When you are on holiday, taking a weekend break or even just a night away, the chances are you might want to do something while you're there or explore what's on in the area.  It could be booking a river trip, a visit to a museum or wildlife park, or it could be something a little more wild like white water rafting, axe throwing or a high wires course.  Whatever you fancy, jazz up your trip with something a bit different and have a look a the wide variety of experiences available near the accommodation.

Experiences

The UK has a huge array of museums and art galleries for you to enjoy. From the big hitters in London, such as the Natural History Museum, V&A, Tate Modern and National Portrait Gallery, to exciting living museums where your family can step back in time (such as the Black Country Museum in the West Midlands or the Highland Folk Museum in the Cairngorms). These Museums let your kids get hands-on with history, attending School and learning about farming, crafts, and much more. Art Galleries are not just for the grown ups! They now have workshops and child-friendly trails to inspire even the youngest artists to start drawing.  So why not try out one of our Museums or Art Galleries on your next holiday?   

Museums and Art Galleries

Trying to find shelter on a rainy day or enjoy a fun evening filled with laughter and popcorn? Visit one of the 775 cinemas in the UK to catch up on the latest blockbuster film releases!  Or fancy watching some live theatre, a music concert, a ballet, or comedy act? Then head to one of the UK's 1300 theatres!  Whether the West End, London is where you want to enjoy some of the UK's finest productions on offer, or Shakespeare's Globe where you can experience incredible performances and actors. Maybe you want to head to the  Festival Theatre in Edinburgh which stages some of the finest operas and ballets. There is something for everyone and definitely not to be missed!    

Cinemas and theatres

Whatever your child's age there is always something to enjoy. Get cracking in  a multi-level play area where kids can climb, clamber and slide over all sorts of adventurous obstacles. What’s next? What about a ball pond where your children can dip and dive in a pool full of colourful balls? All of the above would make for serious family fun. Of course parents are not forgotten either as a cafe is never far away. You can relax with a tasty coffee and a slice of cake. What more could you want?

Indoor and Soft Play Areas

Weather is too nice to stay indoors? Want to stretch your legs? Children need to run wild?  Then head to one of the UK's fantastic parks and playgrounds on offer and breath in that fresh air!

Parks and Playgrounds

If you decide to take a holiday in the UK to an area you don't know (or maybe you do but want to know more), an excellent way of seeing around and actually getting to see the "best bits" is by taking a tour with a local guide or someone in the know. Walking tours, cycling tours, boat tours, pogo-stick tours (ok maybe not the last one) - whatever suits your family best, can be booked online or at local visitor information centres and make a real difference to your stay.  You can find out the history of a place, local facts or even go on something weird and wonderful like a ghost walk or follow in the footsteps of Sherlock Holmes or Jack the Ripper.  Eek.  An open top bus journey can take away the hours pounding the pavement to look around a large city. Boat trips and river cruises are also a great way of seeing a lot of things in a small amount of time, giving you a completely different aspect of the town you are visiting.  Join a large boat or charter something smaller yourself and follow the river along to get a better look at all the surround countryside.  

Tours and River Cruises

Spend the day creating your very own handcrafted pot, vase, or bowl. Or if you have less time on your hands why not try painting a premade version?  A relaxing, indoor family activity. Perfect for creatives and on a rainy day visit one of the many ceramic cafes for coffee, tea, cakes, and of course, crafting!   

Pottery Centres and Ceramic Cafes

Art and crafting are wonderful pastimes and something the whole family can be involved in, whatever age and whatever skill!   Both children and adults can enjoy the wide range of things this relaxing (mostly!) hobby offers, from finger painting and clay modelling to sewing, woodcarving or basket making. As families are now looking for new things to do on holiday, many places are offering arty activities, or local artists will run day courses with lovely things to make.  And the bonus with this hobby is, there is always something to take home with you at the end!  Have a look at all the different art and craft activities to do in the area you are staying in and unleash your inner Michaelangelo!   

Arts and Crafts

Learn to paint or refine your skills... Painting is a completely inclusive activity for the whole family!  Head to a pottery painting class with your friends and take away a keepsake from your holiday! Or let the kids express their creative side with some hand painting!  Maybe you're already proficient and want to polish your brush technique. Whatever the weather, there is something for everyone to enjoy. 

Painting workshops

Pottery is an ancient craft and great fun! Sometimes a little messy, anyone can have a go at either hand building a pot, or getting to grips with a throwing wheel. You can create something beautiful and uniquely yours in no time at all. Families can enjoy together and kids as young as 2 can play with clay, or have a go at painting a pre-made pot. It’s the perfect wet weather or winter activity.

Pottery

Take you family and friends bowling for an afternoon or evening! Whatever your level or age, ten pin bowling is for the whole family and is the perfect location on a rainy day! The objective is to knock down all ten pins on the first roll of the ball (a strike), or failing that, on the second roll (a spare)... but let's not get bogged down with the rules.  Younger children can join in too, thanks to lighter and smaller bowling balls, bowling ramps and alley railings. Book your spot today so you don't miss out!

Ten Pin Bowling Alleys

Climbing is a great way to test your strength, balance and agility. As both an indoor and outdoor sport it can be done whatever the weather! You can try out bouldering, climbing and traversing lower walls (around 3 meters) without the assistance of rope. Bouldering basics can be mastered in a few hours and climbing centers will have graded routes allowing you to start out on the easier paths and work your way up. Rock climbing or high ropes is climbing vertically with the assistance of ropes and using safety harnesses, the walls are around 15 meters tall. You will need a good nerve for heights for this activity! Again, beginner sessions are available as are graded routes.

Climbing

Want to enjoy a leisurely swim or a splash with the family? You can find an array of incredibly fun activities for all the family at a Leisure Centre including tennis, badminton, roller skating, aerobics, gym, dance classes and many more! Whatever takes your fancy, they have it! 

Swimming Pools and Leisure Centres

These days you need to really hunt for a Lido.  They are out there but you need to know where to look.  And when you find one they really are worth it.  From Devon to Aberdeen to Yorkshire you can find magnificent outdoor swimming pools across the UK, and they combine exercise, mental wellbeing and the wonders of fresh air.  Don't believe me?  Give it a try.  The feeling of outdoor swimming really does wonders for the soul.  Plus some of them have really amazing views too. Most lidos are open in the warmer months only (how very, very sensible) but some are open all year round.  Brrr.  So in this instance pack a wetsuit, ice pick and Bear Grylls survival pack for when you drag yourself out.  Yes OK I'm a fair-weather Lido swimmer.  But this is to my detriment I'm sure.  Studies have actually proven that swimming in colder water helps you sleep better, improves circulation and boosts your immune system.  Plus, you feel like a total hero when you come out of the water and everyone is clapping.  Find a Lido near you and give it a go! 

Lidos

The UK is the home of the amazing steam train! This integral part of our lives and history means we are lucky to still have many running steam railways and transport museums and attractions.  Why not experience the romance of a steam train ride in the Welsh mountains or across Bodmin and try out a railway or transport attraction on your next holiday.  

Railway and Transport 

The number of heritage buildings still standing proudly across the UK is quite remarkable. Most of the UK's stately homes have hosted kings and queens, prime ministers, actors and poets – all manner of illustrious guests. Why not visit Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire which was built for John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough and  explore 2,000 acres of gardens. It’s no wonder UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 1987. Or Highclere Castle,  the backdrop to so many scenes of the Crawley family and their household in Downton Abbey!  Maybe Chatsworth takes your fancy? Better known to many as Pemberley in the 2005 film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, starring Keira Knightley. Don't forget Longleat House in Wiltshire, and make a day of it visiting the incredible Longleat Safari Park!  Stately homes frequently provide tours throughout the day as well as audio guides and information packs. Of course, let's not forget the children! Many of these stately homes have prepared children's guides, packs and quizzes so be sure to ask on your way in!

Stately Homes and Gardens

Get jumping at one of these trampoline parks! Great exercise, great fun, and a great indoor activity for those rainy days! Burn some energy by leaping and bouncing about these parks, learning new tricks, and having a fun-filled day! Lots of the trampoline parks also have soft-play, or specific areas for smaller guests, which means everyone can get involved!  Why not give trampolining a go! 

Trampoline Parks

Crazy golf is a great way to spend an afternoon with freinds and family. There are loads of different types of courses, from simple to complex with different kinds of features. It's a great way to get started with golfing, and requires no previous experience to get going. 

Crazy Golf Courses

Thinking of delving into the world of karting? We're sure you're raring to go! Well don't think twice and book yourself and friends or all the family on an ultimate go karting experience! Once you're kitted out with the appropriate gear, you'll have your safety talk that tells you everything you need to know about racing, so listen up! When that's over and you're out on the track,  go karts pack a mean punch...  On your mark, get set, GO!  

Go Karting

Ever imagined galloping along a beach?  Maybe you're more of a fantasy fan or just enjoy spending time with animals, either way horse riding might be for you. A great outdoor activity for the whole family with children able to start from as young as 4. It is an amazing way to take in local scenery, connect with nature, have a little adventure or enjoy at a relaxing pace.   

Horse Riding

Whether you skate as a sport or just for fun, it's a great way to get your body moving when it's cold outside or to cool down during the summer months. It's also a wonderful activity to enjoy with your family or friends!  Ice skating has been a popular activity for centuries, and the act of gliding across ice on blades has probably been around for even longer! So why not head to the nearest rink today to have a fun filled session! 

Ice Skating

A leisure cycle is a great way to get the whole family out and exercising! It allows you to travel further whilst still getting to experience the local area. Why not take your family along the Camel Trail in Cornwall? Or Maybe go and hunt a Gruffolo in Delamere Forest, Cheshire, the possibilities are endless! Whether you are a family who loves biking together on relaxing forrest paths or a serious Wiggins type who prefers fast road cycling, there is no doubt that camping holidays give you the freedom to take your cycling hobby with you, wherever you decide to go in the UK.  Plenty of great campsites are near cycling paths and some may also offer bicycle hire too, showing you the best routes to take for a great day out cycling.  

Cycling

Feel like royalty and visit one of the UK’s beautiful palaces, castles or stately homes. We are lucky to be surrounded by amazing history and architecture here in the UK, and through several organisations we are able to visit and experience these amazing homes. Learn about the history of the buildings and residents, view the art and walk amongst the gardens. Many of these places also offer plenty of activities and guides for the children too! So why not visit one on your next trip?

Castles and Palaces

Looking for an easy access waterboard sport? Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP) might be for you! Easy to pick up in just half an hour, glide across lakes, rivers and seas on your paddle board. Kids can start from as young as 5 and lots of our partners have child and teen sized paddleboards.

Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

Discover the trees like never before. Scramble, climb and jump through high rope assault courses, don't forget to bring your courage!  A great outdoor activity for families and adults alike, and dotted throughout the UK. Why not try the adventure for a day out on your next staycation?   

High Ropes Courses

Splash around whatever the weather at these great indoor and outdoor waterparks in the UK! Nothing brings out your inner child quite like the prospect of a water slide or a wave pool. So, don your sturdiest swimwear and swap the beach for one of our top wet and wild waterparks. Whether you’re into white-knuckle flume rides or meandering around a lazy river with a float, water parks are guaranteed to make a splash, whatever the weather. 

Water Parks

Discover what lies at the depths of the ocean...Your Aquarium visit will take you on a journey around the different zones of the world’s Ocean, from the local waters, all the way to the tropical seas of the Great Barrier Reef and everywhere in between!  A great indoor activity for the whole family to explore...

Aquariums

London is a diverse and exciting city with some of the world's best sights, attractions and activities.  There is something for the whole family to enjoy, making it the perfect place to for a getaway all year round... Big Ben, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, the list goes on and on. There’s nothing quite like the experience of hopping on a red double-decker bus and seeing some of the most recognisable sights in the world from its top deck. London is home to some of the best museums and galleries in the world. Spend a few hours in the British Museum, Tate Modern, Natural History Museum or the Science Museum. The London skyline is iconic with magnificent buildings like St Paul’s Cathedral which have stood the test of time; but new buildings like The Shard (also known as the Shard of Glass and Shard London Bridge). The Shard along with the London Eye offer great views of the city but there are also many places along The Thames where you can sit and take in the beauty of the city. Take a river cruise down the Thames, visit the London Aquarium, shop til you drop on Oxford Street or explore one the many food markets on offer.  With so much to do, this could be your perfect destination, so book now! 

London, UK

East Midlands

East of England, UK

North East England

North West England

South East England, UK

South West England, UK

West Midlands, UK

Yorkshire and the Humber, UK

England is a totally unique travel destination, well known for its history, natural beauty, vast range of attractions and beautiful countryside landscapes and coastlines. 

England, UK

Northern Ireland

Scotland

Wales

England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland make up the extraordinary United Kingdom; home to mountains, caves, rivers, dramatic coastlines, medieval villages and vibrant cities.

Discover London, UK
London is a diverse and exciting city with some of the world's best sights, attractions and activities. There is something for the whole family to enjoy, making it the perfect place to for a getaway all year round...

Places nearby

east-midlands

east-of-england

north-east-england

north-west-england

south-east-england

south-west-england

west-midlands

yorkshire-and-the-humber

Things to do in london

Experiences

Museums and Art Galleries

Cinemas and theatres

Indoor and Soft Play Areas

Parks and Playgrounds

Tours and River Cruises

Pottery Centres and Ceramic Cafes

Arts and Crafts

Painting workshops

Pottery

Ten Pin Bowling Alleys

Climbing

Swimming Pools and Leisure Centres

Lidos

Railway and Transport

Stately Homes and Gardens

Trampoline Parks

Crazy Golf Courses

Go Karting

Horse Riding

Ice Skating

Cycling

Castles and Palaces

Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

High Ropes Courses

Water Parks

Aquariums

Sign up to our email to stay updated

Discover London, UKLondon is a diverse and exciting city with some of the world's best sights, attractions and activities. There is something for the whole family to enjoy, making it the perfect place to for a getaway all year round...

Places nearby

east-midlands

east-of-england

north-east-england

north-west-england

south-east-england

south-west-england

west-midlands

yorkshire-and-the-humber

Things to do in london

Experiences

Museums and Art Galleries

Cinemas and theatres

Indoor and Soft Play Areas

Parks and Playgrounds

Tours and River Cruises

Pottery Centres and Ceramic Cafes

Arts and Crafts

Painting workshops

Pottery

Ten Pin Bowling Alleys

Climbing

Swimming Pools and Leisure Centres

Lidos

Railway and Transport

Stately Homes and Gardens

Trampoline Parks

Crazy Golf Courses

Go Karting

Horse Riding

Ice Skating

Cycling

Castles and Palaces

Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

High Ropes Courses

Water Parks

Aquariums

Sign up to our email to stay updated

Discover London, UK
London is a diverse and exciting city with some of the world's best sights, attractions and activities. There is something for the whole family to enjoy, making it the perfect place to for a getaway all year round...