Relaxation Hub: The Sights and Sounds of a Staycation
Welcome to Sykes’ Relaxation Hub! A staycation offers the perfect chance to unwind and spend quality time with your...
Wondering where might be the best place to holiday for families? Look no further than our guide to the best UK holiday destinations for families in 2024!
From bright city lights to dramatic coastlines, there is no better place than the UK to enjoy a family holiday. From the breath-taking scenery of the Welsh mountains to the sub-tropical climate of Cornwall, the possibilities are endless.
And let’s face it, nothing compares to a UK family holiday!
Read on to discover our guide to the best UK holidays for families in 2024…
Carved by rich history and culture, North Wales is without a doubt one of the best UK holiday destinations for families.
The region plays host to some of the best castles in Wales, including Gwrych Castle, famed for being the 2020 location for I’m a Celebrity and the Wrexham gem of Chirk Castle.
Alternatively, you could stick to the coastline to explore the abundance of North Wales coastal walks, home to a number of lighthouses, idyllic seaside towns and miles of beaches that you must visit.
Located in this region is the Snowdonia National Park. Referred to as the ‘Adventure Capital’, here you can climb Wales’ highest mountain, experience the world’s fastest zip wire at Zip World or head underground to unleash your inner thrill seeker at Bounce Below.
During a family holiday here, you can also find a plethora of things to do with the family, free things to do and things to do indoors. Whatever you are looking to do, North Wales is sure to have something for the whole family.
For city lovers, countryside explorers and coastal seekers, the North York Moors National Park promises to be one of the best UK holidays for families.
Enjoy a breath of fresh air in the North York Moors National Park and walk the vibrant landscape of moorland, wooded valleys and a dramatic coastline before heading to the seaside town of Whitby.
Steeped in history and home to delicious Whitby fish and chips, Whitby is famous for many things and makes for an outstanding destination for you and your family.
Here, you will find the Captain Cook Memorial Museum, the Dracula Experience and the 199 steps that take you up to the ruins of the Abbey to keep you entertained, as well as a sandy beach with a number of watersport opportunities.
Alternatively, treat your loved ones to a break to the wonders of Runswick Bay, Robin’s Hood Bay or Scarborough for even more coastal fun!
Pack the raincoats and dust off your wellies, and set off for an adventure to the countryside which inspired some of Beatrix Potter’s most famous tales.
The Lake District is a much-loved UK holiday for families, whether you are bringing small children or teenagers, this part of the countryside promises countless adventures.
Now a World Heritage Site, this national park is home to England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike. Alternatively, you could take in the sights from a traditional steamboat that cruises through a number of tranquil lakes.
For those feeling active, spend an afternoon in Ullswater, which is England’s second-largest lake and offers a magnitude of watersport opportunities, including sailing, kayaking, swimming and fishing. Soar through the national park on your mountain bike before refuelling with a slice of the famous Kendal Mint Cake.
Younger guests of the family will be delighted by The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, where you will be able to bring to life the magical stories of Peter Rabbit and Jemima Puddleduck that had been inspired by the beauty of this national park.
From meandering alongside alpacas to visiting the Derwent Pencil Museum, there is plenty of great things to do in the Lake District for families.
It’s no surprise that Cornwall is one of the best UK holidays for families!
For years, this independent peninsula has been a family favourite UK holiday destination. With wild coastlines, picture-postcard harbours, sandy beaches and a sub-tropical climate, it is no surprise that families flock from all over to holiday in Cornwall.
A popular choice amongst families is the coastal town of Newquay, which rests on the Atlantic coast. Here, you will find five sandy beaches with Towan, Great Western, Lusty Glaze and Tulane all reasonably safe for wild swimming in Cornwall, whilst Fistral Beach is famous for Boardmasters surfing championships.
Other things to do in Cornwall for families include Newquay Zoo, Blue Reef Aquarium and the Lappa Valley Steam Railway offers a ride through some of Cornwall’s most spectacular scenery.
Alternatively, you could head further along the coast to discover the most enchanting fishing villages and harbours of Perranporth, Portreath, St Ives and Penzance for a memorable stay by the sea.
Scattered across Cornwall are a number of gardens that are sure to be a hit with a family of all ages and tastes, including Eden Project and The Lost Gardens of Heligan.
Alternatively, head inland and immerse yourself in the moorland countryside by visiting Bodmin Moor, which is grazed by moorland ponies and houses numerous archaeological remains that are awaiting your discovery.
Next up on our guide to the best UK holidays for families is the ever-beautiful Yorkshire Dales! Best known for its breath-taking scenery and great natural landscapes, this part of the UK is perfect for a family holiday at any time of the year.
From the historic town of Richmond to the scenic setting of the Nidderdale AONB, and the nearby town of Harrogate, the Dales is sure to impress!
As well as charming towns and villages to explore, the national park plays host to deep valleys and incredible moorlands.
While here, climb above the moorland as you take on the challenge of the Three Peaks, one of the best walks in Yorkshire, or linger over a pint at the UK’s highest pub to soak up further views.
Northumberland takes position six on this list of the best holiday destinations for families in 2024! Renowned for its vivid history, unbeatable coast and endless countryside it is the perfect choice for a family holiday in the UK.
While away days on the sandy shores of Northumberland’s beautiful beaches; the perfect place for the whole family. From Bamburgh and Warkworth to the shores of Holy Island there are miles of coast to uncover.
If you’re looking to step back into the past on your UK family holiday then these majestic Northumberland castles are well worth a visit. Visit the grandeur of Alnwick Castle which might be familiar as it was one of the Harry Potter filming locations or cross the causeway to explore Holy Island Castle and priory.
This UK family holiday destination is also home to the idyllic Kielder Forest which is home to the UK’s largest man-made lake. Families that love the great outdoors will be in their element thanks to the abundance of walking, hiking and cycling trails as well as thrilling outdoor activities such as paddleboarding and kayaking.
The forest is also home to the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park allowing the whole family to marvel at the billions of stars that fill the night’s sky! Wrap up warm, bring flasks of hot chocolate and grab a chair to experience one of the best things to do in Northumberland.
With exceptional wild swimming opportunities and beautiful waterfall walks, the Peak District National Park is one of the best UK holidays for families!
Spend your UK family holiday exploring the varied landscape spanning 555 square miles, with a wide range of things to see and do. From easy Peak District walks to dog-friendly Peak District walks, there’s no better way to soak in the rural landscapes.
As well as great outdoor opportunities, the Peaks has incredible historical landmarks that the whole family will love! From Chatsworth House to Haddon Hall and Poole’s Cavern, there is a plethora of great things to do in the Peak District National Park.
Families will also be delighted to find an array of towns and villages to visit, including the market town of Bakewell.
Best known for its delicious Bakewell Tart, this town also has plenty of tempting activities that all ages will enjoy. You could meander the specialist shops, stroll along the banks of the River Wye or photograph the striking medieval five-arched stone bridge.
Other places to visit include the highest town in England, Buxton, the exciting town of Matlock or the wind through the cobbled streets of Ashbourne.
East Anglia comprises the historic counties of Norfolk, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire and Suffolk, and is a perfect destination for UK holidays for families.
For a seaside getaway, stay on the Norfolk coastline, home to superb beaches and exceptional resorts. Choose between the delights of Hunstanton, Cromer and Great Yarmouth, each one offering its own unique charm by the sea.
Alternatively, experience city life with a visit to Norwich or venture to Cambridgeshire to enjoy the historical wonders of Ely and Cambridge.
Moreover, a family holiday to East Anglia wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Norfolk Broads! The best way to appreciate the Broads is from the waters, where you can choose to hire a private day boat or relax on a group river trip with Broads Tours.
Alternatively, you and your loved ones can step back in time with a visit to the area’s vast array of castles medieval towns and stately homes.
Our favourite places to visit in East Anglia include; Sandringham Estate, Framlingham Castle and Melford Hall.
A family holiday to South Wales is promised to be filled with stunning South Wales coastal walks, windswept landscapes and bustling city life. South Wales is truly great for family holidays to experience a bit of everything!
Here, you can visit the Welsh capital of Cardiff, home to one of the busiest ports in the UK, Cardiff Castle, Victorian Arcades, the Welsh Millennium Centre and more! On the outskirts of the city lies Barry Island, a coastal town made famous by the BBC series Gavin and Stacey, which is well worth a visit especially to explore the show’s filming locations. If it’s a budget break you’re after, this is the place to visit as the city is one of the cheapest UK holiday destinations.
Beachcombers can look forward to the delights of Tenby, which is considered one of Wales’ top seaside towns. With a colourful harbour, one of the best dog-friendly beaches in Wales and plenty of places to eat, it makes an ideal base for young families.
Alternatively, The Mumbles, Saundersfoot and Pembroke are all coastal havens that families can enjoy this year!
Further along the coastline is the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, offering endless opportunities. Discover beautiful weather-worn cliffs, delightful Pembrokeshire beaches and hidden coves, as well as a plethora of walking and watersport opportunities for all to enjoy.
Rounding off our guide to the best UK holidays for families is The Heart of England. The area is ideal for families who are seeking an action-packed holiday of sightseeing.
Here, you are promised to see some of the finest examples of stately homes in England, superb historic cities and breath-taking landscapes.
Spend your UK family holiday meandering Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon or the striking city of Oxford. Find the finest sightseeing treasures here, with Oxford Castle and Prison, The Sheldonian Theatre and the Radcliffe Camera waiting to be photographed.
Families seeking a more active UK holiday can enjoy the great outdoors of Shropshire and Herefordshire, as well as the beauty of the Malvern Hills AONB, whilst Wyre Forest has something to suit all ages and tastes.
Other superb places to visit whilst on your family holiday include Warwick Castle, Royal Leamington Spa and Biddulph Grange Garden.
Feeling inspired by our best UK holidays for families guide? If so, be sure to book with us to secure your family holiday. If you are looking for further family holiday inspiration, take a look at our top 10 UK holiday destinations!
Hi, I'm Georgina and I joined the team in November 2018. I've enjoyed UK holidays from a young age and have picked up lots of tips...
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