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12 Fun Ideas for Father-Daughter Time in London

London is a city which offers plenty of variety and new experiences, making it perfect for fathers and daughters looking for a fun day out.

Whether you want to see the sights, enjoy an action-packed adventure or simply have a meal together, this guide should point you in the right direction of some of the city’s friendliest spaces and events.

Take a trip to ZSL London Zoo

Animal lovers will enjoy a trip to London Zoo, which is perfect for all ages. For younger daughters and their fathers, there’s the chance for kids to try being a zookeeper for the day – and for adults, there’s plenty of opportunities to meet the animals who live here.

Visiting the zoo is also a wonderful way to support London Zoo’s conservation work and research, so it’s a real feel-good day trip as well as a fun and informative one.

Visit the Tower of London

Interested in history? Then a trip to the Tower of London is an absolute must. A fortress which has lasted almost 1000 years, it’s been a prison, a zoo and now acts as one of London’s top tourist attractions.

Scale an arena with Up at The O2

While the O2 Arena is best known as one of London’s top entertainment venues, it’s also a place for high-octane adventures. The ‘Up at the O2’ experience allows you to scale the building, before reaching the top and enjoying fantastic city views.

It goes without saying that this is not an experience for everyone, and it is also best-reserved for fathers and daughters who are relatively confident in their ability to scale a building! There’s plenty of expert guidance on hand, so if you’re feeling extra adventurous, be sure to give this a try.

Book a stadium tour

If dad and daughter are fans of football, tennis, cricket or rugby, then a stadium tour could be the perfect experience for you both to enjoy! There are world class stadiums and arenas in London, and you’ll be able to find out more about the players and the stories which have helped make sporting history.

Some of our favourite stadium tours in the capital include Wembley Stadium Tour, Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum and Tour, the Twickenham Stadium Tours and the Lord’s Tour.

Have afternoon tea

A Park Grand Restaurant Afternoon Tea is a great way to have fun in London as a father-daughter duo. This tradition has seen a major resurgence in popularity over the last few years, and venues like ours now offer not only the traditional dishes of sandwiches, cakes and tea, but also ways to upgrade and personalise.

Check out the menu for more information on all the afternoon tea options which are available to you – you’re sure to find something which tempts your taste buds.

Visit Kew Gardens

London is an unexpected hub of natural beauty, and Kew Gardens is perhaps the most beautiful place of all. This historic garden regularly hosts events which take full advantage of the unique space, but it also offers a wide variety of fun ways to bond as a father and daughter while you’re in the city.

Whether that’s learning more about the world around you, or simply taking a few photos surrounded by stunning plants and greenery – Kew Gardens offers something for everyone.

Catch a live sports event

London is a major hub for all kinds of different sports, so you’ll never be short of matches to watch or games to see. If you can’t manage to score tickets for some of the biggest sporting events in the city, then don’t despair!

As a sports-mad location, you’ll find plenty of bars and pubs where you can watch the sporting action while grabbing a few drinks and a bite to eat while staying at the Park Grand Paddington hotel .

Enjoy a trip along the Thames

There are many different ways to explore the Thames, ideal for fathers and daughters. If you’re an active family, then consider opting for a speedboat ride on the Thames Rib, or if you prefer a slower pace, book a leisurely tour of the Thames, which could last around an hour and will guide you past some of the top buildings and historic spaces in London.

This is a fantastic option for a fun day out, and you can celebrate your river adventure with a meal at the Park Grand Restaurant .

See the underwater world at SEA LIFE London Aquarium

If you’re fans of nature and want to discover the world beneath the waves, then a trip to SEA LIFE London Aquarium is ideal. A trip here can be as active or as peaceful as you like; there’s even snorkelling excursions available for fathers and daughters who want to pick up the pace on their trip to London.

Visit the London Transport Museum

A popular haunt for anyone who wants to know more about the way London keeps moving, this is also a popular spot for dads with a keen eye on trains, buses and more. The museum is very family-friendly, and while this normally centres on younger families with small children, it’s also a great place for fathers and daughters to visit while staying at the Park Grand London.

See a West End show

London’s West End is famous around the world, and with good reason. If the pair of you are in the mood for some fun entertainment, then this is the ideal place to look.

The West End is synonymous with drama and musicals, but if this doesn’t appeal, don’t panic. There’re plenty of other types of play and performance which you can see here, including comedy and fringe theatre productions which might not otherwise have been on your radar.

Visit a comedy club

If you both love to laugh, then visit a London comedy club while spending time in London. This is a great way to bond over your shared sense of humour, and you can choose between established acts and lesser-known and emerging comics at some of the city’s top venues. Our favourites include The Comedy Store, Soho Theatre and Laugh Out London.

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Father-Daughter Trip Ideas: Creating Meaningful Memories Together

Speaking from experience, exploring the world with your daughter offers an incredible opportunity to strengthen your bond, foster her independence, and create priceless memories together.

My daughter has been a steadfast companion since she was six months old, and we’ve travelled on our own more times than I can remember. In fact, she was involved in many of my favourite travel experiences so far. That list is in dire need of updating, as we’ve since been on a ton of new adventures including an unforgettable safari in Africa .

This comprehensive guide provides inspiration and tips to plan an unforgettable father-daughter getaway tailored to your child’s interests, your budget, and her age or maturity level.

Key Takeaways: Father-Daughter Trip Ideas

Whether she dreams of lounging on tropical beaches, embarking on an outdoor adventure, becoming immersed in new cultures, or simply spending precious one-on-one time with her dad, thoughtfully designed father-daughter trips build confidence and skills while nurturing your lifelong relationship.

Planning a Father-Daughter Adventure

Successful father-daughter trips start with mindful planning centered around her interests and input. Follow these steps for an experience she’ll treasure.

Set Expectations:  Discuss your hopes for bonding, trying new things, and having fun versus rigidly packed schedules. Go with the flow!

Gather Input:  Learn where she longs to go and what activities appeal to her travel style and personality.

Consider Interests:   Foodie? Fashionista? Nature lover? Factor in her passions.

Discuss Budget:  Involve her in financial decisions as is age-appropriate. Set spending limits and priorities together.

Agree on Location:  Research together and compromise to choose a destination suited for her ideal trip.

Book Thoughtfully:  Allow ample time for quality experiences versus rushing between places and check cancellation policies.

Captivating Destinations for Dad and Daughter

Thrilling adventure destinations.

For daring daughters, exhilarating destinations promise heart-pumping challenges, stunning scenery, and rich nature encounters.

National Parks Adventures

Bond over backpacking, climbing, kayaking, or hiking amidst stunning national park landscapes like Glacier, Zion or Acadia. Marvel over wild animals in their natural habitats. Sleep under the stars!

Surf Camps and Retreats

Ride the waves together at surf camps in spots like Hawaii, Costa Rica or Mexico. No experience needed! Most offer camps tailored to beginners.

Dude Ranch Vacations

Bond over adventures like horseback riding, hiking, paintball and talent shows at all-inclusive dude ranches in states like Colorado, Wyoming or Montana.

Cultural and Urban Escapes

For fashionistas, foodies, aspiring photographers, and culture vultures, exciting cities worldwide promise dynamic experiences.

Iconic Landmarks and Museums

Stroll past Paris’ Eiffel Tower hand-in-hand, make silly faces at LOVE statues in Philadelphia, or explore massive collections of art, history, and culture together in cities worldwide.

Theater and Concert Events

Share laughs at a Broadway comedy or get lost in a Shakespeare play. Hit a rock concert together or go classical at the symphony or opera house. The arts bring people together!

Quirky Local Neighborhoods

Venture off the tourist track to funky neighborhoods with vibrant street art, cool shops, delicious eateries, and unique vibes she’ll adore discovering.

Serene Beach Vacations

For daughters craving rest and relaxation, oceanfront destinations serve up surf, sun and warm-weather fun.

Tropical Island Retreats

Sip fresh coconuts under swaying palms with your toes in the sand at secluded island resorts in spots like the Caribbean, South Pacific, or Indian Ocean. Paradise found!

Surf Camp Getaways

Many surf camps cater specifically to father-daughter travelers! Learn to catch waves together before unwinding with beach bonfires, smoothies and new friends.

Beachfront Biking

Bond while cycling along gorgeous oceanfront bike paths or trails in spots like Cape Cod, San Diego, Sydney, Barcelona or Vancouver. Stop for refreshing dips and seaside snacks!

Unique Father-Daughter Trip Concepts

Looking for out-of-the-box bonding experiences? These creative trip ideas promise super fun, silly, educational and inspiring adventures she’ll cherish.

The Great American Road Trip

Hit the open road together, belting out tunes and laughing over inside jokes. Stop at funky roadside attractions. Bond over national park vistas and small-town Americana.

Amusement Park Extravaganza

Hold hands tightly on the rollercoasters! Have a blast screaming your heads off at mega theme parks like Disney World or Universal Studios . Create smiles and memories to last forever.

Cooking Around the World

Book culinary vacations featuring classes with renowned chefs and tours of local markets across epicurean destinations worldwide. Bond over tasty creations!

Volunteering Adventures

Contribute together at an elephant sanctuary in Thailand or helping out at a women’s shelter in Peru. Combine travel with service for deeply rewarding experiences.

Step into History

Explore living history destinations where you can both dress up in period costumes and immerse yourselves into scenes from the past – like a Renaissance faire or Old West town.

Budget-Friendly Father-Daughter Trip Ideas

You don’t need an extravagant budget to enjoy meaningful time together. These wallet-friendly trips focus on simple pleasures and quality bonding.

Regional Road Tripping

Embark on an affordable driving tour focused within a single region , state or province. Stop at quirky roadside attractions and charming small towns along the way.

State & National Park Adventures

Choose a state or national park and rent a rustic cabin. Enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, board games, campfires, and tuning out the digital world together.

Museums, Gardens & Attractions

Explore free museums and cultural attractions in your nearest urban center. Many offer discounted passes or free admission days. Check Groupon for deals too.

Educational Day Trips

Look for interactive science centers, aquariums, botanical gardens and more that captivate kids’ minds while sneaking in learning. Pack snacks and make a day of it.

Staycations with DIY Fun

Rent bikes or kayaks and be tourists in your hometown for a day. Cook exotic cuisine together. Pitch a tent in the backyard for campfire stories and s’mores. Get creative!

Safety Tips for Father-Daughter Travels

Making safety a priority ensures peace of mind and the ability to enjoy your travels fully. Use these precautions as is age-appropriate.

• Research destinations’ cultural norms around teen girls and single dads.
• Avoid oversharing trip details on social media during travels.
• Have emergency contacts, documentation copies, extra medication, etc.
• Bring basic first-aid supplies appropriate for the destination.
• Check travel advisories and health/vaccine guidelines.
• Arrange appropriate lodging based on her age and maturity level.
• Set expectations about public behavior, interactions, buddy system, etc.
• Review emergency protocols like where to meet if separated.
• Leave detailed itineraries and contact info with family back home.
• Consider travel insurance and medical/evacuation coverage as needed.

Strengthening Bonds on Father-Daughter Adventures

The real magic happens through simple yet intentional bonding experiences sprinkled throughout any father-daughter vacation:

Share childhood stories  – Reflect on your hopes and dreams growing up over ice cream.

Indulge her interests  – Let her play DJ or pick activities even if they’re outside your comfort zone.

Learn together  – Take a surfing, cooking or language class and stumble through it as a team.

Chat without devices  – Put phones away and open up during long walks or drives.

Embrace humor  – Tell silly jokes and laugh hysterically at mistakes. Have fun!

Capture moments  – Take photographs and videos to cherish later. Print a photobook or movie together after.

Thank her  – Share how much you value this time spent journeying together.

Listen  – Create space for her to share what’s on her heart without judgment.

Say “I love you”  – Remind her often that she has your unwavering love and support.

International Father-Daughter Vacations

Exploring new cultures and customs together fosters open minds and unbreakable bonds. Here are magical international destinations for dad-daughter getaways.

Europe’s Timeless Treasures

Greece’s Islands and Ruins

Soak up the sun on Santorini, embrace street food in Athens, and explore ancient history hand-in-hand at sites like the Parthenon.

The Splendor of Spain

Feel transported back in time wandering medieval cities before dancing flamenco together under starry skies . ¡Olé!

Ireland’s Misty Mountains

Traverse the gorgeous volcanic geology of the Ring of Kerry. Kiss the Blarney Stone then dance to fiddlers in a traditional pub.

Exotic Faraway Lands

A True African Safari

Immerse yourselves in the epic wildlife and landscape of Africa while glamping under the stars of the Serengeti or Kruger. Heart expanding!

Mystical India

Absorb the rainbow of colors and textures in crowded markets and ornate temples. Savor fragrant curries and ride an elephant together.

Gentle Japan

Embrace introspective moments while strolling under cherry blossoms then recharge with hot spring soaks and artfully crafted meals.

Keys for International Father-Daughter Travel

Here are some top tips to keep in mind:

• Choose accommodations in central, pedestrian-friendly spots where car rentals are unnecessary.
• Book small group tours for easy navigation and built-in activities.
• Review critical phrases in the local language like allergy info, dietary needs etc.
• Bring required documentation like passports, visas, ID cards and insurance paperwork.
• Pack lightweight, versatile clothes that layer and wash easily.
• Use security measures like travel wallets, hotel safes, and backup debit/credit cards.
• Avoid overpacking. Purchase any forgotten essentials at your destination.
• Leave detailed itineraries with trusted contacts at home. Check in periodically.
• Discuss money management like using ATMs, credit/debit cards, tipping and budgeting.

Inspiring Dad-Daughter Excursions

Each stage of her development invites opportunities to bond, mentor, encourage dreams, and deepen your relationship through travel. Tailor trips to her evolving interests and maturity level.

Ages 5-7:  Foster independence on gentle adventures like camping, rafting, city sightseeing, hands-on kids’ museums and zoos.

Ages 8-11:  Cultivate curiosity and confidence via outdoor challenges, road trips, cultural experiences, volunteering and creativity.

Ages 12-16:  Nurture emerging interests like adventure sports, photography, cause-driven trips and social gatherings balanced with one-on-one time.

Ages 17-19:  Empower independence and deeper mentorship through international travel, outdoor and service journeys, late-night conversations and trusted freedom.

Creating Lasting Memories on Father-Daughter Trips

An intentional father-daughter getaway focused on your unique relationship cultivates a lasting bond transcending the stresses back home. Leverage the magic of new places, experiences and perspectives to nurture her self-confidence, individuality and connection with you. Provide a space where she feels heard, valued and loved unconditionally. The memories created will weave an unbreakable thread between your hearts across the years ahead.

I know what it's like to go from being a crazy backpacker without a care in the world, via being a vaguely sensible parent to being an adventurer once more. In other words, evolving into a Grown-up Traveller.

Like everyone else, I love to travel, have visited a lot of countries and all that but my big thing is Africa.

I also own and run The Grown-up Travel Company as a travel designer creating personalised African itineraries for experienced adventurers

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Best family days out in the UK

Get out and about this summer with the help of our guide to the best family days out across the UK. There's options here that are sure to excite the whole family and cater for all budgets.

By Charlotte Plummer | Last updated Oct 13, 2023

The best recipe for a great family day out usually includes three things: lots of fun, a sprinkling of education, some outdoor activity, and probably a few tears. And for little ones, as long as there’s an ice cream with a chocolate flake, they’re usually happy!

With the six weeks holiday ahead of us, we’ve vetted a variety of things to do across the UK for your whole family to enjoy this summer. With longer and (hopefully) warmer days, it’s the perfect time to start planning your family days out. We know it’s overwhelming - and not to mention expensive - so we’ve pulled together some great recommendations from Mumsnetters to provide you with some ideas that we’re sure everyone will love.

Whether it’s attractions for toddlers, catering for teens, or finding places to visit with babies - we’ve got it all. We’re covering all ages, budgets, and weather conditions. It is the UK after all.

We’ve really mixed it up with a variety of days out, so you can build a memory book with all sorts of adventures. From museums, to wildlife parks, big cities to indoor play. We’re confident we’ve researched high and low to find something for everyone in this list…and of course we’ve included ice cream. Don’t forget the ice cream.

Read on for our guide to the top days out in the UK for families.

What are the top family days out in the UK?

Best overall: Harry Potter Warner Bros Studios, London

Best indoor play area: Kidspace, Romford 

Best for babies: Piglets Adventure Farm, York 

Best accessible: Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, Cotswolds

Best free entry: National History Museum, London

1. Best overall: Harry Potter Warner Bros Studios, London

Perfect for Harry Potter fans | Book your tickets now

“We did the tour and thought it was fab. I personally would book yourselves into a hotel and make a weekend of the trip.” Recommended by sleepismysuperpower1

As one of the most famous film sets of all time, a trip to the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studios is a must-do if you’re in or travelling to London. From the Grand Hall to Privet Drive, this experience will allow you to dive into the wizarding world and see the magic behind the scenes of these iconic films for yourself.

The studio offers guided tours and family tour packages for you to devour all the information you could dream of in relation to the Harry Potter franchise. Located just outside of Central London in Kings Langley, it is easily accessible via train or bus and also provides ample parking if you’re driving. Most Mumsnetters recommend booking a hotel nearby and making a weekend of it. In fact, you can even stay in Hagrid’s Hut , which is within walking distance to the studios.

Note: both wizards and Muggles are welcome. 

2. Best indoor play area: Kidspace, Romford

Indoor fun for everyone | Book your tickets now

This play area offers everything you could want for some indoor fun if the weather is a little bleak. From Go-Karts, to ginormous play frames, a virtual aquarium and Imagination Rooms, this attraction has it all.

The play frame is one of the biggest out there, but if your little ones prefer something a little more competitive, check out their Thunderdome soft ball arena! If imagination is more their thing, they can watch their drawings come alive with the help of scanning technology, or create their own world in the Imagination Playground.

All tickets must be pre-booked, so make sure you plan ahead to avoid disappointment. Want to stay around a little longer? Book a hotel in Romford.

3. Best for babies: Piglet’s Adventure Farm, York

Farm fun for everyone | Book your tickets now

Located just 15 minutes outside of York , and with easy access off the A64, Piglet’s Adventure Farm offers ample parking for all visitors. With a farm, several parks, a corn maze and jumping pillows, your little ones will surely sleep for you after a day out here.

To book, you select an arrival time on their website. Once there, you can stay as long as you like and trust us, you can easily spend an entire day here!

As well as enjoying the farm animals, Piglet’s Adventure Farm has its own beach and indoor play area so no matter what the weather, you can enjoy some real quality time here. Be sure to grab an early arrival slot so you can make the most of this gorgeous Yorkshire attraction.

If you’d like to explore more of York, a trip to Castle Howard is also worth your while and an easy day out with babies in tow.

4. Best accessible: Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens, Cotswolds

Enjoy stunning views | Book your tickets now

Nestled in the heart of the idyllic Cotswolds, this wildlife park is surrounded by some of the most stunning views. Based on a flat site with wide, well maintained paths, it makes for an ideal location to visit with both prams and wheelchairs.

There is easy access to all animal enclosures, as well as the on-site railway, gift shop and restaurant. With viewing windows placed at wheelchair height, this venue has worked hard to consider all their guests’ needs to ensure everyone can enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

5. Best free entry: National History Museum, London

A must-do in London | Book your tickets now

This iconic London attraction offers endless hours of exploring (and getting lost in) the magic of this museum. Ranging from endless animal facts and displays, to the beautiful architecture of the building, this one is not to be missed if you’re in the capital.

Donations are welcome but you can in fact enjoy the National History Museum completely free of charge if you wish. Tickets must be booked in advance, although they do take walk-ins on quieter periods. If you’d prefer a bit more direction during your visit, guided tours are available for a fee by tour guide providers.

Located a 5 minute walk from South Kensington Tube Station, this one needs adding to your list of must do’s. To help you plan your visit, find a hotel nearby.

6. Best for toddlers: CBeebies Land, Staffordshire

A mini theme park for kids | Book your tickets now  

“I would say you could fill a week there, its literally amazing, we always only go for a day but weve been back every year since 2 I think and they just love it. Theres so much to do.” Recommended by scully29 

Located within Alton Towers, a theme park offering larger rides for the adrenaline junkies in the family, CBeebies Land offers your younger ones the perfect introduction to theme park life. They’ll be sure to jump for joy as they meet their favourite CBeebies friends and enjoy a range of age appropriate rides and attractions.

With a variety of live shows and performances throughout the day, you’re guaranteed to get your money’s worth, however it’s worth noting that under three’s visit for free - music to our ears!

7. Best for older children: Bounce Below, Snowdonia

For mini thrill-seekers | Book your tickets now  

Never mind the kids, we want to try this one. This attraction is for children over the age of 7, and it isn’t a full day out with the activity lasting just an hour. However, don’t let that put you off!

Located in beautiful Snowdonia , there’s ample scenery to enjoy before or after your little ones have tired themselves out bouncing around in the enormous underground net experience. You can really unleash your inner thrill-seeker here and escape into a world of hidden adventure.

Again, tickets here must be pre-booked so be sure to plan ahead with this one.

8. Best for teenagers: Central London, London

A memorable trip for everyone | Find a hotel in London

“The boat trip that starts opposite The Eye and heads to Greenwich is great; you see numerous buildings from a different angle and the running commentary incorporates a number of historical stories. My teens loved the Sky Garden and eating at the Oxo Tower brasserie with a view of the river.” Recommended by Adele64

Whether near or afar, when it comes to family excursions with teenagers, nothing quite compares to a trip to our capital city. It’s easy to spend hours and hours together making memories as you explore London, finding all of its hidden gems.

From the street entertainment in Covent Garden to the indulgent food at Borough Market, from the crown jewels at The Tower of London to shopping on Oxford Street, there are plenty of things to do for teenagers in London. And for a special treat, why not go and enjoy the iconic views from the Sky Garden? It’s free entry, after all!

9. Best budget attraction: Eureka! Children’s Museum, Halifax

Tickets include an annual pass | Book your tickets now

Now, you may look at the ticket prices here and wonder why we’re classing this as a budget option, hear us out! Tickets are up to £14.95 per person, however, the ticket automatically gives you an annual pass. The price per visit is well worth your money at this incredible venue.

It serves the perfect balance of play and education, with a whole host of role play areas for your children to enjoy. They have a bank, supermarket, post office and car garage just to name a few. With a craft room and interactive zones, you can also enjoy their onsite café or chill in their picnic areas with your own pack up. Located in the heart of Yorkshire in Halifax it has ample car parking on site, and a train station right outside.

10. Best Castle Venue: Alnwick Castle & Gardens, Northumberland

One for the entire family | Book your tickets now

“It’s worth it, fantastic gardens especially the water features and the poison garden. I think the tickets lasts for a full year if you have your photo taken when you buy it”. Recommended by SkelingtonArgument 

There’s plenty going on for all visitors of all ages here. Their events are designed to bring history to life, so your family can learn more about the castle’s past. Not forgetting it’s a famous filming location where Harry Potter first took flight - you can even enjoy broomstick training! A perfect activity for any budding Hogwarts students. Don’t forget to book a guided tour , too, to help you get around.

Located just off the A1 it’s easily accessible via train and bus. It’s based right in the heart of Northumberland, nestled nicely away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

What to pack for a fun filled family day out?

Thank goodness our backpacks have Mary Poppins power, because packing for a family day out is never a short list.

We’re talking about spare clothes - for everyone. You never know…! Baby wipes, all life problems can be solved with baby wipes and a cup of tea, right? Snacks - do not forget the snacks! Whether it’s for the journey, or to enjoy at the destination, these children will devour them and it could save you in some long wait times, save you in traffic jams or just give you peace of mind that you’ve got a good variety of snacks that you know your family will enjoy.

Other recommended items are hand sanitiser, sun cream, rain coats, water and of course your phone and a spare charger.

Top tips for planning a day out with the kids

Find the balance between organisation and going with the flow. Logistics have to be on your side, so find a date that will work for all the family. We’d recommend a summer planner, taking into consideration work commitments, play dates, appointments, clubs… After all, it’s an endless list isn’t it and the last thing you want to do is book tickets and realise it’s going to clash with something. So choosing a date, tickets, and bags packed the night before are going to steer you well.

On the day itself, remember you’re there to enjoy quality time with your family. It’s easy to get muddled up in the stress of actually getting out of the door (we’ve all shared those cross words and silent car journeys). You’ve all been looking forward to this day, so remember why you’re going.

The best backpack for family days out

Let’s be honest, these bags are going to come everywhere with you, so why not treat yourself. You want to be able to fit your kitchen sink in, without it being a big dark hole of never ending supplies.

Tiba + Marl would be our go to here. They are pricey, averaging at an eye-watering £135 a pop, but they are trusty, large and comfortable, which is great for when you’re lugging around half your family’s belongings “just in case”.

“Tiba and marl, absolutely love mine! Doesn't look like your typical changing bag either so even after babies I will use it.”

Elwood Backpack Changing Bag

Tiba + Marl John Lewis

How we chose our recommendations

To help us create this list of tried and tested family days out, we first searched our Mumsnet forums for trusted ideas from parents themselves. We listened to the experts on what families want to provide a successful trip for everyone to enjoy, and weighed up a variety of considerations such as location, accessibility and budgets.

Our research allowed us to round up the best family days out in the UK that Mumsnetters rate to help you plan your next day trip.

Why should you trust us?

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

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• Father and Son Experience Days

FATHER AND SON EXPERIENCE DAYS

• Jun 5, 2023
• Fathers Day
• Alexandra Mullen

Whether you’re a father looking to bond with your young son, or a fully-grown son looking to buy Dad something brilliant, our list of father and son experience days will have you covered! 

There’s no better way to bond as father and son than over a shared experience that you’ll both remember forever – whether that’s tucking into some afternoon tea in a plush hotel, or testing your limits by scaling an indoor ice wall! 

Below we’ve gathered our favourite father and son experience days across the U.K, including individual age restrictions, so no matter how old you are, you can find something perfect for Father’s Day!

We know the future is uncertain right now, so we’ve got you covered with 18 month voucher validity instead of 12 – giving you plenty of time to book and take your experience. 

DADS & LADS TANK EXPERIENCE FOR 2 - LEICESTERSHIRE

Minimum age: 8 years old.

If you’re looking for the perfect bonding experience for you and your young son, this exciting ‘Lads and Dads’ tank day in Leicestershire is just the thing, with a minimum age of 8 years old. 

Your experience begins when you meet your instructor, who will introduce you to your day out by taking you on a thrilling ride in a tank. After experiencing the adrenaline-pumping fun of riding in one of these fantastic machines, you’ll choose who is going to be the driver. Their job is to negotiate a tricky tank course set in a World War II bombing range. Next, take it in turns aiming the cannon, loading the breach and firing paintballs!

By the end of your tank driving day, you’ll be buzzing from the adrenaline of your experience, and feeling closer than ever after conquering battle with paint!

LADS AND DADS CARP FISHING EXPERIENCE - ESSEX 

Minimum age: no restriction.

A great excuse to sit back and soak up the beautiful British countryside, this Essex Lads and Dads Carp Fishing Experience makes a unique day out for father and son. There is no minimum age for this experience, so it’s a great way to bond with your young son and get him interested in fishing. 

You can choose when to begin your carp fishing experience. If you are both early risers, you can meet your instructor at 8am for the morning session, or in the afternoon at 1:30pm at Tyler’s Common Fishery in Upminster. Your instructor will give you a briefing on what to expect from the day ahead, making you both feel comfortable if you’ve never fished before! 

After being shown the proper use of the equipment and what to expect from your fishing experience, you can both get started.

Carp are freshwater fish that have become favourites amongst anglers worldwide, mostly due to the select skills needed to make the difficult hook and the broad range of sizes that the fish can grow to. Throughout the four hour session, you'll receive expert advice and tuition on making the perfect catch, and come away with a new hobby in the making! 

ARCHERY LESSON FOR TWO IN NORTH YORKSHIRE

Always wanted to learn the ancient sport of archery? This archery lesson in North Yorkshire for 2 accepts participants as young as 8 when accompanied by an adult, so it’s the perfect father and son experience day bonding activity. 

You’ll meet your instructor and the rest of the group for a briefing. Set in a purpose-built outdoor activity centre, this archery experience takes this unique sport to the next level by surrounding it with beautiful views. You’ll feel just like Robin Hood and his band of merry men!

After a safety briefing and introduction to your bows and arrows, your instructor will explain the skills and techniques you need to work on to hit the target. You do not need to have any prior experience for this; the instructors are experienced archers who have taught many novices to shoot!

As well as teaching you how to take aim and fire, your instructor will teach you all about the long history of archery. You'll be able to tell your longbow from your cross bow and strings from limbs by the end of the session, and you'll have a good insight into the origins of the sport, from when it was used to defend castles and catch food! 

Next, you will head for the Yorkshire archery range to put into practice all that you have just been taught. You will spend the rest of the archery experience learning archery skills, from the correct stance to the proper way to hold the weapon, and how to ensure your aim is true. You and your son will feel like real archers by the end of this 1 hour archery lesson. 

CLAY SHOOTING FOR TWO - BEDFORDSHIRE 

You might be surprised to learn that children as young as 8 years old can take part in this Bedfordshire clay pigeon shooting experience. Whether you’re a son looking for a unique Father’s Day gift, or a dad looking for a day out with your son, clay pigeon shooting is a great way to improve hand eye coordination while enjoying the outdoors.

Your instructor will begin with a safety briefing outlining the techniques, skills and potential hazards of firing a shotgun. Once briefed and ready to hit the range, you'll be coached on how to hold the gun, the stance you take and how to aim. 

With 75 clays and 75 bullets, the two of you will need your ultimate concentration and fearless nerves of steel. Your instructor will be on hand at all times to assist, and before long you'll be practising your stance, aim and your firing - hopefully resulting in a few orange puffs of smoke as you try and prove a better aim than your opponent! 

Could this be the beginning of a father son rivalry? Only one way to find out… 

ICE AND ROCK CLIMBING EXPERIENCE FOR 2 - SCOTLAND 

Minimum age: 14 years old..

Brrr! Can you feel the chill? That’s the adrenaline-inducing sensation of ice climbing; a unique indoor experience for those who favour the cold! If Dad’s the daring type who loves to climb, this ice and rock climbing experience in Scotland will be a great new challenge for him – and with 2 people included in the price, you have no excuse not to go with him… 

This activity centre in Inverness-shire is the UK’s best indoor ice climbing facility, so you know that you and Dad will be in good hands. Your instructor will begin the morning by introducing you to this challenging sport, and demonstrating how to safely use the specialist equipment.

Before long, it’ll be time to scale the wall! Fully kitted out in climbing suits and rigs, you and Dad can begin the challenge of testing out the country’s largest climbing wall. It’s yours for 3 hours, so make the most of this exciting and challenging time bonding with Dad as you put your nerves to the test on a wall of ice! 

By the end of your ice-cold experience, you’ll have a fantastic sense of achievement – not to mention the health and fitness benefits that come with climbing. 

GORGE WALKING IN GLAMORGAN - HALF DAY ADVENTURE FOR 2

A thrilling outdoor experience for an adventurous father and son team! Moving on from indoor climbing to outdoor climbing, this gorge walking experience in Glamorgan will get the heart rate up while soaking in the incomparable beauty of the Brecon Beacons.

You’ll meet your expert instructors at their adventure centre, where they’ll welcome you and the rest of the group to the thrilling activity of gorge walking. After kitting you out in all the necessary gear, you’ll head out into the gorges for the outdoor adventure of a lifetime. 

From here on out, you’ll be surrounded by stunning scenery - placing you in the centre of an ever-lasting battle between landscape and river! Throughout the 3-hour experience, you'll find yourselves trekking down the river path, scrambling over rocks, swimming through clear waters and perhaps even jumping over waterfalls. 

Outdoor adventures with Dad don’t get much better than this!

BEER TASTING MASTERCLASS FOR TWO

Minimum age: 18 years old.

Cheers! For obvious reasons, this beer tasting masterclass is only for those over the age of 18, so makes the perfect day out for dads with grown up sons looking to learn more about their favourite drink, and is a great Father’s Day gift for beer-loving dads.

Taking place in Brewhouse and Kitchen pubs across the U.K., this experience starts with an introduction from an expert brewer. They will give you a little background info on every beer you try, whether it’s the amazing beers that have been brewed on site, or renowned craft beers from much further afield. 

You and Dad will learn to taste the subtle differences and interesting nuances of flavour that make each beer unique - and very delicious – sampling up to 8 different beers throughout the day. This experience also includes food, and throughout your masterclass you will be treated to nibbles such as olives, snaffling pig, and perhaps even a sharing platter if the group is big enough! 

At the end of your experience, you and Dad will enjoy a gourmet burger straight from the kitchen. Is there any better combination than burgers and beer? 

COTSWOLD HOUSE - AFTERNOON TEA FOR TWO

Gorge walking, ice climbing, driving military tanks… these activities are all well and good for the adventurous types, but what about for those of us who like our adventures a little more on the culinary side? We’ve got you covered with this luxurious afternoon tea at Cotswold House.

Give Dad a Father’s Day gift to remember (and devour) in the form of this indulgent afternoon tea. Perfect for sophisticated dads with refined palettes, or anyone who loves tucking into delicious food in opulent surroundings. (Hands up!)

The award-winning Cotswold House Hotel is located in the heart of charming Chipping Campden, and exudes a contemporary, boutique style which sets it apart from the rest. After you and Dad are shown to your table, you can choose from an exceptional selection of teas, coffees, sandwiches, cakes, pastries and scones, all served with jams and preserves from small-scale artisan producers. 

If it’s a warm day, you can even take your tea on the Pavilion Terrace which is tucked away in the beautifully landscaped hotel gardens! A true taste of luxury for Father’s Day. 

UP AT THE O2 CLIMBING EXPERIENCE

Minimum age:  8 years old.

For the adventurous dads and their trusty sidekicks - get ready for the one-of-a-kind Up at The O2 Experience ! Strap on your climbing suits, put on your gripped shoes, and prepare for ultimate London adventure.

As soon as you arrive at The O2, you'll be transformed into a fearless explorer, suited up and briefed on all the safety stuff by an instructor. Then, it's time to conquer the summit! But hold on tight, because the walkway has a bouncy feel to replicate the vibes of The O2 tent below. It's like walking on air, 52 meters above the ground, with jaw-dropping panoramic views of London spread out before your eyes. Trust us, you won't find a better vantage point for spying on the city.

Want to make it extra special? You can book the climb during the day to soak up the sunshine, at sunset for a romantic twist, or even at twilight for a truly magical experience under the twinkling stars. If you're feeling hungry after all that climbing excitement, we've got you covered. Check out the Up at The O2 Dining Package , where you can combine your epic adventure with a fancy dinner. Because let's be honest, conquering heights and indulging in a delicious meal go together like Batman and Robin.

Thank you for reading!

That concludes our list of Father and Son Experience Days , perfect for Father's Day - or just as an excuse to bond with your dad. Whether he's an adrenaline junkie, foodie, or the outdoorsy type, you can treat him to a gift as unique and special as he is. And remember, gift vouchers are currently valid for 18 months - so Dad has plenty of time to redeem and book his experience day. 

If you have any tips on the best Father and Son experience days, or want to ask a question about one of our experiences, please feel free to leave a comment - we'd love to hear from you!

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An Experience Days Gift Pack is sent via the shipping method of your choice. Instant Email Gift Vouchers are available for those last minute gift ideas. The gift pack includes everything your recipient will need to redeem and book their experience.

Gift Vouchers are valid for 12 months allowing the gift recipient the freedom to enjoy their experience at their convenience.

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10 great UK family adventure camps and day trips

It’s action stations in this roundup of activity centre escapes, featuring watersports, circus skills, climbing and campfire cookouts – and with August bank holiday availability

Acorn Adventure, south Wales

Soak up the views of the Brecon Beacons at this adventure camp in south Wales. Acorn takes advantage of its campsite’s proximity to Llangorse Lake with a variety of watersports, such as Kata Kanu and paddleboarding. Stays range from three to six nights, with a choice between its pre-erected tented village (with a central marquee for eating and socialising) or glamping in more luxurious camping pods. There’s also an indoor area that hosts discos and talent shows in the evenings. Three-night stay from £178 (5-15) and £208 (adult), includes room and board, acornfamilyholidays.co.uk

PGL, various locations

A veteran outdoor education provider (it’s been going since 1957), PGL has eight centres across the UK, many of them in extravagant country mansions, including Bawdsey Manor, a new (but Grade II-listed) centre near Woodbridge, Suffolk. Each centre has acres of woodland and landscaped lakes to enjoy. The company offers four-day and week-long getaways as well as weekend trips, with both family rooms and separate adult and child rooms available. There’s a chance to try out everything from fencing to the trapeze, and evening entertainment includes quizzes and talent shows. A two-night, full-board stay with five activities costs from £99 per child (ages 5 to 18) and £129 (adult); children 2-4 go free , pgl.co.uk

Kingswood Adventures, various locations

From the Isle of Wight’s beaches (pictured) to the north Welsh countryside near Moel Famau, Kingswood Adventures runs seven UK centres – with bookings now available for the August bank holiday weekend. Activities continue into the evening with night walks and fire lighting after dinner, on top of abseiling and archery during the day. The sites offers their own mix of activities, as the variety of settings means each has its own specialities – beach games on the Isle of Wight or caving at Colomendy in Wales, for example. Families can relax in the communal yurt or enjoy a campfire barbecue before retiring to their room for the night. Two-night stay with up to 10 activities from £79 (6-17) and £99 adult; includes room and board with five meals; an optional lunch on the last day costs extra, families.kingswood.co.uk

JCA, Shropshire, plus four other England locations

Condover Hall, a Grade I-listed Elizabethan manor in the Shropshire countryside, is home to the JCA adventure centre. The lavish setting is used to the full, with many activities taking place within the building: the house has an indoor pool, laser maze and cinema room. Full room and board is provided for stays of between two and four nights, with dormitory-style family rooms in a secluded block near the main hall. Across the 78 acres of countryside and gardens, families can also take part in buggy-buildling, a nocturnal safari and a centre-wide game of Cluedo. Two-night stays from £109pp (children 4 and under go free) ; August bank holiday stays from £179pp, jca-adventure.co.uk

YHA, various locations

The Youth Hostel Association has launched a new adventure camp programme aimed at giving families a chance to spend quality time together, providing a private family room, meals throughout the stay, and a host of activities. Choose from a two-night, four-night or week-long stay in Edale ( pictured ), in a converted country house in the Peak District, or in Okehampton, Devon, at a modern hostel on the edge of Dartmoor national park . Canoeing, high ropes and orienteering are all on offer as well as site-specific activities like gorge scrambling at Okehampton. Two-night stay from £120 (under 18s) and £140 (adult), includes room and board, yha.org.uk

And for family day trips …

Hilltop outdoor centre, norfolk.

This family-run centre in Norfolk runs jam-packed adventure days on weekdays throughout the summer, fitting five to six activities into just seven hours. Its newest attraction is the Air Jump, a 16-metre tower that you leap off before dropping onto an enormous inflatable pad. Other activities include a tree-top obstacle course, a giant swing and a climbing wall with eight stages of difficulty. Check the centre’s weekly schedule before booking, as each day has a different set of activities. Full day (9.30am-4.30pm) with 5-6 activities from £40pp (must be ages 8+), not including food or accommodation, hilltopoutdoorcentre.co.uk

The Jungle, Magherafelt, County Derry

In the woodlands of the Sperrin Mountains, the Jungle “opened” in 2005 as just a paintballing site. Today, between llama trekking, clay-pigeon shooting, zorbing, laser tag, a Gruffalo trail and a Mad Hatter’s tea party, families are spoilt for choice. Family fun days start at £15 for six tokens (in addition to the £15 booking fee) and take place throughout summer. Heading out in groups is well advised, as it’s promised “organisers go free” with bookings of more than eight people. thejungleni.com

Lusty Glaze Adventure Centre, Newquay

Across a sheltered cove on the Newquay coastline, fun on land and sea is on the agenda here. With a beach for those that prefer to catch rays (or play dodgeball) and “terror” tightropes for thrill seekers by the cliffs, getting in touch with nature is almost compulsory here. The centre also offers surf lessons, banana boat rides and jet ski lessons. Activities are priced individually and booking is essential. lustyglazeadventurecentre.co.uk

East Links Family Park, East Lothian

Only an hour’s drive from Edinburgh, East Links is set in more than 20 acres of land and has a train safari, JCB young driver’s zone, crazy golf, an animal farm and family go-karting. With a mission to unite the classroom and countryside, a learning experience is promised for parents and children, with an Education Zone, as well as indoor and outdoor farm animal areas. For families of more than four there are discounts available, too (£56 for four – 2 adults + 2 children – then £1 off per head thereafter) Admission £15 adult/child, under 2s free, eastlinks.co.uk

Land and Wave, Swanage, Dorset

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Ideas for days out this Father’s Day

Whether you’ve got teenagers or toddlers, Father’s Day is the perfect excuse for a family day out. If you need some inspiration on where to go and what to do, Colin Henrys has rounded up some of the best day trips with Dad.

With babies and toddlers

If you are looking to enjoy some quality time with your babies and toddlers, Father’s Day is the ideal opportunity to book in family time.

Whether it’s a case of taking the whole gang for a big day out or letting Dad take the little ones for some precious bonding time alone, these activities will be fun for parents and kids alike.

The UK’s top zoos are perfectly catered for fun for all ages, as well as doing vital conservation work for the world’s endangered species. Pack some lunch, stock up the nappy bag, grab the buggy and make a day of it, learning more about the hundreds of species being cared for in the top UK zoos.

Chester Zoo is the UK’s largest, with the 125-acre plot including 11 miles of walkway and more than 21,000 animals (plus under-threes go free). ZSL London Zoo, Whipsnade Zoo, Bristol Zoo and Edinburgh Zoo are also among the UK’s most popular zoos.

Twycross Zoo has ‘Dads go free’ on Father’s Day weekend with one free admission for ‘dad’ with any additional paid admission ticket (adult, child or concession), with ‘Dad’ is classed as a person who is taking the paternal parental role for a child.

2/3 Aquarium

A variation on the same theme, if the weather doesn’t suit a day at the zoo, check out the underwater world instead. Again, the educational benefits for older children – learning about different species and conservation – are clear, while I can vouch for the wide-eyed wonderment of younger children as fish go swimming past. Who can find Nemo first?

SeaLife has locations throughout the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, London and Glasgow, while National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth is the UK’s largest and Blue Planet in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, boasts the brilliant underwater Aquatunnel to get a close-up view of the UK’s largest shark collection.

If you’re unsure about the ethics surrounding zoos and aquariums, see our debate here .

3/3 Soft play

Father’s Day doesn’t have to be all about Dad – treat your little ones to a playdate and join the countless other Dads who will be out and about doing the same thing. You won’t struggle to find plenty of soft play options near you, but if you want to add in some structure then role-playing soft play centres are becoming more and more popular.

Liverpool’s Imagine That! is a great example of the ‘toddler town’ role play areas springing up across the UK – made up of play zones based on builders, bakers, hairdressers and more, receiving a giant stamp of approval from my two year old – while London boasts the Discover Children’s Story Centre , where Story World and Story Garden are packed with aliens, spaceships, pirates and more.

With young kids

Some of the best family-friendly attractions are marking Father’s Day with dedicated activities and offers – you could use this as your chance to book in for a day at some of the UK’s leading family resorts.

1/4 South Milton Sands – The Rock: Watersports Festival

South Milton Sands’ watersports festival takes place over the Father’s Day weekend, with activities going on for visitors of all ages. The National Trust-protected beach will host activities including kayaking, paddle-boarding, rockpooling and – new for this year – monofin swimming.

If you don’t want to get too wet, beach volleyball, kite flying, and beach bowls are among the activities on offer on dry land, as well as beach yoga sessions, a barbeque and yummy food at the Beachhouse Café. Plus, it’s free! With just a small charge for some of the organised activities.

2/4 Diggerland

With four UK locations in Kent, Devon, Durham and Yorkshire, Diggerland ’s theme parks have been built for the whole family to enjoy. When founder Hugh Edeleanu first pitched the idea of a theme park based on construction machinery, which children and adults can ride, drive and operate, he clearly struck upon a winning idea given the award-winning resorts it has spawned.

The JCBs and suchlike have been transformed into rides like Spindizzy and the Skyshuttle, while other activities include Crazy Carts, Mini Land Rovers and the chance to dig for buried treasure.

3/4 Xplore 4D Golf and Softplay

Got a golf-loving Dad in the family? Then get yourselves up to the white rose county, Yorkshire, this Father’s Day for a mini-golf experience like no other – Xplore’s 4D Golf in Castleford combines mystery and fantasy in the UK’s first glow-in-the-dark 3D Mini Golf adventure. Stick on your 3D glasses and tee off, with two courses – Search for Atlantis and The Mummy’s Curse – available to play.

Xplore recommend a minimum age of three for golfing, with putters of all different sizes available, but they also have a separate Soft Play for children up to 12 years old and a café to grab a bite to eat so you can make more of your trip. Situated just next to the motorway, it’s handily located for a quick day out. The wider Xscape complex also homes an indoor trampoline park, cinema and restaurants.

4/4 Gulliver’s Theme Parks

Gulliver’s has three UK bases, in Warrington, Milton Keynes and Matlock Bath (Derbyshire), and all three are offering free entry for Dads across Father’s Day weekend (when accompanied by at least one full paying person). All three have hotel options to make a short break of it, alongside the family rides, shows and attractions that have made them so famous.

Designed for children aged between two and 13, Gulliver’s Theme Parks are also set apart from competitors in that you can take your own picnic and parking is free.

With teenagers

Trying to get teenagers to take part in family activities can sometimes be tricky, but these fun days out are sure to stir up some excitement.

1/4 Escape Rooms

Escape rooms are becoming hugely popular and are a brilliant way to spend some quality time with your older kids – working together to find clues, solve puzzles and, ultimately, ‘escape’ before your time runs out. Built to be accessible for younger visitors as well, the varying nature of the challengers on offer mean there will likely be plenty of ways for the whole family to get involved; national franchises like The Escape Room explicitly state they are open for all ages. We can personally recommend Mission Breakout in Camden, London , which has a couple of different scenarios to play and kids 9+ can join in.

For the uninitiated, an escape room is a themed, interactive challenge, where you are ‘locked’ in a room as a team and must complete a set task by discovering clues and solving puzzles. You usually have an hour to ‘escape’ the room, with teams sizes generally set between two and six. Simply go online and search for your nearest one.

2/4 Geocaching

Geocaching is a modern-day treasure hunt, swapping maps for smartphone or GPS devices. There are more than 70,000 geocaches hidden in the UK, and all you need to find them is a smartphone, a pen or pencil (to sign the logbook inside each geocache) and the coordinates of the caches with a free account on the Geocaching website .

Geocaches can are usually camouflaged into their surroundings and can be particularly small, so some skill is required to hunt them down. Then it’s a case of signing the log book, exchanging any trinkets if the cache contains some (and you have brought some to swap) and that’s it. There’s no denying, it’s a ‘geeky treasure hunt’ as one geocaching blogger dubs it, but it’s also a great excuse to spend some quality time outdoors – for free.

3/4 Go Ape!

If you’re after something a little more adventurous, meanwhile, Go Ape will get you swinging at any of 33 locations UK ride, with their experiences including their iconic “Tree Top Adventure” high ropes courses, as well as off-road Segwaying at selected locations.

Go Ape in Black Park, Bucks, boasts “Nets Kingdom” – featuring tree-top trampolines, giant ball nets and slides in the forest canopy – while Grizedale features 3km of zip wires too. Even the ‘standard’ locations are packed with unforgettable adventure, however – and fun for the whole family. The Tree Top Adventure courses are open to all ages from ten and older and taller than 4’7” (1.4m), with a maximum weight of 20.5 stone (130kg). There are 19 locations with the Go Ape Tree Top Junior courses too, where the height restriction drops to 3’3” (1m).

4/4 Ten Pin Bowling

Looking for something a little less ‘out there’? You can’t beat a classic game of ten pin bowling to show Dad who’s boss. And with franchises like Tenpin offering locations across the country, and adding in arcades, bars, laser-tag, pool tables and more, there is far more to a trip to your local bowling alley than the bowling itself.

It is accessible too, with ramps for younger bowlers and the option to put the bumpers up. And even if you just stick to the bowling, it’s a perfect chance for some light entertainment (and competition, of course) before grabbing a bite to eat afterwards.

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6 Father and Daughter Outdoor Activities

The relationship between a father and daughter is special. From playing games together as a little girl to advising her on work-related matters, a father should be by his daughter’s side as a constant source of love and support.

Activities tend to let out different sides of a person amidst all the fun and since this relationship is so special, spending quality time together by enjoying fun outdoor activities is the perfect way to strengthen this bond. 

From showing your competitive side in intense games like clay pigeon shooting to a soothing and fun nature walk, every dad and daughter duo can engage in fun sports and leisure games together. If this is something you’re looking for, Avalanche has got you covered. 

We’ve put together a list of father and daughter outdoor activities that guarantee a fun day out.

So, let’s take a look!

1. An Adrenaline-Filled Quad Bike Safari

If you’re looking for something more adventurous and adrenaline-filled, a quad bike safari is the perfect adventure for you and your dad. Speeding on an ATV across picturesque terrain with your father is an experience to remember.

If this activity is something you’ve not tried before, make sure you’re aware of the safety precautions and tips to get started with quad biking. Once you start with the quad bike safari, you’ll want to make it a ritual with your dad – it’s that addictive!

Join us today and book your slots for an amazing quad biking adventure at our Leicester activity centre.

2. Try Out Clay Pigeon Shooting

Clay pigeon shooting is a fun yet intense sport, perfect for father-daughter activities for adults. If you’re looking to try out something new with your old man, this experience is certainly worth a shot (pun intended). 

When it comes to clay pigeon shooting, from improving physical fitness and strength to concentration and focus, this sport has many benefits . Moreover, the fun and thrills it brings to the table make it a great choice for you and your dad.

If you’re looking to try out clay pigeon shooting, get in touch with us at Avalanche Adventure today!

3. Have A Beach Day

A day in the sun, walking on the sand and listening to the waves crash is, for many, a perfect day. To make this blissful experience even more amazing, convince your dad to join you and have a beach day .

Although we may be based in one of the most landlocked counties in the UK, we’re lucky enough to still be no more than a couple hours drive from the coast. 

While this may seem like a simple thing to do, your day on the beach is a great opportunity for you to share some quality time together and share memories of when you were younger. You can add to those by having an even better day out with your old man.

If you want to take things up a notch, consider a beach picnic . Take your dad’s favourite snacks and drinks, a picnic blanket and maybe even a board game for a fun father-daughter day trip.

4. Start Gardening Together

If you’ve always wanted to try your hand at gardening and check if you have a green thumb, consider making it an activity that you and your dad can try together. 

Gardening is very rewarding ; allowing you to relax and destress. It can help you connect with nature in a unique way and on the plus side, if you’re growing fruit or vegetables, you get fresh produce for your home.

This soothing activity becomes all the more fun when you try it out with someone special, like your dad. From planting the seeds to nurturing the plant, this activity can prove to be a bonding experience that gets you and your dad closer.

5. Go For A Bike Ride

A father-daughter bike ride is another fun idea to consider. Most of us spent a lot of our childhood riding a bike with our friends and have fond memories. You can revisit that feeling and perhaps make it even more special by sharing it with your dad.

Whether it is a bike ride in the morning to catch the sunrise or a scenic one during the late hours, the experience, albeit simple, will be something you’ll remember over the years.

6. Take A Nature Walk

A nature walk is always a good idea as it lets you appreciate nature in all its glory while also letting you destress and clear your mind . Taking a relaxing walk with your dad can let you spend some quality time together and bond.

Since studies show that a nature walk can have several health benefits and have a positive impact on mental health, it can prove to be healing and soothing for the both of you. 

You could consider turning this walk into a hike or visit some scenic location for a better adventure. With such amazing company, the experience is guaranteed to be a memorable one.

Contact Avalanche Adventure For Fun Father And Daughter Outdoor Activities

Whether it’s for Father’s Day 2021 or any other day, these fun father and daughter outdoor activities are perfect for a memorable and quality time together.

If you’re looking for something more adventurous, join us at Avalanche! From gemini off road racing to archery , we have many activities that you can try out. Give us a call and book your slots today to start with your adventure!

LET US HELP YOU CHOOSE YOUR CORPORATE EVENT

Outdoor activities are more fun when you do them together! Avalanche Adventure welcomes many corporates throughout the year, a popular choice to bring teamwork together.

Father's Day: great trips and days out

Full steam ahead

There seems to be a primeval link between men and steam trains, so why not give a present of a Steam Experience day with the Severn Valley Railway from Bewdley. The half-day introductory course allows you to fire and drive a steam locomotive – under supervision. From £250, including passenger passes for the rest of the family.

How to do it

Return tickets for a scheduled ride on the railway cost from £7.50 adult, £5 child (01299 403816; svr.co.uk/FootplateExperience.aspx ). Similar courses are run by the Bure Valley Railway in Norfolk ( bvrw.co.uk ), the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway ( www.whr.co.uk/driverExperience ) and Foxfield Railway near Stoke on Trent ( foxfieldrailway.co.uk ).

Golf at Turnberry

Golfing dads deserve some time on one of the world’s greatest links courses - Turnberry on the west coast of Scotland. A Duel in the Sun Experience includes breakfast or lunch with one of the course’s academy professionals in the Tappie Toorie brasserie, a practice session on the driving range and then a round with a pro on either the Ailsa or the Kintyre courses - go for the Ailsa if you possibly can. A night’s stay in the hotel would add another £300 or so to the bill… but how often do fathers really receive the true recognition they are due?

Book through turnberryresort.co.uk . The Duel in the Sun Experience costs £350.

Vintage plane flight

Take your father back to the days when flying was an adventure with a flight in a vintage aircraft, and panoramic views of the English countryside.

Strictly Flying ( strictlyflying.com ), which is based in Kent, can arrange for a flight in a 1930s Tiger Moth biplane from £160.

Alternatively...

If your father would rather keep his feet on the ground, perhaps you should head to the Imperial War Museum Duxford in Cambridgeshire.

There's a Military Vehicle Show on the day (tickets £18.50), and a Father’s Day Lunch is also being put on too (£18.95 for adults).

Call 01223 499353 or visit the Duxford website . Tickets are also available to buy on the day.

Joust for you

Here’s one for fathers who love the glory tales of chivalry and derring-do of yore. At Arundel Castle, jousting tournaments feature a variety of weapons and free-style fighting that organisers promise will “be the nearest reproduction of tournament combat seen outside of the 15th century”. It includes a falconry display, an archery display and competition, plus crafts.

The castle has a remarkable setting, with panoramic views over the South Downs. It has also starred in quite a few films and television series.

See the Arundel Castle events page for more information.

Full price details are here

Football dreams

On the trail of Real legends

A great present from a son or daughter would be a tour of the Bernabeu Stadium, the home of Real Madrid. Walk down the players’ tunnel and out on to the pitch, visit the Presidential Box and have a look at all those trophies up close.

Read Telegraph Travel’s guide to Madrid for full details

And closer to home…

Old Trafford tour

Visitors can take a 70 minute tour around the “Theatre of Dreams”. Manchester United fans will love snooping in the players’ dressing room and walking through the tunnel on to the pitch. Tickets for entry to the museum and a 70-minute tour cost: adults £16, juniors/concessions £10.50, students £14.50, family of two adults and two under 16s £48, under fives are free.

Read our Telegraph Travel guide to Manchester for full details

You can now also combine a tour of Liverpool's legendary Anfield football stadium and The Beatles Story museum on a new joint tour. See how to do it here .

Survival course

Father and child adventurers can find out how to emulate Bear Grylls, one of the world’s most renowned survival specialists at a 24-hour survival academy. This is one for next year though, with courses running on April 13/14 and April 27/28.

Contact 01483 424 438; beargryllssurvivalacademy.com . Cost is £398 for two places (child and adult). Children must be aged between 10 and 17 years.

Follow the Richard III trail

With all the attention on Richard III recently, why not see the place most associated with his legend, Bosworth, just outside Leicester. The battlefield now has an excellent interactive museum/exhibition area that's very hands-on for children.

Telegraph Travel offers the Richard III and the War of the Roses tour, operated by Travel Editions, from £299pp for three days. Offer includes return two nights accommodation with various meals, visits to sites, guided tours with Julian Humphrys and coach transfers. Call 08448730323 or visit the Telegraph Travelshop

For more tours and suggestions see ‘On the trail of Richard III'

See Germany in style

Fly your father to Stuttgart. From here he could travel to Metzingen and the Hugo Boss factory where he could pick up lots of very stylish stuff at considerably discounted prices. Other activities in the area could include a trip to Tubingen (Germany's answer to Oxford) and could possibly even be timed to coincide with the Stuttgart beer festival (September 27 to October 13; see the website ) for quality beer drinking.

Book flights through German Wings ( germanwings.com ) or Lufthansa ( lufthansa.com )

Whisky him away

Help dad tell his Talisker from his Tobermoray. A 90-minute tutored tasting is included as part of a day-long whisky course at the Scotch Whisky Training School in Edinburgh. Includes talks on the history of the Scotch whisky industry and the art of blending:

See 0131 478 7120; scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk . From £165 per person.

See also: Walking the whisky trail

Alexander & James has put together a special father’s day trip to China. As well as a trip to the Great Wall and terracotta army, you can also create your own whisky blend at the Johnnie Walker House in Beijing. Unless you’re the son or daughter of a Russian oligarch however, this may not be for you. Trips cost £120,000.

Alternatively ...

Several English vineyards now offer great places to stay .

See the battle for the Ashes

If your father loves the sound of leather on willow, this may be the perfect day out (depending on the result of course). The London Test matches may have sold out, but there is still availability for some of the other venues.

See the ECB website for full details of availability.

Lee Valley White Water Centre in Hertfordshire

If your father is something of a thrill-seeker take him to ride the rapids down the 300-metre Olympic course. It’s an exhilarating experience.

Visit the Lee Valley White Water Centre website ; From £49 per person

Read more: Lee Valley canoeing: a rapid lesson in being an Olympian

Take to the skies

Another adrenaline rush can be found on a one-day weekend paragliding taster course on West Wight. Here, he can learn the ropes and take to the skies for aerial views of the Isle of Wight (weather dependent). Combine the cost of the course with a Wightlink economy day return ferry crossing for a car and up to four people, and dad’s day out on the Isle of Wight will cost £158.

See the Wightlink website

Curry cookery classes

One for the modern father. He can learn how to make the perfect curry with the chef Hrishikesh Desai at Lucknam Park cookery school, based in the eponymous hotel near Bath.

Day courses include The Street Food of India, and classes in the cuisines of North, South, East and West India. Book by calling 01225 742777 or through lucknampark.co.uk/cookeryschool ). £175 per course.

For petrol-head fathers

Father’s Day Classic Car Rally, Leeds

Over 900 classic and vintage vehicles gather at Harewood to be polished and admired. Includes rallies, displays and stalls. £10 adults, £9 senior citizens, £6.00 children/students, £30.00 family (2 adults and 3 children).

See the Harewood website for more information

Tickets to the Formula One at Silverstone (June 28 to 30) are available from £65. Tickets are available from the Silverstone website

Compiled by Jolyon Attwooll

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10 Telegraph expert rating

Estelle Manor

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13 Mother and Daughter Weekend Trips in the UK [2024]

Posted on 7th May 2019. In England , Girls Weekends , The Roundup , Uncategorised , Yorkshire

A weekend away with mum is the perfect way for any daughter to say thanks to the most special person in her life (sorry kids, husbands and dads – your time will come too).

So, if you want a special day out for Mother’s Day, Women’s History Month or you just want to spend some quality time with one another because you live apart, we’ve the ideas you need to plan and book a great adventure together.

From restful spa weekends to mini breaks with a hot tub , here’s our list of 12 mother and daughter weekend trips in the UK – one of each month of the year – perfect for making memories befitting a lifetime of love.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links which means we may get a commission, at no cost to you, if you decide to purchase through them.

For more girls’ weekend breaks , see Devon glamping ,  glamping in the Peak District,   glamping in The Forest of Dean , gorgeous glamping in Scotland , lovely Lyme Regis cottages .

For culture vulture mums | A cultural trip to York

York is one of the UK most beautiful cities to visit on a mother-daughter day trip or for a whole luxury weekend of high-end fun.

What awaits you is 2000 years of history, Roman and Viking, plus elegant tearooms, posh restaurants, top-notch bars, cultural must-visits – plus, there are a number of free things to do in York , so it can be an affordable destination.

York’s medieval streets are encircled by 13th-century walls. Follow the ancient circuit – 3.4 kilometres – and see the city’s most enduring treasures from a new angle. The entire route takes around 2 hours to walk, and on the way you’ll pass five main bars or gateways, one Victorian gateway, one postern (a small gateway) and 45 towers.

Make your way to The Treasurer’s House – it is one of York’s most haunted spots. Join the free cellar tour and sink into the underbelly of the building, the setting for one of the most famous ghost sightings of all time: Roman soldiers who were seen in the cellar by plumber, Harry Martindale, in 1953.

The York Cocoa House is an unexpected and enchanting pit stop for sweet-tooth mums and daughters. Order from the extensive chocolate menu, both savoury and sweet dishes and drinks are on offer.

You won’t be short of wonderful hotels in York to choose from. But should you fancy something a little more bespoke and rural then try the fabulous THE BOXBNB . This lovely high-end North Yorkshire glamping venture comprises of 3 cleverly transformed shipping container cabins sitting side-by-side in a private field: The Rabbit BOX, The Duck BOX and The Pig BOX. All 3 are just 30 mins from York in the foodie capital of North Yorkshire, Malton. From £125pn, min stay 2 nights.

York tours for a mother and daughter weekend:

For right royal mums | A weekend in Windsor

Windsor was the official home of the UK’s most famous mum – HRH Queen Elizabeth – before her death; and few places rival Windsor for a mother and daughter trip appeal.

From the stately presence of its magnificent castle, to the watery wiles of the River Thames, Windsor beguiles visitors with effortless elegance and timeless charm (much like Mum, of course).

Royal it may be, but reserved Windsor ain’t, when it comes to things to do. And if you and Mum would like something a little less regal than the castle or its residents, look no further than Windsor Duck Tours .

Step aboard the 26-seat amphibious vehicle for a Road, River, Splash Tour of the crown estate, and strap yourselves in for a ride that ends in the Thames itself, complete with otherwise-hidden views of the castle and Eton College.

Sleep here:

Make your mother/daughter base the four-star Castle Hotel . Just five minutes’ walk from the castle, it boasts a historical back story few can match, and today promises a smart blend of individuality and sophistication. It’s boutique with real soul.

A one-night weekend stay in a twin room, with breakfast included, costs around £200.

No trip to Windsor is remotely complete without visiting the castle. From the majesty (literally) of The State Apartments to the miniature-scale magic of Queen Mary’s Doll’s House , you’ll discover unmistakable grandeur in every feature, and a regal sense of pleasure at sharing the same carpets and corridors as the castle’s world-famous owners.

Cups of tea and mums. The best combination since, well, pretty much anything. And in Windsor, celebrating both has never been more satisfying.

Take your mum for an afternoon tea treat fit for a queen; Windsor has plenty of options to choose from. The Castle Hotel does its own afternoon tea, so you can add on champagne and not worry about the walk home. Alternatively, try the Fairmont Windsor Park , a luxury hotel serving a lovely afternoon tea in its Orchard Tea Room. Or the Sir Christopher Wren , overlooking the Thames and only a short walk from Windsor Castle.

You might also like

Reading for the weekend – just up the road from Windsor, and a great urban mini break with plenty of things to do for mums and daughters alike (yes, really). Including the magnificent Thames Lido .

Windsor tours for a mother and daughter weekend:

For sweet-tooth mums | Tea for Two in Bath

Enjoyed amidst the Georgian glory of one of the UK’s most beautiful cities, afternoon tea in Bath is a sure-fire way to Mum’s heart on a mother and daughter weekend trip.

And the city’s charms don’t end with a high-class cuppa or two. From boutiques and bars to its world-famous spa, Bath has more than enough to serve on the side.

Before the teapot starts doing its thing, the best way to enjoy the small-but-oh-so-perfectly-formed city is on foot. So my advice (if you and Mum don’t mind the odd hill or two) is to get out and walk.

A stroll around Bath is a series of richly rewarding steps into the past. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it positively oozes historical beauty. The medieval Abbey, Roman Baths , Georgian Pump Rooms – they’re all waiting to join you on your journey of discovery.

Tip: if you’re looking for an expert guide to the city’s sights and delights, book yourself onto one of its many walking tours.

If there’s one thing Bath does better than pretty much anywhere on the planet, it’s townhouses. So they’re a must for every visitor.

Heading out of the shopping centre, up to the Circus and Royal Crescent , you’ll soon discover why the city has such a stellar reputation when it comes to domestic style.

Let’s make no bones about it. You and Mum are here for the tea, right? Well, Bath does tea. And then some. The oldest – and most famous – tea room in Bath is Sally Lunns . Tourist trap or not, when we went to Sally Lunn’s, we loved it.

Sally Lunn’s is home to the Bath Bunn – a regional speciality known the world over. Part bun, part bread, part cake, the Bath Bunn is a must try when in the city. You can go for breakfast, lunch or dinner and have your Bath Bunn served a variety of delicious ways, topped with sweet or savoury goodies.

We stayed at the Abbey Hotel when we enjoyed our Easy Peasy Weekend in Bath – central and comfortable it’s a good base for you both and a reasonable price from around £150pn. Of course, there are some more luxurious options, including the sensational Bathen House Boutique Hotel and the Chestnuts House Boutique B&B .

Take mum on one of Savouring Bath’s wonderful Food Tours. During your tour you’ll meet the city’s BEST artisan producers, taste delicious local flavours (savoury and sweet) and discover Bath’s fascinating history and heritage.

Bath tours for a mother and daughter weekend:

For gin-loving mums | A taste of the Cotswolds (and gin)

If wonderful gin experiences are the thing for you and Mum, here is just the place to indulge your guilty (or not?) pleasure: the beautiful Cotswolds .

It may not be the first place your mind turns when thinking of the true gin gems of the world. But believe me, one you’ve opened the door to this particular cupboard, they’re going to have a hard time getting you out…

For a truly typical Cotswolds’ experience, then Boundary Cottage in Broadway (one of the many lovely villages in the Cotswolds ) is the place.

Sitting pretty in the Northern Cotswolds, Boundary Cottage looks curiously like it’s just swanned off The Holiday film set. With honeyed looks and original features, it sleeps four so would be a great place to share with another mother and daughter on your weekend away.

Broadway and Chipping Campden are only a heartbeat away by bike, by car or along one of the many  Cotswolds AONB walking trails . If you’d prefer a boutique hotel, we love The Old Stocks in Stow-on-the-Wold. Trendy and chic, it has gorgeous rooms and serves great cocktails.

Head to Piston Gin Distillery just outside of Cheltenham for a fun 3 hours of gin tasting and blending . Here, in a sleek loft space gleaming with mini copper stills and stainless steel overheads, you’ll learn discover gin’s starring role in the Dutch battlefields and its darker days in the gin palaces of London.

You’ll also discover the secrets of gin alchemy, including the botanical building blocks of great gin and how to use the equipment for the best results. Plus, you’ll get tips you can use to create your own gin blend. Next up, you get to blend your own 700ml bottle of gin to take home, using over 70 botanicals and inspiration from the brilliant Piston Team. Safe to say, our visit was a riot of laughs and tipples that left us Pist-on gin.

Eat (or drink in this case)

Gin, of course. Savoured in whichever way you like. But you will need a good meal at some point; luckily the Cotswolds has plenty of decent places to ea t to choose from. One of our favourites is Roots and Seeds Kitchen Garden in Cirencester (and not *just* because of the brilliant cocktails).

How about getting out and about foraging for your supper with mum? The Cotswold Forager is a born and bred local guy – and professional forager – who’ll show you the foraging ropes. He offers different day and half-day experiences for whatever your tastebuds desire.

If you crave a sweet treat that’s a little less on the wild side, how about baking with mum in a beautiful Cotswolds’ home? The Old Bakehouse near Cirencester offers a range of cooking experiences for mums and daughters.

Cotswolds tours for a mother and daughter weekend:

For outdoorsy mums | Vintage Forest of Dean Glamping

A weekend outdoors? You and Mum, in a forest, with nature all around and not a high street in sight?

Yep, you read right. If you want to give Mum a real taste of natural luxury on a mother and daughter weekend trip in the UK, and a well-earned break from it all, the forest’s the place to head.

The UK glamping scene is positively booming right now, with luxury coming to the great outdoors like never before, and eco-friendly exclusivity right on our doorsteps.

One of our particular glamping favourites, and a Mum-pleaser if ever there was one, is the brilliant Mrs Mills’ Yurts – 4 Jazz Age yurts purr with 20s’ sophistication, set on the lower slopes of May Hill in Gloucestershire.

Book yourself a visit, and you and Mum will be getting up close and personal in one of the super-comfy themed yurts: Gatsby ,  Tanaduke (with a wood-fired hot tub) ,  Hildegarde  or Zelda .

All yurts come with enough height to stand up in, private terraces, designated pastel-coloured beach hut bathrooms (with hot showers and flushing loos), wood burners, central peepholes for night-time stargazing, a kitchenette with everything you need to self-cater, firepits with cast iron cookware, and picnic tables.

Nearby, a short walk from your yurt, there’s a communal Snug in the barn, filled with board games to borrow and WiFi to connect to, as well as an honesty bar.

But no matter how tough, leave your bed you must, so make sure it’s worth it: indulge in a morning or afternoon’s floatation therapy at Float in the Forest . Once in your flotation pod, you float on the surface of warm water saturated with Epsom salt. it’s an out-of-this-world experience that’s a perfect mother and daughter weekend treat.

Alternatively, you could always treat mum to one of the indulgent holistic treatments provided on-site, including massage and a home-cooked evening meal.

If you and mum are feeling very adventurous, how about canoeing on the mighty River Wye and exploring its glorious castles and scenery loved by the romantic poets? Or you could head out on a standup paddle board (SUP) adventure .

The brilliant Inspire2Adventure guys based in Monmouthshire have a range of thrilling outdoor activities to enjoy, including stand up paddle boarding (they have a mega SUP for 6 people), gorge scrambling , rock climbing , guided canoe and kayak river trips.

You get professional, comprehensive instruction and a heap of laughs as you wibble and wobble your way down, or up, river!

For animal-crazy mums | Go Llama Trekking in Surrey

Set in the peaceful Surrey village of Hambledon, where the main traffic seems to be clip-clopping horses, The Merry Harriers is a 16th- century red-brick pub with rooms filled with real ale, good food, friendly chit-chat and, curiously, llamas out the back.

Just the thing for mums who love a good old fashioned countryside pub – and fancy getting up close and personal with these funny woolly creatures.

Llamas are one of the pub’s most famous long-term residents. Head to the back of the Inn and you’ll meet them: there are 12 in total and they’re all friendly, especially if you come with treats. We recommend the llama trek. It’s is a brilliantly fun way to spend a morning or afternoon, which you can either book separately or enjoy as part of the pub’s signature Llama Love Experience (includes a DB&B stay, plus a picnic on your trek.

Next to the Merry Harriers you’ll find The Village Spirit Collective – a gin distillery making gins based on flavours loved by the people in the local communities (or ‘Ginfluencers’ as they’re called). Try the blend your own ‘Ginfluencer’ experience, starting from £15.

The pub’s five large Shepherd Huts are a great spot for those who want to feel separate from the main Inn. Find them to the front of the pub in a pretty tree-filled meadow, beside a glassy pond with views to the horse-studded Surrey hills beyond. Sleeping 2, from £130pn.

For literature-loving mums | Discover Daphne Du Maurier in Cornwall

In her obituary of Daphne Du Maurier, writer Kate Kellaway said: “ She wanted her riddles to persist. She wanted the novels to continue to haunt us beyond their endings.”

And if you treat Mum to a mother and daughter trip into the Cornwall of the famed novelist (aka: Fowey), you’ll soon learn that an air of mystery certainly lives on.

Nowhere in Cornwall – or anywhere for that matter – says Daphne Du Maurier more evocatively than Jamaica Inn .

Discovered by Du Maurier after she and a friend became lost in fog while riding on the moors, its tales of ghost and smugglers were the inspiration for her most famous novel. You and Mum can enter this world of legend and romance if you choose to stay for around £95 per night. But beware: it is said to be haunted to this very day.

Should the idea of sleeping with ghosts not appeal to you, we recommend the brilliant small luxury hotel Boscundle Manor , only a short drive from Fowey. This country house hotel is owned by two of the nicest and friendliest hosts you could wish for: Jason and Louise. Together with their exceptional team, they’ve created an adults-only boutique hotel that has manor house vibes but comes with a throughly down-to-earth heartbeat. Oh, and they serve the most wonderful – and colourful – afternoon tea , too.

Make a beeline for Fowey – another source of great inspiration for Du Maurier and home to a stunning estuary, cliff-top paths and mum-friendly woodland strolls.

If you can, take a boat up the River Fowey on your mum and daughter getaway to see the house where Du Maurier lived and wrote, Ferryside. Daphne loved Cornwall and spent time at Ferryside in Fowey whenever she could, it was there that she wrote her first novel The Loving Spirit.

Also be sure to see – and possibly stop at – Readymoney Cove, where du Maurier once lived, and experience the coastal views that inspired her.

To the west of Fowey you come to Menabilly, made famous as the Manderley of Daphne Du Maurier’s novel Rebecca. Although you can’t visit the house itself, you can walk the same countryside, footpaths and coves where  Daphne du Maurier walked and drew inspiration for much of her writing.

While you’re in Fowey, follow in Daphne’s footsteps by enjoying Afternoon Tea at The Fowey Hotel.

It was at this beautiful hotel that Daphne du Maurier met regularly with her mentor, the academic and writer Sir Arthur Quiller-Couch. Fill up on sandwiches, indulgent scones and mini cakes – and make sure you have a Tarquin’s Gin as a special mother and daughter treat.

More mother and daughter things to do in Cornwall

For glamorous mums | Capital Cocktails in London

Pre-show cocktails in the sumptuous surrounds of London’s West End. Is there anything more likely to make you Mum’s favourite? (If that was ever in doubt, of course…)

Not if you follow this showstopping (or starting) weekend suggestion for mother and daughter trip bliss.

If you’re going to a show in the West End, then pre-show: do cocktails. And nowhere does them better than One Aldwych . From its statement home on the corner of The Strand, the restaurant’s Lobby Bar serves cocktails that are more about imagination than inebriation.

For the ultimate pre-show cocktail experience, try the Showtime Cocktails menu, in which a every delicious drink is paired with a theatre show, and accompanying bar bites. Cocktails from this grandstanding selection start at £16. PS: We also love The Ned for a high-end cocktail splurge.

If you’re going to treat Mum, treat her to food and drink fit for a Queen (Mum). And that’s precisely what The Goring Hotel offers.

Renowned as the Queen Mother’s preferred spot to take tea , book yourselves in for a Traditional Afternoon Tea and look forward to the finest amuse bouche, sandwiches, cakes and scones, as well as the very best hot beverages you’ll find anywhere.

Admittedly, at £70 per person, it’s on the pricey side, but mum will be thanking you forever more.

Mum is sure to love stunning Lulubelle Houseboat in Limehouse Marina. Sleeping 4, her plush interiors are serious in style. Her rooms are decadently spacious and her private marina location is a sublime. From this spot you can sashay around Canary Wharf in 5 minutes or see a show at the O2 in just over 3 minutes.

Then, just 50 yards from the boat, is Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen and one of London’s oldest pubs, The Grapes (once frequented by Charles Dickens and owned today by Sir Ian McKellen).

If your mum loves a thrill ride, take her on the nerve-jangling Thames Rockets Speed Boat Tour . The Ultimate London Adventure (from £49.95pp) is 50 minutes of white knuckle fun for everyone who wants a unique London experience full of famous sights with added thrills and spills.

You’ll blast off from the iconic London Eye taking in the incredible sights from Big Ben to London Tower Bridge. You’ll be entertained on the way by quick-witted award-winning tour guides straight from the stand-up and acting circuit.

Mother and daughter experiences in London: 

For busy mums | Luxury Spa Stay in Devon

Chances to escape everyday life don’t come along too often. So when they do – and particularly when they mean some quality mother-daughter time – it’s well worth going big on the escape side of things.

And that’s exactly why a spa break in Devon is just the ticket.

Total immersion in a boutique private spa, on the stunning North Devon Coast? A place to unwind in the lap of luxury? A detox weekend that brings you both back to you? Yep, Wildwood Spa from Ravendere Retreats  really does promise it all.

This eco-friendly, adults-only oasis of calm is just the place for you and Mum to unwind, detox and de-stress. You can lose yourselves in the infinity pool with hydrotherapy pool loungers, soak away cares in a hot outdoor shower, steam it out in the cedar sauna, and laze by the open fireplace.

Best of all, the whole ‘spa’ is yours – and yours alone, because it is built into your accommodation. There are two cuboid timber spaces either side of your infinity pool. In one cube there’s a well-equipped kitchen and living area. In the other, there’s a bedroom and bathroom. It is a very special place for you and mum.

A two-night break doesn’t come cheap, at £650pn (with a two-night minimum stay), but if it does suit your budget, it delivers rich rewards.

As you might expect, a stay of this calibre also offers exquisite extras for you to book, including a range of spa treatments. If you and mum fancy a facial or reflexology, delivered in the privacy of your retreat then you can. Wildwood Spa work with established local therapists who can ensure you both feel a million dollars.

Because you’re with mum, special has to be on the menu. So why not book a private dining experience with Coastal Cooks? Headed up by Chef Graham Brundle, who has been personal chef to Richard Branson and HRH King of Jordan, Coastal Cooks have created a bespoke menu for you. Delicious.

If you fancy something a little more affordable, but no less tasty, pop along to Ilfracombe which is only 10 minutes away by car. Head to the harbour which is home to a fantastic fish and chip shop as well as a fishmonger, selling freshly-caught seasonal fish and shellfish.

For chocaholic mums | Chocolate heaven in The Wye Valley

Let’s be honest. Who doesn’t love chocolate? So what better way to spend some sweet mother-daughter bonding time than over your very own chocolate-making class?

And all this chocolate-fuelled indulgence can be played out in the little-known but never-forgotten Wye Valley.

OK, so let’s get down to business. Chocolate business. Head to Harts Barn Cookery School and book mum and you in for one of their ‘Chocolate Dreams’ classes.

You’ll receive a brief introduction to the history of chocolate, before letting your imagination (and taste buds) run wild in the creation of your own sweet, sweet inventions.

Classes last around 2-3 hours and start at approximately £65 per person.

Woofield Accommodation in the majestic Wye Valley is an elegant treat that’ll definitely sate your style tastebuds – and is only 20 mins’ drive from Harts Barn.

Owned by two professional, award-winning interior designers, this grand Georgian house is made up of three beautiful, dog-friendly apartments: Palm House (sleeping up to 5), Steeple View (sleeping 2) and Cathedral View (sleeping 2).

Boasting interiors that are worthy of any high-end magazine, Woofield’s three apartments are the perfect base from which to explore the Wye Valley.

Prices start from £125 per night with a 2 night min stay.

More places to stay in the Forest of Dean

It’s not hard to see why Puzzlewood is said to have inspired JR Tolkein. With its twisted ancient trees, tumble of paths and steps, and velvety moss-covered crags, this incredible wood is a dead ringer for Middle Earth.

And that’s not it’s only famous accolade: Star Wars VII, Merlin and Dr Who were all filmed here. Find it half way between Wales and England, near Coleford in the Forest of Dean.

You may not have room after all the chocolate (and that’s fine, we don’t judge), but if you do head along to Tudor Farmhouse in Clearwell .

This former farm is not a intimate and cosy boutique hotel serving up first-class grub. According to Tatler Magazine Tudor Farmhouse is a ‘culinary oasis’.

As well as dinner and lunch menus (tasting and grazing options are available), Tudor Farmhouse serves up Afternoon Teas between 2pm – 5pm.

For ‘ancient’ mums | Make history in Durham

“If you have never been to Durham before, go there at once. Take my car, it’s wonderful.”

As a visitor to Durham on more than one occasion, I couldn’t agree more with the wise and witty words of Bill Bryson. And if you’re searching for somewhere to take Mum that does special in a truly timeless way, look no further than this beautiful northern treasure.

In a city famed the world over for its history, there are one or two shining examples of how the present can embrace the past to stunning effect. Step forward Hotel Indigo.

Just a stone’s throw from the city’s historic centre, the uber-chic Hotel Indigo has risen rather stylishly from what was the Old Shire Hall building.

That puts you just moments from Durham’s ‘holy trinity’ – the university, castle and cathedral – reached by way of the cobbled streets and labyrinthine alleyways that criss-cross the city. And it’s all played out to the laconic tune of the River Wear, arching its way around proceedings.

A standard room starts at £150 B&B.

Durham may not be the largest city, but there’s no shortage of perfect mother and daughter things to do on a weekend trip to the city. For any first-time visitors though, a riverside walk is an absolute must.

Accessible for almost every part of the city, you and Mum will soon find yourself following a path that takes in bridges, woodland and weirs – with little more than nature and the odd rower here or there to break the spell.

Once you’ve seen the city, you can always take advantage of the glorious countryside nearby. Head a little further north for Northumberland where castles are waiting and so is the must-see Hadrian’s Wall.

When it comes to ‘seeing’ in Durham, there is only one winner – the cathedral, one of Europe’s truly great buildings.

Arrive by train, and you’ll be treated to its glory before your feet have even kissed the platform. Standing proud and protective alongside the castle and above the city, this glory to gothic architecture is both part of a World Heritage Site and a wonderful place to make memories with Mum.

If the two of it are up for the challenge (and want the stunning reward) you could tackle the winding staircase to the top of the cathedral tower . Otherwise, if terra firma’s more your thing, you can simply lose hours exploring the stunning building from the ground up.

You can find full details on opening hours here.

To round off your historical weekend in meaty fashion, try Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill , in Hotel Indigo.

Situated in the old Durham Council Senate Chamber, it sources local produce to give you the very best Durham has to offer – along with a smart selection of cocktails to put a spring in Mum’s step.

Tours near Durham for a mother and daughter weekend:

For fashionista mums | Retail Therapy in Cheltenham

Windsor may be royal, and London has all the lights, but nowhere does Regency quite like Cheltenham.

From well-heeled hostels, to carefully coiffured parks and gardens, it just the right air of elegance for a mother-daughter weekend of relaxation, recuperation and (of course) retail therapy. Best of all, there are always plenty of things to do in Cheltenham , whatever time of year it is.

Cheltenham has quite a smorgasbord of accommodation options, but No.38 The Park ticks all the boxes if you’re looking for something towards the luxury end of the scale. And its handsome Georgian style makes it unmistakably ‘Cheltenham’.

If it’s glitz and glam you’re looking for, then head to Cheltenham’s only rooftop restaurant, The Nook on Five . Aside from the food, the biggest thrills come from the wrap-around floor-to-ceiling glass windows and the wonderful cocktails.

As well as your usual retail suspects, John Lewis, House of Fraser, Joules and Karen Millen, Cheltenham boasts an array of independent shops where you’re sure to pick up something unique.

Try Catherine Colebrook on Andover Road , Tivoli (a little off the beaten retail track, but worth a visit) – the gifts here are as exquisite as they are quirky. And we’re big fans.

For magical mums | Alice in Wonderland adventure in Brighton

With its bohemian vibes and sensational setting on the Sussex coast, Brighton rocks as a weekend break for mums with a creative heart. As well as the city’s fabulous indie shops and restaurants to explore, Brighton has plenty of cultural gems and unique experiences for epic memory making.

For mums with a particular penchant for Alice in Wonderland, Brighton has to be on your list. Why? Well, first up Lewis Carroll hung out here (and immortalise one of the city’s natural features in his famous children’s book). Secondly Brighton is home to two of the UK’s best Alice in Wonderland themed houses, which you can stay in. Bonkers and brilliant.

Looking Glass Holiday Cottage in Brighton is an Alice in Wonderland play pen, set right in the heart of Brighton’s famous lanes. The cottage – which is over 500 years old and sleeps up to 6 – has been carefully and thoughtfully transformed with quality furnishings and imaginative touches.

From the playing card themed wallpaper that flutters magical around the Mad Hatter’s Lounge to the multiple mirrors and quilted silk ceiling of the Looking Glass Bedroom. All the charm of the storybook is here in some form, waiting for you.

Should you have a huge family and want a bigger celebration for a magical mum, then Wonderland House in Brighton is the second brilliantly themed party pad for you. Near the beach it sleeps up to 24 in 6 individually-theme bedrooms and comes with a Mad Hatter’s banqueting room, dress-up costumes, props and bolt-on party activities.

Eat and Drink here:

If it’s glitz and glam you’re looking for, The Coal Shed on North Street. This exceptional steak and seafood restaurant has a simple, delicious menu with the highest quality ingredients, sourced as locally as possible, and expertly cooked over coal. As well as a seasonal à la carte menu, they  offer daily sharing specials, a great value express lunch menu, and Brighton’s favourite Sunday Sharing Roast.

If mum likes her wine, we also recommend Ten Green Bottles in North Laine. A unique, bespoke wine bar it offers tastings and nibbles in a relaxed, stylish setting.

If a wood-fired sauna on the beach sounds like your idea of heaven, book a session at Beach Box Spa . Find it on Brighton Beach – open all year round. You can sweat it out in the sauna, then plunge into the ice bath (extra charge) or run into the sea to cool down. There’s also a plunge pool, fresh water showers and changing rooms on site.

Head to the gardens in Sussex Square in Brighton to see the real-life ‘rabbit hole’ that is thought to have inspired Lewis Carroll.

Lewis Carroll was a regular visitor to Sussex Square where his Oxford friend, the Reverend Henry Barclay, ran a boys’ prep school between 1874 – 87. The ivy-strewn tunnel which goes under the coast road and towards the beach, fascinated Carroll and could have been the inspiration for the hole through which Alice falls.

Look out for the plaque located at 11 Sussex Square to commemorate Carroll’s stays in Brighton.

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In this article

• York Culture
• Windsor Royalty
• High Tea in Bath
• Gin in The Cotswolds
• Jazz-Age Glamping
• Llama Trekking
• Du Maurier's Cornwall
• Capital Cocktails in London
• Private Spa Luxury
• Wye Chocolate Heaven
• Making History in Durham
• Fashionista Bliss Cheltenham
• Brighton Wonderland

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Exciting father-daughter trips you’ll both never forget

Mar 7, 2023 • 5 min read

Savor the time spent with your family and the glimpse into a different point of view. You might learn something new about them and, more importantly, yourself © sirtravelalot / Shutterstock

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Traveling as a father and daughter is about more than sightseeing—it’s about seeing the world from each other’s point of view.

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Colorado Springs, Colorado

If you and your dad are the outdoorsy types, Colorado Springs is ideal for dusting off those hiking shoes and hitting some of the most beautiful terrain of the Front Range. Explore the iconic Garden of the Gods , a seam of red sandstone sharpened into striking towers and spires. If you both want to bag a fourteener while you’re in town, head to the famous Pike’s Peak to test your mettle and take in some of the best views in Colorado.

If climbing is more your speed, check out the Red Rock Canyon Open Space —this former quarry features 85 bolted climbing routes sure to keep you and your dad busy.

After you’ve tired yourselves out with all that adventure, visit one of the city’s more than 20 breweries to celebrate a successful trip—establishments like Storybook Brewing and Goat Patch Brewing Company churn out irresistible suds that are the perfect complement to a long day outdoors.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Whatever you fancy on a vacation Las Vegas has it, making it a perfect destination for fathers and daughters looking for a place that will keep them busy until they board their flight home. If you’re into the Vegas glitz and glam, head to the big-name casinos like the Venetian and  Caesar’s Palace for high-end digs and food from top-tier chefs. While you’re there, pop into one of the many A-list shows gracing the stages of The Strip; Cirque du Soleil, Absinthe , or one of the many musical artist residencies make for world-class entertainment options.

Museumgoers will be spoiled for choice, too–dive into the history of organized crime at the Mob Museum , walk among historic signs at the Neon Museum , or learn about Nevada’s explosive history at the Atomic Museum .

Austin, Texas

A cultural bastion known for a good time, Austin is great for a barbecue-appreciating, eclectic- music-loving father-daughter duo.

The “Live Music Capital of the World” has more than 250 music venues featuring everything from country and rock to electronica and psychedelia. Hit the famous Continental Club for rockabilly and swing, or head to Antone’s Nightclub for a night of amazing blues. If you have wide-ranging music tastes, make your way to the Red River Cultural District, where institutions like Empire Control Room & Garage and Mohawk invite cutting-edge indie, rock, and hip hop artists to the stage.

You’re bound to have an appetite after rocking out so hard, so get a protein boost at some of Austin’s most hallowed barbecue pits. Interstellar BBQ perfects the art of smoking brisket, la Barbecue serves up tasty sausages from a multi-generation barbecue dynasty, and James Beard Award-nominated restaurant Distant Relatives highlights flavors of the African diaspora in impeccably spiced meats and creative snacks like berbere spiced carrot pickles.

The Bay Area, California

Foodie families, rejoice–the Bay Area is the ultimate destination for those looking to explore the bounds of their palate and wash it all down with some of the country’s best wine. The region encompasses all the buzzy energy of San Francisco and Oakland , the high-tech influence of Silicon Valley, the prolific vineyards of Napa and Sonoma, and more. You’d better come hungry. San Francisco’s dining scene is so robust we couldn’t even scratch the surface here – from Michelin-starred restaurants to beloved holes-in-the-wall, this city has it all. Don’t miss the nation’s largest Chinatown , a cultural hub home to some seriously amazing cuisine like the high-end Chinese-Californian mashups found at Mister Jiu’s or the oldest dim sum restaurant in the United States.

Head further afield to drink the nectar that runs through California’s veins: excellent home-grown wines. Sonoma sprawls with relaxed wineries, many of which are family and budget friendly, while Napa adopts a more upscale persona in a more concentrated locale.

Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville’ s big personality precedes it—cemented in the national psyche as the home of country music, Nashville is one of the South’s most vibrant creative capitals thanks to its spectacular art, music, and dining scenes.

Unsurprisingly, live music is abundant. Nashville is home to tons of intimate venues where you can see everyone from headliners like Lizzo and Lady Gaga to up-and-coming country stars. Don’t miss the Ryman Auditorium , a historic space known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” or the diverse line-up at The 5 Spot , which welcomes every genre to its red-curtained stage. Jazz aficionados shouldn’t skip Rudy’s Jazz Room , a cozy joint hidden away in the Gulch that welcomes some serious talent.

Food-wise, Nashville has everything from down-home meat-and-threes to award-winning restaurant concepts. Go casual with signature hot chicken from its originator, Prince’s , or a pizza from Slim & Husky’s , which was nominated for a James Beard award. If you want something a bit fancier, make a reservation for the gorgeous chef-led experience at Bastion or check out inspired pastas at Rolf & Daughters .

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No matter where you end up, savor the time spent with your family and the glimpse into a different point of view. You might learn something new about them and, more importantly, yourself.

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• Activity ideas
• Places to go
• 33 top Father's Day outings, days out and activity ideas 2023

33 top Father’s Day outings, days out and activity ideas 2023

From day trips to dad-friendly activities, these Father's Day outings and activities will make the day extra special. Father's Day always takes place on a Sunday in June. This year, 2023, it's 18 June. As well as showering dads with cards, gifts and love, plan one of these Father's Day days out for even more fun!

From day trips to dad-friendly activities, these Father’s Day outings and activities will make the day extra special. Father’s Day always takes place on a Sunday in June. This year, 2023, it’s 18 June. As well as showering dads with cards, gifts and love, plan one of these Father’s Day days out for even more fun!

We’ve got some great ideas for spoiling dad, from day trips to dad-friendly activities that the whole family can enjoy.

• Easy Father’s Day crafts to do with kids

Which will you choose to do?

1. Cycling and Sunday lunch

Dust down the bikes and head out for active spring fun.

As long as you choose cycling routes that the children can manage, you're guaranteed a fab, low-cost day out.

Stop at a family-friendly pub near you for a lovely Sunday lunch to make it even more special.

2. Go karting

Go Karting is a brilliant Father’s Day activity, ticking all the boxes needed for the perfect competitive dad's day out.

Remember that there will be age restrictions for children so if you want to do it together, you'll need to find out whether that's going to be possible in advance.

Check out our local listings to find out about Go Karting in your area.

3. Take a trip to the beach ...

There's nothing dads and kids like more than charging about on a beach for a couple of hours.

Load up the car with frisbees, buckets and spades (even swimming gear if the water's warm enough) and head off to the seaside. Even if it's not warm and sunny, you can have an amazing day out.

We've got some suggestions for family-friendly beaches across the UK.

4. ... and take a BBQ too

Dad will definitely have worked up an appetite after all that sandcastle-building and splashing about in the sea, so why not take a disposable barbecue along to the beach with you? They're usually allowed on council-owned beaches.

We've got a bunch of BBQ recipe ideas for the whole family, even if you're vegetarian .

5. Gourmet picnic and papers

If Dad is a fan of alfresco dining, why not prepare a delicious picnic to take somewhere pretty to enjoy?

We've got you covered with picnic treats that are easy to prepare – take a look at our summer recipes section – gazpacho, lamb kofta kebabs and honey and ginger prawns fit the bill perfectly.

Bring a selection of the weekend papers for him to read/snooze behind after he's had his fill (and a football or rounders set to play once his energy is restored!).

6. Den building in the woods

Combine a walk in the woods with a spot of den building and let Dad unleash his inner Bear Grylls for the day.

Armed with a few branches, logs, leaves and bracken, some really impressive shelters can be constructed, and it's a great opportunity for kids to learn some nifty outward-bound style tricks from Dad, as well as working together as a team.

There may even be regular organised den-building activities taking place where you live – check your local listings to find out.

7. Castle capers

Castles are enchanting places whether you're young or old. There are hundreds of castles – from mystical ancient ruins to fully-furnished, stately affairs – across the country, all with their own unique stories to tell and secrets to discover.

A castle really fires up the imagination, so even if Dad isn't much of history buff, he'll enjoy charging about pretending to be a noble knight – maybe even more than the kids will!

8. Head up high

Being up really high and testing his agility will take Dad back to his younger days. And doing something that extra bit challenging will give him – and your kids – a real sense of shared achievement.

Find the nearest high-wire adventure or climbing centre to you.

9. Steaming along on trains

From cute miniature steam trains to full-sized affairs chugging down the track, the golden age of rail never loses its appeal, whether you're a big kid or a little kid.

Take a picnic to enjoy on the carriage or stop off en route, enjoying the hiss and rattle of the trains along the track.

Miniature ride-on railways are equally fun and a little less expensive than the real thing.

Find a family-friendly railway in your area , including information about special events like Thomas the Tank Engine days.

10. Searching for treasure

... in a high-tech kinda way. If the geocaching craze has passed you by, make a new discovery with Dad, particularly if he's a man who likes a challenge.

This is treasure-hunting with a modern spin, using GPS to seek out 'caches' in locations right across the country.

You get to discover new places, explore different environments, get to grips with maps and compasses and, if you don't get lost, locate the hidden 'treasure'.

11. 10-pin bowling

It's a no-brainer – bowling provides reasonably-priced indoor fun for all ages (even really teeny kids can have a go using the ramp and bumpers) and is perfect for wet afternoons.

Lots of the parents in the Netmums' Forum recommended this activity as a 'Dad-friendly' option and we agree – plus there are centres in locations across the country.

Find your nearest bowling centre here.

12. Going on a car crazy day out

Petrol heads can share their love of super cars, vintage cars or racing cars with the kids in a variety of ways.

Perhaps there's a car rally taking place nearby. Or maybe a car festival – find out what’s on near you.

13. Parent paintballing

Get Dad to suit up and prepare to be paintballed!

Give the challenging activity a go to use up tons of energy, and it could work as stress relief, too.

Age restrictions apply at paintball centres , so if you're planning on taking the kids double-check the restrictions at your chosen venue before you go.

14. Beer tasting

Obviously this isn't an activity that young kids can do with their dad, but a fun idea for those over 18, who can drink.

A beer tasting experience could also be a gift that the little ones give to Dad to try with his mates at a later date, or as a relaxing activity during Father's day.

15. Splash around

If the weather's not nice enough for the beach, an indoor swimming pool is an ideal alternative: splashing about, slides and piggy back rides in the water.

Take a look at our list of the best pools in the UK with slides and flumes , the best pools with wave machines and the best family-friendly swimming pools around the UK.

16. Mini golf

Whether Dad is an avid golfer or not, mini golf is a hit with the whole family, and some of the courses are super fun. Let him show the kids the best way to swing and offer any tips he has so he feels like a pro for the afternoon.

17. Go fishing

Strike a balance between an exciting but chilled day with a spot of fishing. If Dad already has the gear, it's a cool way to bond with the little ones while teaching them how to catch fish.

Plus, if it's a successful trip, that's Father's Day dinner sorted.

18. Whip up a treat

What better way to show you love someone than cooking them a meal? It will mean so much to Dad knowing his children have prepared food for him from scratch (with supervision, of course), so much so that he'll probably pretend it tastes delicious, even if it's burnt.

Check out our Recipes section for ideas of what to cook.

19. Visit a historical site

History buffs will thrive in a museum , stately home , or historical site where they can lead the children around and teach them about the artefacts. The least we can do is let Dad believe he knows it all, just for one day at least.

See our list of the best family-friendly museums to visit .

20. Go camping

Be at one with nature by camping out with Dad. He can tell the kids spooky stories and sing songs around the campfire, all while toasting yummy marshmallows.

No screens to hand will mean more of the quality time that's hard to come by these days. Here's a list of recommended campsites around the UK.

A camping novice? Don't worry, we've got plenty of suggestions here .

21. Challenge dad to a wet and wild aqua park adventure

Older kids will love challenging their dads to an adventure at a local inflatable aqua park .

Bounce, splash, jump, slide and dive your way to a wet, wild and truly memorable Father's Day!

22. Theme park fun

Adrenaline junkie dads will jump at the chance to sit on rollercoasters all day, and the kids will find it hilarious to hear him cry out like a baby. There are loads of theme parks catering to younger children as well, so you'll find a ride for everyone.

Go big or go home!

23. Movie day

Rainy days don't have to ruin Father's Day. Why not stay in and have a movie marathon ? Bring out the blankets and get that popcorn popping to watch Dad's favourite films.

24. Football stadium tour

This one's a guaranteed winner for footy fans.

Plus, the stadium will probably have a cafe and tour you can book in advance, plus a museum to get him all nostalgic. One nil to mums for this one!

25. Plan a rustic road trip

If Dad loves an adventure, get the kids to help plan a road trip without telling him where you're going. Making an adventure map for Dad to follow will make him feel like a true swashbuckler, and we're sure he'll appreciate all the effort, too.

Choose a destination that he'll love, like his favourite park or pub (or both!)

26. Laser tag

Like the sound of getting active but don't want to be pummelled with paintballs? Laser tag is a great alternative for Father's Day, especially for the kind of dads who long to join in the fun at kids' parties, but usually have to watch from the sidelines!

You can find out if there's a laser tag centre near you by searching our local pages .

27. Go gaming

Whether you visit an arcade, have a video game day at home or pull out the classic board games , the kids can practise their teamwork and strategy skills to take down Dad together. Or maybe they'll let him win on his special day? Ha, not likely!

28. Take on a project

Working together on a project will bring Dad and the kids even closer, and he'll love helping them make something.

Whatever you choose to build, it'll be something they can keep forever to remind them of the fun day they had.

29. Do an escape room

You'll all be in it together when you do a family escape room – discovering clues to solve the puzzle and escape. We've got a great list of family-friendly escape rooms that are great to do with kids.

30. Treat dads to an afternoon tea to remember

Is your dad into dinosaurs, sci-fi, Paddington Bear, Harry Potter or just delicious sandwiches, cakes, buns and more?

Whatever he's into, there's a family-friendly afternoon tea to suit his tastes – and give his tastebuds a real treat!

31. Give Lego-mad dads a treat

There are so many top places and events for Lego fans to visit around the UK this summer.

Treat your lego-mad dad to a top day out at one of these fab Lego-themed days out .

32. Know a dad who loves Doctor Who?

Treat Doctor Who-loving dads to a day out dedicated to their favourite sci-fi hero.

Here are our top recommendations for days out for Doctor Who fans of all ages.

33. Gift ideas

You've got some ideas for how to spend the day with dad, but what about his gift?

Get gift ideas for Father's Day here .

Take a look at : Father's Day cards to print off and colour in (printables)

Choose a printable card from the selection below – print it out and it's ready for colouring in, writing a special message and giving to Dad on Father's Day!

What have you got planned for Father’s Day? Why not join the chat in our forum, below.

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16 Best Father-Son and Father-Daughter Trip Ideas for an Unforgettable Getaway

Nothing's better than a memorable trip with your dad.

Roam the Open Road

There's no better one-on-one time than when you're riding shotgun alongside your dad. Whether you mapped out your destinations or just want to wing it, pack the car and get away on a casual road trip together. We recommend a southwest desert route so you can hit hotspots like Las Vegas or the Grand Canyon .

Hit the Races

Aaaand they're off! Mix up your father-son or father-daughter sports routine and head to the race track for some lively equestrian competition. You both might even come out on top in the Winner's Circle—place a few low-stakes horse bets and you could walk away with some extra cash. Kentucky boasts two picturesque race tracks— Keeneland and Churchill Downs .

Sweat It Out in a Boozy 5K

Avid runners or not, you can't say no to a race with alcohol at the finish line—or, even better, during the run. The 2.5-mile Cincinnati Beer Run in Ohio provides craft brews on the go every half mile, so you and dad can guzzle some liquid courage while sweating it out. On the other hand, nationwide Craft Brew Races conclude with a three-hour beer festival. Fitness has never been this fun.

To honor the man who's no doubt aged better than fine wine, consider indulging in another wonderfully mature delight—cheese. Wisconsin , aka the "cheese state," offers a handful of local cheese tours to satisfy your gouda craving. Or, head to the northeast for the Vermont Cheese Trail , where you and dad can make your rounds to the states' most delicious cheesemakers.

Revert Back to His Roots

If you grew up in different cities, allow your dad to show you around his old stomping grounds and take a trip to his original hometown. He'll love playing tour guide as you scope out his favorite local spots, and you can get to know your pops even more by bonding over his former childhood memories.

Binge on BBQ

Or whatever food you and your father favor. There are whole festivals devoted to chowing down—we love Big Apple Barbecue in NYC and Kentucky's International Bar-B-Q Festival ( pictured ).

Seek Adventure

Growing up, he was your hero. Now that you're friends as well as family, take off on a trip filled with action-packed adventure. Go zip-lining in Nicaragua , whitewater-rafting in Idaho , ATV-riding in Utah , or hike and horseback-ride in Wyoming .

Be Beach Bums (Or Catch a Wave)

Okay, maybe a little bit of both. It all depends on Dad's (and your) energy level. Escape to Hawaii , the Caribbean , or simply a nearby beach. No matter if you're novices or hang ten all the time, trying something new is a great way to bond. And so is lounging in beach chairs, with a cold drink in hand.

Tee Off on a Golf Getaway

Does Dad love to golf? Indulge his interests with a golfing getaway. Monterey, California , and the Scottish Highlands are just two destinations famous for their courses. And you can do more than golf! A package at the LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort in Naples, Florida , even comes with tours of the local brewery and the Naples waterways, plus a choice of a facial or salt stone massage at the spa.

Camp in the Wilderness

Reconnect with nature (and each other) on a camping trip— perhaps in a national park . Sit by the fire, grill dinner , swim in a lake, and sleep under the stars. Even better, take your own son or daughter along for three generations of fun.

Go Hunting or Fishing

If fishing and hunting are hobbies you and Dad share, why not plan a vacation around them? Take an Alaskan fishing cruise , fly fish in Montana , hunt deer in the Midwest, or crab on the East Coast.

Take Him Out to the Ballgame

Buy some tickets (and peanuts and Cracker Jacks), gas up the car, and take off on a baseball road trip—or for that matter, any kind of sport he's into. Start out close to home, whether that's Wrigley Field or Yankee Stadium, and catch as many major league games as you can. Plan some on-theme pit stops, like the Chicago Baseball Museum or the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown, NY .

Cheers to Your Dad

Pick your poison and plan away! Go big at Oktoberfest , or stay in the states and tour distilleries (we love the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and Templeton Rye in Iowa), breweries (Delaware's Dogfish Head , or Bell's Brewery in Michigan), or wineries (check out New York's Benmarl , the oldest vineyard in America, or Donkey & Goat in California). Thirsty yet?

Pictured: Maker's Mark

Embark on an Educational Excursion

If you're both history buffs, go learn something together. Travel to his side's country of origin, or go to a historically rich city a little closer to home: Washington, DC is an obvious but great choice for museums and landmarks galore.

Jam Out Together

He probably introduced you to some of your favorite artists. Bust out those "Dad moves" in Nashville's best honky-tonks and music venues, keep it weird at an Austin music festival, or hop across the pond to submerge yourself in London's iconic music scene.

Geek Out Over Vintage Cars

They just don't make 'em like that anymore. (Your dad and the car.) Whether you're collectors or just admirers, g o back in time at a classic car show, like the Downtown Reidsville Cruise-In (pictured), the Charlotte Autofair , or The Elegance at Hershey .

Taysha Murtaugh was the Lifestyle Editor at CountryLiving.com.

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The Best Father-Son Holidays to Bond Over

• Post author By admin
• Post date August 27, 2020
• No Comments on The Best Father-Son Holidays to Bond Over

There is hardly anything comparable to the unbreakable bond between father and son, and even more so if you are a single parent. Just one of the many excellent ways to implement quality bonding is a father-son holiday that allows for memorable one-on-one time together.

However, finding the best or most suitable holidays for single parents can be somewhat overwhelming. If you are a bit stumped for ideas or overwhelmed with options, we have rounded up the best father-son holidays for you to choose from. These cool ideas will help you come up with an extraordinary trip that you and your son will hold dear to your hearts for years to come.

A memorable camping trip

Single parent camping holidays are a great way to bond with your children and going abroad adds a little bit of excitement to the mix. Just think how thrilled your son would be if you suggest camping in France and all the wondrous experiences this would entail: A road trip just the two of you across a new country, where you can stop and explore whenever you feel like it.

If you went on a camping trip as a kid, it is probable that you still remember it vividly. Especially, if it was your first close-up encounter with nature. Going camping in the woods is an excellent way to get away from the hustle and bustle of chaotic everyday life, and the daily noise of living in the city. Choose a location that you are both comfortable with. If it’s your first time camping, it is best to opt for a campsite that is not too isolated, with shops and activities readily available in case you are stuck for supplies or things to do.

A cross-country adventure

Camping is a top option for a father-son holiday, although the idea may not appeal to everyone. If you prefer sleeping in a proper bed over a sleeping bag and enjoy eating out more than cooking on a camping stove, then a road trip might be the better option. It gives you as much opportunity to travel and explore whilst spending quality one-on-one time.

Although there are fewer things to pack for a cross-country adventure, you will still need prepare a road trip with kids . If you were travelling solo, you might not bother planning your route or finding accommodation in advance but with a young child in tow, it’s imperative to keep a routine and stick to regular meals and bedtimes. If you have a teen, of course, then you can try to wing it and be a lot more spontaneous.

Whatever age your son, there are a few things to take care of and put in place before heading out on a cross-country adventure: It is crucial to ensure your vehicle has recently been serviced, so you won’t have to worry about breaking down at any point. In addition, you should check your insurance and roadside assistance plan will cover you for the duration of your adventure and internationally if you are planning to go abroad.

An unforgettable ski break

Are you a passionate skier? Or have you always dreams of giving skiing a go? Going on a father-son ski trip is an excellent bonding experience, whether you are learning a new skill together or are teaching your son how to snow plough or even carve down a snowy mountain with you.

If you or your son are beginner skiers, you need to be aware that learning to ski requires a combination of physical and mental skills: Good core muscles and a sense of balance, a half-decent fitness level and most of all persistence. After all, you need to learn a new technique and be able keep get back up after every fall. So, don’t expect results overnight. Hire a private instructor to teach you both or get yourself and your son into ski school: Sometimes, it’s easier to learn with people your own age, and you can exchange tales of your first ski adventures in the afternoons. After a few days, you should be ready to try getting down the slopes together. And what a sense of achievement that will be!

Finding the right ski holiday should be easy: Pick a family friendly resort in France or Austria, find accommodation close to the slopes, book your plane tickets and airport transfers and you are almost ready to go. Or, if you want to make it easy for yourself, book a single parent ski holiday with a specialist and let them organise it all for you. That way, all you have to worry about is what to buy, hire and bring for your first ski trip .

A trip down memory lane

And last but not least, go back to your roots. Showcasing your childhood to your son is a unique way of bonding. Visit the places where you played as a kid, your school, your favourite hangouts, eat outs and make an event of the experience.

You are likely living far away from your hometown now, maybe even abroad, so taking a trip to your home country or place where you were born or raised, will be a unique bonding experience. Even if you haven’t moved far away, visiting all those place that were important to you in your childhood, telling anecdotes of friends and family, remembering family traditions (that you might still hold on to – or not) and family outings and looking at photo albums together comparing how places looked then and now – reliving your childhood with your kid will fascinate him and strengthen that special father-son bond.

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• Best Family Vacations

9 Best Father-Daughter Trips

Jun 4, 2019

See recent posts by Jeff Bogle

Sometimes I give them a budget and say how far I’m willing to drive, and then they do all the planning. Other times I’m like, “hey, let’s fly to Norway because this airline deal is too good to pass up!” But no matter the genesis of the trips, traveling with my tween and teen daughters is always a thrilling experience. It gives us the chance to bond and make unique memories that end up being the best kind of inside jokes imaginable.

Want to plan a father-daughter trip with your girl? These are nine of the best father-daughter getaways to book right now.

1. Broadway Blitz

It’s become an annual tradition for my musical-theater obsessed teen daughter and I to spend a dizzying 36 hours in midtown Manhattan seeing a trio of Broadway and off-Broadway shows—and we do it without spending a fortune! We visit the different box offices as soon as they open to get rush tickets for anywhere between $30 to $50 (depending on the show) if we haven’t already locked them down using TodayTix or StubHub .

In between performances, we’ll share freshly-fried falafel and a bowl of the creamiest hummus and pita in the city at Hummus Kitchen,  then stroll around the Disney and Line Friends stores in Times Square. After each show, we wait outside stage doors to get photos with the stars and her Playbills signed by as many actors as possible.

Once back home, we frame those Playbills and hang them up in her bedroom, slowly transforming the space into a kind of defacto New York deli (sans the pastrami) with signed mementos on every wall.

Recommended Hotel: Lord & Moris – Times Square Hotel

Related: 21 Best Broadway Shows for Kids in 2019

2. All-Inclusive Resort in Mexico

Picture yourself at the Club Med Cancun Yucatan in a vibrantly decorated, nearly 700-square-foot, two-bedroom suite complete with a furnished balcony looking out over the sea. This is dad and daughter vacation perfection!

Now picture yourself barely in the room because you and your best girl will be doing acrobatics at the trapeze school, learning archery together, setting sail on a Hobie Cat 15 catamaran, windsurfing, and lounging by the family pool and/or secluded beach with fruity slushy drinks delivered on demand.

And we haven’t even discussed the food, theatrical entertainment each evening, cooking demonstrations and salsa dance classes. Everything mentioned above is included in your stay.

Recommended Hotel: Club Med Cancun Yucatan

Last summer my teen and I spent seven magnificent days together on Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas in Europe. We participated in a treasure hunt in and around an old villa on the Spanish island of Mallorca; made a travel video as we zigzagged Cassis, France; went shopping in La Spezia, Italy for clothes none of her friends would be able to duplicate; found Italian silks in Naples for her and her sister’s homemade jewelry business; and sampled vegetarian tapas in Barcelona.

Along the way, as we cruised from port to port, we got up the courage to zipline across the ship, had a classic diner breakfast at Johnny Rockets on the Symphony’s stunning Boardwalk, went ice skating, sang along with Hairspray the Musical , played laser tag, ate our weight in gelato, and took so many goofy selfies and classy portraits, too. These are photos and memories we will always cherish. 

For a cruise leaving from U.S., the newly opened Perfect Day at CocoCay from Royal Caribbean, with its private beaches, pools, ziplines, epic waterslides, and tethered balloon rising 450 feet above the Bahamas, makes a stellar dad and daughter getaway vacation experience!

Related: 10 Best Cruise Ships for Teens

4. Thrift Shopping in Richmond

While we will still indulge in new clothes from time to time, my girls get the biggest thrill from finding funky consignment threads in different cities when we travel. Thanks to The Clothes Rack, Ashby, Clementine, Bygones, and Buffalo Exchange, Virginia’s capital city—specifically Richmond’s hip Carytown neighborhood—is home to some first-rate thrifting to go along with delicious independent restaurants, ice cream parlors, a fantastic toy store, and cool bookshop (not to mention the stellar Virginia Museum of Fine Arts).

I relish the opportunity to explore hip new places with my daughters and watch as they put pieces together at thrift shops to make fresh outfits that speak to the kind of brilliant, inventive, and daring young women they’re becoming.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Downtown Richmond

5. Stargazing on the California Coast  

Want to see the stars in her eyes, dad? Of course you do. Book a stargazing getaway at the Little River Inn, a stunning full-service, family-owned resort overlooking the Pacific Ocean on the breathtaking Mendocino Coast, just about halfway between San Francisco and the Redwoods of Northern California.

They’ve got an affordable two-night package for $430 that allows you and your daughter to snuggle up beneath your very own Little River Inn blanket , borrow their custom stargazing kit with special binoculars , star map, star guide and flashlight , and sip hot chocolate while looking up to the heavens together.

Recommended Hotel: Little River Inn

6. An Epic Post-World Cup NWSL Weekend

Celebrate the return of our U.S. Women’s National Team after (hopefully) a World Cup victory in France by spending a weekend on the East Coast (New York and Washington, D.C.) watching Mallory Pugh, Rose Lavelle, Carli Lloyd, Julie Ertz, and Megan Rapinoe and more of the most talented athletes in America.  Stick around after the matches with your remarkable young woman to get autographs and photos with these remarkable young women soccer players!

7.  Free Spirit Camping on Vancouver Island

That they will garner ALL OF THE LIKES on Instagram is only the tip of the iceberg for reasons to stay with your daughter in a Free Spirit Sphere. 

Located on the rugged east coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, these rotund accommodations—which look like oversized hand-painted Christmas ball ornaments —are truly one-of-a-kind spherical treehouses that offer a unique take on glamping. They are guaranteed to elevate you and your daughter’s camping experience and, honestly, probably raise the bar so high that no future camping adventure will match it!

Recommended Hotel: Free Spirit Spheres

Related: 10 Outdoorsy Vacations for Families Who Don’t Like Camping

8. A Bergen Dreamscape

It may seem like an impossible dream to get away with your daughters to Norway for a long weekend—but it’s not!

Thanks to reasonable fares (but really, a mind-boggling sale to Scandinavian destinations this past spring), my girls and I escaped to Bergen, Norway, from JFK Airport in New York on Norwegian Air for only $190 roundtrip each!

Paired with a cool and affordable 100-year-old, three-story rental apartment in the downtown area of the fabulous city, we enjoyed local food; a couple of picnics; tours of the KODE art museums  to see Picasso’s “Girl with a Ponytail”; walks around Bryggen, the old wharf of Bergen dating back to the 14th-century and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site; a clothing shopping spree at Sundt (kind of like a cooler H&M); an SK Brann soccer match; and a scenic drive to see the famous fjords of western Norway.

Recommended Hotel: Citybox Bergen

9. Staycation

While going global with your daughter is the dream for many, a staycation can be just as rewarding! No matter where you hang your  hat , the local area that surrounds home has places absolutely worth visiting—museums, hiking trails, nature preserves, major and minor league sports, theme parks, theaters and more. Whether you splurge for a room at a local hotel that has a swimming pool or set forth every day from your own front door, there’s unlimited potential for fun, bonding, and memory-making during a father-daughter staycation.

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10 Father Daughter Trip Ideas in the US for 2023

posted by Charmaine Cortes on January 18, 2023 // last updated on January 25, 2023

Whether you are a dad looking to book a trip for you and your daughter, or the other way round, a daughter looking to surprise her father with a trip, the US has some of the best vacation destinations.

Finding the best trip idea can lead to a great father-daughter bonding time and leave you with memories to cherish your whole life. 

You are always young enough to go on an adventure with your dad, so let’s see some of the best father daughter trip ideas in the US .

New York City, New York

Nashville, tennessee, honolulu, hawaii, louisville, kentucky , anaheim, california , grand canyon national park, arizona , orlando, florida , rapid city, south dakota , portland, oregon , zion national park, utah.

One of the best things about booking a father-daughter trip to a big city, especially the Big Apple, is the numerous bonding activities you can take part in. With so many things to explore and see, a New York vacation will be full of adventure and delicious food to try out. 

Whether you two are adventurers, music lovers, musical-theater buffs, or explorers, New York City is guaranteed to provide you with memories that you will cherish forever.

Things to do 

• Broadway waits for you if you are a musical theater buff, so surprise your dad or daughter with tickets to your favorite show for an incredible bonding experience. You are likely to keep singing the songs all the way home. 
• You can have a water adventure and visit one of the water parks near New York. Go kayaking at Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Family Sunday program or some other program. 
• Play laser tag or paintball at one of Area 53’s locations around the city and see which one of you is the victor. 
• Take your father or daughter on a Whale Watching cruise. 
• Set a day aside to go on a food tour and experience New York’s diverse cuisine. 

Places to stay

• DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel New York Times Square West.
• Holiday Inn Manhattan – Financial District
• Best Western Plus Plaza Hotel

Do you and your father or daughter share a love for music? Then a trip to the US Music City, Nashville, is the perfect destination for you two. You will be able to fully immerse yourselves in one of the most vibrant and artful cities in the United States. 

Nashville is the perfect travel destination for every artist at heart, but not only artists enjoy this city. 

In Nashville, Tennessee , you are guaranteed to have some of the unique dining experiences while enjoying the mouthwatering food this city is famous for. Here you will find a blend of modern activities while experiencing well-known southern hospitality. 

• If you are a country music fan, make sure to visit Nashville’s Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and learn everything from the beginning of country music to today’s rising stars on the scene. 
• Check out Ryman Auditorium, the Mother Church of Country Music.
• Buy tickets to the Schermerhorn Symphony Center to hear some classical music performed by the GRAMMY-winning Nashville Symphony. 
• Go hiking on one of Radnor Lake State Park’s six hiking trails. Visit the full-scale replica of the Parthenon in Centennial Park. 
• As Nashville is known for its barbecue, hot chicken, and farm-to-table restaurants, you will have the chance to enjoy some of the most delicious food in the states.
• Courtyard by Marriott Nashville Brentwood
• Country Inn & Suites by Radisson
• Alexis Inn & Suite

The Hawaiian Islands offer some of the most marvelous sights in the United States, with gorgeous beaches, luscious forests, and significant cultural and historical importance. 

Oahu Island is where Honolulu, the state’s capital, is situated. The capital is a big tourist attraction meaning you and your father or daughter will have plenty of bonding activities. 

From jazz clubs, adventure hubs, and historical landmarks, Honolulu Hawaii ‘s vibrant culture will surely provide you with an unforgettable trip.

• If you are a history buff, visit the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum and Iolani Palace to learn more about the local history. 
• Visit the various World War II attractions like the Battleship Missouri Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, and the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. 
• Go swimming, surfing, or snorkeling on one of Honolulu’s world-renowned beaches, including Lanikai Beach and Waikiki Beach.
• Book a helicopter tour, enjoy an overview of the island and see all the valleys, mountains, and historical sites from high up. 
• If you feel more adventurous, you can pack your backpacks and go hiking around Manoa Falls.
• Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
• Ala Moana Honolulu by Mantra 
• The Modern Honolulu 

It might be the best father-daughter trip to go to Louisville, Kentucky . Let the spirits guide your father and you to Louisville, where you may enjoy some of the best bourbons in the nation by traveling the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

For boxing fans, Louisville is the perfect destination as Louisville is home to the boxing legend Muhammad Ali. Not only that, but this city is also home to the Kentucky Derby. 

Visit Louisville if you want to experience the famous southern hospitality and enjoy delicious food prepared in award-winning restaurants.

• Top distilleries like Maker’s Mark and Woodford Reserve are included in the Kentucky Bourbon Trail tour. Visit the distilleries, horse farms, and other attractions. The path may be finished on your own in two to three days.
• Go on the “Footsteps of Greatness” tour and visit the Muhammad Ali Center, the gym where the legend’s career started, and his childhood home, and end the tour with a visit to his burial site at Cave Hill Cemetery. 
• Visit the Kentucky Derby Museum, the place where the annual Kentucky Derby horse race is held. 
• In Louisville, you will find the largest Victorian architecture district in the US. It is a 45-block district of Old Louisville with mansions from 1880 to 1910.
• Check out the oldest still-operating steamboat from 1914, the Belle of Louisville.
• Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Louisville East, KY
• The Seelbach Hilton Louisville
• Cambria Hotel Louisville Downtown-Whiskey Row

You are never too old for Disneyland, so if you plan to have a father-daughter trip in Anaheim, California , the enchanted park is a must-visit. You will feel like a kid again, surrounded by your childhood heroes and princesses. But Anaheim offers so much more than just revisiting your childhood.

This sun-soaked city has 42 miles of coastline and dozens of championship golf courses that are heaven for every golfer. Anaheim provides plenty of entertainment and relaxing activities that will make your trip incredible.

• The first thing to do in Anaheim is to visit Disneyland and have a fun-filled day riding the various cartoon-themed rides. 
• Visit SeaWorld, Knott’s Berry Farm, and Legoland, and go on a tour in Universal Studios, and who knows, you may even catch sight of some movie stars. 
• Relax and soak in the sun on one of the many incredible beaches in Orange County.
• Visit the various breweries and wineries. 
• Enjoy delicious seafood in some of the most popular restaurants in Anaheim.
• DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Anaheim Resort
• Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim Resort
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Anaheim Orange

One of the greatest father-daughter bonding trips can be a visit to the Grand Canyon National Park. If you are interested in geology, the Grand Canyon will be the perfect way to witness two billion years of the Earth’s geological history. 

In a Grand Canyon Flight Tours helicopter, soar above the canyon and see it in all its glory from above. See how the Colorado River has carved this steep-sided canyon over millions of years. The scenic beauty of the Grand Canyon in Arizona is hard to beat when it comes to memorable trips.

• Go on a narrated tour with The Mojave Desert, Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and Colorado River all featured.
• Visit the Grand Canyon Village, stop by the rustic Grand Canyon Railway Depot, and learn about the expansion of the railroad and its impact on tourism. 
• Check out the Horseshoe Bend and the Antelope Canyon in Grand Canyon’s North Rim for breathtaking views. 
• If you feel more adventurous, go on a mule tour traveling the Bright Angel Trail. Pack camping gear and plenty of water as the trail spans six miles both ways.
• Go on the Canyon Rim Trail for a seven-mile scenic tour with great overlooks.
• Bright Angel Lodge & Cabins 
• Yavapai Lodge
• The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

A father-daughter trip to Orlando, Florida will undoubtedly be tons of fun. Orlando is perfect for an extended vacation with many things to do and see. This sunny city offers plenty of fun-filled days. You can visit the various theme parks, museums, shopping centers, botanic gardens, and conservation parks. 

Orlando is an excellent choice for avid golfers, with many incredible golf courses where you can spend your days golfing under the Florida sun. Enjoy various cuisines in many award-winning restaurants. 

•  If you are a Harry Potter, fans visit the Harry Potter World in Universal Orlando and experience the magic yourself. 
• Visit Orlando DisneyWorld and see your favorite fairy tale characters roaming the magical kingdom. 
• Check out Orlando’s lakes and streams and fish in them. 
• Visit the Kennedy Space Center and the Bok Tower Gardens.
• Explore Madame Tussauds Orlando or the Museum of Illusions. 
• Visit SeaWorld Orlando and see the dolphins and whales the park has.
• Universal’s Endless Summer Resort
• Best Western Orlando Gateway Hotel
• Hotel Kinetic Orlando Universal Blvd.

Are you both a fan of history and nature? Then the perfect bonding trip for you is Rapid City in South Dakota, where you will get the best of both worlds. 

Rapid City allows you to explore several national parks, monuments, museums, and memorials. The city has both a historical and urban appeal. 

For a more contemporary experience, you have Downtown Rapid City and Main Square, where you can find excellent local restaurants and immerse yourself in the arts and culture. 

Best of all, in the City of Presidents is where you will see the faces of US presidents carved into a mountain.

• Go on Mount Rushmore Tour through the Wild West themed-estate, Fort Hays.
• Explore the South Dakota Air and Space Museum, learn about the country’s aviation history, and see many old airplanes, helicopters, and military missiles. 
• Go on a Buffalo Safari Jeep Ride through Custer State Park and see many buffaloes grazing on the green grass. The tour will also provide many historical and educational facts about Custer State Park.
• Check out the Museum of Geology to see exhibits in paleontology and mineralogy. See skeletons of fish, mammals, marine reptiles, and dinosaurs.
• Make sure to visit the Crazy Horse Memorial, the largest sculpture in the world, which was made due to the insistence of the Lakota Chief Henry Standing Bear and made by the sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski.
• Grand Gateway Hotel Rapid City
• Residence Inn Rapid City
• Cambria Hotel Rapid City near Mount Rushmore

For the father-daughter duo that enjoys tasting various foods and is a self-proclaimed enthusiast, Portland, Oregon , is the dream vacation spot. With more than 100 craft breweries, you will get the chance to sample all kinds of beers.

Besides being a cultural hub of arts and crafts, the city also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. 

With Forest Park nearby, you can go hiking or biking on one of its trails. As Portland is also known, the City of Roses has something for everyone.

• As Portland has over 100 breweries, the best way to explore them is by booking a guided brewery tour, which will allow you to taste different kinds of craft beers at the best breweries in the city.
• Visit Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States, with over 5,000 acres. You can hike along the Columbia River on the park’s Wildwood Trail. Forest Park is home to over 100 species of birds. 
• Check out Powel’s City of Books, the world’s largest independent and used bookstore. It is home to over one million books. The bookstore is so big that it occupies a square city block and is three stories high. 
• Explore Portland’s gardens, such as the International Rose Test Garden, Portland Japanese Garden, and Lan Su Chinese Garden.
• Check out the Portland Art Museum, the oldest art museum in the Pacific Northwest. The museum contains art pieces from European painters, Japanese screen prints, and modern American works. 
• Visit Hoyt Arboretum, a 189-acre arboretum with 172 different tree families and 6,000 trees. The tree species originate from various countries all over the world.
• The Society Hotel – Portland 
• The Porter Portland Curio Collection by Hilton
• The Hotel Zags Portland

Zion National Park in Utah is the best place to take your father or daughter if they appreciate being outside. The Zion National Park in Utah is excellent for camping, hiking, and just relaxing in nature with your loved ones. The red cliffs of Zion will provide you with many picturesque scenes. 

If you intend to camp for your father-daughter trip, make your reservation as soon as possible because campgrounds tend to book up months in advance. If you feel up to it, take a trip down the narrows, but be advised that this track is not for beginner hikers. Book a stay at Zion Lodge, situated inside the park, if camping is not your thing.

• Zion National Park is home to 291 bird species. Look for a bird checklist at the visitor centers and go bird-watching. See how many you can spot.
• Check out Zion’s many hiking trails, including Weeping Rock, Emerald Pool Trail, Canyon Overlook Trail, Watchman Trail, Riverside Walk, Hidden Canyon, Angels Landing, Observation Point, The Narrows, and the West Rim Trail.
• Go for a scenic drive on the winding Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, which connects the Visitor Center to the east entrance of Zion National Park. The switchbacks between Canyon Junction and the tunnel provide incredible views, so ensure you bring your camera with you. 
• Check out the Zion Human History Museum and learn all about the Native Americans and the pioneers that lived on the land.
• At night, you can stargaze and clearly see the constellation due to the lack of light pollution. 
• Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort
• Zion Wildflower Resort – Glamping Zion National Park
• Zion National Park Lodge

There you have it, some of the best father daughter trip ideas in the US for some quality bonding time in this new year. 

Choose the trip idea that provides you with enough shared interests and have a great time with your daughter or father.

More about our TFVG Author

Charmaine Cortes

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Father and Son Activity Break

Great ideas for family summer holidays in the uk, cost £350 total for father and son.

It is getting increasingly difficult to spend quality time with growing children. It also seems that year on year children become increasingly divorced from the outdoor environment with their world becoming ever more sanitised and risk averse. For instance whatever happened to traditional activities such as climbing a tree? Adventure Britain have therefore come up with a Summer activity break during the school holidays just for father and sons set in the stunning natural adventure playground, Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park.

In 2023 96.7% of our customers rated their activities with us good or excellent in terms of their overall experience and value for money. In 2021 this rose to 98%

Enquire Now

Father and Son Activity Packages

It’s a difficult task trying to find something to excite an inspire young boys in this iPod and computer gaming era. We have arranged hundreds of activity breaks over the last 18 years and have the experience, local knowledge and the resources to ensure you have the best time possible at value for money prices. You don’t want the hassle of pulling everything together which is why we have put together this all inclusive package which include your accommodation, activities, all your food and transport whilst with us.

Examples of Activities

Dates: 26th-28th May 2024

Sample itinerary.

• Arrive Sunday late morning at our centre in Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) (N.B. No lunch provided on day 1)
• Met by our staff and briefed on the programme and kit issued
• Mountain walk with our instructors and an overnight camp under canvas
• Navigation skills, how to read a map and use a compass lessons with our instructors
• Camp craft and cooking on camping stoves
• Walk to centre for breakfast
• Follow our staff to the gorge walking venue
• Packed lunch
• Return to our centre
• Under canvas and learn about safely lighting camp fires & BBQ

What better way of building relationships and creating those unforgettable lifetime memories.

Where Will We be Staying?

The location for our father and son weekend is on the southern edge of Bannau Brycheiniog, Brecon Beacons National Park , 15 miles north of Swansea, close to the village of Abercrave and the area to the east towards Ystradfellte.

A full kit list will be issued on booking for your father and son activity break but for guidance you will need to bring a rucksack and sleeping bag.

Suitable for children aged from 7 to 16.

What is it Going to Cost me?

Packages cost £350 for the father and son combined (not per person) for two nights and the itinerary of activities outlined above.

”We both really enjoyed the event and it had a great balance of active and down time. Staff were really great, patient and well informed. Great break, great value”. – M. Balshaw 2021 ”Just a quick note to say myself and my son had a lovely time. Please pass on my thanks to Ed, Cynan, John and the rest of the team for making the experience so enjoyable”. – F. Kabar 2021 The team were all in good form and the food/refreshments and activities excellent again. It’s a difficult time but the work ethic and organisation from everyone involved was exemplary, particularly given the added burden of the COVID restrictions; which in our opinion didn’t detract from anything. We love the event, the location and the team. We’ll be back again next year for sure. Cheers Steve & George 😃👍 – S Hayward 2020 A quick note to thank you all for a brilliant trip. Everyone was excellent and took great care of us all. The kids had a blast and will have awesome memories of their brief trip to Brecon. –  J De Maria 2020

Who Are Adventure Britain?

Adventure Britain is part of the Call of the Wild group. We are one of the largest and oldest activity companies specialising in activity holidays in Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. We have been operating for 17 years and are licensed with the Adventure Activities Licensing Service. We are not an agent for others but deliver our own activities, have our own instructors and hospitality staff, our own accommodation and transport. We are the people you’ll be speaking to and the people you’ll actually meet and be looking after you. A very personal service.

We are a multi-award winning company:-

• National Team Building Company of the Year
• Welsh Small Business of the Year
• Licensed with the Adventure Activities Licensing Service
• SMARTA 100 Listed Top 100 Small Companies in the UK
• National Business Tourism Company of the Year

For more on our activity weekends click here

”I thought the Father & Son break was fantastic. We had never done anything like it before, but our inexperience wasn’t an issue and we were made to feel very welcome from the moment we arrived. The whole break was incredibly well organised. The instructors were friendly and encouraging. I would highly recommend it”. S. Corbett – 2019 ”We all really enjoyed our experience this year. The boys enjoyed being with other kids their ages and exploring together. Loved the hike and map reading, loved the gorge walking and climbing. I thought the crate building was genius. All the instructors were great, confident, clearly very experienced and fun. Took the Dads a bit longer to warm up, but that’s just grownups – right? It was nice to chat with everyone and share parenting experiences. Lots of similarities which was comforting. Great trip. Thoroughly enjoyed. Not sure on our summer plans in 2020 yet, but would certainly recommend if asked”. A. Odds – 2019

£350.00

You can change these activities if they don't suit your requirements. For instance you can substitute quad biking with climbing, caving, paintballing or clay pigeon shooting to name but a few. Please note if you decide to change the choice of activities it may impact price and transport options.

The best way of describing our activity is a river adventure . With our guides, you travel through a steep sided gorge following the course of the river by various ways and means. This can involve sliding down rapids, swimming down rapids, floating down fast flowing chutes and waves, climbing beside waterfalls and of course jumping off those adrenalin pumping 20ft ledges into deep pool.

You will be guided by our qualified instructors and can either just enjoy the scenery or pick up some mountain skills such as navigation and map reading. Most of the time you’ll be amazed by the stunning views as a new vista appears around every corner or over the next brow of the hill. Our mountain guides have extensive local knowledge so will be explaining about mans influence through the ages on the landscape, it geology and geography, flora and fauna.

Climbing is a rock activity. What goes up must come down – well firmly attached to a rope anyway. A great way of seeing the majestic Brecon Beacons National Park scenery & that of the Gower- even hanging upside down. Rock climbing in Wales is about putting on a climbing harness and enjoying yourself in the outdoors on boulders and outcrops, in old quarries and sea cliffs and remote mountain crags.

All included so you don’t have to worry about finding anywhere for your group to eat.

To and from activity venues. It’s difficult enough in an unfamiliar place to find a venue with a map or sat nav when you have a group of loud lads in the car. Therefore this option makes sense.

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A 16-year-old girl thought to have taken her own life was due to have her first-ever detention the day after she died.

Caitlyn Scott-Lee’s body was found at Wycombe Abbey School in Buckinghamshire on April 21 last year.

Her inquest at Buckinghamshire Coroner’s Court today heard the teenager received the detention after alcohol was found in her locker.

Caitlyn’s father, Jonathan Scott-Lee, told the inquest that his daughter was a ‘daddy’s girl’.

Speaking of when she was a baby, the senior banker said: ‘I took care of her, dressed her, cuddled her, fed her and soothed her.

‘As she grew as a toddler, there would be bitter-sweet moments where she would stand by the window of our home and cry as I left for my daily commute.

‘Little did she know I would return each evening.’

Mr Scott-Lee said his daughter, like him, was autistic.

‘It is a myth that people with autism don’t have much emotion,’ he added.

He said their feelings were ‘amplified’ as they are ‘internal’.

‘Caitlyn was so much more than autism, Wycombe Abbey and detention,’ he said.

Mr Scott-Lee told the inquest he had looked through a photo album after her death.

He said: ‘I saw photos of Caitlyn obtaining her scuba diving licence at age 10 in the Philippines, playing tennis in Scotland, modelling in Singapore, camping in Wales, riding helicopters in New Zealand, skiing across Japan, honing rifle marksmanship in Birmingham, driving at age 13 at Mercedes Brooklands, and hiking the Great Wall of China.

‘Even I was surprised at how full a life Caitlyn lived in 6,041 days.’

The inquest heard that staff began to search for Caitlyn after she failed to return in time for curfew at her boarding school accommodation on April 21.

Her body was then found in a secluded area of the school.

In January, an inquest heard how a 14-year-old girl from Barnet, London took her own life after relentless bullying from male pupils.

Mia Janin, a Year 10 pupil at the Jewish Free School (JFS) in Kenton, north-west  London , was found dead at her family home on March 12, 2021.

The teenager left a harrowing voice note for her friend just hours before she died.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

For more stories like this, check our news page .

MORE : The teacher with a ‘heart of a lioness’ murdered by a pupil with a grudge

MORE : What is the ‘Great Reset’ conspiracy theory being taught in a Manchester school?

MORE : Student killed and another arrested in Texas high school shooting

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Up at The O2 Climb for Two

• See London from the domed roof of the iconic O2 on an exhilarating trip for two
• Don your climb suits, strap in and ascend the purpose-built walkway together
• Available seven days a week

Weekday Sunrise Virgin Hot Air Balloon Flight for Two

• Take a magical sunrise flight together in an iconic Virgin Hot Air Balloon
• Enjoy a morning of serenity with an unforgettable 60 minute flight
• Touchdown in style with a prosecco toast and flight certificate

View from The Shard and Marco Pierre White Three Course Meal at London Steakhouse Co for Two

• Entry to The View from The Shard for two adults
• A delicious three-course meal for two including a cocktail at a Marco Pierre Restaurant
• Available throughout the year

Triple All Star Driving Experience with High Speed Passenger Ride - Weekday

• Drive three cars for three miles in each, choosing from a line-up of over 60 different vehicles
• Enjoy a high speed passenger ride from a professional instructor
• Available selected weekdays throughout the year

Gift Card £100

• The perfect gift solution.

Three Course Dinner with Cocktail for Two at The Fortnum & Mason Bar and Restaurant at Royal Exchange

• Enjoy a welcome cocktail and three courses from a seasonal set menu
• Soak up the spectacular setting of the Royal Exchange
• Available Monday to Thursday

Triple Supercar Blast

• Drive three supercars from an amazing selection including Ferrari and Lamborghini
• Speed around a quality venue or Real Race Track on nine miles total driving distance
• Available weekdays AND weekends throughout the year, depending on location

12 Mile Themed Helicopter Flight for Two

• Experience the manoeuvrability of a modern helicopter during a 12 mile pleasure flight for two
• Available at over 45 locations
• Available on selected weekends from March to November

Visit to the London Eye for Two Adults

• Entry to the lastminute.com London Eye for two adults
• Experience breath-taking 360 degree views of the capital unfolding beneath you
• Available weekdays and weekdays until 12th July 2024

Zip World Velocity 2 - World's Fastest Zip Line for Two

• Soar through the sky on the world’s fastest zip line
• Take in the incredible views of the historic Penrhyn quarry
• Available seven days a week March to September

Gift Card £150

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Canoe Along the Highest Aqueduct in the World for Two

• Canoe over the highest aqueduct in the world
• Soak up the spectacular Dee Valley and take part in games along the way
• Available seven days a week throughout the year

Camden Town Brewery Tour and Tasting for Two

• Embark on a fascinating guided tour of Camden Town Brewery
• Enjoy a welcome half pint, flight of five tasters and more throughout
• Available selected days of the week throughout the year

Four Secret Supercar Driving Experience - 20 Laps

• Drive four surprise supercars for a thrilling experience
• Enjoy sixteen driving laps, four sighting laps and a high-speed passenger ride
• Available Monday to Saturday

Faulty Towers The Dining Experience for Two, Regional

• •Immerse yourself in the world of Basil, Sybil and Manuel for an unforgettable interactive show and dinner •A 4 hour improvised show coupled with a three-course meal •Available for lunch or dinner on selected days

Lift 109 to the Top of Battersea Power Station and Meal with Prosecco at Cinnamon Kitchen for Two

• Soak up 360-degree views of the capital’s stunning skyline from the brand-new glass elevator, Lift 109
• Treat your taste buds to a three course meal at the Cinnamon Kitchen, with a glass of prosecco or a cocktail
• Available weekdays throughout the year

Gordon Ramsay's Savoy Grill Three Course Lunch for Two

• Take your seats for lunch at Gordon Ramsay’s prestigious Savoy Grill
• Enjoy three courses of seasonal fare in glamorous art deco surroundings
• Available Monday to Friday

Gift Card £50

• The gift of choice.

Liverpool FC Tour and Museum Entry for Two

• A self-guided tour of Anfield Stadium for Two Adults
• Access to the museum, The Liverpool FC Story
• Enjoy the Boom Room: The Epic Story of Jurgen Klopp's Dream Team

Brasserie Blanc Three Course Meal with Prosecco for Two

• Enjoy delicious French flavours with a three-course meal for two
• A glass of prosecco or soft drink to enjoy with your meal
• Available from January to November at a choice of 14 restaurants

Harrods Tea Rooms Afternoon Tea for Two

• Enjoy a luxurious Afternoon Tea at London’s iconic department store
• Speciality teas, scones served with Harrods preserve and pastries and desserts from the Harrods’ patisserie
• Available seven days a week (limited availability at weekends)

Faulty Towers The Dining Experience for Two, London

• •Immerse yourself in the world of Basil, Sybil and Manuel for an unforgettable interactive show and dinner •A 2 hour improvised show coupled with a three-course meal •Available for lunch or dinner on selected days

Comedy Night for Two

• Take your seats for an evening with some of the UK’s top stand-up comedians
• Choice of locations, some offering after-show party entry
• Available on selected days of the week depending on location

Family Liverpool FC Tour and Museum Entry

• A self-guided tour of the famous Anfield Stadium for Two Adults and Two Children
• Enjoy entry to The Boom Room: The Epic Story of Jurgen Klopp's Dream Team

Five Course Gourmet Dinner with Cocktail for Two at Marco Pierre White's London Steakhouse Co

• Tuck into five courses of finest-quality fare from the renowned Marco Pierre White
• Enjoy a cocktail each to accompany your meal

30 minute Flying Lesson

• Take to the skies and soar over the British countryside in control of a two-seater aircraft
• Learn from a CAA-licensed instructor on an exhilarating lesson high above the ground
• Available throughout the year, weather permitting

Triple Furious Driving Blast with High Speed Passenger Ride

• Put the pedal to metal in three stunning cars from the fleet inspired by the famous film collection
• Speed around a quality venue on nine miles total driving distance

Emirates Stadium Tour for Two Adults

• Go behind the scenes with a self-guided tour at the spectacular Emirates stadium
• Enjoy brand new features including never-before-seen footage of your favourite players
• Visit the state-of-the-art museum packed full of memorabilia

Gift Card £250

• A great range of experiences to choose from.

Bombay Sapphire Distillery Gin Cocktail Masterclass and Guided Discovery Tour

• Make and drink signature Bombay Sapphire cocktails in a masterclass
• Tour the awe-inspiring distillery and enjoy a Bombay Sapphire Leggero Martini at the Mill Bar
• Available on Fridays and Sundays

The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience for Two, London - Anytime

• Immerse yourselves in the most exciting Crystal Maze LIVE Experience yet
• Countless new challenges across four zones

Double Landing Flying Lesson

• Two flights of approximately 30 minutes each and flight certificate on completion
• Available at a choice of locations
• Available on weekdays and selected weekends

Two Supercar High Speed Passenger Ride Experience

• High-speed laps in each of two supercars, driven by a professional racing driver
• Choose from a huge range of world-class supercars
• Available weekdays

VIP Three Supercar Driving Experience with Image Pack

• Feel like a VIP with a drive in 3 elite supercars
• Choose from 12 supercar models, with up to 6 miles driving in each
• Available selected weekend and weekday dates throughout the year

Gift Card £75

• Let them decide.

DESTROY'D Rage Room for Two

• Vent some anger with this brand-new Rage Room Experience
• Spend 30 minutes smashing, obliterating and destroying items
• Available Thursday to Sunday

Introductory Flying Lesson

• 30 minutes flying lesson
• One-to-one training from a CAA licensed instructor in a two-seater aircraft
• Available all year round at a choice of over 25 locations

Drive An Aston Martin Replica DB5 and V8 Vantage

• Three-mile blast in each Aston Martin
• Professional instructor to guide you
• Available on selected weekdays from February to November

Alcotraz Prison Cocktail Bar Theatrical Cocktail Experience for Two

• Spend a night behind bars at London’s first theatrical cocktail experience, based on the notorious Alcatraz prison
• Bring your own favourite spirits to be crafted into cocktails by the prison's convicts
• Available Tuesday to Sunday (depending on location)

Countryside Break with Vineyard Tour and Wine Tasting at Chapel Down for Two

• One night at the Little Silver Country Hotel
• Chapel Down Winery and vineyard tour and tutored tasting
• Available daily throughout the year

Other categories you might like:

• Fathers Day Gardening Gifts
• Fathers Day Gifts For Dads To Be
• Fathers Day Gifts For The Adventurous Dad
• Fathers Day Gifts For The Drinks Connoisseur Dad
• Fathers Day Gifts For The Foodie Dad
• Fathers Day Gifts For The Petrol Head Dad
• Fathers Day Gifts For The Sports Loving Dad
• Fathers Day Gifts From Daughter
• Fathers Day Gifts From Son
• Fathers Day Gifts From The Dog
• Fathers Day Gifts To Share With Dad
• Fathers Day Gifts Under 100
• Fathers Day Gifts Under 25
• Fathers Day Gifts Under 50
• Fathers Day Special Offers
• First Fathers Day Gifts
• Grandad Fathers Day Gifts
• Luxury Fathers Day Gifts
• Meaningful Fathers Day Gifts
• Rugby Fathers Day Gifts
• Step Dad Fathers Day Gifts
• Whiskey Fathers Day Gifts

From the Blog

Staff Picks: Father's Day Gifts

Looking for Father's Day gift inspiration? We consulted our expert Partnerships team for their ideas on the perfect experience gift.

Meet the Most Gifted Father’s Day Gifts

Looking for Father's Day gift inspiration? We dug into the data to bring you this guide, packed with the most popular Father’s Day gifts from last year.

50 Father's Day Messages

From meaningful messages to short and sweet sentiments, we've rounded up some of the best Father's Day messages to make your card stand out.

Unique & Unusual Father's Day Gifts For 2024

Treat Dad this year with our best unique Father's Day gift ideas.

Father's Day Gifts for the Foodie Dad

Celebrate your old man's healthy appetite with our Father’s Day gift ideas for foodie dads.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most popular gift on father’s day.

Our most popular Father’s Day gifts include:

• Supercar Driving Days
• Stadium Tours
• Fine Dining
• Brewery Tours
• Tickets to Cultural Attractions
• Steam Train Trips

How can I surprise my Dad on Father’s Day?

To surprise your dad, consider planning a unique experience like a steam train trip or a golf day and inviting a distant relative.

What are some unique Father's Day gift ideas?

Unique Father's Day gift ideas could include:

• Comedy Nights

What are the best last-minute Father's Day gifts?

The good news is that most of our experiences are available via e-voucher, which can be emailed to your inbox in seconds - perfect for saving that last-minute panic. We suggest the likes of stadium tours, tasting menus and tickets to cultural attractions.

What are some budget-friendly Father's Day gift ideas?

Budget-friendly gift ideas include:

• Drinks Tastings

How much should I spend on Father’s Day?

The appropriate amount to spend on a Father's Day gift can vary widely based on individual circumstances. Consider your budget, the nature of your relationship and his shared interests, which can enhance the value of the gift.

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Prince Harry to return to the UK in May: What to know about his trip

Harry will attend a service marking the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games.

Prince Harry , the Duke of Sussex, is heading back to the United Kingdom for a cause close to his heart.

Harry, who now lives in California, will be in London on May 8 to attend a service of Thanksgiving at St. Paul's Cathedral marking the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games , a Paralympic-style competition for wounded service members that he founded in 2014.

The visit will be the first time Harry has returned to the U.K., since February, when he flew to London to visit his father King Charles III , who had been recently diagnosed with an undisclosed type of cancer.

MORE: Prince Harry changes residence to US in company filing

In the weeks following Harry's February visit, his sister-in-law, Kate , the Princess of Wales, announced that she too had been diagnosed with cancer. The type of cancer with which Kate was diagnosed was not disclosed publicly, though Kensington Palace did share at the time that she had started a course of preventative chemotherapy in late February.

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It is not known whether Harry plans to see his father, Kate or Kate's husband Prince William while he is in the U.K.

Harry's visit in February was quick. He reportedly met with Charles for less than an hour and stayed overnight in a hotel before departing the next day from London's Heathrow Airport.

He did not see Kate or William, his older brother, with whom he has a strained relationship , during that trip.

The last time Harry and his wife Meghan , the Duchess of Sussex, were seen publicly with William and Kate and Charles was in 2022, when they attended the funeral of the late Queen Elizabeth II.

The Invictus Games, which Harry will celebrate on this trip, is a major passion project for the duke, who served in the British Army for 10 years.

Harry launched the first Invictus Games in 2014 in London as an international version of the Warrior Games, an annual event organized by the U.S. Department of Defense, which the prince attended in 2013.

The games have since taken place in Orlando, Toronto, Sydney, Düsseldorf and The Hague.

Next year's Invictus Games, to be held in Canada in both Vancouver and Whistler, will be the first time winter sports are included in the Paralympic competition.

More than 500 competitors from over two dozen nations are expected to compete during the games, which will be held from Feb. 8-16, 2025.

MORE: Prince Harry on visiting King Charles after cancer diagnosis: 'I love my family'

In February, Harry and Meghan visited the Vancouver area, where they met with dozens of Invictus participants and toured the courses where those same competitors will compete next year.

Describing why he has a passion for being part of the games, Harry told ABC News' Will Reeve at the time, "I've always had a life of service, and then I get my fix being part of, being with these guys. There's no version of me coming here, watching them and not getting involved myself."

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