England is an ideal location for a holiday with the kids. It offers unforgettable days out, fantastic beaches, world-class theme parks and cultural experiences… all easily accessible from home!
Every corner of England specialises in something a little different. In the south west, gold sand beaches roll on for miles — head to Devon for family-friendly surf and delicious cream teas. Along the coast to the east, Bournemouth and Brighton both have Victorian piers with arcades and rides for the whole family to enjoy.
North, in the Heart of England, literature lovers of all ages can explore the world of Shakespeare, and step inside Harry Potter film sets. More North than that, the Peak District, the Lake District and Northumberland lay out some breathtaking scenery. Adventurous families can fill their days with hiking, zip lining or kayaking. While others enjoy country strolls and pub gardens.
With so much to see, a “staycation” in England is great all year round. All you need to do is choose where to go...
Hands down, you can’t beat London for culture. Some of the world’s best museums, galleries and theatres are here, and there are loads of child-friendly options. Don’t miss the Science Museum, Natural History Museum, or the West End for showings of The Lion King, Wicked and Matilda.
The Peak District was one of England’s first national parks, and it is packed with wildlife. There’s red deer at Chatsworth House, mountain hares on the moorland, and red grouse, kestrels and owls soaring the skies — a great holiday choice for budding wildlife photographers.
Elsewhere, kids can grab the binoculars and stay on the lookout for rare red squirrels. You’ll find them dotted around the country, in dedicated habits, in Kielder Forest, Northumberland, and the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
While Norfolk and Northumberland both are worth a shout, the best beaches in England have to be in Devon. Whether it’s surfing in Croyde or long stretches of golden sand in Woolacombe, this is the place for an English beach trip with the kids.
England is full of history, and wherever you go you’ll find a fascinating castle or hidden historical experience. One of the best places to visit for history buffs is the England/Wales border in Shropshire, which is full of magnificent medieval castles, Iron Age hillforts and the vast structure of Offa’s Dyke. Historic Salisbury and Stonehenge are well worth a visit, too.
Strictly speaking, the best time to travel around England is from April to September, when the weather is warmer and drier. Avoid the peak summer holidays of August for fewer crowds and cheaper prices, especially if your littles ones are begging to go to Alton Towers or Thorpe Park.
That being said, there’s still plenty to do during colder months. London is a city that never slows down — even in torrential rain! — and the dark skies above the North East make catching the Northern Lights a very real possibility during winter.
Just like the rest of the UK, England has a varied climate. It can be bitterly cold in the winter, mild and fresh in spring and autumn, and very hot indeed during the summer months. The answer? Lots of layers and a day pack to keep them in. Of course, rain is always a possibility — so pack a brolly!
Many of England’s roads are in good nick, so taking the family car — or hiring one along the way — is the easiest way to organise your holiday.
No matter where you’re headed, though, you’ll likely find a well connected bus and train network, as well as coaches and taxis for specific journeys (although these can be quite expensive for a big family).
Popular family holiday regions
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A selection of the best family holiday types
