Easter comes at a wonderful time of year. When spring is at its peak and new life is all around us, the whole of Britain is in bloom and there’s nowhere better to be. Up and down the country, colourful eggs sit nestled in their hiding places, waiting for eager young hands to hunt them down to take home for a tasty feast. Churches are adorned with colourful Easter displays and stately homes fling open their doors to welcome families for Easter holiday activities.
With the chill of winter behind us, there is excitement in the air at the mere prospect of heading out and enjoying outdoor activities in the spring sunshine. The UK has so much to offer on this favourite family holiday, with so many places to go for Easter that the only trouble you’ll have is deciding where best to spend your Easter days out. We’ve scoured the country for things to do during the Easter holidays and come up with two lists: one showcasing our top destinations for an Easter break, and one highlighting some of the top Easter events at attractions across the country.
So, if you’re looking for Easter holiday ideas or searching for where to go for Easter, read on …
Top 10 destinations for an Easter holiday

Devon
With two splendid coastlines and an abundance of countryside and moorland in between, Devon is a place where you’ll be able to get a feel for the newness of spring. Think baby lambs bleating in the fields, farm parks aplenty where you can meet the baby animals, and maybe the first ice cream of the year by the sea.
Devon holiday cottages

Cornwall
Spring is arguably the best season to visit the sublime coastal county of Cornwall, with its dazzling azure water, wonderful cliff-top walks and an array of fantastic attractions. Top of the list should be the Eden Project, whose famous biomes host an interesting itinerary of family events for Easter. Just as the weather starts to warm up, why not take to two wheels and tackle the family-friendly cycling route of the Camel Trail?
Cornwall holiday cottages

Somerset
Somerset is packed with fabulous family attractions with Easter events not to miss. If you’re looking for places to go for Easter with a high concentration of easily reached days out, Somerset is your destination. Cheddar Gorge, Hestercombe House and Gardens, The Museum of Taunton and the Somerset Rural Life Museum are among some of the attractions with Easter events in Somerset.
Somerset holiday cottages

Dorset
We can at least hope for a little bit of sunshine during the Easter holidays, or at least some dry days which are perfect for getting out and exploring the Jurassic Coast of Dorset. While the focus of Easter is on new beginnings and rebirth, it’s the perfect time to discover ancient fossils on the beaches which have been disturbed by winter storms. Family attraction, Farmer Palmers promises spring lambs and other cuddly newborn animals, while other fun days out include Kingston Lacy and Lulworth Castle.
Dorset holiday cottages

Cotswolds
Where could be prettier in the spring than the chocolate box villages of the Cotswolds? Pretty blooms daub already beautiful scenes with splashes of colour, and places such as Cotswolds Farm Park, Chastleton, Sudeley Castle and the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway bring Easter alive for children.
Cotswolds holiday cottages

Pembrokeshire
Where to go for Easter if you’d like to spend it by the sea? Why, Pembrokeshire of course! The promise of sunny spring walks along the coast, and Easter egg hunts aplenty, Pembrokeshire attractions offer the best of nature and attractions for an outdoorsy family. Don’t miss meeting the animals at Folly Farm or Manor Wildlife Park. Alternatively, it’s the perfect season for a boat trip around Ramsey Island to spot seals and seabirds.
Pembrokeshire holiday cottages

Norfolk
When the days become longer, where better to enjoy them than in the county of the big skies? Pull on your walking boots to enjoy leisurely rambles along the waterways of the Broads, and take in the stunning gardens and pristine stately homes that pepper Norfolk. Sandringham, Holkham Hall, Houghton Hall and the Blickling Estate promise chocolate-infused Easter events aplenty with lots to keep kids of all ages entertained.
Norfolk holiday cottages

Lake District
What better way to describe the Lake District in spring than ‘Wow’! With a plethora of walks around the lakes and through scenic fells, there is over a week’s worth of free entertainment for intrepid families, which you can supplement with outings to attractions such as the oodles of National Trust properties, and others including Holker Hall, Brockhole on Windermere and Walby Farm Park. And for the ultimate Easter experience, could anything be more apt than a visit to The World of Beatrix Potter?
Lake District holiday cottages

Yorkshire
The rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales and the rugged moorland of the North York Moors sit pretty in spring, with smatterings of gambolling lambs, and vibrant flowers lining the rural roads. Chuff through the landscape on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and partake in Easter activities galore at attractions including RHS Garden Harlow Carr, the JORVIK Viking Centre and Dalby Forest. Yorkshire is awash with inspiring days out and beautiful scenery to explore.
Yorkshire holiday cottages

Scottish Highlands
If you’re looking for somewhere to go in the Easter holidays that offers something a little different to the average UK family holiday, pack your bags and set a course for the Highlands of Scotland. With the worst of the winter weather behind it (hopefully), the north of Scotland is starting to come alive with spring colour, and out-of-the-ordinary activities including a family hike up Ben Nevis, a cruise on a loch, or an Easter egg hunt at one of the many castles and stately homes. The kids will have plenty to write about on their return to school! Check out the best places to stay in the Highlands, and start planning your adventures.
Scottish Highlands holiday cottages
Top Easter events at UK attractions

Easter Egg Hunt at Traquair
You’ll find organised Easter Egg Hunts at almost every stately home across the country, but there’s arguably nowhere as exciting as Traquair in Peeblesshire, in the Scottish Borders, to hunt for your chocolate fix. Their annual Easter Extravaganza is so exclusive that it takes place on one day only, with a whopping 5,000 mini eggs hidden throughout the largest hedge maze in Scotland.
There’s a series of hunts throughout the day to ensure that no child leaves empty-handed. Youngsters under five are treated to their very own Easter Egg Scramble in the walled garden and once they are armed with their chocolate loot, there are plenty of Easter activities for kids to while away a few more hours in this magnificent location.
Children can decorate their own eggs and contribute to the design of a huge egg sculpture, as well as take part in the Spot the Egg in the House competition, Easter bonnet making, musical instrument making, storytelling and face painting. All in all, this makes for one of the best Easter days out in the UK.
Scottish Borders cottages

Meet Peter Rabbit at The World of Beatrix Potter
What could be more apt at Eastertime than a trip to The World of Beatrix Potter, at Bowness-on-Windermere, home of Peter Rabbit and all his friends? Besides enjoying the self-guided tour of the exhibition and garden, there’s always a lovely selection of Easter activities for families taking place throughout the week.
In previous years, the children’s admission price has included a mini treasure hunt around the garden, with a chocolate and sticker for everyone who takes part!
If you’re looking for Easter family days out and you want to truly spoil the children at Easter, you might be able to book in as a guest at one of Peter Rabbit’s Tea Parties which are usually put on at various times during the week. Guests are served up a delicious tea of home-baked goodies, and young imaginations will be set alight by an actor reading the famous Tale of Peter Rabbit. Of course, there are usually photo opportunities aplenty and Peter Rabbit himself hops around for a cuddle and a selfie! It's the ultimate Easter experience for fans of this tenacious bunny!
Windermere cottages

A chocolatey experience in Yorkshire
Nestled within the picturesque streets of Yorkshire’s historic capital, York’s Chocolate Story is a delight for families with a sweet tooth. Their Easter Bunny Hunt takes place during the Easter holidays, with games and colourful costumed characters helping children to track down the pesky critter out in the fresh air by the Merchant Adventurer’s Hall.
If this all sounds too much like child’s play, take some adult time out and book yourself onto York Chocolate Story’s Easter Masterclass. Under the expert tutelage of a master chocolatier, have some Easter fun and whip yourself up some exquisite confections during a decadent evening which includes samples, of course.
For some further chocolate-themed breaks, you can read our confectionary blog.
York cottages

Floral displays at Leeds Castle
Spring sees the UK looking blooming marvellous, and a trip to Kent, the Garden of England, is a must for any green-fingered family during the Easter break.
We recommend paying a visit to the majestic Leeds Castle. Rising like a leviathan from the still waters of its moat, it is an exceptional backdrop for the cheerful daffodils and other spring flowers which flourish in its colourful gardens.
The Princess Alexandra Gardens are awash with vibrant blooms, including daffodils, narcissi and anemones. Enjoy a flavour of the exotic in the Lady Baillie Mediterranean Garden Terraces and treat your senses with a wander through the Culpeper Garden, packed with pretty English flowers and manicured hedgerows.
There’s lots of outdoor space so you can take in the springtime landscape blooming into life! Why not make a day of your visit? The Knight’s Stronghold Playground and Squire’s Court Playground will burn off some energy for the children before they have to hop back in the car, the maze will challenge their minds (and sense of direction!) and there’s even an adventure golf course! If the kids have had too much chocolate and you're after Easter holiday days out full of serene spring walks, Leeds Castle is a great option.
Leeds cottages

Easter activities at Holkham Hall
If you want to completely immerse yourself in the Easter spirit, head to Holkham Hall in Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk. Every year, they pull together an abundance of Easter-themed activities, making this one of the top Easter holiday destinations on our list.
In the past, they have run performances of the classic children’s tale, The Velveteen Rabbit, as well as storytelling in the walled garden and a petting corner where children can cuddle little animals of all shapes and sizes. There's usually a wonderful Easter trail and the opportunity to have fun making a crafty souvenir to take home.
Now, that’s the children sorted, what about the adults? Holkham Hall also runs an annual Easter Food Fair which sees artisan producers flocking from all corners of the county to showcase their delicious wares. Besides tasty savoury treats, there are plenty of sweet Easter delicacies including hot cross buns, chocolate and cakes. Beers, ciders and spirits are also available to buy – the perfect nightcap to enjoy back at your holiday cottage after a fun Easter day out.
Wells-next-the-Sea cottages

Easter fun in Brighton and Hove
Brighton is a gorgeous, cosmopolitan coastal city that’s a great choice for families at any time of year. It’s especially fun at Easter though, with several Easter egg hunts on offer and other Easter activities to occupy you come rain or shine. One Garden Brighton has Easter activities throughout most of April that allow you to get hands-on and creative. The Easter Garden Trail and Garden Easter Egg Hunt are free (donations kindly received) where you can search the gardens for eggs that spell out a spring word. For older children, there are Easter and spring-themed crafts – what's not to love?
If, for you, Easter is all about chocolate, then why not visit the Brighton Cacao Company? Not only can you buy that all-important chocolatey gift for the kids (or yourself), but you’ll also be able to book in for Chocolate Heaven, a chocolate masterclass with head chocolatier, George. For another Easter chocolate-making masterclass, The Artisan Bakehouse in Ashurst (17 miles from Brighton) offers an exclusive and luxurious lesson in the creation of eye-watering Easter Eggs, Easter-themed bunny chocolates, fresh cream truffles and caramel truffles.
Brighton cottages

Meet the cuddly residents at Willows Activity Farm
Spring is all about newborn animals and getting outside in the fresh air. Willows Activity Farm in Hertfordshire has this in spades, and so much more that the kids won’t know what to do first! At this Easter extravaganza, you can meet cute little animals, including Easter chicks and lambs waiting to be bottle-fed. Then you can get creative with some arts and crafts whilst you’re waiting for the pig racing to begin. Of course, there’s an Easter egg hunt and an Easter grotto too in case you were getting any chocolate-based worries!
Peter Rabbit and friends will be putting on outdoor shows every day with a chance to meet and greet the furry critters afterwards too. And if your little ones just need to burn off a little steam, there are bouncing pillows, a Puddle Play Park, the Peter Rabbit Adventure Playground, funfair rides and an indoor soft play area. There are no additional fees once you’ve paid admission and you’re almost guaranteed a peaceful car journey home as the kids will undoubtedly fall asleep after all this excitement.
Heart of England cottages

Bounce around at River Dart Country Park
River Dart Country Park in Devon is a beautiful, natural location for a range of Easter outdoor activities. Set on the edge of rugged Dartmoor, the park is chock-full of adventure for all the family. There are adventure playgrounds, daredevil activities, a bike park, an assault course, a fort, climbing frames, canoeing and so many more Easter things to do.
Take part in the wide range of activities on site, or simply step out and ramble the scenic countryside that makes up this country park. Hire bikes and take in the beautiful spring landscape on two wheels or test yourself on the Commando Assualt Course. Let children discover the Secret Valley as you explore, hop aboard the Pirate's Ship, or see which birds they can spot from the Observation Tower.
Dartmoor cottages

Easter at the Eden Project
The iconic biomes which sit within an abandoned quarry close to St Austell in Cornwall host all manner of events all through the year, so you can be sure of a terrific range of Easter holiday activities.
You’ll need a day at the Eden Project because there’s so much to see, from the two biomes with their rainforest and Mediterranean environments to the fascinating ‘Invisible Worlds’ exhibition in the core building (still occurring at the time of writing). At Easter, the already abundant activities for children are supplemented with a springtime trail with chocolate treats, as well as other fun egg-related games.
St Austell cottages

Easter Activities at The National Botanic Garden of Wales
Head for the National Botanic Garden of Wales this Easter for beautiful spring flowers and Easter fun. Over the years, they have run Easter activities where you can meet exotic animals, join in craft workshops like fairy wand making and unicorn cupcake decorating, and there are usually mini Easter eggs for everyone! Choirs, bands and sheepdog shows add to the long list of fun entertainment they often line up.
As if that wasn't enough, the gardens themselves are bursting into life with a variety of vibrant, scented, springtime flowers to admire and their usual wonderfully cultivated collection of flora. Visit the Apothecary's Garden and Hall, the Aqualab, and explore the Arboretum to get to know the natural world during an Easter day out.
South Wales cottages

Beach cleans around the UK
Springtime is all about doing away with dirt and clutter and starting afresh and the same should go for our beautiful country too. Why not get outdoors and teach your children about how detrimental the rubbish in our oceans can be? Club together with thousands of others across the country to do your bit for our beaches and aquatic environments. Take a look at Surfers Against Sewage to find a beach clean near you or your holiday destination.
From the palm-tree-laden shores of Cornwall to the ethereal white sand of Scotland's Highland coast, beach cleans take place all around the UK. No matter which coastline you're heading to, you'll soon find a beach clean to join in, or you can simply start your own! You don't need to join a big group, get the family down to the beach for an Easter walk and spend 5 minutes cleaning up the shores while you're there. Beach cleans are Easter activities that really bring the family together.
Coastal cottages

Searching for the perfect Easter break?
We have a fabulous selection of family-friendly holiday cottages all across the UK. If you’ve spotted an event you’re interested in, browse our collection of cottages for Easter and find the perfect spot to spend the holidays with your family.
There are plenty of cottages with big gardens, perfect for hiding chocolate eggs, and retreats with contemporary kitchens so you can cook up an Easter feast! You'll soon find a wonderful place to spend your Easter within our collection.
Cottages for Easter