British Seaside and Countryside Destinations for Families
Is there anything more quintessentially British than the rural domestic getaway? Whether it’s the rolling green pastures of England’s heartland, or the sprawling sands of our blustery coast, the great British staycation is exactly that – a national mainstay, and an annual rite of passage for any self-respecting family unit.
If you’re a newly-minted family unit, looking to explore family holiday options that don’t break the bank, you’re in the right place. Same deal for those of you simply looking for new destination suggestions, having exhausted yourself on the tourist-trap resorts that top every other holiday recommendation list on the internet. Here are some tips for the best places to go in Britain, as well as some bonus advice for organising the trip yourself!
Staying Practical: Accommodation, Travel & Costs
There are so many ways to skin the proverbial cat when it comes to planning such a getaway with family in tow. For maximum convenience, there are hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, and even entire cottages you could book out at your ideal destination. For the most authentic British staycation, though, what better way is there to travel than by motorhome?
Costs of pitching up at a campsite with a motorhome are minimal, as are the running costs for the motorhome itself; outside of sorting motorhome insurance and budgeting for petrol, your holiday could be as cheap as the fish and chips you buy when you arrive.
Top Seaside Towns with Something for Everyone
Britain’s coast is, in short, humongous. There are so many towns and villages worth a visit on the coast, and many more if you’re willing to get a little blown-about by the North Sea’s famous winds. Indeed, it is the North-East of England that harbours some of the best seaside towns in the nation – including Whitby, the famed inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula and a delightfully imposing fishing town besides.
If you’re after something a little less gothic, you could look to the southern coast – particularly Brighton, which boasts both conventional promenade experiences and a rich countercultural scene to excite the hip parents amongst us.
Countryside Escapes for Family Adventure
If you’re not too keen on getting sand in your shoes and salt-water in your car’s chassis, you might instead look to cosy inland destinations. Inland greenery and mountain trails both offer some incredible family-friendly pursuits from walking and wildlife to adventurous sporting fun.
The natural starting-point for such holidays would be Britain’s incredible national parks; Eryri National Park in North Wales is a beautiful swathe of forests and heaths, all surrounding Wales’ tallest mountain – an edificial sight and a stunning view to wake up to. In England, the Lake District is a smorgasbord of glacier lakes and accompanying trails, perfect for people of all skill levels.