Planning a day out over the summer holidays can be challenging to find somewhere the whole family will enjoy. So we've picked a few attractions across the UK we believe cater for everyone, from young to older children as well as parents too! Why not combine a day out with a short break this summer too?
Diggerland – Devon
What young child doesn't like to watch a digger or exclaim when they see one on a building site? Diggerland lets everyone get up close and try out driving the diggers themselves, a dream come true for some! Along with various digging challenges, you can take a trip on the train and enjoy some digger-themed rides such as SpinDizzy or SkyShuttle. For parents, get involved with your little ones on the rides or enjoy a hot drink while they keep busy on the go-karts or the indoor soft play.
Just off the M5 near Cullumpton, it's nearby to many popular holiday destinations.
If you're looking for a farm stay nearby, take a look at Billingsmoor Farm which is just 8 miles away!
Peppa Pig World – Hampshire
Most parents will be familiar with the popular children's character Peppa Pig, along with her brother George and parents Mummy Pig and Daddy pig. Peppa Pig world is part of Paultons Theme Park, located near the New Forest National Park. There is a range of themed rides designed for toddlers and young children along with the opportunity to meet Peppa and her friends most days around the park. For older children, head into the main Theme Park area and enjoy more thrilling rides such as Cobra or Storm Chaser. There's also a range of animals such as penguins, meerkats, porcupines and tortoises.
If you're looking for somewhere nearby to stay, experience something different at Midgham farm with canvas hideaways nestled on the forest floor.
Bewilderwood - Norfolk
If you're a fan of the outdoors, BeWILDerwood in Norfolk is an wild adventure for all ages! From tree houses and wobbly wires to boat rides and marsh walks, with unusual creatures as part of the journey, it's a unique day out. For younger ones, enjoy the teeny twiggles play area as well as the tricky tunnels. For those who are more adventurous, brave the broken bridge or woosh down the slippery slopes. For quality family time, build a den together in the woodland area (see our previous blogs with tips for den building) or get crafty in the big top and create memories to remember!
College Farm is only 25 minutes from BeWILDerwood or for other North Norfolk adventures, stay at Heydon Grove instead.
Eden Project - Cornwall
One iconic day out is the Eden Project in St Austell in Cornwall. A truly unique experience, you can walk through global gardens housed in tropical biomes that nestle in an old clay pit crater. Visit the Mediterranean and Rainforest domes before enjoying the outdoor gardens and brand new natural playground, great for young and old alike! Curious kids can find out where tea, rubber and sugar come from, and travel the world to the simulated environments of tropical destinations that they dream of traveling to in the future. There are themed events according to the seasons, workshops for adults and children, activity days, music concerts and more.
Cornwall is a popular holiday destination but if you are looking for somewhere unique to stay, check out Gwel Teg farm in Looe, or for somewhere further south, Treganhoe farm has stunning countryside views.
Colchester Zoo – Essex
For animal-loving families, a zoo is often a great choice for a day out. And with so many different ones dotted around the UK, there's bound to be an animal attraction within an hour or two from home. Colchester Zoo in Essex is a great example of a varied zoo with both small and mighty animals like elephants, rhinos and giraffes. With hands-on goat and sheep feeding, a lemur walk-through and many playgrounds dotted throughout the zoo, there's something to engage and excite all ages. Adults can enjoy a hot drink or ice cream while kids keep busy at the park or indoor soft play.
Looking for somewhere to stay nearby rich in history with freedom to run wild? Take a look at the canvas hideaways at Layer Marney Tower, a perfect combination of historic reference, farm animals and open fields to play.
GreenWood Family Park - Gwynedd
Voted best family attraction in North Wales for 7 years, you’ll find the world’s only people-powered coaster! For younger children, try out the tunnel warren or the mini diggers and for the whole family, enjoy the river ride or test out the barefoot trail for something a little more grounded. For rainy days, enjoy the Enchanted WoodBarn with a mystical world of indoor play.
Experience a stay at Pant Y March as part of your Welsh short break, a sheep farm with stunning views across Snowdonia National Park.
The World of Beatrix Potter - Cumbria
Both adults and children will enjoy a step into the world of Peter Rabbit and friends in this interactive experience, in the heart of where many of the Peter Rabbit books were written by Beatrix Potter. Adults will find the 360 degree views of landscapes that inspired Beatrix Potter in the virtual walk fascinating, with a large touchscreen table that includes activities for children to complete. Outside, there is a garden filled with herbs, flowers, and vegetables, just as Mr. McGregor intended.
To enjoy a family holiday in the Lake District alongside your day out, take a look at Howbeck Lodge farm for a fun-filled family adventure.
Longleat Safari Park - Wiltshire
Did you know that Longleat was the first Safari Park to open outside of Africa in 1966? Home to over 120 species, you can see the amazing animals by car before parking up and exploring some of the smaller animals on foot. For a touch of history as part of your summer day out, you can also book a tour of Longleat House and learn about the rich history of the stately home. Lose yourself in one of the world’s biggest hedge mazes, take a trip on Longleat’s railway and ride the Rockin’ Rhino. There's something fun for all ages and you'll relish quality time together creating cherished memories to last a lifetime.
Create a holiday alongside your day out in nearby Somerset at Warren farm near Cheddar Gorge or venture into the beautiful hills at Glastonbury Hill farm.
With so many family-friendly attractions throughout the UK, it can be hard to pick just one for a day out! Why not plan a short break with Feather Down farms and visit a few together to create treasured memories with those you love.
A unique off-grid experience