We turned to our experienced holidaycottages.co.uk guests to reveal the happiest UK holiday destinations for families. Over 12,000 passionate travellers shared the top UK holiday destinations that have captured their hearts, and this blog showcases the results of their treasured family recommendations and the memories they hold dear.
Keep reading to discover the most cherished holiday places in the UK for families, and the family-inclusive attractions that draw them back, time and time again.
All the attractions featured have been scoped out and are full of family-friendly facilities, so expect amenities such as baby changing, pushchair accessibility, family tickets and discounts, cafes with child-friendly dining, interactive exhibits, picnic spots and play areas. We’ve done the groundwork to enable you and your crew to make the most of your UK family holiday, so all you need to remember are the wet wipes!
Which UK family-friendly destination will you explore first?
1. Discover the Isle of Wight's family-friendly magic
Why families love it: Its compact size means everything is close to hand. You won't spend hours in the car, which makes exploring easy and stress-free.
Discover the Isle of Wight, where the island's beaches, like those at Shanklin and Sandown, are made for building sandcastles and splashing in the waves together. For adventurous little ones, there’s no shortage of fun. Blackgang Chine, the UK’s oldest amusement park, is packed with thrills for kids of all ages.
Tapnell Farm Park is home to animals, soft play, and an array of outdoor attractions, including an aqua park. The must-see Dinosaur Isle Museum is a favourite for curious minds asking big questions and is well-placed near Sandham Gardens, home to go-karts, Skynets The Big Bounce and (keeping on theme) Dino Islands adventure mini golf.
A happy memory from our survey:
“On the Isle of Wight, it’s tranquil and so magical. A very unique place for a holiday for all the family, including the family pet.”
Top picks for the Isle of Wight
- Family-friendly destinations: Sandown | Ryde | Cowes | Ventnor
- When the sun is out: Spend a bucket-and-spade day on Compton Bay. The kids will love to hunt for fossils and spot the dinosaur footprints exposed at low tide.
- When the rain rolls in: Pile into Dinosaur Isle Museum and remark at the roarsome ‘locally discovered’ exhibit. If the rain breaks, head to Dino Islands: A Golf Adventure.
Family-friendly cottages on the Isle of Wight
2. Top attractions for families in Pembrokeshire
Why families love it: A delight for the whole clan, this enchanting Welsh county, with its unspoiled coastline, thrilling activities, and immersive attractions, is brimming with reasons to visit.
There’s no shortage of brilliant attractions in Pembrokeshire to keep the kids entertained. Kick off with Folly Farm, a must-visit, with everything from farmyard animals to exotic species like lions and penguins. History-loving families will enjoy exploring the many castles dotted across the county, such as Pembroke Castle, where kids can learn about knights and medieval life.
With its superb coastline, you’ll never be short of breathtaking walks or beaches boasting Blue Flag status, highlighting their cleanliness and safety, including the popular Tenby and Saundersfoot beaches. It’s easy to see why the region is one of the UK’s most popular holiday places in the UK for families.
A happy memory from our survey:
"We have visited Pembrokeshire since our children were babies, we recall happy days on the beaches, building sandcastles and paddling in the sea."
Top picks for Pembrokeshire
- Family-friendly destinations: Saundersfoot | Marloes | Broad Haven | Tenby
- When the sun is out: Spend the day on Blue Flag, Whitesands Beach. Perfect for swimming, rock pooling and sandcastle building, it also has a super handy slipway, making access with wee ones and wagons much easier.
- When the rain rolls in: The Bug Farm (yes, you read that correctly) in St Davids is a family favourite. Kids will love the interactive experiences, the bug museum, the tropical zoo and the indoor play barn.
Family-friendly cottages in Pembrokeshire
3. Explore Hampshire's best family holiday hot spots
Why families love it: It’s rich in history, packed with entertainment and natural beauty, and shines as a destination for a fun-filled family holiday.
The New Forest National Park is a paradise for families who love nature. Explore ancient woodlands, open moors, and trails on foot or by bike, stopping to see the famous free-roaming ponies. Little ones will love pond dipping, den building, and wildlife spotting.
For older kids, Paultons Park is home to thrilling rollercoasters, whilst younger sprogs will love its Peppa Pig World attraction with themed rides and character meet-and-greets. For education and fun, the Winchester Science Centre offers interactive exhibits and planetarium shows to captivate all ages. Don’t miss Marwell Zoo, where over 140 exotic species await.
A happy memory from our survey:
“When my children are happy and having adventures.”
Top picks for Hampshire
- Family-friendly destinations: Romsey | Beaulieu | Brockenhurst | Lymington
- When the sun is out: Unearth your wild side at the New Forest Wildlife Park: discover endangered species and monkey around at one of the adventure play parks, with a mini park for the younger members of your pack (under 6).
- When the rain rolls in: Take a step back in time at Milestones Museum, with over 150 years of history to explore through interactive exhibits and immersive experiences.
Family-friendly cottages in Hampshire
4. Unmissable fun in East Riding of Yorkshire
Why families love it: Nothing beats this remarkable, dramatic coastline, bursting with golden sands, safe waters, and all the offerings of classic seaside fun that families dream of.
It's no surprise East Riding of Yorkshire was voted as one of the top UK holiday destinations for families. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and family-friendly beaches, it features five Blue Flag or Seaside Award-winning spots, including Bridlington North Beach, Bridlington South Beach, and Hornsea Beach. These beaches promise clean, safe, and well-managed stretches, perfect for relaxing and exploring together.
Build sandcastle forts, enjoy an ice cream on the promenade at Bridlington, or hop on a boat trip to explore the coast; there’s plenty to keep little ones entertained. Inland, wander stretches of the Wolds National Way, climbing hills for picnics with a view, and visit Honeysuckle Farm or The Deep aquarium for up-close encounters of the furry (or scaly) variety.
A happy memory from our survey:
“Spending time with my family, just the three of us, away from the stresses of work and school, being in the moment and making memories to last a lifetime.”
Top picks for East Riding of Yorkshire
- Family-friendly destinations: Flamborough | Bridlington | Beverley | Filey
- When the sun is out: Bridlington’s beaches are unmatched for a traditional bucket-and-spade day, and if you time it right, donkey rides are available across the sand.
- When the rain rolls in: Spend the day at the award-winning aquarium, The Deep. Children will love the underwater tunnel and be wowed by the colony of gentoo penguins.
Family-friendly cottages in East Riding
5. Lancashire's must-visit family adventures
Why families love it: With its diverse range of attractions, Lancashire offers something for every family member, whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a nature lover.
Lancashire is a vibrant destination brimming with family-friendly appeal. Dive into its rich history together, kicking off with landmarks like Lancaster Castle or embark on a hands-on adventure at the Ribble Steam Railway. For families who love the outdoors, the county’s rolling countryside, scenic walking trails, and kiddo-approved parks offer endless opportunities for hiking, cycling, and picnicking.
Along the coast, places like Morecambe Bay and Blackpool promise classic seaside fun, with sandy beaches, arcades, and water sports for all ages. Add to this Lancashire’s warm hospitality, delicious local food, and a calendar packed with festivals and fairs, and you have the perfect recipe for unforgettable family memories.
A happy memory from our survey:
“My children having a great time, outdoors in the sunshine.”
Top picks for Lancashire
- Family-friendly destinations: Blackpool | Morecombe | Forest of Bowland
- When the sun is out: Roll out the beach mat, unravel the windbreak, get everyone in line for sun cream, then head out to Blackpool Beach.
- When the rain rolls in: Younger tots won’t mind the wet weather if it means a day at the Gruffalo’s Club House. With six fun, interactive and themed zones, including the Deep, Dark Wood Soft Play.
Family-friendly cottages in Lancashire
6. Experience Ceredigion's coastal charm with kids
Why families love it: Its unspoilt coastline and natural beauty, mixed with a heap of family attractions and cultural charm, make the region a dream destination.
Our second journey over to family-friendly Wales. Pack up the sandwiches and discover the enchanting Ynyslas Sand Dunes Nature Reserve. Wander across the golden dunes (with the obligatory game of hide and seek) and roam the peaceful beauty of the seashore together. Looking for adventure? Hop aboard a wildlife boat trip: SeaMor offers dolphin watching from both New Quay and Cardigan Bay.
The charm continues with cultural gems such as Aberystwyth, where the iconic Vale of Rheidol Railway delivers verdant views that captivate all ages, as well as an engine shed display room for any keen Thomas the Tank Engine fans amongst your brood. Call in for an ice cream at Aberaeron and visit its pebble-strewn beach expanse during low tide: the perfect playground for a competitive family pebble tower competition.
A happy memory from our survey:
“Walking and playing with my children on the beach, surrounded by family and sunshine and the sound of the sea. It soothes my soul.”
Top picks for Ceredigion
- Family-friendly destinations: Aberaeron | Aberystwyth | New Quay | Cardigan
- When the sun is out: With golden sands and the biggest population of dolphins in Britain, the whole family will make memories to cherish on a boat trip from New Quay.
- When the rain rolls in: Head underground (no, really!) on a tour of the Victorian mine at The Silver Mountain Experience, with the A Dragon’s Tale tour for under 3s.
Family-friendly cottages in Ceredigion
7. Unforgettable family adventures in Cornwall
Why families love it: With the coast never far from reach, Cornwall boasts a vibrant mix of fun, adventure, and discovery – and it’s shrouded in proud heritage.
It's no wonder this region is a popular destination for UK family holidays, thanks to its huge choice of family-friendly beaches. And with family attractions abound, from the awe-inspiring Eden Project to wildlife encounters at Paradise Park or Newquay Zoo, Cornwall offers no end of opportunities for a memory-making family day out. For a cultural twist, step back in time at Tintagel Castle or make a stop-off for a traditional Cornish pasty or a cream tea.
Sheltered by the Lizard Peninsula, Blue-Flag Gyllyngvase Beach is a firm favourite with families. Its calm waters are ideal for an introduction to water sports, so why not book a group SUP lesson for a fun, family-friendly activity in Cornwall? Have a go at crabbing in Looe, or take the bikes and trikes out along the traffic-free Camel Trail. Venture across the Burmese rope bridge, found in The Jungle at The Lost Gardens of Heligan, perfect for little explorers.
A happy memory from our survey:
“Sat on Castle Beach, pasty in hand, watching my children be carefree and enjoying the best of what the UK has to offer.”
Top picks for Cornwall
- Family-friendly destinations: Newquay | Padstow | Falmouth | Bude
- When the sun is out: Take the cricket set to Porthtowan Beach for an afternoon of fun on the soft sands. There’s also a great little enclosed play park close to the car park.
- When the rain rolls in: With plenty of indoor viewing areas, kids can admire rescued seals and a puffin colony while learning about marine life through the interactive exhibits at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary.
Family-friendly cottages in Cornwall
8. Fossil hunts and family fun in Dorset
Why families love it: Boasting sandy shores, the iconic Jurassic Coast, a bounty of thrilling attractions, and a rich history, Dorset is a prime location for family fun.
Popular Dorset is home to stunning beaches. Weymouth and Swanage are perfect for paddling, building sandcastles, and soaking up the sun on lazy beach days. The remarkable Jurassic Coast invites budding explorers to hunt for fossils and uncover millions of years of history.
Beyond the shoreline, there is so much more on offer in Dorset, which boasts incredible attractions for all ages. Visit Monkey World to meet rescued primates or explore the fascinating Tank Museum for hands-on history. Lulworth Cove offers breathtaking scenery and perfect picnicking spots to roll out the mat, while Abbotsbury Swannery charms visitors with its graceful residents. Add a morning exploring the 1,000-year-old ruins of Corfe Castle, and you have a holiday packed with unforgettable memories for the whole family.
A happy memory from our survey:
“Sitting on Swanage Pier watching the sun set over the cliffs across the bay with my fish and chips in my lap and the grandchildren excitedly catching crabs in their crabbing nets.”
Top picks for Dorset
- Family-friendly destinations: Weymouth | Swanage | West Bay | Durdle Door
- When the sun is out: The rock cliffs at Charmouth and Lyme Regis contain a treasure trove of fossils waiting to be uncovered by promising palaeontologists.
- When the rain rolls in: Prepare to amaze young minds with the Etches Collection of fossils, including sea monsters and prehistoric predators from over 150 million years ago, at the Museum of Jurassic Marine Life.
Family-friendly cottages in Dorset
9. Norfolk's waterways, beaches and family attractions
Why families love it: It offers the best of both worlds for water-based activities, with a vast stretch of coastline and tranquil waterways inland.
Norfolk is an idyllic family-friendly holiday destination bursting with charm and adventure. Its stunning beaches, such as Holkham and Mundesley, are perfect for paddling, building sandcastles, and enjoying coastal walks. The Norfolk Broads National Park offers a unique experience, where families can hire a boat and explore picturesque waterways teeming with wildlife.
Thrills abound at attractions like BeWILDerwood, a magical woodland adventure park for fairy-loving sprites, or the retro fun of Great Yarmouth’s seaside amusements. History comes alive at Norwich Castle and the historic streets of King’s Lynn, while local nature reserves provide endless opportunities for exploration. Norfolk brims with opportunities for an unforgettable getaway, standing out as one of the top holiday places in the UK for families.
A happy memory from our survey:
“Spending time with my family in the woods in Norfolk, watching my children find cool sticks and climb trees.”
Top picks for Norfolk
- Family-friendly destinations: Hunstanton | Cromer | Wells-next-the-Sea | Blakeney
- When the sun is out: Skipper your own vessel with your crewmates by your side, and spend a memorable day sailing the 125 miles of lock-free waterways of the Broads.
- When the rain rolls in: Spend a few hours underwater (well, there is an ocean tunnel) at SEA LIFE Hunstanton. Kids of all ages will enjoy the marine wildlife exhibits, including Penguin Beach and the Discovery Pool.
Family-friendly cottages in Norfolk
10. Lincolnshire's hidden gems for happy families
Why families love it: A gem for family getaways, the region combines adventure with unspoilt coastlines, charming seaside attractions and natural beauty.
Lincolnshire’s unspoiled beaches, such as the 2 miles of soft sands at Mablethorpe, are perfect for a (slightly) more relaxed day at the beach, with plenty of opportunities for sandcastle competitions, paddling, and kite flying. Skegness, meanwhile, is more sought after for offering a traditional seaside experience with its pleasure beach and pier.
Families can step back in time and explore the medieval walls of Lincoln Castle. Nature lovers will adore the wildlife at Gibraltar Point Nature Reserve, while adventure seekers can enjoy thrilling attractions like Fantasy Island, which also has plenty of rides for younger ones. From historic market towns to wide-open countryside, a holiday in Lincolnshire delivers endless opportunities for unforgettable family moments.
A happy memory from our survey:
“Watching my children play on a nice beach, either building sandcastles, playing boules with their grandad or flying their kites.”
Top picks for Lincolnshire
- Family-friendly destinations: Skegness | Cleethorpes | Lincolnshire Wolds | Mablethorpe
- When the sun is out: Make happy memories with your gang at Cleethorpes Boating Lake. Take a picnic, dig in the sandpit, feed the ducks and splash in the open-air swimming pool, before hiring a rowing boat or pedalo and hitting the water.
- When the rain rolls in: Toddlers, pre-schoolers and creative youngsters will adore discovering the world through play at Miller’s Wood Play Village. Featuring a teashop, ranger’s office, school and more.
Family-friendly cottages in Lincolnshire
Find your family's happy place
Now that you’ve had a taste of the top UK holiday destinations for families, as voted by guests, the only thing left to do is start planning your own adventure. A UK family holiday promises lasting memories and endless opportunities to connect with your loved ones. Search our family-friendly UK holiday cottages below or our Showcase Collection: Kid's Choice, which spotlights our handpicked selection of uber child-friendly escapes with extra special features in a number of the destinations from this blog. Start making those cherished family moments today.
Family holidays UK
Written by Laurie Baker
Content Writer & Researcher
A proud resident of North Devon. If I’m not writing about our glorious isle, strolling the local coast path or in mum mode, you’ll find me curled up with a romance book and a cuppa.
Read more about the author