Nine last-minute half-term getaways
Monday 30th May marks the start of the half-term and you might be wondering exactly what to do with the kids. Fear not, as the UK has plenty of areas for family-friendly fun - whether you want to escape to the beach, explore one of the national parks or bring some history to life in an ancient town. We’ve even done some of the hard work for you by pulling together a list of nine last-minute half-term getaways. All that’s left for you to do is pack the bags!
1. London
Best for: A range of fun
Place to stay nearby: Commodious Studio Apartment in Westfield
The capital city of the UK, London needs no introduction. And, when it comes to family-friendly staycations, it’s got to be one of the best. For starters, there’s just so much to see and do. Start your morning with some sightseeing and tick off The London Eye, Big Ben and Buckingham Palace. Head to the Tower of London and the Houses of Parliament and bring the colourful stories to life. Then, take your pick from over 200 museums, including the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum - many of which are completely free!
2. Edinburgh
Best for: Harry Potter fans
Place to stay nearby: Edinburgh Apartment
Does your child fancy themselves as a Potterhead? Perhaps they want to rival their inner Hermoine? A trip to Edinburgh is a sure-fire way to earn a few cool parent points. Perfect for ages five and over, the Harry Potter Trail is a free tour and great for adults too. But don’t worry if Harry isn’t their thing as there are plenty of other interesting sights like a tour of Edinburgh Castle, a few hours at the National Museum of Scotland and even a family walk up the Royal Mile.
3. The Cotswolds
Best for: Quiet breaks
Place to stay nearby: Ruskin House
A trip to the Cotswolds might not offer the same hustle and bustle that a UK city break has, but it’s still a great choice for a laidback family get-together. As a region, it’s England’s largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and has plenty of things to do. Enjoy a spot of wildlife bingo, have a picnic along the River Windrush, head off on a family bike ride or explore National Trust properties in the towns of Bourton-on-the-Water, Chipping Campden and Stow-on-the-Wold.
4. The Peak District
Best for: Enjoying the great outdoors
Place to stay nearby: Rotcher Cottage
If you want to get your kids away from their screens, the Peak District is a great option. After all, there’s so much countryside and woodland to explore. First, there’s the Peak District National Park, then there’s the popular bike ride route, Monsal Trail and finally, there are lots of working farms and country houses like Chatsworth House which offer activities and events throughout the year.
5. Cardiff
Best for: Mixed ages
Place to stay nearby: Cathays Height
Trying to plan a holiday to suit adults, teenagers and three-nagers? Why not consider South Wales and its capital, Cardiff? Here, you’ll find castles, coastline and incredible countryside - in fact, there’s something for everyone and every age. Split up your days with adventures around Cardiff Castle, enjoy some lunch at Cardiff Bay and, if you’re up for it, set off on the Wales Coast Path for a walk and try to spot Grey Seals swimming below. There’s also the Brecon Beacons National Park nearby which offers plenty of land-based activities like hiking, climbing, abseiling and more.
6. Cambridge
Best for: A little bit of culture
Place to stay nearby: Redwood Cottage
Cambridge might be a university city but it doesn’t mean it’s not a great choice for families to visit. In fact, there’s so much to see and do. Hire out some bikes, or choose to adventure on foot, and visit the university buildings and botanical gardens before heading to one of the many parks for a spot of lunch. If the weather’s on your side, punting has to be on your list. But don’t worry if it’s raining as the Science Centre is a great place to spend a few hours.
7. Bath
Best for: Older kids
Place to stay nearby: The Great Pulteney Penthouse
Again, Bath might be packed with cultural hotspots but it doesn’t mean they can’t be enjoyed with your children. A trip to the Roman Baths is a must and the visitor centre has audio guides just for children and characters in fancy dress to keep them on board. Once done, you could head to one of the nearby cafes for a treat or the play area in Victoria Park if the sun’s shining. The city is also home to crazy golf, a cinema and a few museums - one of the best for families being The Postal Museum.
8. Norfolk
Best for: Lots of activities
Place to stay nearby: Swan Dyke Cottage
Norfolk might be famous for its Broads - a manmade area of waterways and countryside that’s home to water activities, wildlife and nature. However, in the region, you’ll also find picturesque towns, a lively city and some beautiful Blue Flag beaches. Perhaps you could hire out a boat, maybe you want to go camping in the woods or a day at Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach might tick all of the boxes? One thing’s for sure, you’ll never go bored in Norfolk and all ages will be entertained.
9. Devon
Best for: Beachside breaks
Place to stay nearby: 8 Above Town
Dubbed the English Riviera, Devon is a fantastic choice if you’re not able to get abroad this half-term. Plus, when the sun’s shining you really could be somewhere in the Med! Golden sands are surrounded by incredible coastal restaurants, the picturesque harbours are teeming with water sports opportunities, and there are fossil cliffs and rock formations along the Jurassic Coast for endless exploration. That’s before we even mention Dartmoor National Park and the South West Coast Path which offer walks, hikes and land-based activities of a different nature.
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