Family trip recommendations
Family Trip Suggestions
Hello everyone! After browsing this sub and Google extensively, I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed by the sheer number of sights to see in the UK. I wish we could stay for months!
We’ll be visiting the UK for 11 nights, starting with three nights in Wales for a wedding at the beautiful Hensol Castle. Since all my kids will be part of the wedding, we’ve opted for an Airbnb on a nearby farm.
After the wedding, we plan to spend three nights in London. However, beyond that, I’m feeling a bit stuck. I could potentially extend our London stay, but knowing my kids (ages 11, 10, and 7), they might quickly grow tired of city life and want to explore somewhere new. They are also big Harry Potter fans!
I’m looking to add one or two more destinations to our itinerary, where we can spend a few nights exploring. I’m open to anything, including charming little villages that aren’t overrun with tourists. Castles and unique historical landmarks would be a fantastic bonus! We’ll have a vehicle for the entire trip but appreciate walkable locations.
I’ve considered heading to Scotland, the Lake District, Newcastle upon Tyne, or staying in southern England. Returning to Wales is also a possibility.
If you were in my shoes and knew this might be your only trip to the UK, where would you go?
That sounds like an amazing trip! With your family’s interests and the timeline in mind, here are a couple of suggestions that would allow you to see some incredible sites without overwhelming your kids:
Bath: After London, consider spending 2-3 nights in Bath, which is a beautiful city known for its Roman baths and Georgian architecture. The city is very walkable, and the kids will enjoy exploring the historic baths and the charming streets. You can also visit the nearby Stonehenge for a day trip, which is a fascinating historical site.
The Cotswolds: From Bath, you can explore the Cotswolds, a region known for its picturesque villages and rolling hills. Towns like Bourton-on-the-Water or Bibury are perfect for a family stroll, with beautiful scenery and lots of quaint shops. You could rent a cozy cottage and spend a couple of nights here surrounded by nature.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter: If your kids are Harry Potter fans, this is a must-visit! It’s located just outside of London in Leavesden. Plan a day to visit the studio, where you can see sets, props, and learn about the making of the films. It would be a perfect day trip from London before heading to Bath.
Cardiff: Since you’re in Wales for the wedding, consider spending an extra day exploring Cardiff. Visit the incredible Cardiff Castle and take a stroll in Bute Park. The city also has a good mix of family-friendly attractions, and you can easily find places to grab a bite.
If you have time, you could also consider a quick trip up to the Lake District for stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, though it might be a bit far to fit in many places.
Make sure to check the driving distances to keep your journey manageable for the kids! Overall, I’d suggest Bath and the Cotswolds as a perfect blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, all while mixing in some Harry Potter magic along the way. Enjoy your trip!