If you’re looking for the perfect family adventure, the UK is brimming with exciting activities for all ages. From snowy days in the winter to summer outdoor fun, there’s always something for every family to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring historical sites, taking on thrilling outdoor adventures, or experiencing magical wildlife, this guide will take you through the best family-friendly activities in the UK, listed by month, from January to December. Here are the top 15 family-friendly adventures that will keep the whole family entertained, no matter the season!
1. Ice Skating at Natural History Museum – London
Location: London
Best Time to Go: December to January
The Natural History Museum transforms into a winter wonderland during the festive season with its famous ice rink. Skating among the grand architecture and beautifully lit surroundings is a magical experience for families. After skating, you can warm up with hot chocolate and explore the museum’s exhibits.
Why You'll Love It: The enchanting atmosphere, coupled with the thrill of skating in such a prestigious location, makes it a perfect winter family outing.
2. Snowdon Mountain Railway – Snowdonia, Wales
Location: Snowdonia National Park, Wales
Best Time to Go: March to October
For a family adventure with a difference, take the Snowdon Mountain Railway to the summit of Wales’ highest mountain. This cog railway journey offers stunning views of Snowdonia and is a thrilling experience for children and adults alike.
Why You'll Love It: This iconic trip offers a wonderful mix of natural beauty and adventure, plus it’s perfect for families with younger children or those who aren’t up for the strenuous hike to the top.
3. Peppa Pig World – Hampshire
Location: Paultons Park, Hampshire
Best Time to Go: April to October
Peppa Pig World is an absolute must-visit for families with younger children. This part of Paultons Park brings the beloved children’s TV show to life, featuring interactive rides, themed attractions, and plenty of Peppa-themed fun.
Why You'll Love It: Kids will love meeting Peppa and her friends while exploring the themed rides, and parents will enjoy the easy pace and family-friendly environment.
4. Bristol Zoo Gardens – Bristol
Location: Bristol
Best Time to Go: March to September
Bristol Zoo Gardens is a fantastic family destination with over 400 species of animals, from playful penguins to majestic lions. With plenty of interactive experiences, educational exhibits, and beautiful grounds, it’s a great spot for a family day out.
Why You'll Love It: Kids can get up close with a range of animals and enjoy fun activities like feeding times and animal talks, making it both entertaining and educational.
5. Harry Potter Studio Tour – London
Location: Leavesden, near London
Best Time to Go: Year-round
For families with Harry Potter fans, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour offers a magical experience. Explore the sets, see iconic props, and take part in the behind-the-scenes magic that brings the wizarding world to life.
Why You'll Love It: It’s an immersive experience for the whole family to enjoy, packed with interactive exhibits, detailed sets, and plenty of magical moments.
6. The Eden Project – Cornwall
Location: Bodelva, Cornwall
Best Time to Go: April to October
The Eden Project is an eco-friendly adventure that the entire family will enjoy. With its vast Biomes housing diverse ecosystems from tropical rainforests to Mediterranean gardens, there’s plenty to explore and discover.
Why You'll Love It: The immersive exhibits and interactive displays are both fun and educational, perfect for sparking curiosity in children about the natural world.
7. Alton Towers – Staffordshire
Location: Alton, Staffordshire
Best Time to Go: May to September
Alton Towers is one of the UK's most famous theme parks, offering a range of thrilling rides and attractions for families. Whether you’re seeking thrilling roller coasters or gentler rides for the little ones, there’s something for everyone.
Why You'll Love It: With a wide variety of rides, themed areas, and live shows, Alton Towers is a great place for families to make lasting memories together.
8. Woburn Safari Park – Bedfordshire
Location: Woburn, Bedfordshire
Best Time to Go: March to November
Take a drive through Woburn Safari Park and get up close to a wide range of animals, including lions, elephants, and giraffes. You’ll also find interactive areas where kids can learn about conservation and animal welfare.
Why You'll Love It: The drive-through safari experience makes it easy for families to see the animals without leaving the car, perfect for families with young children.
9. Lake District Adventure – Lake District, Cumbria
Location: Lake District, Cumbria
Best Time to Go: May to September
The Lake District is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of family-friendly activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports. Families can explore the many trails, rent a boat on one of the beautiful lakes, or simply enjoy the stunning scenery.
Why You'll Love It: The Lake District offers a wide variety of outdoor activities that cater to all ages and abilities, from gentle lakeside walks to more challenging hikes.
10. Thorpe Park – Surrey
Location: Chertsey, Surrey
Best Time to Go: April to October
Thorpe Park is an exhilarating theme park offering heart-pounding roller coasters and themed rides. It's the perfect destination for adrenaline-seeking families looking to enjoy a thrilling day out.
Why You'll Love It: With rides for all ages, Thorpe Park combines fun and excitement for families, from the intense “Stealth” roller coaster to gentler, family-friendly attractions.
11. The Giant’s Causeway – Northern Ireland
Location: County Antrim, Northern Ireland
Best Time to Go: March to October
For a natural adventure, the Giant’s Causeway offers a stunning landscape of hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic activity. Families can explore the trails, learn about the geology of the area, and enjoy the coastal beauty.
Why You'll Love It: The Giant’s Causeway offers a unique opportunity to walk on one of the world’s most famous natural wonders, with the added excitement of its mythical history.
12. York Maze – York
Location: York, North Yorkshire
Best Time to Go: July to October
York Maze is one of the largest mazes in the UK, offering a fun and challenging experience for families. With a variety of themed areas, corn mazes, and seasonal activities, it’s a fantastic day out for the whole family.
Why You'll Love It: The maze is perfect for a family challenge, and the seasonal attractions add a fun twist, with events for Halloween and more.
13. Dinosaur Isle – Isle of Wight
Location: Sandown, Isle of Wight
Best Time to Go: April to September
Dinosaur Isle is an exciting family attraction located on the Isle of Wight. The museum is filled with interactive exhibits and lifelike dinosaur models, making it perfect for young paleontologists.
Why You'll Love It: It’s an educational yet fun destination for families with children interested in dinosaurs and natural history, and it’s located on the stunning Isle of Wight.
14. Whipsnade Zoo – Bedfordshire
Location: Dunstable, Bedfordshire
Best Time to Go: April to October
Whipsnade Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the UK, offering families the chance to see over 2000 animals across vast open enclosures. It’s a great spot for a day out with the family, with plenty of interactive exhibits.
Why You'll Love It: The zoo is spacious, making it ideal for families with young children, and offers plenty of opportunities to learn about wildlife conservation.
15. Lunar Park – Northumberland
Location: Alnwick, Northumberland
Best Time to Go: May to September
Lunar Park is a small but fun amusement park for younger families. It features a range of rides, including a mini roller coaster and a large bouncy castle.
Why You'll Love It: Lunar Park offers a less crowded, family-friendly alternative to larger theme parks, with plenty of rides and attractions for smaller children.
Conclusion
These top 15 family-friendly adventures across the UK offer a mix of excitement, learning, and exploration, making them the perfect destinations for creating cherished family memories. Whether you’re seeking the thrills of a theme park, the beauty of nature, or something educational, the UK has something for everyone, no matter the time of year.
To make your stay even more memorable, consider booking with Pass the Keys, offering a range of comfortable and convenient properties across the UK. From countryside retreats to city apartments, Pass the Keys ensures your family has a cozy and welcoming home base to return to after a day of adventure.
Start planning your next family adventure today!