Top Family Places to Visit in the UK this Summer

Welcome to our ultimate guide to the top destinations in the UK for an unforgettable summer adventure! From delightful family-friendly activities like meeting Daddy Pig, operating a digger or hopping aboard the magical Hogwarts Express, we have curated a list of fantastic experiences that cater to every member of your clan, regardless of their age.

Get ready to embark on an incredible journey as we unveil the must-visit places that will make this summer one for the books.

London

Visit Britain’s Royal Tours

On 6 May 2023, we of course celebrated the official coronation of His Majesty King Charles III, inspiring travellers across the world to discover Britain’s royal heritage for themselves. And why not do it for yourself when you’re on home soil, walking in the footsteps of royalty with a tour of Kensington Palace and Hampton Court Palace. Or the Tower of London is the royal family’s historic 1,000-year-old castle on the banks of the River Thames, and it’s one of our favourite places to take the kids. They’ll love meeting the famous Beefeaters, ravens and seeing the dazzling Crown Jewels, with 23,578 gemstones.

Night kayaking with Secret Adventures

Take a fresh look at London’s landmarks on a night kayaking tour with Secret Adventures. You’ll have an enchanting evening paddle through the heart of the Capital as the sun begins to set. Witness the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the illuminated Houses of Parliament, majestic St. Paul’s Cathedral, vibrant Bank Side, the bustling City, the iconic Tower Bridge, and the historic Old Naval College, among many others.

The Making of Harry Potter, Warner Bros Studio Tours

From the Hogwarts Great Hall to Diagon Alley, the fantastical sets from the Harry Potter films will wow your little fans visiting the Making of Harry Potter at Warner Bros Studio Tours. Find out all the secrets behind the films’ special effects while having that perfect Harry Potter photo on Platform 9¾ at their version of King’s Cross Station. This really is a Harry Potter fan’s dream, with opportunity to see the set, drink a butter beer or two, and get up close to the original props!

The Science Museum

If you’re in the capital and need to entertain your children on rainy days you should make a beeline for the Science Museum, one of the city’s most fascinating (and free) family-friendly attractions. Toddlers and teens will stare in wonder at spaceships, early aeroplanes and robots, while interacting with scientific phenomena and watch 3D Imax films (some attractions may be paid).

The National Portrait Gallery

This national treasure reopened in 2023 after extensive refurbishment so why not explore the National Portrait Gallery, and their extraordinary collection of 200,000 portraits. If you plan to visit with young children, it’s important to note that there aren’t dedicated facilities for stroller storage. However, the gallery provides lockers for smaller items, with a size limit of 45x30x45cm. 

Midlands

Alton Towers, Stoke-on-Trent

For legendary thrill rides, there isn’t really anywhere quite like Alton Towers, it’s like the Dubai Parks and Resorts of the UK! It guarantees frights, delights, screams and giggles leaving you with sore cheeks! From Spinball Whizzer, Hex, Wicker Man and CBeebies Land to Alton Towers Waterpark, Alton Towers Spa and much more!

National Space Centre, Leicester

If your children have been inspired by UAE astronaut Sultan al-Neyad trip to the International Space Station, why not try a detour to Leicester to learn everything to infinity and beyond. There’s a risk your quota of homemade toilet-roll rockets could increase after a day trip to the National Space Centre, but it’s the chance to show your budding astronauts some real ones, alongside space suits, moon rock and meteorites. The brilliant interactive exhibits teach everything from satellite technology to the possibility of alien life. 

Drayton Manor Theme Park, Tamworth

Whether you’ve got kids at the Thomas the Tank Engine stage or the “I’m old enough for G-force terror” stage or, God forbid, both, there’s lots to excite them at Drayton Manor. The theme park’s Thomas Land has 25 rides and attractions suitable for little ones, and there are droppy, speedy, spinny rides aplenty for those who want something a bit more thrilling. 

Didcot Railway Centre, Oxfordshire

Keep your family days out on track with a visit to Didcot Railway Centre, where you get unlimited rides on the heritage Great Western Railway steam trains – some date back 180 years. Children can climb on to the footplates of old locomotives in the living museum’s 1932 engine shed, and enter an air raid shelter and signalling centre. Throw in outdoor play areas and places for lunch and snacks and you’ll never want to leave. 

Silverstone Museum, Northamptonshire

How about a day trip learning about British motor-racing history at the family-friendly Silverstone Museum, a revamped and relaunched museum displaying iconic racing cars. The visit ends with a thrilling lap of the racecourse brought to life in a special-effects cinema. 

Cadbury World, Birmingham

Who doesn’t want to visit a Chocolate Factory?!  AtCadbury World you can discover the secrets behind Cadbury’s Dairy Milk which first launched in 1905, and have the chance to add your own extras like jelly babies, or mint chips. It has 14 zones, where you can play in chocolate rain and have warm liquid Cadbury Dairy Milk poured over your favourite treat.

Watch the clever Cadbury pack-and-wrap process on their 3D cinema screen and then meet ‘Flex6’ the robot at the factory as he shows how he wraps those famous purple bars. A sweet treat all the family will love – but maybe not the sugar highs afterwards.  

Warwick Castle

With its gorgeous gardens, riverside location and impressive, well-preserved stone structure, there’s lots for grown-ups to enjoy at the 1,100-year-old Warwick Castle. We’re sure the little ones will make a beeline for the ‘Zog and the Quest for the Golden Star’ activity trail while teens can scare themselves silly in the Dungeon Experience. Great for all is the Falconer’s Quest, the UK’s largest birds of prey show, with special effects and a theatrical narrative. Extend your visit by staying in a wooden lodge or medieval glamping tent in the Knights’ Village.

Emma Bridgewater Factory, Stoke on Trent

We’d advise coming to the UK with an empty suitcase if you’re planning a visit to the beautiful Emma Bridgewater Factory.  Go behind the scenes, discover the casting process or simply whip yourself up a brand-new mug while learning all about the pottery making process on their tour of the Victorian factory.  The Bridgewater team are always keen to meet aspiring artists and help them get crafty in the ‘Decorating Studio’ where the children can pick out a classic piece of pottery and paint it to their heart’s desires, whether that be splashes of colour or a roaring dinosaur! The experts will hold their hand throughout the process so kids can just focus on getting arty. The amazing team also put on special events in the school holidays and grown-ups don’t leave until you have grabbed a bargain in the discount factory outlet.

South

Peppa Pig World at Paulton’s Park, Hampshire

If you’re at the stage when Daddy Pig’s voice is rivalling that of your husband’s at home taking your children toPeppa Pig World for a day trip will be a real parenting win. Circle into the sky on Miss Rabbit’s Helicopter Flight, spin along a colourful waterway on Grampy Rabbit’s Sailing Club ride and meet Peppa and George themselves. The park has overnight packages where you’ll get a second day in the park for free.

Thorpe Park, Surrey

Another of the UK’s most popular theme parks, Thorpe Park has some of the UK’s most creative and stomach-churning rides, including Stealth, Britain’s fastest rollercoaster, which goes from 0-80 mph in two seconds! Looking for things to do with your smaller kids? Head straight to Angry Birds land and join the birds on a fantastic 4D adventure. Don’t mind getting wet? Have a family race on Depth Charge – a 4-lane super slide, or relax on Amity Beach for your family day out.

Gruffalo Wood, Farnham

Head into the deep, dark woods in Alice Holt Forest in Farnham to experience this wonderful walking trail that’s ideal for families come rain or shine. Based on Julia Donaldson’s The Gruffalo, the walk is free to enjoy and easily accessible for buggies – there’s even a carpark on site. Spot the amazing wooden sculptures carved into magical creatures.

Drusillas Zoo & Theme Park, East Sussex 

Aside from the Ring-Tailed Lemurs, Red Pandas and Humbolt Penguins at the Drusillas near Alfriston, there are plenty of play areas for the kids including a wet play Splash Pad and the new Rainforest Carousel. Visit in August and you can see Paddington Bear, Spiderman and Hello Kitty.

Middle Farm, Sussex 

If you want a taste of quintessential England head to Middle Farm near Lewes. It holds more Sussex produce than any other shops in the area so stop off, have and ice cream, stock up from the bakery and butchers, and make the most of their perry shop while the kids feed the animals. 

Bluebell Railway, Sussex

Nestled in the picturesque Sussex countryside, the Bluebell Railway offers a nostalgic steam train journey through lush green meadows and charming villages. This heritage line is a delightful experience for train enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Brighton Royal Pavilion

If you fancy a bit of history over the summer, at Brighton Royal Pavilion you can experience a palace fit for a king. The spectacular seaside royal residence of the Prince Regent (George IV) was transformed by John Nash between 1815 and 1823 into one of the most dazzling and exotic buildings in the UK. Would you believe that millions of Brits get it confused with the Taj Mahal. We can see why!

Brighton i360  

If you enjoy going up the Dubai Frame and like jaw-dropping views as far as the eye, then Brighton i360 is for you this summer. It’s located on Brighton’s seafront, and is a spaceship-shaped pod that glides up to 138 metres high in the sky. You’ll get views along the coast towards Beachy Head and the Isle of Wight, north to the South Downs National Park and south across the English Channel towards the Rampion offshore wind farm.  As you’re contained indoors, make Brighton i360 a perfect all-weather family-friendly activity.

Fishers Adventure Park Farm, West Sussex 

Fisher’s Adventure Park Farm ticks all the boxes for a full-on family day out. Part adventure playground, part family-run farm, part gigantic play park, kids can spend the day petting the animals, riding the go-karts and bouncing on the trampolines. The tractor and trailer ride is always popular too. Most rides are included in the ticket price, although a few are an extra £1. There are indoor play and picnic areas, and you can buy indoor-only tickets on rainy days which is inevitable with the British summer. 

West Country

Garden Tour of Highgrove, Gloucestershire

Discover a rare glimpse into King Charles’ passion for all things green with a garden tour of Highgrove House, the private residence of Their Majesties, King Charles III and Queen Camilla. Since he first arrived at Highgrove in 1980, King Charles III has devoted his green thumb to the gardens around his beloved country estate in Gloucestershire. Afterwards, don’t forget to stop by the Highgrove Shop and pick up some Highgrove Organic Royal Gardens Honey. 

The Wave, Bristol

Surf’s up near Bristol in the West Country at The Wave. This inland artificial surf lake uses wave technology to create 1,000 waves per hour and offers something the whole family will enjoy. Young beginners can learn to stand up on their board in a safer, easier environment than the sea (which is great practice for living in Dubai), and the advanced area has barrelling waves to challenge experts. If you fancy and overnight stay, The Camp has 25 safari tents with kitchenettes that sleep eight, and the Clubhouse café does a delicious breakfast and tasty but healthy meals.

Puzzlewood, Gloucestershire

Puzzlewood is a mile and a half of pathways where you’ll come across bridges, lookouts and animals, plus spot locations used in films including Star Wars: The Force Awakens and The Secret Garden. It really is a woodland wonderland in the Forest of Dean. 

Eden Project, Cornwall

Nestled in a huge crater in Cornwall, The Eden Project is an incredible attraction where you’ll find Biomes housing the largest rainforest in captivity, plants, exhibitions and year-round family events. Kids will love the Rainforest Canopy Walk, where the rope bridge stretches 23 metres across the canopy between two of the tallest trees in the 50 metre-highBiome.

For older kids (from ages 8 and up), there’s plenty of exciting outdoor adventures like Big Air (a giant airbag jump), SkyTrek (a high ropes adventure course), and the SkyWire, England’s longest and fastest zip wire, covering 660 metres and travelling at speeds of up to 60 mph.

North

A day out at Blackpool

When we think of Blackpool people often assume it’s all about stag and hens and the pleasure beach! But for a family weekend or day out, it’s the chance for some traditional seaside fun. The recent regeneration of the promenade area has made the beachfront attractive, clean and brilliant for families. Sandcastle water park is one of the UK’s best water parks, and at the pleasure beach you can simply have fish and chips, build sandcastles and stroll along the pier, keeping it simple for the whole family!

Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet village, Cheshire

Cheshire Oaks is an open–air shopping centre and is a favourite amongst the British Mums’ team! Home to more than 140 designer and premium brands, offering up to 60% off RRP. Not to mention, they’ve made your day out even easier with free parking, handsfree shopping and extended opening hours. It doesn’t stop there. There’s a brand newplay area and Under the Oak festival, including a rooftop terrace just in time for the summer months, ready to unwind with a cocktail and street food. Our top tip is to get your Clarks school shoes here – they’re a snip of a price of what you’d pay in Dubai. 

The World of Beatrix Potter, Cumbria

This vibrant family attraction is perfect for generations whatever the weather! It brings to life all 23 enchanting stories in a magical recreation of the beautiful Lake District countryside. At The World of Beatrix Potter, your kids will meet their favourite characters from the famous books including Peter Rabbit and Mrs Tiggy-winkle, and the outdoor Peter Rabbit Garden offers a cheeky view of Mr. McGregor’s vegetable patch. Kids are given a free activity sheet whilst grownups take in Miss Potters’ rich history in the fascinating virtual world and interactive area. Our best part is the superb character-themed family friendly cafe and a world-famous gift shop.

East

Dinosaur Roar Adventure, Norfolk

Dress like Andy from CBeebies and explore and play in the 85 acres of woods and parkland finding the 100 or so static dinosaurs, two life size puppet dinosaurs and animatronic dinosaurs at Dinosaur Roar Adventure.  Once you have found them all, exhaust the kids at Dinomite, Norfolk’s largest indoor adventure play area which has 3 levels of fun and adventure. There is everything here to satisfy your little palaeontologists! Not forgetting “Dippy” the park’s Dinosaur Mascot.

Lincoln Castle, Lincoln

Explore the magnificent Lincoln Castle where royalty once roamed on a fun learning day out for whole the family. Located right in the centre of Lincoln city, the medieval castle dates back to 1068 and was built by William the Conqueror. It has recently been restored transforming it into a world class heritage site. Climb up the steps for the Medieval Wall Walk taking in the towers and dungeons; meet prisoners in the Victorian Prison and take a close look at one of the original surviving copies of the 1215 Magna Carta document. Guided tours are available and look out for the exciting family events including living history events taking place throughout the year.

Wales

Bounce Below, Gwynedd

Kids will go nuts for Bounce Below, a brilliant UK attraction for families. The slate cavern is twice the size of St Paul’s Cathedral and is home to three giant trampolines. Multicolour lights create a cool look to the caves, which were once a Victorian mine. The site is 180 ft deep and you can travel between levels on four huge slides. It’s a guaranteed win and brilliant place to take kids.

Scotland

The Jacobite Steam Train, Fort William

Live the life of Harry Potter and friends and take the ‘Hogwarts Express’ to wizarding school.  West Coast Railways, operators of ‘The Jacobite’, provided the steam engine and carriages for the wonderful film series. So, come and travel to Mallaig along the line used in the films, see the famous Glenfinnan viaduct, an unmistakable landmark for all Harry Potter fans. It’s a great day out for all the family.

The Cocoa Bean Company, Dumfries & Galloway

Live out your very own Charlie and the Chocolate Factory fantasy at The Cocoabean Company! You and the kids of all ages have the chance to create high-quality chocolate using the finest techniques in the industry. Not only can your little ones try their hand at being a chocolatier but they can unleash their imaginations on the outdoor adventure playground too. We love the pirate ship and a giant slide and the indoor soft play area for those inevitable wet days. 

Various locations in the UK

Clip ‘n’ Climb (various locations)

There are dozens of Clip n Climb centres around the UK and is perfect entertainment for kids aged 4 years and upwards. can try their hands (and feet!) at the different walls and challenges! Brightly coloured, exciting and active; what’s not to like for days out with the kids?

National Trust

There is nothing better than breathing in the British fresh air while exploring days out in nature, spotting wildlife and doing fun things for all the family. The UK is full of beautiful, historic houses, gardens and medieval castles and with theNational Trust they are even easier to discover. There are so many sites across the country, we tend to use it as a stop off on a long journey, rather than darting into a service station. National Trust really is a perfect day out for the whole family, let their imaginations run wild come rain or shine!

Center Parcs

With a huge range of amazing locations, indoor pools and a chance to be with your family, Center Parcs is a no brainer if you’re wanting a break while travelling to see family and friends in the UK. You can get away from it all in their cute wooden lodges while the family makes the most of the abundance of activities on offer. Even though we have some of the best waterparks in the world in Dubai, we’re sure the kids will be blown away by the subtropical, swimming paradise. Heated to 29.5C all year round and decked in lush green tropical plants and trees, it’s positively balmy. 

Diggerland, various locations

Children love diggers – fact – and getting to actually drive one will blow their minds. At Diggerland, (of which there are now four in the UK, in Kent, Yorkshire, Devon and Durham) they can operate JCB excavators, use loaders to complete stacking challenges and get spun around in a super-size digger-bucket ride. All the theme parks have the same attractions, plus play areas, dodgems and mucky fun in the mud.