Best Places to Take Kids in the UK

Family Adventures Across the UK

The UK is one of the best countries in the world for family days out. From world-class museums with free entry to thrilling theme parks, outdoor adventures, and rainy day activities — there's something for every age and every budget.

Top Theme Parks & Attractions

• Alton Towers, Staffordshire — The UK's biggest theme park with roller coasters, waterpark, and CBeebies Land for little ones.
• Chessington World of Adventures, Surrey — Zoo, theme park, and sea life centre all in one.
• Thorpe Park, Surrey — Thrill rides for older kids and teens.
• Legoland Windsor — Perfect for ages 2-12 with over 55 rides and attractions.
• Drayton Manor, Staffordshire — Family-friendly park with Thomas Land for toddlers.
• Blackpool Pleasure Beach — Historic seaside amusement park with the iconic Big One.

Free Days Out

You don't need to spend a fortune to have an amazing family day out. The UK has incredible free attractions:

• Natural History Museum, London — Dinosaurs, wildlife, and the famous blue whale skeleton.
• Science Museum, London — Interactive exhibits that kids love. Free entry (charges for some special exhibitions).
• National Museums Liverpool — Multiple free museums including the World Museum and Tate Liverpool.
• Edinburgh's National Museum of Scotland — Dinosaur gallery, science zone, and Scottish history.
• Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery — Free family activities and stunning Pre-Raphaelite art.
• Yorkshire Sculpture Park — Open-air gallery with 500 acres of parkland.
• Beaches — The UK has hundreds of beautiful beaches, all free to visit.

Outdoor Adventures

• — Treetop adventure courses across the UK (from £18 per person).
• Woburn Safari Park — Drive through safari and adventure playground.
• Wilderly Zoo — award-winning zoo in Devon.
• The Deep, Hull — One of the UK's most spectacular aquariums.
• Centre Parcs — Short-break holidays with forest activities and subtropical swimming.

Rainy Day Activities

Let's be honest — the UK weather isn't always on our side. Here are great indoor options:

• Soft play centres — Available in every town and city.
• Trampoline parks — Jump UK has locations nationwide.
• Indoor climbing centres — Great for active kids of all ages.
• Escape rooms — Family-friendly options in most cities.
• Cinemas — Odeon, Vue, and Cineworld show kids' films at reduced prices.

School Holiday Ideas

During the school holidays, many attractions run special events. Check our guides for seasonal activities and plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

Find more inspiration in our free days out guide and outdoor adventure picks.