Is England a good destination for kids?
One of the best things about traveling with children in England is that many of the best museums feature permanent collections that are completely free to visit. Moreover, they often host various child-centric activities, whether it’s a table for coloring with markers and paper or something more elaborate, like a treasure hunt.
Many mid-range pubs and restaurants provide children’s menus. Staples include nuggets, pizzas, burgers, and pasta, all served with chips (fries). It is unusual to find gourmet or healthy kids’ dishes; however, if you have a discerning little foodie, it’s worthwhile to inquire about half-portions from the adult menu.
A relatively new development in many recently opened or refurbished establishments is that baby changing areas are not just found in ladies’ restrooms anymore. Consequently, caregivers of all genders can easily manage diaper changes.
While navigating the transport systems around England, you may encounter some family-unfriendly characteristics, like steps or narrow bus gangways that might not accommodate a stroller. However, all train stations feature wide accessible ticket barriers and dedicated storage for strollers on long-distance trains. Furthermore, old cities with cobbled streets may encourage you to opt for a baby carrier instead of a fancy stroller.
Where are the best places to travel in England with kids?
If you are fortunate to experience decent weather, you will enjoy England’s ten national parks and many Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), which offer vast landscapes that are free for exploration. Outdoor-loving kids will appreciate time at glorious beaches, where they can dig in the sand or pebbles and explore rock pools. Additionally, the amusement arcades lining many seafronts and the nostalgic piers stretching into the sea are usually a hit.
Families less focused on landscapes and more on learning should visit major cities such as London, Manchester, Newcastle, and Birmingham. These cities are rich in museums, theaters, and art galleries, perfect for those wanting a cultural fix. Given England’s relatively small size, it’s easy to combine a city visit with a trip to the coast or countryside.
The best things to do in England with kids
This section highlights activities categorized by age to help you plan the most suitable experiences for your young adventurers. However, whether you embark on a boat ride, visit a theme park, or explore a castle, each venue usually has something for all age groups. Therefore, let the children run free, splash, dig, climb, and explore as they learn.
Here’s a look at the best experiences for family travelers in England.
The best things to do with babies and toddlers
Babies certainly have no qualms about being seen and heard. Whether it’s the soft sandy shores of a shallow cove or a family-friendly morning at a local museum, you can take them anywhere. To stimulate them with light and sound, consider family-friendly raves held at various venues across England.
The best things to do with young children (ages 4 to 11)
Major theme parks across the country are quite popular. Fun spots like Legoland near Windsor, Alton Towers in Staffordshire, and Paultons Park (home to Peppa Pig World) near Southampton provide great entertainment. However, local gems often reveal delightful surprises. Small-scale enterprises offer unique experiences, such as Diggerland, where kids can operate construction machinery under supervision.
Animal-loving kids will enjoy a day at one of England’s wildlife parks or zoos. Opportunities abound for birdwatching or spotting marine wildlife along coastal colonies. If it rains, England’s many hands-on museums serve as reliable destinations to ignite imaginations.
The best things to do with tweens and teens
Hard-to-please teens may find unexpected engagement at various historic sites. Assign them intriguing tasks like discovering what happened to two princes in the Bloody Tower at the Tower of London or exploring the royal stories behind Hampton Court Palace. Castles offer their own fascinating tales as well, and if there’s a soccer fan in the family, a tour of one of the many Premier League stadiums can be captivating. Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours provide insights into clubs’ histories and achievements.
Planning tips for traveling in England with kids
Children under the age of 4 can travel for free on rail throughout the UK with a fare-paying adult. Once they turn 5, train tickets typically cost half of an adult ticket, although some companies feature deals. For long-distance journeys, booking tickets three months in advance can yield the best savings.
While various pubs are family-friendly during the day, not all establishments welcome kids later in the evening. It’s advisable to check with bar staff regarding their policies. Licensing laws vary, and conditions may not always be clear.
Glossary: Diapers are referred to as nappies in England. Pacifiers are known as dummies. Strollers may be called prams, pushchairs, or buggies.
