The 15 best family days out in the uk
When it comes to family days out in the UK, you’re truly spoilt for choice. Exhilarating theme parks, real-life secret gardens, picturesque seaside towns - Britain is packed with an incredible amount of kid-friendly attractions and activities. But with such a large variety of places to go with your family and things to see, it can be difficult to plan a day out that’s fun for every family member (and that won’t break the bank).
If you’re struggling to choose your family’s next adventure, or you’re simply looking for some holiday inspiration or family day trips, this list is for you! We’ve divided the UK’s best family attractions into four categories for animal fans, thrill-seekers, nature admirers, and London lovers.
The most popular attractions for a magical family escape!
What’s on-trend now? You wonder – Find here the two of the current most popular attractions among our best Family-friendly offers: open spaces, outdoor activities, plenty of fun and magical enchanted experiences, all in a safe and secure environment… If this resonates with you, have a go with the following top products available now in VisitBritain Shop:
1. Knights and princesses, queens and kings of the household, do not miss Warwick Castle!
Located halfway between London and Birmingham, Warwick Castle offers an unforgettable visit, stimulating not only your interest in History but also for fairy tales’ classics: knights and princesses, queens and kings’ adventures!
You may lead your loved ones to explore 64 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens! Unmissable milestones are the mighty Trebuchet, the largest working catapult in the world, and a mini-fortress to explore and conquer – perfect for the little ones to explore!
Find out more about Warwick Castle
2. Windsor Castle, where history and current affairs converge!
Round the corner from London, Windsor Palace is a must see attraction when planning a day out in London and its surroundings. It offers the visitor both Royals current affairs hint –this is a Palace in use — and an educational English History’s show around.
This is also a hassle-free option for a Family trip, as you get a date-specific e-Voucher. And… it is free for children under 5s! Henry VIII burial is in the stunning St George Chapel and historical artworks are waiting for your visit in the State Rooms.
For those with young heart and mind, there is the unmissable Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House! Built in the early 1920’s, it is the largest and most famous dolls’ house in the world. The house even features electric lighting and flushing toilets!
Find out more about Windsor Castle
Great Fun Day Out Ideas for Little Animal Fans:
If your little ones – or yourself – are excited about activities with animals, the list below will help you plan a fun family day trip that they won’t forget. Admire rare underwater species, discover the Land of the Lions, see endangered tigers and much more!
3. SEA LIFE Brighton Aquarium, East Sussex
Whether you’re after a bit of excitement or a relaxing afternoon, Brighton is a fantastic choice for a family day out in the UK. Beyond the beach and iconic pier, kids can discover a world of wonder at SEA LIFE Brighton Aquarium. Located only a stone’s throw away from the sea, this attraction features a variety of fascinating marine creatures, interactive talks and feeding times, and the UK’s first glass bottom boat. We guarantee that your kids will love the colourful mix of underwater species such as piranhas, seahorses and sharks!
Find out more about Sea Life Brighton Aquarium
4. London Zoo
The London Zoo attracts visitors from far and wide for one main reason: more than 17,000 animals call it home. The zoo’s incredible exhibits let you get closer to the animals than ever before: come face-to-face with the king of the jungle at Land of the Lions, observe a colony of gorillas at the Gorilla Kingdom, and see endangered Sumatran tigers at Tiger Territory. Whether it’s a daily live feeding show or an educational talk, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here. The only downside? You and your family might struggle to fit it all into one day!
Find out more about The London Zoo
5. Chessington World of Adventures Resort, Surrey
With so much to see and do included in your ticket price, Chessington World of Adventures makes for a brilliant family day out, especially for the kids. Where else can you see endangered Amur tigers, hop on a high-speed roller coaster, come face-to-face with sharks and rays, and groove with the Gruffalo all in one place? This theme park has loads of exciting attractions that will delight and stimulate children of any age.
Find out more about Chessington World of Adventure
Fun places to go for a day out with family
Looking for children’s attractions in the UK for little adventurers and thrill-seekers? The list below will get you inspired! From theme parks, to the scary York Dungeon and breath-taking Zip Line adventures – we’ve got some exciting inspirations below for an unforgettable adrenaline rush!
6. Alton Towers Resort, Staffordshire
When it comes to legendary thrill rides, there’s nowhere else quite like Alton Towers. The UK’s favourite theme park is home to a number of gravity-defying roller coasters, including Galactica – a unique virtual reality roller coaster. There’s plenty for younger kids too: little ones will love the immersive play areas at CBeebies Land and Sharkbait Reef, the park’s pirate-themed aquarium. Alton Towers Resort is the place to go for a thrilling family day out that the kids – and parents – won’t forget!
Find out more about Alton Towers Resort
7. Blackpool, Lancashire
One of England’s most iconic seaside resorts, Blackpool has plenty to keep visitors of all ages entertained. Take in the stunning panoramic views from The Blackpool Tower Eye, experience the jaw-dropping stunts at Blackpool Tower Circus, or get your adrenaline pumping on Britain’s highest roller coaster. Make the most of your family day out with the Blackpool Attraction Pass, which includes entry to 6 of the town’s best attractions. Especially the Blackpool Tower Dungeon and Circus are a must see for thrill seekers!
Find out more about the Blackpool Big Ticket
8. York Dungeon, Yorkshire
Take a journey to the York Dungeon (if you dare) for some spine-chilling fun on this unique activity for a fun family day out. This live-action show brings 2,000 years of local history to life with talented actors, special effects, and immersive sets. You’ll laugh and scream as you meet some of the city’s most notorious characters, from Guy Fawkes to Dick Turpin and even a famous Viking. Once the family has had their fill of thrills, explore more of York’s sights with the York Pass, which includes entry to 40 top attractions. Visit Castle Howard, take a chocolate factory tour, or embark on an archaeological adventure at DIG – this pass has something for all ages!
Find out more about York Dungeon
9. Zip World Caverns, Gwynedd
Get ready for the experience of a lifetime at Zip World Caverns, an otherworldly family attraction nestled amongst the scenic mountains of North Wales. Set within a vast series of mine chambers, this unique subterranean playground consists of an underground adventure course along with massive trampolines and slides. If that’s not enough of an adrenaline rush, head back above ground to take flight on Titan, Europe’s largest zipping zone. It’s an action-packed adventure the entire family can get involved in!
Find out more about Zip World Caverns
Day Trips Out For Kids – Fun Nature Attractions
If you are trying to get your kids excited about the environment and the fascinating world of plants, we’ve got you sorted. These outdoorsy activities will make the kids put their phones and tablets down and go on an adventure in an outdoor jungle, master treetop walks and much more. We guarantee a fun day out for both kids and parents!
12. Kew Gardens, Richmond, Surrey
If your youngster is a budding Indiana Jones or Dora the Explorer, they’ll love Kew Gardens. This lush expanse is a natural playground, offering kids a chance to learn about conservation as they burn off some energy. Must-see spots for kids include the Treetop Walkway, the Log Trail, and the life-sized badger’s den. There are also dozens of family-friendly events and activities taking place throughout the year.
Find out more about Kew Gardens
13. The World of Beatrix Potter, Cumbria
Discover a fairytale world in the heart of the Lake District at The World of Beatrix Potter. Featuring beloved characters from the famous children’s books, this enchanting attraction brings all 23 stories to life. Kids can take a virtual walk through Beatrix Potter’s beloved countryside, visit Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle’s kitchen, and explore the outdoor Peter Rabbit Garden.
Find out more about The World of Beatrix Potter
14. Legoland Windsor Resort, Berkshire
There’s so much more to this park than intricate Lego models – Legoland is filled with over 55 interactive rides, attractions, and live-action shows. Plus, it’s the perfect theme park in any season to ensure a fun day out for kids! During colder months, kids can make a splash on a magical submarine ride, test their ninja skills on the 4D Lego Ninjago ride, and relive their favorite film scenes at the Star Wars Miniland Model Display. If you and the family are visiting during summer, don’t miss the exciting rides at Pirate Shores or Drench Towers, the largest outdoor water play structure in the UK.
Find out more about Legoland Windsor Resort
Fun Family Days Out in London
If you are looking for things to do in or near London, take a look at these kids’ day-out ideas below. From typical London sightseeing to a Warner Bros. Studio Tour or a trip to KidZania, where your little ones learn how to save a life or join the police – these activities in London will be joyful for both kids and parents!
15. Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour, Hertfordshire
Explore the wonders of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter on the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. The tour offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at authentic costumes, props, and sets from the iconic Harry Potter film series. Follow in the footsteps of Harry, Ron and Hermione and step into the Great Hall at Hogwarts or stroll along Diagon Alley. On your way out, don’t forget to grab a delicious mug of Butterbeer. The Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour is a fun day out for the kids that will remain in their memory for many years to come.
Find out more about Harry Potter Studio Tour from London
16. KidZania London
Do your kids dream of becoming a doctor or firefighter when they grow up? KidZania allows them to live out their wildest dreams in realistic role-play activities. Watch the excitement on their faces as they learn how to save a life in the operating theatre, join the police force, or transform into a leading news reporter. Not only will they have loads of fun on their day out, they’ll also develop essential life skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and more!
17. London Sightseeing
If you think sightseeing in London is just for adults, these family attractions will have you thinking otherwise! There’s endless fun to be had around the city: snap candid photos with A-list celebrities at Madame Tussauds, embark on an immersive 4D experience at Shrek’s Adventure, or attempt to brave the London Dungeon. Can’t choose just one? Save money and visit five top attractions with Merlin’s Magical London Pass.
Find out more about London Sightseeing Passes