Unforgettable Family Escapes: Holiday Ideas for 2024
Keen to escape reality and embark on a family holiday? There are endless destinations right here in the UK, so you won’t have to worry about flights and other international travel logistics.
The UK is extremely diverse with a wide array of landscapes offering unique experiences. From dreamy seaside escapes to tranquil rural adventures, there are plenty of destinations to choose from – and each one promises plenty of fun for the whole family. Relaxation? Adventure? There’s something for everyone.
Here are some ideas to help you get the ball rolling.
Coastal Bliss – Cornwall
If a seaside retreat is calling your name, look no further than Cornwall. Situated on the southern coast of England, it receives some of the best weather in the UK. Add sparkling sea views and sandy beaches that continue for miles and you have the perfect set-up.
There are plenty of fishing villages and towns to explore. Looe is home to classic seaside shops, brilliant crabbing spots and rockpools, while St Ives is a picturesque town known for its art and cultural delights, plus plenty of outdoor activities such as paddle boarding and surfing. Add a coastal picnic into the mix and you’ll feel a million miles away from home. Padstow is another great spot known for its pretty harbour and beautiful beaches. Remember to try an authentic Cornish pasty while you’re here!
Countryside Retreat – Lake District
Escape to the countryside and indulge in the treasures of the Lake District. There are plenty of outdoor activities to get involved in, including hiking, kayaking and more. Look out for buggy-friendly walks to ensure this doesn’t hold you back. Whatever you get up to, you’ll be doing it against a backdrop of towering mountains and impressive lakes.
The World of Beatrix Potter is a must-see if your little ones are fans of the beloved books and characters. A boat ride across Lake Windermere is also bound to go down a treat. Be sure to look out for real-life animals while out and about too.
Rural Charm – Cotswolds
The Cotswold is what most people picture when they think of an idyllic rural getaway, having featured in films and on TV – examples include ‘The Holiday’, ‘Downton Abbey’, ‘Harry Potter’ and others. Expect luxury, honey-coloured cottages and picture-perfect villages that look as though they could be in a storybook. There are plenty of lodges in case you want to return again and again.
Family-friendly attractions include Blenheim Palace, Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens and Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway. There’s something for everyone here.
Historic Exploration – Edinburgh, Scotland
Up in Scotland, endless family-friendly activities await. Edinburgh is steeped in history with key attractions in the Royal Mile. Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace in particular cause visitors to flock to the city.
Beyond the historical sites, there are fun cultural destinations too. To see intriguing illusions, head to the Camera Obscura & World of Illusions and to discover the secrets and treasures of this part of the world, swing by the National Museum of Scotland. Make sure you look out for family-friendly events taking place in the city – and if you’re lucky, you might stumble across bagpipes and lots of haggis!
