UK HOLIDAYS DESTINATIONS IDEAL FOR FAMILIES

Although we are out of the pandemic which meant we could only look at UK destination holidays for a while, there is still a lot of uncertainty around going on holidays abroad. It has meant that 2021and 2022 boomed as the years for exploring the best staycations, and 2023 seems to be continuing the same way.

With families looking at saving on travel, and with more knowledge around beautiful UK destinations, this Summer is an ideal time to plan a visit to some of the best UK holiday destinations.

Of course, as UK holidays rise in popularity, the prices have risen over the last few years, which has made families re-think other ways to make it affordable. A growing area has been seen across buying holiday homes, like caravans, lodges, holiday cottages and even new houses that can be turned into Air bnb homes or rentals. There is a lot of sense around this idea, with families being able to visit their favourite UK holiday hotspot throughout the year, and even look at ways of renting them to make money when you don’t need to use it. Obviously, this is an option for those in a position to own their own holiday home, and a lot of thought needs to go into it.

Many families consider buying a place in North Wales, as this is a popular destination with access to Anglesey, Llandudno, Abersoch and Conwy to name a few. If you want to go more down South, look at Devon, Cornall, and places near the coast. There is so much beauty across the UK. From the bustling cities, quaint villages, historic hamlets and sandy beach towns, UK staycations can offer so much more to explore.

If a good old traditional seaside is what you’re after with your family, you can scope out Formby, or Southport. You can even spend all those pennies you saved in a jar at Blackpool arcades. The kids will love it! If you need a little bit of inspiration, take a look at this list below…

Wales

One of the best UK staycations for a scenic trip yet ticks a lot of boxes for families of all ages is Wales. Of course, Wales is a huge place, so it helps to zoom in a little to the best family-friendly areas. Firstly, you have Anglesey, which is filled with small beaches and coves – great for bucket and spade adventures! Llandudno is a great one too. You can check into the seafront hotels or B&B’s, and if you love it, you’ll find there are lots of homes and apartments for sale around this area as it makes a great base for returning families each year. It’s full of arcades, fun fairs and fish and chip shops which all create magical holiday memories!

Windermere

The Lake District seeps beauty, and the fact it is such a wide area across the UK makes it home to lots of different holiday destinations. One of the family favourites is Windermere, with it’s busy town filled with independent shops and local brands, the prettiest of lakes and grounds, and family ran pubs.

Located towards the South of the Lake District, it doesn’t take too long to travel from Manchester, Yorkshire and Leeds. For those who love being close to the water, it’s a great staycation to enjoy having the shores of the lake so close. No matter where in Windermere you say, you will never be short of breath-taking scenery and leisure activities. The boat trips are great for kids!

For those who like the village vibe, you are bound to have a great time exploring the little shops and different dining experiences. There is also the Beatrix Potter World, which is a fabulous family outing.

Isle of Wight

They say the Isle of Wigh is a favourite UK holiday destination of Queen Victoria, and due to it’s mix of sunshine summers, history and landscapes, we can understand why!

If you’re looking for a UK staycation with an island escape feel, they the Isle of Wight could be the perfect option. Osborne House is worthy of a visit, as it has an impressive garden filled with some incredible fountains, wall climbing unusual creeping plants, and an array of beautiful blooms to admire. Don’t forget your camera!

The unique island also boasts views that go beyond the white chalky cliffs and miles of golden sands and sparkling sea. You can find Shanklin Chine, a beautiful gorge with more than 150 varieties of wild plants and waterfalls. Then for the nature and plant lovers out there, there is Ventnor Botanic Garden, which showcases the amazing climate of the Isle of Wight’s south coast. For the kids, there is an abundance of seafronts, and for the adults, think exotic plants and rare sightings!

Cotswolds

I only went to the Cotswolds for the first time about 2-3 years ago. It really is like venturing into times gone by, with history seeping through the place, with subtle nods to the Shakespeare days. I wondered why I had left it so late to visit. It doesn’t jump out immediately for families, but after exploring it, it is actually a beautiful place for families to stay.

It is by far one of the most picturesque pockets you can discover in Britain. Think of miles of rolling landscapes, greenery and countryside, little cobbled streets, rivers framed with weeping willow trees, country pubs and stately homes. There are boat trips along the river, theatres with family friendly shows on, and beautiful parks for picnics.

When you’re visiting, you’re also not too far from some of the countries gems of the South, like Oxford. Worth tying in a visit if you’re down that way!

Peak District

Oh the Peak District – a playground for those who love the great outdoors. A visit here lets you make the most of the large open spaces and views of England’s wild beauty. It’s such a big area that you can explore everywhere from Buxton to Ashbourne, visiting the Stepping Stones or walking Mam Tor in Castleton (for older kids!).

It’s also a great place to do some antiques shopping, visit a flea market or go camping! Pretty much has it all, right? You can look at some quaint country inns, camping and caravan sites, and sweet little holiday cottages with scenic views.

My personal favourite Peak District town has to be Castleton, for it’s lovely town littered with independent coffee shops and family ran pubs.

Final Thoughts

Where ever you decide to go this Summer, remember that you can create your own magical trip by opting for a UK staycation. You can pack your car up full and bring some comforts from home for a relaxing break in a countryside cottage, and camping with the family is always a great idea if you want to test the waters first about locations before taking the leap to look at holiday homes!