Exploring the UK with Kids! When planning a family trip to the UK, itās easy to think only of London and its iconic landmarks. But the UK is much more than just its bustling capital! From historic castles to thrilling amusement parks, and beautiful countryside to unique attractions, thereās plenty to make your family vacation unforgettable.
This blog will share a comprehensive guide to traveling around the UK with kids, covering London highlights, excursions outside the city, and a taste of Scotland! Whether your child loves adventure, history, or nature, this itinerary offers something for everyone.
Travel Tips for the UK
- Cashless Nation: Almost all payments are made via debit/credit cards or travel cards, so carrying cash is unnecessary.
- Transport Options:
- Day Trips from London: Use trains to explore nearby areas.
- Explore by Car: Renting a car offers flexibility for visiting multiple destinations, especially those outside city centers.
- Pre-booking Essentials: From amusement parks to attractions like Warner Bros. Studio, booking tickets in advance can save time and money.
LONDON ā A Blend of History and Fun
London offers an exciting mix of cultural landmarks and kid-friendly activities. Hereās what to prioritize:
1. Museums
- Natural History Museum: Free entry with life-sized dinosaur exhibits. Great for dinosaur enthusiasts but skip if itās not your familyās interest.
- Victoria & Albert Museum: Another free attraction with art, fashion, and design exhibits. While itās better suited for adults, the garden area is a good spot to relax.
2. Parks & Gardens
- Hyde Park: Perfect for a 2-hour visit with swings, gardens, and the Diana Memorial. Donāt miss ice cream near Kensington Palace!
- St. James Park: On the way to Buckingham Palace, this park offers lush greenery and a calming atmosphere.
3. Attractions
- Tower Bridge Tour: Take the short tour to the top and try to time your visit to see the bridge opening for boats!
- London Eye: A must-visit for panoramic views. Book tickets in advance to avoid long queues. Fear of heights? Donāt worryāitās stable and slow-moving.
- Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Tour: A classic way to explore Londonās landmarks, complete with an audio guide and activity books for kids.
4. Buckingham Palace & Westminster
- Watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace (though itās not a must-see) and enjoy iconic sights like Big Ben and Westminster Abbey.
Outside London ā Family-Friendly Adventures
1. Warner Bros. Studio Tour (Watford)
- Why Visit: A Harry Potter fanās dream! Explore movie sets, costumes, props, and enjoy butterbeer at the cafĆ©.
- Tips: Book tickets at least a month in advance, skip the audio guide, and avoid buying LEGO sets here as they are pricier.
2. Chessington World of Adventures
- Just outside London, this amusement park features thrilling rides, a water safari, and outdoor obstacle courses for all ages. Outside food is allowed, making it a great picnic spot!
3. Longleat Safari Park (Warminster)
- The first safari park outside Africa offers:
- Self-drive safari with wildlife encounters.
- Toy train rides, a giant maze, and family play areas.
- Seasonal festivals that make the experience extra special.
A car is required for the safari portion.
4. Bewilderwood (Norfolk)
- An outdoor adventure park filled with slides, zip lines, swings, and mazes. Perfect for 3-4 hours of fun. Remember to carry insect repellent.
5. Stonehenge
- Best for photos, as thereās not much else to do. Skip going inside unless youāre a history buff.
6. Alnwick Castle
- Known as the Hogwarts filming location, it offers broomstick training and activities. While fun for Harry Potter fans, itās avoidable due to its distance and cost.
Exploring Scotland ā History Meets Adventure
1. Isle of Skye
- Ideal for nature lovers, with breathtaking trekking trails like the Fairy Pools. A car rental is recommended for the best experience.
2. Edinburgh
- Edinburgh Castle: Offers a treasure hunt for kids. Skip the audio guide; itās not necessary.
- National Museum of Scotland: Free entry with interactive exhibits, making it a great stop for kids.
- Loch Ness Cruise: Though we missed it, this one-hour cruise is highly recommended for scenic views and the mythical Nessie lore.
Unique Experiences in the UK
- IFly Indoor Skydiving (Manchester): A thrilling experience for both kids and adults.
- Manchester United Stadium Tour (Old Trafford): Great for football fans, though it may not justify the high cost if youāre not an enthusiast.
- Cotswolds & Chippenham: Perfect for picturesque drives and photography.
Kid-Friendly UK Attractions You Could Consider
If time allows, add these to your itinerary:
- Paultons Park (Peppa Pig World): Ideal for younger kids.
- Durdle Door: A stunning natural arch in Dorset.
- Lion King Show: A theatrical delight for all ages.
- Conkers Adventure Park: A unique mix of outdoor and indoor adventures.
Final Tips
- Food: Opt for quick meals at supermarkets like Marks & Spencer. Afternoon tea experiences are popular but often sugary.
- Shopping: Donāt miss Primark for affordable clothing, or outlet malls for luxury brands at discounted prices.
- Walking: Comfortable shoes are a must, as youāll easily clock 18,000 steps daily.
By stepping outside London and exploring the UKās countryside and lesser-known attractions, your family vacation can become an adventure-packed, culturally rich experience. Ready to start planning?
