Planning a family holiday overseas might involve more logistics and paperwork than getting a fleet of
post-Brexit trucks across the channel.
First, there’s finding a destination with plenty of distractions for children that’s got something to offer you and your partner too, then deciding whether self-catering or an all-inclusive is more convenient and finding the best deal on your desired dates. And if you’re bringing a baby, the passport application process is fussy and frustratingly slow.
So it’s no wonder many parents choose to holiday closer to home, getting there via their own vehicles, or via train and short hop flights.
If you’re planning a Blighty break, here are five awesome British attractions to take kids to.
1. The Enchanted Forest
Walking through The Enchanted Forest is a magical experience no kid will easily forget.
Set in the stunning Faskally Wood in Scotland’s Perthshire, this superb sound and light event runs throughout October every year and features everything from giant owls taking flight across fountains to musical mushroom installations and singing Druid guides.
Tip: tickets go on sale from 14th June, but book fast as they sell out rapidly.
2. Dynamic Earth
Dynamic Earth is another fantastic family attraction north of the border — you’ll find it in the
Holyrood area of Edinburgh, close to the Scottish Parliament, Arthurs Seat and Salisbury Crags. Suitable for kids aged 3-18, it comprises a cool interactive journey through Earth’s evolution, from the Big Bang to the present day, covering everything mind-blowing in between.
Tip: Edinburgh airport is Scotland’s busiest, so you’ll find regular inbound flights from practically
every UK airport.
If you want to save money on airport transfers check out a few price comparison websites as different companies will have better deals than using a taxi on the day.
3. Legoland Discovery Centre
Exploring the Legoland Discovery Centre in Manchester is a must if your kids are obsessed with these
iconic little plastic bricks.
Billed as ‘the ultimate indoor playground’, the facility features attractions like the Lego Ninjago City Adventure, a 4D cinema, VR car racing, Merlin’s Apprentice ride and Space Mission experience.
Tip: once the kids have expended enough energy, perhaps you and your better half will have time
for lunch in the trendy Northern Quarter.
4. London Zoo
London Zoo might be the world’s most famous animal emporium and it’s been entertaining and educating kids of all ages for generations.
If your kids want to experience animals close hand in a supervised environment, their junior zookeeper for a day experience is a great Christmas or birthday treat. At £170, it isn’t cheap but will create enough cherished memories to last a lifetime.
Tip: save 10 per cent on London Zoo tickets by booking online.
5. Bear Grylls Adventure
Embracing the Bear Grylls adventure at Birmingham NEC is one of the best ways to get inside the head of the former special forces operative and test your physical and psychological mettle.
Suitable for children aged 11 plus, you can climb obstacles, snorkel in a pool or even skydive in an indoor wind tunnel — it really is sensational.
Tip: Birmingham Airport parking providers like Looking4.com and eateries like Giraffe make it one of
Britain’s best.
Have you visited any of the above?
*This is a collaborative post*
I’ve always wanted to visit Scotland. Will keep in mind the Enchanted Forest and Dynamic Earth when we visit. I would love my kids to learn a thing or two about Earth’s evolution