Anyone with children knows that pretty much every aspect of your life changes when you welcome them into your life, and this is certainly true when it comes to travel. The types of holidays and experiences you undertake as a family alter, sometimes slightly and sometimes drastically, when you have children.
Those child-focused theme parks and holiday parks that cater to every whim of your little darling or darlings may never have even reached your radar in previous years, but now they surely have. And while you may enjoy the odd adult-only break now and again, the majority of your trips are likely to now be taken as a whole family. With summer in full swing, it’s time to start planning and packing for your next family trip, and anyone with children knows that there is certainly a lot to take, especially with babies. So, where do you plan for this summer?
While foreign travel is still a little up in the air at the moment, it is time to look for a selection of holidays and days out that suit your whole family and put happy smiles on the faces of your children. If a staycation on British soil is your preferred option, then be inspired with our list of must visit places for you and your family this summer.
Longleat
The famed safari park in the Wiltshire countryside is a top attraction for the whole family and promises a wide range of activities for all ages. The most notable attraction is the safari drive through where you will spot tigers, macaques, wolves, lions, cheetahs and rhinos, while the main square with adventure playgrounds, a railway, farmyard, more animals, a huge maze and gardens will amaze little ones and big kids alike.
You can leave the car behind and take a VIP 4×4 safari tour before getting up close with your favourite animal (or treating a family member to the experience) and also visit the Elizabethan Longleat House (when open). You will likely want to leave the pushchair in the car for your visit, so seek out the top travel carrier for your baby and go hands-free for your fun and varied trip. Longleat also offer a range of delightful accommodation options so you can leave the extras in your room while you simply take the necessities and have fun with the family.
Football stadium tours
With the long-awaited Euros finally on our screens, it’s safe to say that young football fans are in their element, even if it just means that they get to wear a new kit, rather than enjoy watching every game being played out. One such activity that budding football stars and their enthused parents will love is a stadium tour, whether they have been able to previously witness a game in person or not. From Wembley to Arsenal and Manchester United to Chelsea, you can walk in the footsteps of the footballing greats and visit the players dug out, tunnel, changing rooms and more while dining at the stadium, visiting the museum – if there is one – and of course the gift shop to fill up on those all-important memorabilia.
National Parks
New Forest, Dartmoor, Yorkshire Dales, the Peak District and more, the 15 National Parks of the UK offer a wide range of exciting activities and days out for the whole family. Whether it’s exploring nature with the little Bear Grylls fans or taking part in exhilarating activities, a fun day can be enjoyed by all. Don’t forget to pack a full picnic hamper so that you can stop off at some of the breath-taking beauty spots and take a moment to reflect on those stunning surroundings.
The beach
Though you may come away with what feels like half of the beach with you, there is no doubt that a trip to the seaside will please one and all. Fill up on ice creams, play some beach games and take a dip in the surrounding seas – even if it is just a toe or two – and relish the moments that will make your child’s day. The beaches of Cornwall rival those of the Mediterranean, just make sure you avoid the inflatables and stay safe in the water for an enjoyable time.
