Top 10 Family-Friendly Destinations for Holidays 2022 in the UK
As the world slowly emerges from the pandemic, families are eager to escape the monotony of everyday life and explore new places. The UK is one of the best destinations for a family break, with its rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cities. To help kickstart your planning, we have compiled a list of 10 family-friendly destinations for your next holiday in the UK.
1. Cornwall
Cornwall is a beautiful coastal region in the South West of England, known for its stunning beaches, picturesque villages, and rich cultural heritage. The Eden Project, with its iconic geodesic domes, is a must-visit attraction for families. Children will enjoy the interactive exhibits and outdoor play areas, while parents can appreciate the eco-friendly ethos behind the project. Other popular attractions include the Lost Gardens of Heligan, Newquay Zoo, and the Tate St Ives art gallery.
2. Devon
Devon is another coastal county that offers plenty of family-friendly attractions and activities. From the stunning Dartmoor National Park to the bustling seaside towns of Torquay and Paignton, Devon has something for everyone. The award-winning Crealy Theme Park and Resort is a popular choice for families, with its rides, animal encounters, and on-site accommodation. Other highlights include the Victorian-themed Babbacombe Model Village, the South Devon Railway, and the Plymouth Aquarium.
3. Lake District
The Lake District in Cumbria is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families. With its dramatic mountains, tranquil lakes, and pristine forests, the Lake District offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, boating, and wildlife watching. The Beatrix Potter Museum and Gallery in Hawkshead is a great place to introduce young children to the world of Peter Rabbit and his friends. Other family-friendly attractions include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, and the Lakeland Motor Museum.
4. Peak District
The Peak District is a stunning national park that straddles the borders of Derbyshire, Cheshire, Staffordshire, and South Yorkshire. Families can explore the rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and picturesque villages on foot, by bike, or by car. The Heights of Abraham cable car ride in Matlock Bath is a thrilling experience that offers breathtaking views of the park. Other highlights include the Crich Tramway Village, the Chatsworth House and Gardens, and the Poole’s Cavern and Buxton Country Park.
5. Yorkshire Dales
The Yorkshire Dales is another popular national park that offers stunning scenery, charming villages, and plenty of outdoor activities. Families can explore the rolling hills, valleys, and moorlands on foot, by bike, or by car. The Yorkshire Dales National Park Centre in Hawes is a great place to start, with its interactive exhibits, family-friendly events, and outdoor adventure playground. Other highlights include the Bolton Abbey Estate, the Wensleydale Creamery, and the Forbidden Corner maze.
6. Northumberland
Northumberland is a county in the North East of England that boasts a rich history, stunning coastline, and vast stretches of wild countryside. Families can explore the historic castles, ancient ruins, and picturesque villages that dot the landscape. The Beamish Museum, the UK’s largest open-air museum, is a must-visit attraction for families, with its costumed characters, historic buildings, and interactive exhibits. Other highlights include the Bamburgh Castle, the Alnwick Garden, and the Farne Islands.
7. Norfolk
Norfolk is a county in the East of England that offers plenty of family-friendly attractions and activities. From the coastal towns of Great Yarmouth and Cromer to the historic city of Norwich, Norfolk has something for everyone. The Banham Zoo, with its 2000 animals and 50 acres of parkland, is a popular choice among families. Other highlights include the Dinosaur Adventure Park, the BeWILDerwood treehouse adventure park, and the Blickling Estate.
8. Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight is a small island off the coast of Hampshire that offers stunning scenery, rich history, and plenty of family-friendly attractions. Families can explore the sandy beaches, verdant forests, and rugged cliffs on foot, by bike, or by car. The Blackgang Chine theme park, with its themed lands, rides, and attractions, is a popular choice among families. Other highlights include the Osborne House and Gardens, the Needles Battery, and the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.
9. Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands is a vast and wild region that offers stunning scenery, rich history, and plenty of outdoor activities. Families can explore the rugged mountains, pristine lochs, and historic castles on foot, by bike, or by car. The Cairngorm Reindeer Centre, with its herd of tame reindeer, is a unique and memorable experience for children. Other highlights include the Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre, the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition, and the Highland Wildlife Park.
10. Pembrokeshire
Pembrokeshire is a county in the South West of Wales that offers stunning coastline, enchanting forests, and plenty of outdoor activities. Families can explore the coastal towns, rugged cliffs, and sandy beaches on foot, by bike, or by car. The Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo, with its indoor and outdoor play areas, animal encounters, and exotic birds, is a popular choice among families. Other highlights include the Blue Lagoon waterpark, the Pembroke Castle, and the Oakwood Theme Park.
In conclusion, the UK offers plenty of family-friendly destinations for your next holiday, each with its unique attractions and activities. Whether you prefer coastal towns, rugged mountains, or idyllic countryside, there is something for everyone. We hope our list has inspired you to start planning a memorable family break in 2022.
