4 Ideas for a UK Family Staycation

When you have got children, the price to go away can just add up more and more. We do like to save and put money aside for travel abroad. But in between, a ‘staycation’ is always a winner. The travel time is low and for most people, they would just drive. So you can stop as many times along the way as you want. The thought of getting on a long plane journey might be the last thing on your mind with a toddler, for example.

You can’t always rely on a beach holiday when you are in the UK, so it is a good idea to have a few different ideas of places to visit and things to do. Anything that keeps you active works pretty well with little ones, right?

So here are some of my suggestions for places to visit, or things to do, if you are staying in the UK this summer.

Bluestone Resort, Wales

We have been here twice before and I wouldn’t hesitate to go again. There are all sorts of activities that you can do on the resort, including swimming, climbing, archery, and kayaking – to only name a few! So if you’ve got children of varying ages, there is something for everyone. The lodges are well equipped and modern so it is a perfect home away from home. There are plenty of restaurants too, if you prefer to eat out when you stay away. Pembrokeshire, where it is located is just stunning too. So there are plenty of glorious beaches, walks, hikes, both trips, and castles that you can visit as well.

Glamping with Feather Down Farms

We had a stay at a Feather Down canvas lodge a few weeks ago and we loved it. There are lots of the Feather Down glamping farms up and down the country, though. So there is sure to be one near a destination of your choice. You can get involved with the animals on the farm, as well as visit the local area. I found that the lodges had all you need, including flushing toilets! Camping is fun for families with kids, so you can really get back to nature and enjoy the great outdoors at these farms. I would totally recommend.

Harrogate, North Yorkshire

I may be a bit biased, but I think that my hometown of Harrogate is a great place to visit for a family. You’ve got the town centre if you fancy a bit of shopping, as well as the Valley Garden area or the Stray, for picnics and playing around. Then just a short drive away, you could go on a boat along the River Nidd in the beautiful Knaresborough.  My Kent raised husband described Knaresborough as ‘the Shire’ when he first visited as it is so picturesque. Then another drive or a train ride away, you could visit York which is full of history and fun. The National Rail museum is a winner with little ones, as well as walking along the wall that surrounds York. You could go out to the Yorkshire Dales and visit Fountains Abbey. Then go to Ripley for one of their famous ice creams. If you fancied a trip to the coast, Whitby, Filey and Scarborough aren’t too far away either. There is just a lot for families to do in that area. Ok, I think I need to plan a trip there soon!

Eastbourne and the South Downs Area

We have only visited Eastbourne once before but I enjoyed it so much more than the busy (and more expensive) bustle of Brighton. It is refreshing and such a stunning area, right at the foot of the magnificent South Downs National Park. The area is full of culture and heritage with year round entertainment, attractions, and activities. There are lots of different places to stay and eat so it would be a perfect little short break.

Have you got holiday plans this summer? I’d love to hear where you like to visit too.