When life gets hectic — which it often does! — we need to take time to recharge. And there’s no better remedy than a family “staycation” in the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland.
From glorious heritage sites to jaw-dropping scenery, you’ll find everything you need to keep the whole family entertained. The gold sand beaches of England’s south west coast are perfect for a summer splash-about, whereas Scotland’s rugged landscape offers adventure for those wilder at heart.
Rent a car and drive through the quaint fishing villages of Kent, or pull on your wellies and go back in time walking Hadrian’s Wall. Fancy a slower pace? Simply hunker down in an Irish pub with some fabulous food and drink.
Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it in spades across the UK and Northern Ireland...
Believe it or not, when it comes to seaside staycations Northern Ireland is the place to go. Here, visitors can enjoy over 200km of coastline and unbeatable Irish hospitality.
If you’re looking for surf spots, you’ll find them in all four corners of the UK. Cornwall, the Outer Hebrides, Lincolnshire and Pembrokeshire all provide decent breaks, but none too challenging for everyone to get involved.
Think the best wildlife the UK has to offer is livestock? Think again! Get the timing right, and spotting sharks along Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast will give the family a holiday to remember.
Back on land, Kielder Forest in the north east of England is a hot-spot for red squirrels — some of the cutest of British wildlife, and very rarely seen.
If you’re one for discovery, England’s south west takes some beating. Visit the medieval city of Salisbury and the World Heritage sites of Stonehenge and Avebury in Wiltshire to exercise your inner history buff and educate the kids.
In true British style, the climate can be quite unpredictable. From wild winds on the coastline to searing sunshine in the cities, the weather in these parts is ever-changing.
Want to go windsurfing on the Northumberland coast in January? Be our guest (yikes)! But to see these isles in all their glory, the summer months are best, and will really allow you and the family to enjoy quality time together in the great outdoors.
And if the weather really takes a turn for the worst, the UK is known for its world-class museums and galleries. British capital cities — London, Belfast, Edinburgh and Cardiff — have something few other countries can offer: free museum entry!
Always pack with your activities in mind. We’re talking hiking boots for the Cotswolds, wetsuits for Wales and Cornwall, and shorts and t-shirts for a summer trip to the south east. Though it’s worth packing a raincoat if the weather takes a (likely) turn for the worse!
You never need to worry about transport options in this part of the world. The UK and Northern Ireland have plenty of accessible bus, train and domestic air routes. Even better: most highlights are easily reached by car — perfect for action-packed family holidays, requiring lots of boot space!
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