Planning holidays or short little adventure weekends with a family isn’t always the easiest thing. In fact, for some, it might even be one of the most complicated things – especially if the kid’s ages and interests vary widely. And especially with younger ones, not having to travel for hours, also needs to be considered. Lucky for us, the UK is brimming with fantastic locations and sceneries, that sometimes really make it seem like we’re somewhere entirely else, without having to step on a plane first. So, if you’re on the lookout for a bit of inspiration, here are some destinations for hopefully everyone.

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I want to go to the seaside!

If there’s something we got, it’s coastline – something between 11,000 and 19,000 miles of it (people are still not really sure – and numbers between the Ordnance Survey and the British Cartographic Society including larger islands vary massively). That means we’re spoiled for choice, really, and as visiting the sea makes us feel better, too, it’s an ideal choice. Destinations like Cornwall, Devon, or the Northumberland coast have wonderful sandy beaches and charming seaside towns – and endless opportunities for water-based activities.

The Tranquillity of the Countryside

Another thing we have loads of is our countryside. The vast majority of Great Britain is non-developed land, and this is reflected in the various rural retreat destinations that we have; such as the Lake District, the Peak District, or the Cotswolds. There are loads of cosy cottages to book, family-friendly farm stays surrounded by rolling hills, or excellent holiday lodges for sale in the most wonderful areas. Especially for families that are outdoors enthusiasts, the UK has so much space to offer – no matter if you’re a fan of biking, hiking, or simply exploring the myriad of wonderous relics that are to be found everywhere.

Stay Somewhere a Bit Different

One of the best things about holidaying in the UK is the sheer variety of self-catering options available, especially if you’re exploring the countryside, coast, or even woodland escapes. Whether you’re after a cosy cottage in the Cotswolds, a family-sized lodge in the Lake District, or a quirky woodland cabin tucked away in a forest, there’s something for every taste and budget. Self-catering gives you the flexibility to enjoy your getaway at your own pace – with no fixed mealtimes and plenty of space to relax after a day of adventures. If you’re ready to plan a trip with a bit more freedom, comfort, and local charm, you can always find out more on self-catering accommodation suited to wherever your UK travels take you.

Thrilling Outdoor Paradises

If you have a family that wants to take things a bit further than that, how about something a bit more daring and exciting – such as Snowdonia, the Scottish Highlands, or the Brecon Beacons for something a bit more adrenaline-pumping such as hiking, rock-climbing, and zip-lining amongst rugged landscapes, majestic mountains and cascading waterfalls? Connecting with nature during a holiday is a fantastic way to cleanse and recharge your body and mind for every member of the family – especially, but of course absolutely not limited, to families usually living the urban life.

Discovering Britain’s History

Our country is a bonanza of historical events, riches, and remains – and it can be incredibly fun to travel back in time when immersing yourself in the past of one of our many historic cities or towns. Huge landmarks such as the Edinburg Castle, York Minster, or Bath Abby are of course fantastic – especially when coupled with guided tours or interactive exhibits. If your kids are interested in history, there’s no shortage of excellent picks. And if that’s a bit boring, there is always Whitby. I mean, who wouldn’t want to visit Dracula’s castle?

For more inspiration on enjoying Britain’s countryside, coastlines and outdoor adventures with children, this guide offers a fresh perspective. If you’re dreaming of taking your family adventures further afield, this guide to year-round Alpine mountain experiences in the Alps offers great inspiration and practical tips