As the weather finally starts to warm up, thoughts turn to the summer holidays, which with a little careful planning, can keep the whole family entertained. From long lazy days on pristine beaches, to high-octane theme parks, to getting up close with tropical sharks; the UK promises hot and happening adventures this summer, whatever the weather!
Newquay in Cornwall
Popular with surfers and beach bums, family-friendly Newquay packs an impressive punch when it comes to keeping kids of all ages entertained. Try a spot of F1 racing onboard the high-octane go-karts at the Holywell Bay Fun Park, where even toddlers are catered for. Get nose to nose with sharks, rays and seahorses at the Blue Reef Aquarium (perfect for rainy days) and get a bit of healthy family competition going with a surfing challenge on world-famous Fistral Beach.
This laidback seaside resort is a perennial family favourite, thanks to mile upon mile of glorious sands; check out the Tunnels Beaches which were carved in the 1820s and are the ideal spot for a game of hide-and-seek. Get active at the thrilling Keypitts Quads where kids aged 6+ can let loose on quad bikes. And if you’re looking for a great place to stay as a family in this idyllic area of Devon is Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks. Why? Just visit their website at woolacombe.co.uk and you’ll see why!
Norfolk Broads
What could be more exciting than meandering along the serene Norfolk Broads this summer? Each day brings a new adventure on the waterways; Bewilderwood in Wroxham boasts mysterious treehouses, wobbly jungle bridges and an intriguing Muddle Maze. Younger children will be bewitched by the well laid out Pettitts Adventure Park at Reedham, which has themed rides for all the family, an entertaining children’s theatre and a whole raft of furry animals to feed and pet. And finally, don’t miss a seal trip at Blakeney to witness these curious creatures splashing about in their natural habitat.
Center Parcs at Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire
Nestled in the heart of the UK, Sherwood Forest offers miles of tracks through lush woodland and alongside thriving lakes; perfect for walking, mountain biking and horse riding. And the on-site Center Parcs offers its own inimitable array of activities and adventures, whether you want to chill out in the spa or get hands-on at the high ropes center. The ultimate family destination, all kids’ activities are organised by age and parents never get the opportunity to moan about being bored either.
Scarborough in North Yorkshire
Did you know that lively Scarborough was the UK’s first ever seaside resort and was established around 360 years ago. Of course there are safe sandy beaches at both North Bay and South Bay, overlooked by the seriously impressive Scarborough Castle. Within the town itself there is plenty to do whatever the weather; get seriously freaked out at the Terror Tower, play until you drop at the Little Hoppers Adventure World and meet and pet real life huskies at the Pesky Husky Trekking Centre. Further afield, the North York Moors National Park and the Yorkshire Wolds provides a beautiful and tranquil landscape of ancient woodland punctuated with historic sites; perfect for exploring on foot or by bike.
