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Family holidays in the UK are popular because they are easy to organise, avoid flights and passports, and offer a huge range of places to stay and things to do. The best choice depends on your children’s ages, your budget and what you want from the break, but coastal towns, holiday parks and countryside cottages are the most common picks. Costs vary enormously by region, season and accommodation type, so the most useful approach is to compare a few options for your dates and check what is included before you book.
Where is best for young children?
For babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers, the best destinations tend to share a few features: short journey times, safe sandy beaches or gentle play areas, easy access to shops and cafes, and accommodation that suits family routines, such as self-catering with a kitchen or a room with space for a cot.
- Sandy beaches. Coastal areas in Devon, Cornwall, Norfolk, Wales and the south coast offer sandy beaches that suit small children. Check tide times and lifeguard cover, and keep young children in sight.
- Holiday parks. These often include indoor pools, kids’ clubs, play areas and entertainment on site, which reduces planning and works well in unpredictable weather.
- Farm stays and countryside cottages. Animals, outdoor space and a quieter pace appeal to younger children and tired parents.
- Seaside towns with attractions. Piers, aquariums, miniature railways and promenades give plenty of low-effort entertainment.
For a Sussex-based option, see our Brighton and Sussex breaks guide, which covers beaches and attractions along the south coast, and our UK coastal holidays guide for wider options.
Where is best for older children and teenagers?
Older children usually want more activity and independence. Surf lessons, coasteering, climbing, cycling, theme parks and city breaks often work better than a quiet beach week. The Lake District, Snowdonia, the Scottish Highlands and the Cornish coast offer adventure, while cities such as Edinburgh, London, Bath and York mix history with attractions. Teenagers often appreciate somewhere with wifi, things to do in the evening and a chance to choose some of the activities. Our city breaks and UK holidays guides are good starting points.
How much does it cost?
There is no single figure, because the total depends on when and where you go, how long you stay, how many people are in your party and what type of accommodation you choose. As a general principle, the main cost drivers are:
- Season. School holiday weeks, particularly in July and August, are the most expensive. Term-time breaks are usually much cheaper, though many schools do not permit them, so check your school’s policy and the rules in your area.
- Location. Popular coastal areas and national parks can be pricey at peak times. Less fashionable destinations can offer much better value.
- Accommodation type. Caravans and holiday parks, self-catering cottages, hotels and glamping all have different pricing structures. Compare the total cost, not just the headline price.
- Extras. Fuel or train fares, food, activities, parking and entertainment add up, so build a budget that includes them.
- Booking window. Early booking often gives better choice, but last-minute deals can appear if you are flexible. See our last minute holidays guide.
To estimate your own cost, search for your dates on several booking sites, add realistic spending for food and activities, and compare with what an equivalent holiday abroad would cost once flights and transfers are included. Our cheap holidays guide has more money-saving ideas.
What is the cheapest time to go?
The cheapest times are usually outside school holidays, particularly in spring and autumn, and in the weeks before and after the peak summer period. If your children are not yet at school, you have more flexibility and can take advantage of term-time pricing. If you are tied to school holidays, consider the earliest and latest weeks of a holiday, as prices often drop at the edges. October half term and the Easter holidays can be cheaper than the height of summer, although prices rise for popular destinations.
Midweek stays can be cheaper than weekends, and some accommodation offers discounts for longer stays. Be wary of paying much less in exchange for poor weather, and make sure you have wet-weather options planned, such as museums, indoor pools or soft play. Our guide to weekend breaks from Brighton may also help you plan short, cheaper trips.
Is self catering or all inclusive better?
All inclusive holidays are less common in the UK than abroad, but some holiday parks and hotels offer packages with meals, activities or entertainment. Self-catering is more widespread and often better value for families, because you can prepare your own meals and snacks, keep fussy eaters happy and avoid restaurant bills.
- Self-catering pros: flexibility, space, lower food costs, laundry facilities in some properties.
- Self-catering cons: you still need to cook and clean, and you may need to bring bedding or towels.
- Catered or all inclusive pros: convenience, predictable costs, entertainment for children.
- Catered or all inclusive cons: less flexibility, and the price may be higher than cooking yourself.
If you are tempted by an all inclusive break abroad instead, read our all inclusive holidays guide to compare.
What should I check before booking?
A little preparation avoids most problems. Before you book, check:
- The cancellation and change policy, and whether you can get a refund or credit.
- The exact sleeping arrangements, including the number of beds, cot availability and room size.
- Whether linen, towels, highchairs and travel cots are included or cost extra.
- Parking arrangements and whether there is a charge.
- Pet policies if you are bringing a dog.
- Accessibility, including steps, stairs and pushchair access.
- Distance to the beach, shops and attractions, as photos can be misleading.
- Recent guest reviews, with attention to cleanliness and noise.
- Whether travel insurance would cover cancellation or illness. See our travel insurance guide.
Types of family holiday in the UK
Seaside breaks
Classic and reliable, with beaches, ice cream, rock pools and amusements. The south coast, East Anglia, Wales and the south-west are all popular.
Holiday parks
Good for convenience, with entertainment and facilities on site. Quality and price vary, so check reviews and what is included.
Cottages and countryside
Ideal for walking, wildlife and a quieter pace, especially in national parks. Booking early matters for popular areas.
City breaks
Museums, parks, theatres and attractions suit families with older children. Look for family tickets and free attractions.
Camping and glamping
A fun, outdoorsy option that can be budget friendly, although comfort and weather need consideration.
Getting there
For most family holidays, driving is the simplest option, as it makes luggage and unpredictable schedules easier. If you do not have a car, or want to avoid driving, consider trains, and check family railcards or discounts. If you want a hire car for the trip, see our car hire guide for what to check. Allow plenty of time for travel at peak periods, because roads to popular holiday areas can be slow on Saturdays and bank holidays.
Tips for a stress-free family holiday
- Plan one or two activities each day rather than a full schedule.
- Pack a wet-weather kit, including waterproofs, spare clothes and games.
- Bring snacks and drinks for the journey and for days out.
- Have a plan B for bad weather, such as an indoor attraction.
- Involve children in choosing activities so everyone has something to look forward to.
- Check opening times, since some attractions close on certain days or outside peak season.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best UK holiday for a family with a toddler?
A sandy coastal location with self-catering accommodation, close to a beach and with a simple routine, is usually a good choice. Holiday parks with kids’ facilities are also popular.
Are UK holidays cheaper than going abroad?
Sometimes, but not always. UK holidays avoid flights and transfers, but peak accommodation costs can be high. Compare the total cost, including food and activities.
When should I book a UK family holiday?
For school holidays, booking several months ahead gives the best choice. For off-peak dates, you may find deals closer to the time.
Can I take my children out of school for a cheaper holiday?
Schools have rules about term-time absence, and fines can apply in some circumstances. Check your school’s policy and the current guidance.
What are the best UK family holidays on a budget?
Self-catering stays outside peak weeks, camping, and less popular regions often offer the best value. See our cheap holidays guide for more tips.
Do I need travel insurance for a UK break?
It is not a legal requirement, but cancellation and belongings cover can be useful when you have prepaid accommodation.
Plan your holiday
Start with your dates, budget and the age of your children, shortlist two or three destinations, and compare the total cost of each. For more ideas, browse our UK holidays and short breaks and Brighton and Sussex breaks guides, and always check current prices, policies and opening times before you book.