{"id":21265,"date":"2026-03-18T11:00:48","date_gmt":"2026-03-18T11:00:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk/hub\/?p=21265"},"modified":"2026-03-18T10:29:25","modified_gmt":"2026-03-18T10:29:25","slug":"20-best-cities-to-visit-in-the-uk-with-kids-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk/hub\/things-to-do\/20-best-cities-to-visit-in-the-uk-with-kids-2026","title":{"rendered":"20 Best Cities To Visit In The UK With Kids 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"<h1>20 Best UK Cities To Visit With Kids in 2026<\/h1>\n<p>Planning a family city break in 2026? You&#8217;re in luck, because the UK is absolutely packed with incredible cities that are brilliant for kids! From world-class museums and jaw-dropping castles to underwater adventures and theme parks, there really is something for every family, no matter the age of your little ones.<\/p>\n<p>We&#8217;ve rounded up the <strong>20 best UK cities to visit with kids in 2026<\/strong>, covering everything from the obvious big hitters to a few brilliant surprises you might not have considered. Whether you&#8217;re after a weekend away or a longer school holiday adventure, this list has you covered!<\/p>\n<blockquote><p><strong>Quick tip:<\/strong> Heading to one of these cities? Check out our <a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">things to do pages<\/a> to find family-friendly attractions, book tickets, and save with our exclusive member discounts!<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<h2>1. London<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why visit:<\/strong> It&#8217;s the ultimate family city break destination, and honestly, you could visit a dozen times and still not scratch the surface!<\/p>\n<p>London is home to some of the world&#8217;s greatest free museums, iconic landmarks, and enough child-friendly attractions to keep even the most energetic kids entertained. The sheer variety is unmatched anywhere else in the UK.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nhm.ac.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Natural History Museum<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Dinosaur skeletons, a giant blue whale, and the incredible Earth galleries. Free entry and utterly unmissable!<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/tickets\/tower-of-london-1c298e88\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Tower of London<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Ravens, crown jewels, and 1,000 years of history. Kids absolutely love it.<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/tickets\/sea-life-london-aquarium-728372d9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>SEA LIFE London Aquarium<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Sharks, rays, and a penguin colony right on the South Bank.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/res.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/image\/upload\/c_fill%2Cq_auto%2Cw_800%2Ch_500\/v1594047798\/attractions\/s\/sea-life-london-aquarium-728372d9\/9623_bes_1296_cropped.jpg\" alt=\"SEA LIFE London Aquarium - families exploring the underwater tunnel\" class=\"lazyload\" \/><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/south-east-and-london\/greater-london\/london\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Explore all things to do in London with kids<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>2. Edinburgh<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why visit:<\/strong> Edinburgh is one of the most dramatic and atmospheric cities in the world, and kids absolutely lap it up!<\/p>\n<p>Perched on volcanic rock with a castle dominating the skyline, Scotland&#8217;s capital feels like a real-life fairy tale. It&#8217;s compact enough to explore on foot, which is a massive win for families!<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/edinburgh-castle-4b98c93c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Edinburgh Castle<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Sitting high above the city, the castle is packed with history, the Scottish Crown Jewels, and stunning views kids won&#8217;t forget.<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/dynamic-earth-edinburgh\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Dynamic Earth<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; An interactive journey through the story of our planet, from the Big Bang to the present day. Brilliant for curious minds!<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/edinburgh-zoo-415a2192\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Edinburgh Zoo<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Home to giant pandas, penguins, and over 1,000 animals, this is a classic family day out.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/res.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/image\/upload\/c_fill%2Cq_auto%2Cw_800%2Ch_500\/v1715587693\/attractions\/e\/e69206e4-d7ea-402c-89b8-ee8755653ab8\/qo3t3zdqb4u4t5xe7eze.jpg\" alt=\"Edinburgh Zoo - penguins and families enjoying a day out\" class=\"lazyload\" \/><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/south-scotland\/edinburgh-and-lothian\/edinburgh\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Find things to do in Edinburgh with kids<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>3. Manchester<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why visit:<\/strong> Manchester is one of the UK&#8217;s most exciting family destinations, with world-class museums, brilliant food, and a buzzing energy that kids love!<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s also incredibly easy to get around, with most of the big attractions clustered together. A weekend here never feels like enough!<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/manchester-museum\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Manchester Museum<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; A free museum at the University of Manchester packed with dinosaurs, Egyptian mummies, and a brilliant nature collection.<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/sea-life-manchester-485ae1fb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>SEA LIFE Manchester<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; An immersive underwater world featuring a 360-degree ocean tunnel. Younger kids go absolutely wild for it!<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/science-and-industry-museum\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Science and Industry Museum<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Hands-on exhibits covering everything from steam power to space exploration. Free entry and genuinely fascinating for all ages.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/res.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/image\/upload\/c_fill%2Cq_auto%2Cw_800%2Ch_500\/v1717415823\/attractions\/s\/e5aa1187-ba02-4e91-be76-171bd86ea5a3\/file_nbhbfe.jpg\" alt=\"SEA LIFE Manchester - children exploring the 360-degree ocean tunnel\" class=\"lazyload\" \/><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/north-west\/greater-manchester\/manchester\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Discover family things to do in Manchester<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>4. Bristol<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why visit:<\/strong> Bristol is one of the UK&#8217;s coolest cities, and it&#8217;s absolutely brilliant for families who love a mix of culture, adventure, and the outdoors!<\/p>\n<p>The city has a creative, independent spirit that makes it feel genuinely unique. From the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge to the vibrant harbourside, there&#8217;s always something new to discover.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/bristol-zoo-project\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Bristol Zoo Project<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; A brand new wildlife experience at the former Bristol Zoo site in South Gloucestershire, packed with animals and outdoor adventure.<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/ss-great-britain\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>SS Great Britain<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Brunel&#8217;s revolutionary steamship is now an award-winning museum right in the city&#8217;s historic dockyard. Kids can explore the entire ship!<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/we-the-curious\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>We The Curious<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; A science centre on the harbourside with hundreds of hands-on exhibits. Perfect for inquisitive minds of all ages.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/south-west\/somerset-and-bristol\/bristol\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">See all family attractions in Bristol<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>5. Birmingham<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why visit:<\/strong> The UK&#8217;s second city is massively underrated as a family destination, and we think it deserves a lot more love!<\/p>\n<p>Birmingham has reinvented itself brilliantly in recent years, with a stunning city centre, world-class attractions, and some of the best food in the country. It&#8217;s also brilliantly connected, making it an easy city break from almost anywhere in the UK.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/cadbury-world-72b2cd70\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Cadbury World<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; A pilgrimage for chocolate lovers! Learn about the history of Cadbury, watch chocolate being made, and enjoy plenty of sweet treats along the way.<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/birmingham-museum-and-art-gallery\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; One of the finest civic museums in the country, with an amazing collection and free entry for families.<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/thinktank-birmingham-science-museum\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Interactive science exhibits, a planetarium, and an outdoor science garden. Kids could easily spend a full day here.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/res.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/image\/upload\/c_fill%2Cq_auto%2Cw_800%2Ch_500\/v1772631645\/attractions\/c\/966661cb-5c87-49e2-8ac5-2e63607facf3\/file_hvewpp.jpg\" alt=\"Cadbury World Birmingham - families enjoying the chocolate adventure\" class=\"lazyload\" \/><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/west-midlands\/west-midlands\/birmingham\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Find family days out in Birmingham<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>6. York<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why visit:<\/strong> York is one of those cities that feels like it was designed for families, with ancient walls to walk, incredible history around every corner, and a brilliant compact city centre!<\/p>\n<p><em>Think York is just for history buffs? Think again!<\/em> It&#8217;s one of the most interactive and engaging cities in the UK, and kids genuinely love every minute of it.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/jorvik-viking-centre\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>JORVIK Viking Centre<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Travel back in time to Viking-age York in this brilliant immersive experience. The sights, sounds, and yes, smells are unforgettable!<\/li>\n<li><strong>York&#8217;s City Walls<\/strong> &#8211; Walk the full circuit of the medieval walls for free. Brilliant views and a real sense of adventure for kids.<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/yorkshire-museum\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Yorkshire Museum<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Romans, Vikings, and medieval treasures all under one roof. Free for children and packed with interactive displays.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/yorkshire\/north-yorkshire\/york\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Explore things to do in York with kids<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>7. Cardiff<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why visit:<\/strong> Wales&#8217; capital is a fantastic family city that punches well above its weight for things to do with kids!<\/p>\n<p>Cardiff has a brilliant, walkable city centre, a stunning waterfront at Cardiff Bay, and some genuinely world-class attractions. It&#8217;s also a great base for exploring the wider Welsh countryside.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/cardiff-castle\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Cardiff Castle<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; A Roman fort, a Norman keep, and opulent Victorian apartments all in one place. The animal wall outside is a firm favourite with little ones!<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/techniquest\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Techniquest<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; A hands-on science discovery centre in Cardiff Bay with over 120 interactive exhibits. Brilliant for kids of all ages.<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/national-museum-cardiff\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>National Museum Cardiff<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Art, natural history, and archaeology under one roof, all for free. The dinosaur gallery is always a hit!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/south-wales\/glamorgan-and-cardiff\/cardiff\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Discover family attractions in Cardiff<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>8. Liverpool<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why visit:<\/strong> Liverpool is one of the most vibrant, friendly, and culturally rich cities in the UK, and it&#8217;s an absolute joy to visit with kids!<\/p>\n<p>The waterfront is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the museums are world-class and mostly free, and the city&#8217;s famous warmth makes it a place families want to return to again and again.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/world-museum-liverpool\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>World Museum Liverpool<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Natural history, space, ancient civilisations, and a planetarium, all completely free. One of the best free days out in the north!<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/the-beatles-story\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>The Beatles Story<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Even if your kids aren&#8217;t Beatles fans yet, this immersive exhibition at the Albert Dock will have them hooked.<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/merseyside-maritime-museum\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Merseyside Maritime Museum<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Explore the city&#8217;s incredible seafaring history, including a fascinating Titanic exhibition. Free entry for all.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/north-west\/merseyside\/liverpool\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">See what&#8217;s on for families in Liverpool<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>9. Bath<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why visit:<\/strong> Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in England, and while it might feel like a grown-up destination, families will absolutely love it too!<\/p>\n<p>The honey-coloured Georgian architecture, the Roman history, and the gorgeous surrounding countryside make it a city break that feels genuinely special. It&#8217;s also perfectly sized for a weekend with kids.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/the-roman-baths-0118fb9e\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Roman Baths<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Walk in the footsteps of the Romans at one of the best-preserved Roman sites in the world. The audio guide for kids is fantastic!<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/bath-postal-museum\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Bath Postal Museum<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; A hidden gem that tells the story of the world&#8217;s first postage stamp, right here in Bath. Quirky and brilliant for curious kids.<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/prior-park-landscape-garden\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Prior Park Landscape Garden<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; A stunning National Trust garden with a Palladian bridge and gorgeous views over the city. Great for a family stroll.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/res.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/image\/upload\/c_fill%2Cq_auto%2Cw_800%2Ch_500\/v1727779339\/attractions\/t\/7b9f6e32-36f0-4299-b7ab-bf2dd0bfc055\/file_kezcc0.jpg\" alt=\"The Roman Baths Bath - families walking the ancient site\" class=\"lazyload\" \/><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/south-west\/bath-and-north-east-somerset\/bath\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Browse family days out in Bath<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>10. Newcastle<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why visit:<\/strong> Newcastle is a brilliant, buzzing city with a huge amount to offer families, and it&#8217;s seriously underrated on the UK city break circuit!<\/p>\n<p>The quayside is stunning, the people are famously friendly, and there&#8217;s a fantastic mix of free museums, outdoor spaces, and unique experiences that make it a fantastic choice for a family trip.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/life-science-centre\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Life Science Centre<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; A multi-award-winning science village with interactive exhibits, a motion ride, and a planetarium. Brilliant for all ages!<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/great-north-museum-hancock\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Great North Museum: Hancock<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Dinosaurs, ancient Greece, a life-size T-Rex cast, and a fascinating Hadrian&#8217;s Wall exhibition. And it&#8217;s completely free.<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/seven-stories\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Seven Stories: The National Centre for Children&#8217;s Books<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; A magical seven-floor building dedicated entirely to children&#8217;s books and illustrations. Young readers will be in heaven!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/north-east\/tyne-and-wear\/newcastle-upon-tyne\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Find things to do in Newcastle with kids<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>11. Glasgow<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why visit:<\/strong> Scotland&#8217;s largest city is bold, creative, and absolutely fantastic for families, with a wealth of free world-class museums and a brilliant, walkable city centre!<\/p>\n<p>Glasgow often gets overshadowed by Edinburgh, but families who make the trip are always blown away. <strong>Bear with us here<\/strong> if you haven&#8217;t considered it before, because it really is one of the UK&#8217;s best family city breaks!<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/kelvingrove-art-gallery-and-museum\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; One of Scotland&#8217;s most visited attractions, with 22 themed galleries, a famous Spitfire hanging from the ceiling, and free entry for all.<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/glasgow-science-centre\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Glasgow Science Centre<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Three floors of hands-on science exhibits, a planetarium, and an IMAX cinema right on the banks of the Clyde.<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/riverside-museum\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Riverside Museum<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; A stunning Zaha Hadid-designed transport museum with vintage cars, locomotives, and a fully restored 1930s street. Completely free!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/south-scotland\/glasgow-and-strathclyde\/glasgow\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Explore family attractions in Glasgow<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>12. Brighton<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why visit:<\/strong> Brighton is the ultimate seaside city break, combining the buzz of a vibrant urban destination with the classic joy of a British beach!<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s quirky, colourful, and completely brilliant for kids. The seafront alone could keep a family entertained for a full day, and that&#8217;s before you even explore the incredible Lanes and Pavilion.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/brighton-palace-pier\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Brighton Palace Pier<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Rides, arcades, fish and chips, and sea views. An absolute classic that never gets old, whatever age your children are!<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/tickets\/sea-life-brighton-222363e3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Brighton SEA LIFE<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; The world&#8217;s oldest operating aquarium, with an amazing ocean tunnel and regular feeding talks. Kids love it!<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/tickets\/royal-pavilion-8124ac21\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Royal Pavilion<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; The most exotic building in the UK? Quite possibly! The Indian-inspired palace is genuinely jaw-dropping, and the family trail makes it brilliant for kids.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/res.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/image\/upload\/c_fill%2Cq_auto%2Cw_800%2Ch_500\/v1600685552\/attractions\/s\/sea-life-brighton-222363e3\/6113_brighton-terrapins.jpg\" alt=\"SEA LIFE Brighton - children discovering marine life at the world's oldest aquarium\" class=\"lazyload\" \/><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/south-east-and-london\/east-sussex\/brighton\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">See family things to do in Brighton<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>13. Leeds<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why visit:<\/strong> Leeds is a brilliant, energetic city that&#8217;s often overlooked for family breaks, but it has a genuinely impressive range of things to do with kids!<\/p>\n<p>With great transport links, a buzzing city centre, and some fantastic free museums, it&#8217;s a really easy choice for families in the north of England.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/royal-armouries-museum\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Royal Armouries Museum<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Five floors of arms and armour, from medieval knights to modern warfare. Free entry and absolutely fascinating for older kids.<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/tropical-world-leeds\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Tropical World<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; A lush, steamy rainforest environment right in the city, home to butterflies, meerkats, and exotic plants. A real hidden gem!<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/leeds-city-museum\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Leeds City Museum<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Natural history, ancient Egypt, and local history all in one place, completely free. The mummy is always a hit with the kids!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/yorkshire\/west-yorkshire\/leeds\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Discover family days out in Leeds<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>14. Oxford<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why visit:<\/strong> Oxford is one of the most inspiring cities in the world, and visiting with kids is a genuinely magical experience!<\/p>\n<p>The ancient university buildings, the cobbled streets, and the incredible museums create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the UK. It&#8217;s the perfect city to spark a love of learning in little ones.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/oxford-university-museum-of-natural-history\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Oxford University Museum of Natural History<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; A stunning Victorian Gothic building housing dinosaur skeletons, a dodo skeleton, and thousands of natural history specimens. Completely free!<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/pitt-rivers-museum\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Pitt Rivers Museum<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; One of the most extraordinary museums in the world, with over half a million objects from across the globe. The shrunken heads are notorious among kids!<\/li>\n<li><strong>Punting on the Cherwell<\/strong> &#8211; Hire a punt and drift along the river past meadows and college gardens. A uniquely Oxford experience that older kids will love.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/south-east-and-london\/oxfordshire\/oxford\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Find family things to do in Oxford<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>15. Nottingham<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why visit:<\/strong> Nottingham is a city with a story to tell, and kids absolutely love the Robin Hood connection!<\/p>\n<p>Beyond the legend, it&#8217;s a brilliant and underrated family destination with some genuinely unique attractions you won&#8217;t find anywhere else in the UK.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/nottingham-castle\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Nottingham Castle<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Perched high above the city, the recently redeveloped castle features a brilliant Robin Hood exhibition and cave tours beneath the rock.<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/city-of-caves\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>City of Caves<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Explore the network of over 800 sandstone caves carved beneath the city streets. Atmospheric, fascinating, and totally unique!<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/wollaton-hall\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Wollaton Hall and Deer Park<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; A stunning Elizabethan mansion set in a vast deer park, right within the city. The Natural History Museum inside is free, and the deer are always a hit with younger children.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/east-midlands\/nottinghamshire\/nottingham\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Browse family attractions in Nottingham<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>16. Sheffield<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why visit:<\/strong> Sheffield is one of the UK&#8217;s most underrated family cities, with a brilliant mix of free museums, outdoor adventure, and a vibrant, unpretentious energy that kids absolutely love!<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s greener than almost any other UK city, with the Peak District on its doorstep and over 250 parks within its boundaries. A weekend here always feels like excellent value!<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/magna-science-adventure-centre-c924e38a\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Magna Science Adventure Centre<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; A spectacular former steelworks transformed into four massive hands-on science pavilions. The Big Melt show runs every hour and is genuinely jaw-dropping!<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/the-national-videogame-museum-545itiokcbw0ge\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>The National Videogame Museum<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; The world&#8217;s only permanent museum dedicated to videogame history. Older kids and parents alike will be completely hooked!<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/tickets\/rock-up-meadowhall-59hy5oqnfgw0xb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Rock Up Meadowhall<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; An incredible indoor climbing and adventure attraction at the Meadowhall shopping centre. Perfect for burning off energy whatever the weather!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/res.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/image\/upload\/c_fill%2Cq_auto%2Cw_800%2Ch_500\/v1594048624\/attractions\/m\/magna-science-adventure-centre-c924e38a\/19250675_10155433089634761_4599242023055149674_o-copy.jpg\" alt=\"Magna Science Adventure Centre Sheffield - families exploring the interactive science pavilions\" class=\"lazyload\" \/><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/yorkshire\/south-yorkshire\/sheffield\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Find family things to do in Sheffield<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>17. Cambridge<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why visit:<\/strong> Cambridge is one of those cities that genuinely feels like stepping into another world, and kids find the whole place utterly magical!<\/p>\n<p>The ancient university buildings, the river, the meadows, and the incredible museums all combine to create a city break that&#8217;s both inspiring and completely unique. And the best bit? Some of the finest attractions are completely free!<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/east\/cambridgeshire\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Fitzwilliam Museum<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; One of the finest art and antiquities museums in Europe, with Egyptian mummies, ancient armour, and incredible paintings. Free entry and brilliant for families.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Punting on the Cam<\/strong> &#8211; Hire a punt and drift along the river past the famous Backs, with the university&#8217;s most beautiful colleges on one side and gorgeous meadows on the other. An experience unlike anything else in the UK!<\/li>\n<li><strong>Cambridge University Botanic Garden<\/strong> &#8211; 40 acres of stunning gardens with a glasshouse full of tropical plants and a sensory garden that younger children love exploring.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/east\/cambridgeshire\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Discover family things to do in Cambridgeshire<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>18. Leicester<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why visit:<\/strong> Leicester is a wonderfully diverse, friendly city with some genuinely world-class family attractions that most people haven&#8217;t discovered yet!<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s compact, easy to navigate, and packed with brilliant things to do. The recent discovery of Richard III beneath a car park has also given it a brilliant, unexpected new chapter in its already rich history!<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/attractions\/national-space-centre-ac037d8f\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>National Space Centre<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; Home to the UK&#8217;s largest planetarium, six interactive galleries, and actual rockets. Kids who love space will absolutely lose their minds here. Rated 5\/5 by DOWTK visitors!<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/east-midlands\/leicestershire\/leicester\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>New Walk Museum and Art Gallery<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; A free museum with dinosaur skeletons, ancient Egyptian artefacts, and a brilliant natural history collection. A real hidden gem!<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/east-midlands\/leicestershire\/leicester\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>King Richard III Visitor Centre<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; The fascinating story of the discovery of Richard III&#8217;s remains beneath a car park, told through brilliant interactive exhibits. Genuinely gripping for older kids!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/res.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/image\/upload\/c_fill%2Cq_auto%2Cw_800%2Ch_500\/v1724251376\/attractions\/n\/e6b3ebb8-5379-4116-96f1-5415ad9b10f1\/file_tofydo.jpg\" alt=\"National Space Centre Leicester - families exploring the iconic rocket tower and interactive galleries\" class=\"lazyload\" \/><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/east-midlands\/leicestershire\/leicester\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">See family attractions in Leicester<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>19. Belfast<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why visit:<\/strong> Belfast has completely transformed itself into one of the most exciting city break destinations in the UK, and families who make the trip are always absolutely blown away!<\/p>\n<p>From the Titanic Quarter to the stunning Cave Hill, it&#8217;s a city with huge personality, incredible warmth, and a remarkable story to tell. <em>Think Belfast is too far for a city break? Think again!<\/em> Flights from most UK cities are quick and affordable.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/northern-ireland\/county-antrim\/belfast\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Titanic Belfast<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; The world&#8217;s largest Titanic visitor experience, telling the full story of the ship&#8217;s construction and tragic voyage. Genuinely unmissable and brilliant for all ages.<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/northern-ireland\/county-antrim\/belfast\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Ulster Museum<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; A free national museum with art, history, and natural sciences, including a real Egyptian mummy and a fascinating display on the Armada. Free entry for everyone!<\/li>\n<li><strong>Cave Hill Country Park<\/strong> &#8211; Hike up to the dramatic basalt cliffs for panoramic views over Belfast and the lough. Older kids love the adventure, and the views are absolutely spectacular!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/northern-ireland\/county-antrim\/belfast\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Explore family things to do in Belfast<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>20. Exeter<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Why visit:<\/strong> Exeter is one of the South West&#8217;s most brilliant and underrated family cities, with a stunning cathedral, fascinating underground history, and easy access to some of Devon&#8217;s most beautiful countryside and beaches!<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s compact, walkable, and has a genuinely independent spirit that makes it feel completely different from larger cities. A brilliant base for a longer Devon adventure too!<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/south-west\/devon\/exeter\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Exeter Cathedral<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; One of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in England, with a breathtaking nave and brilliant family trails that bring the history to life for children of all ages.<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/south-west\/devon\/exeter\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Exeter&#8217;s Underground Passages<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; A unique network of medieval tunnels beneath the city streets. Guided tours are genuinely exciting for kids, especially the narrower sections!<\/li>\n<li><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/south-west\/devon\/exeter\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Royal Albert Memorial Museum<\/strong><\/a> &#8211; A stunning free museum with natural history, world cultures, and local archaeology. The displays are beautifully presented and endlessly engaging for curious young minds.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\/south-west\/devon\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Browse family days out in Exeter and Devon<\/a><\/p>\n<h2>Ready to Start Planning?<\/h2>\n<p>There you have it, the 20 best UK cities to visit with kids in 2026! Whether you&#8217;re after a weekend city break or a longer family adventure, every single one of these cities has the attractions, the atmosphere, and the family-friendly credentials to make it an absolutely unforgettable trip.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The best part?<\/strong> You don&#8217;t have to do all the planning yourself! Head to our <a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\/things-to-do\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">things to do pages<\/a> to find the top family attractions in any of these cities, compare prices, and book tickets at the best prices. With our <a class=\"editor-link\" href=\"https:\/\/membership.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">VIP Pass<\/a>, you can also unlock incredible discounts at hundreds of UK attractions, making your city break even better value!<\/p>\n<blockquote><p><strong>Happy exploring!<\/strong> Which city is at the top of your family&#8217;s list for 2026? We&#8217;d love to know!<\/p><\/blockquote>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>20 Best UK Cities To Visit With Kids in 2026 Planning a family city break in 2026? You&#8217;re in luck, because the UK is absolutely packed with incredible cities that are brilliant for kids! From world-class museums and jaw-dropping castles to underwater adventures and theme parks, there really is something for every family, no matter&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":29,"featured_media":11486,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[274,427,142],"tags":[],"thb-sponsors":[],"class_list":["post-21265","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-events","category-reviews-and-recommendations","category-things-to-do"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk/hub\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21265","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk/hub\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk/hub\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk/hub\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/29"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk/hub\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=21265"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk/hub\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21265\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk/hub\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/11486"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk/hub\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=21265"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk/hub\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=21265"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk/hub\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=21265"},{"taxonomy":"thb-sponsors","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk/hub\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/thb-sponsors?post=21265"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}