Click the links in blue below for our Ultimate Destination Guides.

The ULTIMATE Roam the Gnome Guide of Things to Do in NEW YORK with Kids

The ultimate roam the gnome guide of things to do in australia with kids, the ultimate roam the gnome guide of things to do in new zealand with kids, the ultimate roam the gnome guide of things to do in tokyo with kids, the ultimate roam the gnome guide of things to do in bali with kids, the ultimate roam the gnome guide of things to do in hong kong with kids.

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Uk Family Travel

Whether its family travel breaks in the UK or romantic weekend and theatre breaks, here is what we love about the UK and all it has to offer.

Lancashire Days Out And Breaks

If you’re planning to visit Lancashire check out where to stay and what to do in the area. Including where to eat and get an ice cream.

Manchester 

Manchester days out, theatre and restaurants. Check out all that I love about Manchester and what it has to offer couples and families.

Lodge And Cottage Breaks

For a rural retreat in the UK check out some of the incredible place we have stayed in lodges and cottages in the UK and Scotland.

What to do in London, a look at some of the top London attractions and a few lesser known, for families and couples 

Center Parcs For Families

Center Parcs offers families to chance to get away from it all and spend time together. With dining options and a host of activities this is a great UK family lodge break.

Uk Country Hotel Breaks

UK country hotels that families will love, with onsite facilities and adventures for all the family or a romantic break. 

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Top 10 family weekend getaways in the UK

Whether you find pleasure in long walks in the countryside, get excited about riding a thrilling rollercoaster, or prefer canoeing on a peaceful river – the UK has plenty of attractions for family weekend breaks to offer. Not sure where to go and what to do? We’ve made a list of our top 10 family weekend getaways, and enjoyable things to do for both adults and children.

The Cotswolds | Cornwall   | Devon | Sussex |  Lake District | Snowdonia

Kent | Norfolk | Suffolk | Yorkshire

1. Family weekend getaways in the Cotswolds

For families who love nature.

The Cotswolds, located in the heart of England, is the largest ‘Area of Outstanding Beauty’ in England. With its stunning countryside, charming villages and rolling hillsides, it makes the perfect family weekend break for those who want to recharge in nature.

Family-friendly activities include:

• Blenheim Palace : Titled ‘Britain’s Greatest Palace’, the World Heritage Site just outside of Oxford represents over 300 years of history.
• Corinium Museum : Located in Cirencester, this museum showcases rare collections from the Roman and pre-historic age.
• Cogges Manor Farm : Farm animals and adventure playgrounds – Cogges Manor Farm in Witley is great for families with younger children.
• Birdland Park and Gardens : Across nine acres in Bourton-on-water you get the chance to interact with flamingos, penguins, falcons and more.

Places to stay: Our luxury cottages are the perfect place to relax and soak up new energy after a long day of walking through nature.

2. Family weekend getaways in Cornwall

For families who like to spend time at the seaside.

Being one of the hottest counties in the UK in summer, Cornwall is a popular destination due to its long, sandy beaches. Famous for Cornish pasties, ice cream, and clotted cream, Cornwall is also great for foodies.

• Newquay Zoo : From six-banded armadillos to Brazilian tapirs – at Newquay Zoo you will find various exotic animal species. On top of that, you can book special animal experiences, such as lion feeding.
• Carnglaze Caverns : This spectacular underground experience does not only include an underwater lake but is also a popular event and concert venue.
• National Maritime Museum : Right by the sea in Falmouth you can learn about Cornwall’s rich maritime heritage.
• Eden Project : Don’t want to travel to South America to visit the rainforest? Don’t worry – Cornwall’s Eden Project is the largest indoor rainforest in the world.

Looking for more things to do with your family? Check out our suggestions here .

Places to stay: Why don’t you check out our holiday homes directly by the sea? Unwind in the whirlpool or on the outside terrace and listen to the sound of the sea.

3. Family weekend getaways in Devon

For families who are into water sports.

Beautiful coastlines, national parks, and medieval towns – Devon is known for its versatile scenery. Whether you like surfing, fishing or climbing, there is always something to get stuck into.

• River Dart Country Park : Set within Dartmoor National Park, you’ll get the chance to camp, cycle a bike trail or canoe along River Dart.
• South Devon Railway : Being the longest-established steam railway in the southwest, South Devon Railway offers picturesque rides between Buckfastleigh and Totnes.
• Exmouth Beach : Whether it is kitesurfing, windsurfing or stand-up paddleboarding that you’re into – Exmouth Beach offers (almost!) every watersport you can think of.
• Golden Hinde Museum Ship : Travel back in time to the Elizabethan era – discover the first English ship to circumnavigate the world and embark on a journey with its captain Francis Drake.

For a further read on the best activities for kids in Devon, have a look at our blog .

Places to stay: Fancy a retreat with the whole family? We’ve got a wide array of holiday homes in Devon available for you.  

4. Family weekend getaways in Sussex

For families who like having a stroll on the beach.

Sussex is home to many seaside towns, including Hastings, Brighton, and Eastbourne – all of which are charming in their own way. Walking along the seafront and visiting the pier with its many arcades is a great activity for the whole family.

• Drusillas Park : Targeted towards children between 2 and 10 years, the rather small zoo in East Sussex is a great family day out.
• Lagoon Watersports : Located in both Brighton Marina and Hove Lagoon, the company offers courses ranging from wakeboarding to sailing for both children and adults.
• Bluereef Aquarium : Find Nemo and his friends in Hasting’s renowned aquarium.
• Ashdown Llama Farm : In East Sussex, you’ll have the exclusive chance to take llamas on a walk – a highlight for children and adults alike.

For more family-friendly activities in Sussex, take a look at this blog .

Places to stay: From countryside manors to seaside villas – find your dream home during your stay in Sussex.

5. Family weekend getaways in the Lake District

For families who love exploring the countryside.

The Lake District is not only the UK’s largest national park but also a World Heritage Site. The picturesque park offers both scenic walks, canoeing opportunities, and hikes, among other outdoor activities.

• Coniston Boating Centre : Rent a motorboat, or canoe, and explore the beautiful scenery around Coniston Water.
• Windermere Islands : Being the biggest lake in the Lake District, Windermere is home to over ten islands. Why not rent a boat and go island hopping?
• Langdale Valley : Split into two valleys, Langdale is a great place to discover the beauty of the Lake District with its guided walks.
• Hardknott Fort : Revisit the Roman age at this remote fort which was founded under Hadrian’s rule.

For more information about the Lake District, check out our exclusive  local guide .

Places to stay: Would you rather stay in a secluded mansion or live directly by the lake ? We’ve got options for all your desires.

6. Family weekend getaways in Snowdonia

For family weekend breaks full of hiking, biking and steam train riding.

Snowdonia must be one of the most beautiful parts of the United Kingdom. The national park includes Wales’ highest mountain and is a great spot for hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking. This corner of the world comprises some pretty incredible landscapes including wide sand bank beaches that emerge from river mouths to thickly forested mountainsides.

• Greenwood Forest Park : family day out adventures don’t come more thrilling than this. With a selection of kid-friendly rollercoasters, slides, a splash park, a dragon maze, a river ride and a treetop walkway, there’s something for every little adventurer to enjoy.
• King Arthur’s Labyrinth : an underground storytelling adventure where you’ll set sail through a magical waterfall and deep into the mountains of Southern Snowdonia and to a mysterious land of legends… This activity is ideal on one of Wales’ many rainy days!
• Snowdon Mountain Railway : take a steam locomotive to the top of the mountain and enjoy incredible views along the 1 hour journey. Don’t forget a camera – you won’t want to miss these photo opportunities.

Places to stay:  Beach house, coach house or estuary view cottage – we’ve got you covered .

7. Family weekend getaways in Kent

For families who love wildlife.

Kent, known as the gateway to France, offers a wide array of activities. While charming towns grace the seaside, cities such as Canterbury feature medieval and historic sights, perfect for an educational family weekend break.

• Wildwood : Discover British wildlife at Wildwood. In over 40 acres of woodland, you can come nose-to-nose with arctic foxes, bears, and wolves.
• Eagle Heights Wildlife Foundation : Showcasing over 50 bird species, visitors can marvel at majestic Andean condors, eagles, and more.
• Chiddingstone Castle : Nestled in the upper valley of the River Medway, the historic house displays world-renowned collections from ancient Egypt, Japan, and more.
• The Canterbury Tales : No stay in Canterbury is complete without visiting the legendary The Canterbury Tales attraction. See how the tales are brought back to life during the re-created medieval tour.

For more information on what to do in Kent with the kids (and without!), check out our blog .

Places to stay: Whether you prefer the countryside or rather stay in a farmhouse, guaranteed you’ll find a great fit among our holiday home selection .

8. Family weekend getaways in Norfolk

For families who like seaside adventures and woodland fun.

Beautiful Norfolk is renowned for its varied countryside and 45 miles of delightful coastline, opening up the county to an array of activities for a family weekend break.

• Holkham Estate : this magnificent manor house is home to a woodland adventure play area in its vast grounds where young adventurers will delight in the swing bridges, seesaws and hair-raising ziplines! What’s more, they have a fabulous roster of children’s events through the season, including outdoor theatre, tractor trailer rides, pond dipping, deer walks, bushcraft sessions and much more.
• Cromer Pier : the iconic Victorian pier at Cromer is home to a fantastic theatre with all manner of shows year-round. The kids are sure to love the talent shows, magic and pantomime that draw adoring crowds. Before the show, why not try your hand at crabbing from the edge of the pier and pick up a new sea creature friend!
• Seal spotting : take the kids to Blakeney Point to see grey seals and harbour seals lazing on the sandy spit of land or head out on a boat trip from Morston Quay. If you’re visiting in summer and are very lucky, you might even see adorable fluffy seal pups too!

Fancy a delicious meal? Have a look at our foodie recommendations in Norfolk!

Places to stay: After a busy day sightseeing, our luxury cottages are a great hideaway in the Norfolk countryside.

9. Family weekend getaways in Suffolk

For families who are interested in both heritage sites and views of nature.

Filled to the brim with natural beauty and intriguing history, Suffolk’s rural idyll is imprinted into the pages of history with Constable’s painting of the The Hay Wain. Discover picture-postcard villages and Medieval towns or head to the pretty coast.

• Go Ape Thetford : navigate hair-raising treetop crossings and make your way across a variety of obstacles to a zip-line finale!
• Anglia Indoor Kart Racing : the young racer in your will delight in storming around these awesome tracks. There are courses made for little kids and big kids alike.
• Framlingham Castle : step into history at this stunning medieval castle which has huge lawns for the kids to run on, or why not go inside to try on historical hats and play a game to find out what people ate in the past… Educational and fun!

Take a deep dive into this stunner of a county with our Suffolk Travel Guide or discover the  best beaches on our ‘sunshine coast’ .

Places to stay: from barn conversions to mega manor houses, find your next Suffolk stay .

10. Family weekend getaways in Yorkshire

For families who like outdoor activities.

We couldn’t list family weekend break ideas without mentioning God’s own country. Known for its Roman and Viking heritage, Norman castles, medieval towns, and Tudor houses can be found across Yorkshire and showcase a rich history.

• National Coal Mining Museum : Based in Wakefield, the museum provides you with the unique opportunity to travel 140 metres underground and explore England’s last deep coal mine.
• Cannon Hall Farm : At the award-winning farm you don’t only have a high chance of seeing the live birth of a piglet. Other attractions include indoor and outdoor adventure playgrounds for children.
• Flamingo Land : The name might let you think Flamingo Land only has the graceful wading birds to show. In reality, Flamingo Land comprises a theme park and zoo with various attractions for both the young and the young at heart.

Up for even more activities? Have a look here for more fun things to do.

Places to stay: Check out our beautiful range of cottages, villas, and farms in Yorkshire – they are the perfect base to explore historic sites and activities.

So, which region will you pick for your next weekend break in the UK? Let us know in the comment section below!

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28 UK Family Travel Bloggers to Follow

When I started this blog I had toddlers. It was all about the funny anecdotes all families will recognise as part of the joy of having a young family. Over the years, though life has grown no less amusing, we have added back in some of the more grown up pursuits we used to enjoy before we started a family; mostly that involves travel! Showing our kids the world – and more, watching how they enjoy the world – has been an immensely happy thing to write about, and I feel privileged to now be classed as a family travel blogger. Often I’m asked for recommendations of other family travel bloggers to read for inspiration, or to work with. So a group of us who often work together decided to put together this guide to some of the best UK family travel bloggers. I hope you will find some in this feature who are new to you, and enjoy exploring their adventures with children around the world.

Top UK Family Travel Bloggers

Daisy huntington  |  dais like these family travel blog.

Cerys Parker & Monika Roozen |   Inspireroo magazine

Katy Stern | Otis and Us Family Travel Blog 

Laura Hitchcock | Have Kids, Can Travel

Zena Goldman  | Zena’s Suitcase

Emma Raphael  | A Bavarian Sojourn

Elizabeth Callaghan  | Wander Mum

Alison Perry  | Not Another Mummy Blog

Susanna Scott A Modern Mother  

Sarah Christie | Extraordinary Chaos

Jo Addison  | Kiddieholidays

Karen Beddow  |  Mini Travellers

Lisa Jane  | Travel Loving Family

Carrie Bradley  |  Flying With A Baby

Samantha Rickelton  |  North East Family Fun

Joanne Brady  |  Kids Days Out Reviews

Clare Thomson  |  Suitcases and Sandcastles

Nell Heshram  |  Travel with the Pigeon Pair and Me

Nisbah Hussain  |  Five Adventurers

Jane Batt  |  Practically Perfect Mums

Claire Hall  |  Tin Box Traveller

Penny Alexander  |  Parentshaped Travels and Space In Your Case

Sarah Ebner  | Family Travel Times

Alice Langley  | Project: Wanderlust  

Maria Belfort | One Tiny Leap

Helen Wills | Actually Mummy

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MUMMYTRAVELS

Can you really keep travelling with a child in tow?

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Welcome to MummyTravels

Can you keep travelling with kids in tow? MummyTravels was set up to answer that question, and over the past decade my daughter and I have been proving family travel is not just possible – it’s fantastic.

I’m Cathy, and my award-winning family travel blog covers everything from the best destinations to tips, reviews and the essential products you need for family holidays. From days out in the UK to long-haul adventures, I’m sharing inspiration from around the world (over 60 countries so far) and first-hand practical advice on how to do it yourself.

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Latest Posts

London Underground with kids: tips for using the tube

Where to stay in London with kids

Tips for visiting Buckingham Palace with kids

The UK is our Motherland, and although we are seemingly always finding ways to escape her, we do keep finding our way back again. And each time we return home, we appreciate it all the more; be it the green rolling hills, the sense of humour and politeness, the quirky art, or Mum’s roast dinner. Plus, there are some very awesome adventures that we have found right on our doorstep…

Do check out our Peak District Kids website, where we share all our top tips of where to go and what to do on a family trip to the Peaks.

However, in all honesty, we don’t travel in the UK that much; so this blog isn’t really the place if you’re looking for UK travel inspiration. Although you may find something of interest below. And make sure you check out these top things to do in the Lake District with kids (it’s a place we really want to explore more of), plus this London with kids guide is a must read (as what is a visit to the UK without a trip to the capital)?

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The Family Travel Collective

We are four award-winning professional travel writers. Between us, we have written for every UK national newspaper, most major travel magazines, as well as outdoor, regional and parenting publications. We have also worked regularly for the BBC. We are experts in family travel – exploring with kids from toddlers to 20-year-olds, and have visited all five continents. 

We’ve clambered into the Cu Chi tunnels in Vietnam and wartime tunnels in Jersey, canoed in Samoa and Hampshire, hunted for dinosaurs in the Isle of Wight and fished for wahoo in the Caribbean. And all survived long-haul flights with kids.

​ We’re ready to work with you to create a huge splash for your brand or destination, click   here to find out more…

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Family Adventure Holidays & Tours

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• Family Adventure Holidays & Tours

Who needs a ball pit and a buffet when you've got the whole world to play in?

We've developed a better style of  family  travel - one that favours real-world experiences over the ones behind a screen and always includes kid-friendly accommodations and activities. Think: travelling in a tuk-tuk through the streets of  Bangkok  and kicking a football with Maasai tribespeople to catching an overnight train in  Egypt  or searching for wildlife with a wolf tracker in  Yellowstone National Park . Enjoy the journey through incredible destinations with other like-minded families eager to make memories to last a lifetime. Your sense of adventure doesn't disappear when you have kids, so why should your family holiday options be limited?

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Our Family Holidays

Vietnam family holiday, 13 days from 1325.

Experience the Asia of old on a family adventure that captures the spirit of Vietnam....

Vietnam Family Holiday Comfort

13 days from 1475.

Experience Vietnamese customs and charms on a 13-day family adventure from Hanoi to Ho...

South Africa Family Safari with Teenagers

12 days from 1630.

Enjoy this Teenage Family Adventure, while hiking, canoeing, snorkeling, rafting,...

Borneo Family Holiday

9 days from 1195.

Travel to Borneo to visit orangutan sanctuaries and explore lush jungles. See the best...

Morocco Family Holiday Comfort

10 days from 905.

Take your family on a Moroccan adventure through Casablanca, Fes, Midelt, Merzouga, Ait...

Tailor-Made trips

Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary

Morocco Family Holiday

8 days from 570.

Travel to Morocco and embark on a family adventure. Take a tour of Marrakech, relax on...

Vietnam Family Holiday with Teenagers

9 days from 970.

Get the most out of your family getaway by cycling, kayaking, walking and cruising...

Sri Lanka Family Holiday

12 days from 1424.

Discover Sri Lanka on an 11-day tour that will captivate kids and adults alike, with...

Best of Morocco Family Holiday

12 days from 955.

Looking for the best Moroccan family holiday? This trip has everything from Fes, Meknes...

Botswana Family Safari with Teenagers

10 days from 1580.

Take your family to Victoria Falls, Okavango River and Chobe National Park on this teen...

Costa Rica Family Holiday

10 days from 1510.

This family-style trip through Costa Rica begins and ends in San Jose, taking in the...

Japan Family Holiday

12 days from 4380.

Discover Japan on this 12-day family tour. Sample fresh sushi in Tokyo, soak in onsen...

Egypt Family Holiday

8 days from 1470.

Decode the secrets of the Great Sphinx and more during this family adventure through...

Turkey Family Holiday

10 days from 1745.

Discover Turkey on this family adventure through Istanbul, Goreme, Selcuk, Pamukkale...

Tanzania Family Safari

8 days from 1725.

Experience the people, culture and wildlife of Kenya and Tanzania on a small group...

Peru Family Holiday

9 days from 2080.

Visit Peru on this Family Adventure, travelling through Lima, Cusco and Aguas Calientes...

Northern India Family Holiday

10 days from 930.

Take an action-packed family tour of India, following tiger trails, visiting Delhi and...

Mexico Family Holiday

7 days from 1190.

Travel the Yucatan from Playa del Carmen through Tulum, Izamal and Merida on a 7-day...

South Korea Family Holiday

8 days from 2025.

Take an eye-opening family holiday to South Korea, and discover temples, monks, hotpot,...

Bali Family Holiday with Teenagers

8 days from 1085.

Ricepaddles, rapids, bikes and beaches – find it all as you travel to Ubud, Candi Dasa,...

Kakadu, Katherine & Litchfield Family Adventure

4 days from 920.

Set out on a camping safari through captivating Kakadu National Park. Experience the...

Summer Pyrenees Family Holiday with teenagers

8 days from 850.

Walk, ride and raft on this European adventure into the heart of the Pyrenees. Unleash...

Egypt Family Holiday Comfort

8 days from 1665.

Step back in time on an 8-day family Egyptian adventure through Cairo, Aswan and Luxor....

Best of Costa Rica Family Holiday

14 days from 2810.

Take a family adventure to the wilds of Costa Rica, starting in San Jose and visiting...

Uluru & Kings Canyon Family Adventure

4 days from 865.

Discover the best of Australia's Red Centre on a four-day family adventure with...

Egypt and Jordan Family Holiday

15 days from 3235, yellowstone and grand teton family holiday, 6 days from 3140.

Take the family on a 6-day adventure in Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks....

Borneo Family Holiday Comfort

10 days from 1525.

Discover the best that Borneo has to offer on this unforgettable family adventure...

China Family Holiday

12 days from 2445.

Travel to the Land of the Dragon and explore Beijing, Xi'an, Yangshuo, Chengdu and Hong...

Cambodia Family Holiday with Teenagers

8 days from 820.

Encounter Cambodia's complex history and welcoming culture on a small-group family...

Kenya Family Safari

8 days from 2030.

Track your way across the plains of Kenya on this thrilling safari, covering Nairobi,...

Jordan Family Holiday

8 days from 1475.

Discover lost cities on a family adventure in Jordan. From the capital Amman to the...

Thailand Family Holiday

12 days from 1525.

Enjoy the sights, culture and history of Thailand on a fun family trip. Eat yummy food,...

Japan Highlights Family Holiday

8 days from 2740.

Take a fun family adventure to Japan and visit Tokyo, Kawane, Kyoto and Osaka. Travel...

Turkey Family Holiday with Teenagers

8 days from 1200.

Exploring Turkey’s coast with your teenagers, visiting ruins in Xanthos, hiking...

Italy Family Holiday

8 days from 2125.

From the ruins of Rome, to the ancient city of Pompeii and the seaside delights of...

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Why choose intrepid.

Just for families

The clue’s in the title. These trips are for families only (including any aunts, uncles or cousins who’d like to come along, of course). As long as you’re travelling with a child under the age of 18, you’re a family in our eyes. Plus, unlike other travel companies, children aged 17 years and younger receive a 10% discount off the price of their trip.

Travel with other families

Travelling the Intrepid way is a bit like travelling with a group of friends. These trips are made up of 3–5 like-minded families, and the kids tend to hit it off straight away, allowing you to enjoy some well-earned R&R. We often find the whole family ends up making friendships with people from all over the world, staying in touch long after the adventure ends.

Small group sizes

Intrepid’s family group sizes are small enough to avoid the crowds and reach some out-of-the-way places, but big enough for a good social mix. Our average group size of 10 allows us to hop aboard local boats, buses or trains, eat at friendly, family-run restaurants and kick back in traditional accommodation and homestays.

Action packed

We know the biggest challenge on a family trip is keeping the kids entertained. So we’ve planned in advance. Nearly all of our hotels feature pools, and each day has a great mix of action-packed adventure and flexible free time. Your local leader can also suggest activities based on your kid’s hobbies or school curriculum.

Safety first

Our leaders are specially trained to run family adventures, so you’re well taken care of. You can also rest easy knowing we conduct safety assessments on all our activities to meet local standards as well as our own comprehensive safety policy. 

Sustainable travel

We strive to use travel as a force for good. That’s why we choose to give back to the communities we visit, carbon offset all our trips and take our social and environmental responsibilities seriously. We’ve been officially certified as the world’s largest travel B Corp, which means when you choose Intrepid Travel, you can rest assured you’re travelling to improve the planet.

Family favourites

Come for the biodiverse landscapes of Costa Rica and stay for the fascinating wildlife lurking in the country’s tropical wilderness. Spot three-toed sloths as they munch on their leafy food, listen out for the call of howler monkeys as they swing from tree to tree, and catch sight of a slow-moving iguana as it moves along the jungle floor – all within the extraordinary Manuel Antonio National Park. 

Rajasthan, India

With palaces, forts, festivals and wildlife encounters to take the breath away, Rajasthan in India is a must-see for all families. We stay in century-old heritage accommodation, living life like a Maharaja and Maharani. Trace the tracks of Bengal tigers in the jungle, wander through lush palace gardens, clock the famous Taj Mahal and ride the rails through the sun-kissed countryside.

Essaouira, Morocco

An artists’ town through and through, Essaouira is full of surprises. First there’s the beautiful blue-specked townscape, with its whitewashed seaside houses you could stare at for an age. Dig a little deeper and find galleries, boutiques, wood workshops and a colourful heritage of Portuguese, British, French and Jewish influences.

Loita Hills, Kenya

Nestled in the Great Rift Valley, Loita Hills is a special place. It’s the town the Maasai call home, and it’s a privilege to spend time with such a proud and joyous people. Join in the famous Maasai jumping dance and remember to get a snap of the family leaping for the sky. 

Hue, Vietnam

Deep dive into Hue - a spectacular city with a royal past - on your family adventure through Vietnam. Whether you’re excited to travel the atmospheric streets on a cyclo tour, visit ancient pagodas built for religious figures, marvel at impressive citadels fit for royalty or join members of the community for a traditional paper flower-making class at a local non-government organization, there’s a little something for everyone in this cultural country. 

If there’s a destination fit for family travel it’s Italy – think pizza and gelato making in Sorrento, scialatielli tasting (fresh pasta) in Minori, and history lessons about Mt Vesuvius while looking at the volcano itself. Packed with food and local artisan experiences, you and your kids will get a real taste of Italy while also getting the chance to appreciate the country’s breathtaking coastal scenery and learn about its captivating past. 

Where we stay

We take a lot of care in choosing your accommodation and try to avoid the big chain hotels. Your accommodation could be a locally run hotel in Europe, a jungle lodge in Latin America, or a small, family-friendly hotel. No matter where you stay, it will be of good quality, and most rooms will feature ensuites and air conditioning as standard. We also prefer hotels that provide triple or quad rooms and always try to offer adjoining rooms for parents and kids when they are available.

Learn more about accommodation

Looking for a tailor-made holiday?

If you like the sound of our style of travel but would rather holiday with just your family and friends, we can help. Most of our trips are also available as private departures and come with all the excitement and inclusions of a regular departure, but we can tweak and adjust the details until they fit just right.

Get in touch with our team , who will work with you to provide the best family travel experience for you and your family. 

Read our Family FAQs

Read more about family travel.

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Responsible travel

Little travellers like to ask the big questions. That’s where we come in. With so much for kids (and big kids) to learn from around the world – we believe in doing our bit to bring up the next generation of responsible travellers. This means educating the travel community in low-impact, sustainable travel practices and sharing ways in which we can all travel responsibly.

Learn how to travel responsibly as a family

UK Family Travel Statistics 2023

From short weekend breaks to week-long stays, there are plenty of reasons why thousands of families every year choose the UK as their holiday destination, and opt for a staycation rather than a trip abroad. Aside from avoiding the airport, many people enjoy the activities and adventures that a UK staycation can bring, with something for every generation.

Whether it’s woodland walks, coastal escapes or breathtaking scenic views, many holidaymakers relish spending time outdoors with their loved ones on a UK holiday (despite the sometimes unpredictable weather). 

Here’s our round-up of UK family travel statistics for 2022-2023, including preferred types of accommodation, spending habits, popular destinations and more.

Key Statistics

• Brits spent around £83.6bn on holidays in 2022 , with 37% of people admitting they hadn’t used their full annual leave from work because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
• 77% of people believe that spending quality time with loved ones is most important post-pandemic.
• Holidaymakers planned an average of three trips in 2022 , with almost half ( 49% ) of travellers taking trips with children .[1]
• Nearly a third (31%) of Brits describe planning a family holiday as a ‘frustrating’ experience, while one in five people (21%) think it is ‘painful’ .[1]
• Domestic holiday travel in Great Britain was most common among adults aged over 55 .[2]
• Brighton Pier was the most visited free attraction in England in 2021 with 4.26 million visitors .[4]
• The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew Garden s was the most visited paid-for attraction in England in 2021 with 1.96 million visitors .[4]
• Four in five (81%) of families book their holidays online , compared to 15% who use the phone, and 15% who use in-store travel agents.

Most popular UK destinations for family holidays

According to a survey by Holiday Cottages, Cornwall was named as Britain’s favourite staycation destination in 2022.[3] The company also found that the search terms ‘family holiday resorts UK’ also increased by 130% in 2022, with many people looking to holiday in the UK rather than jetting abroad. According to the same survey, the five biggest staycation destinations in the UK are as follows:

1. Cornwall

Searches for ‘Cornwall family breaks’ were up 100% in 2022, with plenty of Brits opting for staycations on the Cornish coast. Many people head to Cornwall for the great surfing and beaches, hoping to catch a wave in places like Newquay, St Ives and Bude. Cornwall topped the list for the best staycation destination with children, with popular attractions for families such as the Eden Project, museums and theme parks.

2. North Wales

North Wales boasts over 400 castles and plenty of stunning scenery to explore, making it ideal for family staycations. ‘Family accommodation North Wales’ was one of the biggest staycation search terms in 2022. Conwy Castle remains one of the most popular destinations, as well as plenty of outdoor activities, theme parks and beaches.

3. The Lake District

The Lake District offers 16 beautiful lakes to explore, and a National park where families can enjoy plenty of fresh air and the great outdoors. There are lots of activities for families to get involved in like walks, kayaking, cycling and more. There are also plenty of theme parks like the Go Ape! Adventure centre and National Trust properties.

4. Scottish Highlands

Searches for ‘family resorts in Scotland’ were up 51% in 2022, and it’s easy to see why. A plethora of castles, beaches, national parks and driving routes are there to explore in this region. The Highlands are also a big attraction for nature lovers, with animals such as deer, red squirrels and humpback whales calling the place home.

With plenty of walking trails, the beautiful broads and lots of family holiday parks, Norfolk is the nation’s fifth most popular staycation destination. Beaches, funfairs, theme parks and boat trips can be found, with plenty of things to do for those who love getting outdoors in nature.

The top 8 most visited free attractions in England

England is home to some of the most visited attractions in the UK, and many of these include free attractions which don’t require you to purchase a ticket before visiting. 

Visit Britain compiles an annual survey of visits to visitor attractions, giving an overview of the attraction sector in the UK and highlighting hotspots. Based on the last survey from 2021, these were the top 8 most visited free attractions in England.

In 2021, Brighton Pier had the most visitors at over 4.26 million, followed by the Natural History Museum at 1.57 million. Other popular free attractions included the British Museum (1.32 million visitors), and Abbey Gardens in Bury St Edmunds (1.27 million). 

All of the top attractions saw a decline in visitor numbers from 2019 to 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic restricting travel and social gatherings. However, visitor numbers for 6 out of the top 8 attractions increased from 2020 to 2021 as restrictions were lifted.

The top 8 most visited paid-for attractions in England

There are plenty of top attractions in England that do require visitors to purchase a ticket or pay a fee to enter. The list below shows the most visited paid-for attractions in England between 2019 and 2021.

The Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew Gardens was the most popular paid attraction in 2021, with 1.96 million visitors, followed by Chester Zoo with 1.6 million visitors. Other popular paid attractions in England include RHS Garden Wisley (1.41 million visitors) and Windermere Lake (1.06 million visitors).

Again, visitor numbers dropped from 2019 to 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions, but all of the top paid-for attractions saw a recovery in visitors in 2021, albeit not to the same numbers as in 2019.

UK family holiday spending statistics

According to Property Investor Today, (28%) of Brits would only pay between £251 and £499 for a week’s holiday in the UK. A quarter of people would pay between £500 and £749. Interestingly, these budgets do not meet the current market costs, with a week-long staycation in St Ives costing £1,263, and a week in Bournemouth costing £958.[5]

Two-thirds of Brits don’t think about money on holiday

A survey of 2,500 Brits conducted by Staysure revealed that two-thirds of Brits (66%) ‘won’t put a price on having fun’, and don’t like to think about money when they’re on holiday. On average, a UK holidaymaker allocates £420 per person as a weekly spend while on holiday.[6] UK holidaymakers spend up to £4,000 on holidays per year, whether those trips are at home or abroad.

83% of Brits prioritise accommodation when budgeting for a holiday

When planning for a holiday, 83% of Brits think first about where they are going, with 83% budgeting for their accommodation as a priority. This is closely followed by spending money (81%) and transportation (80.5%). 16-24 year-olds are the biggest group of people that plan to spend money on holiday, and they budget more for this than anything else.

77% of 16-24 years olds budget for having holiday spending money in comparison to 72% of Brits who budget for accommodation. 62% of Brits set themselves a daily budget when on holiday. People over 55 were less likely to have budgets, which may be because they have more financial flexibility if they feel like splashing the cash on an indulgent purchase or a luxury meal.

The majority of Brits (82.5%) budget up to £60 per day to cover food, drink and family activities when on holiday.

1 in 5 Brits don’t stick to their holiday budget

(17.49%) of Brits rarely or never stick to a holiday budget. A quarter of these are over 55s, (26.38%). This is in comparison to 60% of 16-24 year olds who often stay within their budget. 1 in 4 people blow their budget by £41-50 per day. (19.39%) claimed to overspend by an average of £67 per day.[6]

Cash is still popular for staycations

According to a Post Office survey in 2022, which focused on British staycationers’ spending habits, 76% of British travellers have gone on a UK-based holiday in the last five years (between 2017-2022). Over half of Brits planned a holiday in the UK in 2022 rather than going abroad.

The survey also suggested that despite the increase in popularity of digital spending methods and cashless alternatives, cash was still the number one method of payment for Brits during a staycation.[7] British holidaymakers apparently carry twice as much cash with them when on holiday in the UK compared to their everyday lives, with many people carrying an extra £50 more in their wallets. 40% of people surveyed claimed that carrying cash enabled them to budget more easily and keep track of their spending.

When looking into situations where Brits were most likely to use cash for holiday spending, paying for ice cream was the top reason, followed by paying for parking and tipping. 71% of Brits that went on a staycation in 2022 took out cash before leaving to go on holiday. No cash for parking was identified as the most common financial problem. A third (31%) admitted to having run out of cash and being caught out. One in five Brits (21%) found themselves without cash for using public toilets. 

Accommodation types

Data from Google search results shows that Uk holidaymakers can be quite specific when it comes to the types of accommodation they look for and the amenities that interest them. By analysing searches relating to the phrase ‘staycation UK’ we found some of the most popular features people look for in their staycation.

The most popular search topics included ‘hot tub’ with 400 monthly searches, and ‘cottage’ with 350 monthly searches. This was followed by searches for other amenities shown in the table below.

How often do UK families travel

Data from a survey on UK family holiday habits found that the average UK family takes 3.4 holidays per year in total, with 1.8 in the UK and 1.6 abroad. Young families with children under 5 take the most holidays each year, with 2.2 in the UK and 1.8 abroad.

People under 45 with no children at home take the fewest holidays each year, with 1.7 holidays in the UK and 1.6 abroad. 

Average number of holidays per person by life stage

How uk families book their holidays.

The most common ways for families to book holidays in the UK is online, with four in five (81%) of people choosing to book a trip this way. Other methods of booking holidays included using the phone (15%) and visiting an in-store travel agent (15%). People aged 65 and over were the most likely to book a holiday over the phone, with over a quarter (26%) using this method. Families with children are the most likely group to book a holiday via an in-store travel agent with 22% of people in this category booking a holiday in that way.

Some respondents may have used more than one method for booking their holiday meaning percentages do not add up to 100.

[1] The Year of the Big Family Holiday: Brits Set to Spend Over £80bn on Family Holidays this Year – https://www.hospitalitynet.org/news/4110705.html  

[2] Share of Domestic Overnight Holiday Trips Taken in Great Britain in 2019, by Lifecycle – https://www.statista.com/statistics/1125216/domestic-vacations-in-the-uk-by-family-status/  

[3] Cornwall Named as UK’s Top Holiday Destination for 2022 – https://www.falmouthpacket.co.uk/news/20161284.cornwall-named-uks-top-holiday-destination-2022/  

[4] Annual Survey of Visits to Visitor Attractions, Visit Britain – https://www.visitbritain.org/annual-survey-visits-visitor-attractions-latest-results  

[5] What is the Ideal Staycation for Today’s Brits? – https://www.propertyinvestortoday.co.uk/breaking-news/2021/6/insight–what-is-the-ideal-staycation-for-todays-brits  

[6] How Do You Budget for Holidays? Staysure – https://www.staysure.co.uk/discover/uk-holiday-budget-report/  

[7] Cash Still King for UK Staycationers, Post Office – https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/en/blogs/2022_07/cash-still-king-for-uk-staycationers  

[8]  Ahrefs Google search data –  https://ahrefs.com     

[9] UK Holiday Habits Report, ABTA – https://www.abta.com/sites/default/files/2018-10/Holiday%20Habits%20Report%202018%20011018.pdf  

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7 top family travel trends for 2021 (and beyond)

Top family travel trends 2021 have been a bit slower to emerge this year. But it’s clear that not being able to travel much hasn’t stopped families thinking about travel, a lot. And while it might be tough to put a positive spin on the past 12 months or so, after a period of enforced reflection, it looks like we’re set to treasure even a weekend away more than we ever did before.

Family travel trends #1: UK staycations

Appreciating the simple things in life is definitely one of this year’s top family travel trends. We’re not taking local adventures for granted any more. Days out are a big deal. And a whole weekend break is the new short-haul holiday. There’s a good chance we’ll go back to casually flying four hours for some sun – a bit of that normal would be nice. But for now, the main focus is on the UK and rediscovering home territory all over again.

Find family travel trends for UK staycations this summer

Family travel trends #2: multi-gen family holidays

Multi-generational holidays are probably the least surprising of all this year’s family travel trends. According to a recent Family Traveller reader survey, the pandemic has made 68% of families more likely to plan a multi-gen break as soon as UK restrictions are lifted. And, as grandparents and parents have missed out on so many family celebrations over the past year, it also seems likely that multi-gen holidays will be an increasingly popular way to mark milestones in 2021.

Take a look at how multi-gen family holidays work best

Family travel trends #3: responsible travel

Although responsible holidays aren’t new family travel trends, in 2021 they come with an added layer of responsibility. With the global tourism industry so badly hit by the pandemic, a lot of families are factoring recovery into their travel and looking at destinations which are both, safe to visit and in need of some support. European countries like Spain, Croatia, Greece, Cyprus and Portugal all rely heavily on tourism and all are hopeful of reopening to UK visitors before summer 2021. If you’re planning to go to any of these countries this year, you might want to swap Spain’s busier costa for the Basque Country; think smaller Greek islands or north on the Peloponnese Peninsula, and maybe consider Portugal’s west coast instead of the Algarve.

Family travel trends #4: bucket list boosting

Make every minute count is the lesson most of us have learned over recent months. In terms of family travel trends that’s translated into a passion for compiling bucket lists and making plans to tick off as many places as possible in the near future. Machu Picchu is still number one. But great train journeys of the world are featuring more prominently since early 2020. Road trips are rising stars too, with newbies like Scotland’s North Coast 500 challenging established legends like Route 66. Tanzania and Kenya sit in their usual pole position for the Great Migration, but the Okavango Delta is giving Botswana a well deserved safari slot on most family bucket lists right now.

Family travel trends #5: slow travel

Connecting is very much this year’s mood, so it was almost inevitable that slow travel would make it on to the list of family travel trends for 2021. Slow travel is all about experiencing local life and culture, learning about destinations at a grass roots level, giving back to local communities and leaving nothing behind, apart from goodwill. If you’re new to family slow travel, Experience Travel Group is a good place to start.

Find more authentic family travel trends for 2021

Family travel trends #6: adventure holidays

Since getting out into the fresh air became a bit of a luxury, real adventure holidays have become yet another seize-the-moment family holiday trend for 2021. Nowhere does wild adventure better than Iceland and it recently reopened borders with fairly straightforward guidelines. If your heart’s set on on finding limitless thrilling activities for kids, this is the place for all that. Despite the name, Iceland’s summers tend to be mild and it’s an amazingly easy country to travel around, even at its most remote. And if you want Northern Lights before winter sets in too hard, they can often be seen just outside Reykjavik as early as mid-September.

Family travel trends #7: wildlife in the wild

Lower levels of traffic, quieter cities, fewer people out and about, resulted in quite a few miracles of nature being spotted all over the UK in the past year. Deer were even seen wandering around the centre of semi-deserted Glasgow at one point. So it’s not too much of surprise to discover a surge of interest in wildlife holidays, though this year family travel trends are pointing towards observing wildlife in the wild. And from gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to whale watching off the coast of Iceland or walking safaris in Zambia, this is one trend that encompasses quite a few of the others on the 2021 list.

Find out more about family wildlife travel this year

Looking for more 2021 family travel trends? Check out UK summer festivals for families to book right now. Don’t forget to follow Family Traveller on Facebook  and  Instagram  for more travel ideas, news and updates – or just to say ‘hi’.

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Tributes paid to woman found dead in Surrey hotel as man charged with murder

Samantha Mickleburgh, 54, was ‘loved by many’ and an ‘incredible mother’, her family said

The family of a businesswoman found dead in a luxury Surrey hotel have paid tribute to an “incredible mother” who was “loved by many”.

Samantha Mickleburgh, 54, was found dead by a housekeeper in a room at Pennyhill Park in Bagshot, Surrey on 14 April. James Cartwright, 60, was charged with murder and controlling and coercive behaviour in relation to the case on Sunday. He is from Axminster, Devon.

On Monday, Cartwright appeared at Guildford magistrates court. He spoke to confirm his name and age and was dressed in a quilted jacket and grey trousers.

Mickleburgh had helped launch several startups and had worked for British Airways, BP and Thomson Reuters. Cartwright runs an estate agency in Axminster.

Mickleburgh’s family paid tribute to her in a statement which was released by Surrey police.

“We are devastated by the loss of Samantha, an incredible mother, beautiful, much cherished daughter, and friend,” they said. “Loved by many, she was a true example of class, integrity, and dedication to those around her. Lighting up any room she entered with her vivacious personality and endearing smile.

“No words can truly capture all her beloved qualities and nothing will ever fill the hole left in the lives of those who loved her.”

Her two children said: “Nothing can prepare you to face the world without your parents at a young age. Our mother had been both parents to us since the loss of our father and she was doing such an amazing job at it. No finer example of a mum could there be, we will feel the loss in every aspect of our lives.

“We are grateful to be such a close family and for the support we continue to receive from those who knew Samantha. We as a family wish for privacy at this impossibly difficult time.”

Cartwright will appear at Guildford magistrates court again on Wednesday.

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U.S. tourist faces 12 years in prison after taking ammunition to Turks and Caicos

An Oklahoma man faces up to 12 years in prison on a Caribbean island after customs officials found ammunition in his luggage.

Ryan Watson traveled to Turks and Caicos with his wife, Valerie, to celebrate his 40th birthday on April 7. They went with two friends who had also turned 40.

The vacation came to an abrupt end when airport staff members found a zip-close bag containing bullets in the couple's carry-on luggage. Watson said it was hunting ammunition he had accidentally brought with him — but under a strict law in Turks and Caicos, a court may still impose a mandatory 12-year sentence.

"They were hunting ammunition rounds that I use for whitetail deer," Watson told NBC Boston in an interview conducted last week that aired after their first court appearance Tuesday.

"I recognized them, and I thought, 'Oh, man, what a bonehead mistake that I had no idea that those were in there,'" he said.

The couple were arrested and charged with possession of ammunition. Authorities seized their passports and explained the penalties they faced.

Valerie Watson said in the interview: "When I heard that, I immediately was terrified, because I was like we can't both be in prison for 12 years. We have kids at home, and this is such an innocent mistake."

The charges against her were dropped, and she returned home to Oklahoma City on Tuesday after the court hearing to be reunited with her two young children.

"Our goal is to get Ryan home, because we can’t be a family without Dad," she said.

The couple also spoke about the financial burden of a much longer-than-planned trip. "This is something that we may never recover from," Ryan Watson said.

The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a warning to travelers in September about a law that strongly prohibits possession of firearms or ammunition in Turks and Caicos, an overseas British territory southeast of the Bahamas that is a popular vacation spot.

It said: "We wish to remind all travelers that declaring a weapon in your luggage with an airline carrier does not grant permission to bring the weapon into TCI [Turks and Caicos Islands] and will result in your arrest."

The embassy added: "If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, we will not be able to secure your release from custody."

The embassy and the government in Turks and Caicos did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The same thing happened to another American, Bryan Hagerich, of Pennsylvania, who was arrested after ammunition was found in his luggage before he tried to board a flight out of Turks and Caicos in February. He said he accidentally left it in his bag.

Hagerich was on a family vacation with his wife and two young children but has now been in the country for 70 days. He spent eight days in prison before he posted bail.

"It’s incredibly scary. You know, you just don’t know what the next day may bring — you know, what path this may take," Hagerich told NBC Boston.

"You know, it’s certainly a lot different than packing your bags and going away with your family for a few days. It’s been the worst 70 days of my life," he said.

Hagerich, once a professional baseball player, was drafted by the Florida Marlins in the MLB 2007 June amateur draft from the University of Delaware.

His case goes to trial May 3.

Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.

Baby airlifted to Vatican hospital in military jet after NHS refused to operate as he was 'too ill'

A baby was airlifted from Bristol to the Vatican after the NHS refused to operate on him as he was “too ill”.

Italian authorities got involved after the young boy’s family reached out to them for help after they were told that he was too ill to undergo cardiac surgery in the UK.

The one-month-old, who suffers from a congenital heart condition, was allowed to be transferred when medics saw the plan for treatment in the Vatican.

He was collected from Bristol Royal Hospital for Children by a military cargo, which had an Italian ambulance onboard.

The boy then arrived at Ciampino airport on Italian Airforce flight C130 at around 7.30pm local time on Tuesday.

The child’s father is an Italian citizen but has worked in the UK for many years.

It has been reported that the Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni personally intervened so the child could travel.

Meloni's office said the transfer required "a comprehensive organisational effort”, from the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Health, the Italian Embassy and the Consulate General of Italy in London.

It said: “There was full and fruitful cooperation with the health authorities in the United Kingdom, and in particular with the Bristol Royal Hospital for Children."

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“The high level of professionalism of the doctors at Rome’s Bambino Gesù Paediatric Hospital together with the efficiency of all administrations involved enabled this complex and delicate transfer to be completed successfully, one of the first of its kind for such a small patient with such a serious condition.”

The family wishes to remain anonymous and has not specified the NHS hospital.

On Wednesday, the baby successfully underwent a double operation at the Bambino Gesu Children's Hospital and is now recovering. Italian doctors said he is “fighting” and “wants to live”.

Simon Pillon, a lawyer representing the youngster’s family, said: “The operation was available in the UK, but the doctors decided that, following the protocols of the UK, the baby was not fit for the operation. They decided that he was too ill.

“The doctors in the Vatican hospital examined the papers and decided they could do it.

“The British doctors were wonderful because they allowed the transfer.”

The child’s father, who is Italian, told The Times: “My wife and I are very happy and relieved… [Meloni and the Italian authorities] actively took action to make the transfer of our son possible.”

The father also thanked the British medical team "for smoothly authorising and supporting us and our son through this process”.

On social media, Pillon thanked “all those who worked hard to transfer the little [boy]”, on social media.

“A big thank you from the family to all those who worked hard to transfer the little [boy], less than a month old, from the United Kingdom to Rome,” he added.

Prince Harry fires parting shot at Royal Family as he cuts ties with the UK - analysis by Svar Nanan-Sen

The Duke of Sussex has officially switched his residential status from the UK to the US.

By Svar Nanan-Sen

Published: 19/04/2024

King Charles evicted the Duke and Duchess of Sussex from Frogmore Cottage last year

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Prince Harry fired a parting shot at the Royal Family as he cut ties with the UK.

Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, stepped down as working members of the Royal Family in 2020 and moved to the US later that same year.

For the last few years, the Sussexes have lived in the Californian town of Montecito with their two young children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.

Harry founded Travalyst, a global coalition of some of the biggest names in travel, in 2019.

However, on Wednesday, documents submitted to Companies House in the UK show that the Duke of Sussex amended his filings for Travalyst to declare he is usually a resident in the US rather than Britain.

Harry founded Travalyst, a global coalition of some of the biggest names in travel, in 2019 when he was based in the UK and a working member of the Royal Family, one year before he relocated to the US with Meghan.

The date the Duke of Sussex selected as the day of his residency changed, appeared to be a parting shot at the Royal Family.

In January 2023, King Charles asked Harry and Meghan to vacate Frogmore Cottage.

The royal residence that Queen Elizabeth II gave the couple in 2018, remained the couple's base in the UK.

Sources said that Harry felt Frogmore was the "only place that’s left as a safe space" for his family in Britain.

However, following the publication of Harry's memoir Spare which contained a plethora of attacks on senior members of the Royal Family including Prince William, Princess Kate and Queen Camilla, the Duke of Sussex was asked to leave the property.

Harry and the King came to an agreement that meant the couple had until July 2023 to vacate Frogmore so that it could be used by the duke when he returned to the UK for the Coronation in May 2023.

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Meghan Markle, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet did not visit the UK throughout 2023 despite having access to the royal residence for the first half of the year.

The Sussexes have not secured a new UK base since leaving Frogmore Cottage and the couple do not appear to be searching for a new property in Britain.

The couple cleared out all of their belongings and handed back the keys to Frogmore before July 2023.

The Duke of Sussex does not appear to have stayed at any royal residences since losing Frogmore.

Therefore, Harry's choice of 29/06/2023 as the date on his documents could easily be interpreted as a dig at the Royal Family for supposedly pushing him away from the UK.

He was denied a room at Windsor Castle during a trip to the UK in September 2023, with the Royal Family citing a lack of notice as the reason for the denial.

Harry has built a life in the US since moving there in 2020, so changing his residential status may have been just an administrative procedure, however, choosing that specific date in 2023 looks to be yet another swipe at the Royal Family.

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