Besides the relaxation and fun, summer vacations are great opportunities to build family bonds and create unforgettable memories. The UK has many exciting vacation destinations depending on your interests– from serene coastlines to exploring the city's attractions. Whether you're seeking sandy shores, cultural landmarks, or exciting activities for your family, our guide has something for every family. Here's a curated list of vacation ideas to inspire your next family getaway.

6 summer vacation ideas for families in the UK

Here are six vacation ideas for families in the UK, including activities to carry out and things to pack along.

1. Visit the best beach resorts for family summer holidays in the UK

A summer vacation is incomplete without a visit to the seaside. Imagine the joy of collecting seashells, listening to the soothing waves, and feeling the sun on your skin while the kids play in the sand. There are many beach resorts to choose from in the UK. Here are some of them:

• Durham Heritage Coast, County Durham, North East England
• Ballygally Castle, Ballygally, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
• Kinloch Hotel, Isle of Arran, Scotland
• Braye Beach Hotel, Alderney, Channel Islands
• Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate, Cornwall
• The Gallivant, East Sussex

What to pack for a beach vacation

• Swimwear
• Beach towels and mats
• Sunscreen
• Hats and sunglasses
• Sand toys for kids
• Books
• Snacks
• Flotation devices

Activities at the beach

• Water adventures: Swimming, snorkelling, paddleboarding, or kayaking.
• On the beach: Sandcastle building, beach games like frisbee or volleyball, kite flying, and shell collecting.
• Resort facilities: Enjoy spa sessions, kids' clubs, and fine dining experiences.
• Explore the neighbourhood: Visit local attractions, hike coastal paths, shop for souvenirs, or take a boat trip.
• Evening activities: Host bonfires, toast marshmallows, or stargaze.

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2. Explore London

London has many family-friendly attractions, historical buildings, and experiences. We recommend staying near Covent Garden or South Bank because they are close to most attractions and dining options.

Places to visit in London

• The British Museum: A free, family-friendly destination with a Families Desk where kids can complete challenges while exploring the museum.
• Piccadilly Circus: It is what Times Square is to New York. It's also close to Buckingham Palace, which is open for tours during the summer.
• Buckingham Palace: Explore the State Rooms, the Throne Room, the Ballroom, and the lush Palace Gardens

• Westminster Abbey: A historic site hosting royal coronations. Visit the tombs, cloisters, and the iconic coronation chair.
• Parks: Hyde Park and Regent's Park are perfect for picnics, playtime, and relaxing family moments.

You should also check out the London Eye and Tower of London and take the Harry Potter Studio tour. If your kids are nerdy, a visit to the Science Museum and Natural History Museum will be memorable.

3. Visit the countryside

If you are looking for a quiet and serene vacation spot to have quality family time, then the UK's countryside is a good idea. Here are some of the best countryside resorts you can visit to get in touch with the beauty of nature:

• The Cotswolds
• Lake District, Cumbria
• Peak District, Derbyshire
• Snowdonia, Wales

Activities

• Walking and hiking trails
• Wildlife spotting
• Family picnics in nature
• Exploring local heritage sites

4. Have fun at a theme park

Theme parks are a fantastic option for families who love thrilling rides and entertainment. They offer a variety of fun activities for children and give them the opportunity to run around and make new friends.

Here are some of our favourite theme parks in the UK

• Alton Towers, Staffordshire: has roller coasters, a water park, and a CBeebies Land
• Legoland Windsor Resort, Berkshire: it is an excellent idea for Lego-loving families and has interactive rides and attractions.
• Thorpe Park, Surrey: Enjoy thrilling rides with your family and create unforgettable memories.
• Chessington World of Adventures, Surrey: This theme park has a zoo and sea life centre.
• Paultons Park, Hampshire: You get to see the Peppa Pig World

Activities

• Enjoy thrilling rides and roller coasters
• Watch live shows and entertainment
• Explore themed areas for kids

5. Explore historic castles and heritage sites

The UK has a rich history with many landmark buildings and sites to explore with your family. Here are the must-see historical sites and castles.

• Warwick Castle, Warwickshire: Enjoy watching the falconry display and visit the dungeons
• Edinburgh Castle, Scotland: A landmark building with historical relevance.
• Windsor Castle, Berkshire: One of the royal residences, considered the largest and oldest occupied castle on the world.
• Caernarfon Castle, Wales: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with breathtaking architecture.

Activities

• Interactive historical tours
• Kids' activity trail
• Reenactments and medieval-themed events
• Take pictures for a family photo album

6. Go on a wildlife adventure

Animal-loving families will enjoy a trip to the UK's zoos, aquariums, and safari parks. Here are some of the top wildlife destinations in the UK

• Longleat Safari Park, Wiltshire: Drive through a safari with lions, tigers, and giraffes.
• ZSL London Zoo, Regent's Park: Home to over 20,000 animals with interactive exhibits for kids.
• Chester Zoo, Cheshire: A leading conservation-focused zoo with exotic animals and engaging family activities.
• Loch Lomond Aquarium, Scotland: Features fascinating marine life, from sharks to otters.

Activities

• Animal feeding experiences
• Guided wildlife tours
• Educational exhibits and interactive zones

Conclusion

The UK is a promising summer vacation destination for families to explore. You can make unforgettable memories this summer with many historical sites and fun activities. Start planning your trip now and manage your travel budget seamlessly with Grey. Sign up today to enjoy reliable cross-border payments with multicurrency bank accounts.

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