Not sure how to spend your family weekend away with kids? Whether it’s a bank holiday, a school holiday, a much-needed break from the city or a break in a different city, we have a wide range of weekend breaks to choose from. From dreamy seaside locations, theme park stay-cays or an off-grid escape to a forest, we’ve got the best top ten family weekend breaks in the UK as well as five extra quirky finds…
Let’s dive in shall we?
Family Weekend Breaks
Lake District, Cumbria
The Lake District National Park has always been a popular destination for weekends away with kids due to its breathtaking scenery, stunning wildlife, fantastic cultural heritage and rich history. There are so many fun outdoor activities for families to get stuck into like its amazing trails, scenic walks, beautiful lake walks, and mountain hikes, such as Scafell Pike, which is the highest mountain in England standing at 978 metres high… You can also check out the Lake District Wildlife Park where you’ll meet Beauty the Boa Constrictor, Bill the Bald Eagle, Harley the Mandrill and a hundred more animals. This stunning countryside is the perfect holiday break for families who love outdoor exploration and wildlife.
The Lake District doesn’t offer specific accommodation in the park itself, however, there are so many great options in the Lake District, from idyllic cottages to glamping pods and charming lodges. Find some great properties on Snaptrip, Airbnb, Booking.com, Hot tub Hideaways & Skye Cottages.
Center Parcs (multiple locations in the UK & Ireland)
Nothing beats that forest feeling on your family weekend getaways. Let’s roll out the red carpet for the royalty of the UK forest holidays, Center Parcs. This great family holiday destination has a wide range of fun, adventurous and creative activities available for the whole family to try out. In the UK, there are multiple Center Parcs locations which you can check out here. Try out wild activities like subtropical swimming, aqua jetting, archery (with a crossbow too), aerial tree trekking, nighttime golf, den building, meeting owls, and so much more. Center Parcs has spa facilities, restaurants and exceptional lodges too, with lots of excellent amenities. No wonder it’s such a family favourite!
Loch Lomond Holiday Park, Scotland
Loch Lomond is a Scottish lake nestled in the Highlands. It is also the largest lake in Great Britain making it an iconic place to visit. If you love open-water swimming you’ll be happy to know you can swim until your heart’s content. There are swimming events held throughout the year too. Keep your eye out for fairies in the Loch Lomond Faerie Trail or check out the Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre and get up close with these intelligent animals. Discover vibrant wildlife in Loch Lomond whether that be a Japanese Spider Crab in the Sea Life Centre or catch some curious minibeasts at the Loch Lomond National Nature Reserve!
The Loch Lomond Holiday Park is a dog-friendly collection of luxury lodges. Choose from premium waterside hot tub lodges, fabulous glamping pods or a traditional cosy log cabin complete with a private sauna. The Holiday Park has an impressive range of amenities and access to exciting activities like kayaking, boating, jet skiing, hiking, and fishing – the ultimate family weekend break!
Cologin Farm Lodges Oban, Scotland
Getaway to the Isles in the Cologin Farm Lodges, Scotland. Oban is known as the ‘Seafood Capital of Scotland’, so while you stop over in these beautiful rural cabins be sure to try out the local food delicacies too! From chalets, cottages & farmhouses, this family-run holiday park is less than 3 miles from the bustling seaside resort of Oban. When you visit the seaside be sure to hop aboard the Oban Seafari to see some incredible views and embark on a seaside adventure. Plus, we hear that you can spot puffins, seals, porpoises, eagles & even deer! Make sure everyone has their eyes peeled! This 5-star award-winning boating experience is a must-visit on your weekend away with the kids.
Alton Towers Resort, Stoke
Imaginative and eccentric, the Alton Towers Hotel has an array of dazzling features to create that extra-special family experience. You are guaranteed ‘rocket-loads of giggles’ in your themed accommodation. Take a stroll down to the bewitching Secret Garden Restaurant and experience the hotel’s super-special Dragons Bar and Atrium. Restaurants, shows & access to the theme park make this a perfect place to spend the weekend with your family. Did you know Alton Towers has a waterpark too? There are so many fun water activities including a pool with waterslides, outdoor swimming pool and lazy river!! Why not buy some tickets for that as well, for the complete Alton Towers experience?
You can also stay over at CBeebies Land! If you are looking for a toddler holiday packed full of toddler activities the CBeebies Land Hotel is the perfect place to stay. The little ones will get the chance to meet their favourite CBeebies characters as well as play exciting games during their stay.
If this wasn’t enough, Alton Towers also offers the chance to stay at the park’s Splash Landings Hotel.
Experience all the sunny joys of the Caribbean in Alton Towers waterpark. Chow down on delicious food at exotic family-friendly restaurants while you enjoy the best entertainment. It’s a family favourite with fantastic facilities. You’re guaranteed the ultimate family fun on your weekend away with kids.
Haggerston Castle Holiday Park, Northumberland
If you are a parent of a baby or toddler you’ll be happy to know Haggerston Castle Holiday Park has a wide range of family-friendly activities and the Oodles amusement centre for the little ones. Parents and grandparents will enjoy strolling around their lakes, soaking in the heated swimming pool and sharing family meals in the Mash and Barrel.
Knight’s Village, Warwick Castle
Stopover in the Knights Village for a magical experience with the kids! Sheltered within a secluded woodland grove, the Knight’s Village is home to twenty-four standard Woodland lodges and four larger Knight’s lodges, creating a medieval town. Your Knight’s Village package will include one-day Warwick Castle entry tickets, additional themed evening entertainment, complimentary cooked or continental breakfast & lots more! Live like medieval nobility for the weekend, making amazing memories that will last a lifetime.
Still not really sure if the Knights Village is the place for you? Check out our thorough first-count review: A Medieval Adventure At A Knight’s Village.
Leeds Castle, Kent
Get ready to go on an epic journey packed full of ancient history and excitement at Leeds Castle in Kent! The kid’s imaginations will be lit on fire during your weekend stay, with so many wonderful activities to get involved with. Lose yourself in the wonderful maze, make your way out through the underground grotto and don’t forget to head over to the Falconry Centre. Not to mention the epic zip wires, mini castles & crazy golf courses too!
Stop over in style at Leeds Castle with a wide range of different accommodations such as cottages, B & B’s, Knight’s Glamping and manor houses! The Knight’s Glamping Tents are made up of eight splendid striped pavilions based on a Medieval design, to form a ‘village’ on the one-acre Castle vineyard. We LOVE these medieval tents! They create such an unforgettable and authentic experience for the whole family!
Ready Camp Glamping Experience, multiple locations
This family holiday glamping website has sites spread across the UK! One of the most beautiful holiday destinations, that we absolutely love is the dreamy coast of Cardigan Bay, South Wales. Located in Cardigan, it has been described as a ‘nature-lovers paradise’.
Adventure down to smugglers’ caves and rocky outcrops. Take your binoculars with you onto the sandy beaches and spot those mischievous little dolphins, seals, porpoises and red kites! With the beach being just 3 miles away it’s an idyllic seaside town that the kids will love! Get stuck into fun family activities like the Rheidol Railway steam train, wildlife spotting via canoe up the Teifi Gorge, and windsurfing training in New Quay Bay. There are so many amazing activities to get stuck in during your weekend away with the kids.
The Titanic Hotel, Liverpool
Looking for a city break with the fam? Liverpool is a buzzing city full of culture. With a diverse range of museums, restaurants, bars, pubs, shops, hotels and of course, the birthplace of The Beatles. Check out the history of British music at the British Music Experience Museum. Uncover the history of the Beatles at the Liverpool Beatles Museum or head down to the Albert Dock for Sarnie and a cup of tea while overlooking the estuary!
Stopover for the weekend in The Titanic Hotel. Located just 5 minutes from the city centre (and the iconic Cavern club). The hotel has many impressive facilities such as a spa & wellness centre!
5 Extra Quirky Finds…
Hobbit Hideaway, Moray, Scotland
Ever stayed in a hobbit house before? This eco-friendly hideaway is a calm and peaceful sanctuary located at the foot of Ben Rinnes that all Lord of the Rings fans will LOVE. For more info check our Unique Places to Stay blog.
For families who love off-grid living, this quirky Airbnb is located in the heart of sunny Devonshire countryside. Its boho gipsy-chic design is truly charming and although it is on the smaller side you get to enjoy a 1.5-acre field to yourself. With no immediate neighbours. This is the type of holiday where you can kick back, forget the world and soak up your surroundings.
The Orange Yurt Farmstay, Tylwch
Be at one with nature in this hand-painted Mongolian Yurt! Cosy up by the wood burner as the fire crackles and the kids giggle. Lie on the dewy countryside grass and stargaze through the clear night skies. Bond with other people nearby over a quirky communal kitchen that has been transformed from a vintage bus! You’ll need to pack your wellies too as you get direct access to the farm. If you are looking for some serene seclusion for your next family break, choose The Orange Yurt!
Harry Potter Staycation ALERT – Ground Keeper’s Cottage, North Yorkshire
Calling all Harry Potter fans!! Get ready to embrace Hagrid’s lifestyle in this unique cottage experience! Nestled in North Yorkshire, the Ground Keeper’s Cottage is a magical staycation with three interlocking circular rooms. There are also medieval-looking turrets and mismatched stained-glass windows that reflect the gothic style of your favourite wizarding tales. Whether you want to cast some spells, run around in the lush fields, or absorb the breathtaking coastal views. There’s so much to do and appreciate here.
The Tin Shed, Gloucestershire
Ever stayed on a working farm? This unique stay is part of a 90-acre farm that includes lovely native woodland. With great facilities and children’s toys available on site too, it’s a lovely place to settle down for the weekend. You can also enjoy wonderful walks from your doorstep too. So, if you want to escape the city for some peace and quiet, the tranquil Tin Shed is the place for you!
There you have it! Some of our top picks for weekends away with kids 2024! Whether you’re looking for family-friendly cottages, charming towns or picture-perfect villages for your next weekend getaway, the UK has no shortage of amazing places to visit. So, the only question left is… where will you be going on your weekend break with kids?
Looking for more inspo? Head over to our Travel page. You’ll find plenty of ideas and fun new places to visit. Why not check out our Best UK Family Staycation Ideas or our Cheap Airbnb Holidays? We mentioned travelling to Centre Parcs in our list, but if that is a bit out of your budget then we recommend reading our Alternatives to Centre Parcs blog!