British Family Holidays: 10 Of The Most Affordable Holidays In The U.K.

Taking a staycation does not mean abandoning your adventures, the UK has dozens of fabulous places to visit.

Besides the lively beach resorts, peaceful countryside getaways, and off-the-beaten-track campsites that are full of secrets, there are many historical spots, amusement parks, and gorgeous foliage to explore. A growing number of British families are opting for holidays in the whole of England, Scotland, and Wales because of the pandemic.

It can be a headache to plan the perfect family getaway, especially if you don’t want to spend a lot. A great vacation starts with choosing the best accommodation as your temporary residence, which acts as financial protection. Our aim is to give you an idea of some of the best places to visit that you should keep in mind.

Let’s sit back, relax, and plan the next one!

Southport

Hailed as a classic Victorian town with a contemporary twist, Southport is ideal whether you’re after a day trip or a short family break.

It’s home to brilliant beaches, a whole host of shopping quarters, golf courses and even a casino and three theatres. Amidst the picturesque flowers and plants, you’ll find everything from an aviary to kids’ clubs, and there’s also a cafe if you’re looking for a spot for lunch.

You can find out what shows and events are currently on at visitsouthport.com, but if you do one thing during your trip, pay a visit to the Botanical Gardens.

National Trust campsite, Lake District

On the western shore of Windermere, there are many traditional tent pitches with lakes, meadows or woodland views. Glamping options include camping pods, suspended tree tents, safari tents. These have wood burners, cooking stoves and decking; the smaller tents are open-plan (sleep four) and the bigger ones have two bedrooms (sleep six). 

Guests can swim in the lake or hire canoes, kayaks, rowing boats and paddleboards to explore further or rent mountain bikes to hit the woodland trails. 

There are cafes, serving wood-fired pizzas. Other things to do include bird-watching from the on-site hide, orienteering on a dedicated trail, bat spotting with detectors, and walking along the lakeside path to Wray Castle. The Beatrix Potter Gallery is an hour’s walk away and there are boats across the lake to Ambleside in the summer.

West Norfolk

Home to the historic town of King’s Lynn, West Norfolk is the epitome of quintessentially British heritage and is filled to the brim with historic buildings.

With the charming countryside and picturesque scenery, it’s no surprise that the Queen chooses to spend her Christmas in the region each year, staying at the Sandringham Estate.

For families wanting to make the most of the breathtaking coastline and glorious beaches, Hunstanton remains a classic resort with a host of hotels on offer whether you’re after a long weekend or a week by the sea. Visit www.visitwestnorfolk.com to find out more.

St Ives, Cornwall

St Ives is hugely popular, so it can be difficult to find affordable accommodation, especially for your next family break. But there are hostels that have family rooms suitable for children aged three and above, no minimum stay and an environmental policy.

Some hostels are a five-minute walk to the beach, where the whole family can have a go at surfing, paddleboarding, coasteering or kayaking, perfect for child-friendly holidays. 

The Kidz R Us youth theatre stages musicals during school holidays and pantos at Christmas, while Tate St Ives has family art workshops every Sunday in term time, and daily during the holidays. At Marazion during low tide, visitors can walk the 500 causeway to St Michael’s Mount’s medieval castle.

Eastbourne and the South Downs

There’s nothing like a hike through the stunning South Coast resort to leaving you feeling refreshed and invigorated, not to mention South Downs National park provides a magnificent backdrop.

Meanwhile, there’s plenty of entertainment on throughout the summer that caters to a wide range of holidaymakers.

Music lovers should head to the Eastbourne Bandstand which will be hosting tributes to The Beatles and Bob Marley, historians will want to check out the Redoubt Fortress, and art lovers should spend time in the Towner Art Gallery. Visit www.visiteastbourne.com to find out more.

Snowdonia

The Slate Mountain former mine near Blaenau Ffestiniog is now an adventure hub, a perfect destination for adventurers. Families can try an off-road Slate Mountain Adventure tour in an ex-military truck, then head into the belly of Llechwedd mountain on Britain’s steepest cable railway; explore the caverns on an underground zip wire course; try subterranean trampolining at Bounce Below, or fly down Titan, a four-person, 1,890-metre zipline. 

If the caverns don’t appeal, Antur Stiniog bike park has 14 downhill mountain bike trails, including a beginners’ trail, and a lift service. Stay in the heart of the action at Slate Mountain Glamping, with six safari lodges (pictured) on a steep hillside overlooking the quarries. In June, the former quarry owner’s house, Plas Weunydd, is reopening as a 24-room hotel with family suites and a child-friendly restaurant.

Llandudno

This Victorian seaside gem is as vibrant as it is historic – and it’s right by Snowdonia in case you’re looking to spend a couple of days exploring some of Wales’ best-known holiday parks. There are some brilliant hiking trails, including Alice in Wonderland-themed walks, based on the real-life Alice Liddell, which can be a great way of keeping the kids entertained.

Make sure to visit the stunning town of Conwy, whose beautiful landscape has seen it gain World Heritage Site status for the most unforgettable family memories.

It’s definitely worth exploring the iconic Conwy Castle, before finishing off the day with a trip to Colwyn Bay. 

Cheshire countryside

Located just 20 minutes by car from the historic city of Chester but set in 1,000 acres of Cheshire countryside, Carden Park offers families the great outdoors.

With a playground, crazy golf course, giant chessboard, aerial ropes and zip lines (age 6+), archery (age 8+), and a swimming pool, children are thoroughly catered for and feel incredibly welcomed.

A particular favourite of my two boys, aged five and seven, are the seasonal treasure hunts. They’re a lot of fun and take you on a tour of the grounds, often past the Carden vineyard, so a treat for the grownups, too!

For a change of scene head into Chester to join a Roman soldier on a tour of ancient ruins or perhaps book to see an open-air performance at the beautiful Grosvenor Park. If your children are feeling creative, nearby Cheshire Workshops offers both candle-making and craft sessions for families. There’s a rainy day or two sorted for you! Carden Park really is the holy grail of hotels for families who want a luxurious but relaxing place to stay that won’t break the bank. It’s one of our favourites!

Bournemouth

Bournemouth has long been a favourite family seaside destination- fighting off seagulls whilst you eat fish and chips on the beach is basically a summer tradition. Close to the 7-mile stretch of award-winning Bournemouth Beach is the quieter up and coming to Boscombe. 

The Chine Hotel offers the perfect base for families seeking the ultimate British beach relaxing break. Get your bucket and spades at the ready, take a walk through the private garden and you’ll be on the beach in minutes.

The family-friendly features of the hotel are at their best during the school holidays. The little ones will love the daily kids club, art activities, indoor soft-play area and teen zone for those aged 12 and over. Whilst the kids are busy, make sure to relax in the spa, get a beauty treatment and take a swim in the garden swimming pool. The hotel dining facilities cater to even the fussiest of kids, with a set three-course menu and buffet both available. And for a day trip, take the train to Bournemouth where arcades, an outdoor mini-golf course and the oceanarium are all great for a packed day of fun.

North Tyneside

Newcastle was named the top place to visit, and it’s not difficult to see why. If you’re after an action-packed holiday, then the endless list of activities on offer here will appeal.

You can learn to surf, go on a kayak safari, taste award-winning ice cream and fish and chips, play on the Blue Flag beaches or pop into Newcastle for the day.

Culture vultures can explore the lighthouse, aquarium, World Heritage Roman site, water park and castle. Not to mention all of the bustling weekend markets and fantastic events like Mouth of the Tyne Festival.

Extra tips for finding a cheap break

Loads of websites always have plenty of deals and discounts whether you’re heading to a city or going to the seaside. Most sites offered hotel family rooms options for an affordable price.

If you’re going on a walking holiday then you may want to check out these hotels right by Britain’s most breathtaking views, as well as the top UK walking holiday destinations not to be missed.

When it comes to sightseeing, there’s so much to see and do across the UK that sometimes trying to narrow it down can feel like an overwhelming task – but we’ve got you covered.