You are probably wondering what are the best things to do with kids near me. In this post with a help of other bloggers, I will list what we believe are the best days out with the kids. From exploring the rainforest in Cornwall, Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour to searching for dinosaurs, your kid will fall in love with all of those places. It is time for an unforgettable day with the youngest!
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Things to Do with Kids in London
Things to do With Kids Near Me – Cornwall
Cornwall is in particular one of the most child-friendly destinations in the UK. It is located in South West England on a border with the Atlantic Ocean and the English Channel, which makes it is a perfect place for a day trip in the summer. Especially, if you want to enjoy a scenic coastline in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The best days out with the kids in Cornwall include:
- Surfing Lesson in Newquay
- Blue Reef Aquarium in Newquay
- The Eden Project
- Lost Gardens of Heligan
- Flambards Theme Park
The Eden Project
Photo of the Eden Project by Kat from Wandering Bird
Place recommends Kat from Wandering Bird
If you’re on a Cornwall road trip with kids, don’t miss a visit to the spectacular Eden Project near St Austell.
The Eden Project is the site of the world’s LARGEST indoor rainforest and is an incredible place to explore.
It’s famous for the ‘bubbles’ that house the environment. The two largest are the Mediterranean climate and the indoor rainforest. Kids will be awed at the new worlds they get to explore, as well as the amount of space there is for them to run and play. There are also many species of weird and unusual plants for them to marvel at.
There’s also an ‘Infinity Blue’ attraction, where kids and adults chase the vapour rings around in the large space- it’s a great place to burn off some excess energy.
You should aim to spend at least a few hours at the Eden project and probably all day, which gives you time to explore and enjoy the attraction.
NOTE: You currently need to book a timed slot to enter, so book tickets as far in advance as possible. Even if you have an Annual Pass, you still need to book a slot. The beauty of the attraction is that the weather is mostly irrelevant, as much of it is indoors.
Prices are currently £29.50 for adults and £10 for kids (5-16). Under 5s enter free, as do any Blue Peter badge holders aged 5-16.
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay nearby, try the Premier Inn at St Austell or the Britannia Inn and Waves which has a playground on site.
Things to do With Kids Near Me – Scotland
There are plenty of amazing attractions for the family days out in Scotland. If you are looking to visit film locations of Harry Potter with your kid, you will be spoiled with choices! However, some of the best days out with the kids in Scotland also include:
- Fairy Pools in the Isle of Skye
- Hogwarts Express Tour
- Hop-on Hop-off bus tour in Edinburgh
- Old Edinburgh’s Gory Stories: Kids Underground Tour
- Dundee Science Centre
Glenfinnan Viaduct
Photo of Glenfinnan Viaduct by Kat from Biker Girl Life
Place recommends Kat from Biker Girl Life
If you are traveling around Scotland with a child who loves Harry Potter, you must make sure to visit the Glenfinnan Viaduct.
The Glenfinnan Viaduct is a huge railway bridge that spans the valley across Loch Shiel in the Scottish Highlands. It also overlooks the Glenfinnan monument.
The viaduct has been there since 1901. However, kids are much more likely to love the fact that this is the bridge where Ron and Harry almost got wiped out by the Hogwarts Express in the flying car! (Harry Potter and Chamber of Secrets)
You can visit the viaduct in one of two ways. If you’re driving or motorcycling in Scotland, you can travel there and park at the Glenfinnan museum. From here, it’s a short walk up to the viewing point or a slightly longer walk up to the foot of the viaduct. The sheer scale of the building work is impressive up close, but it might be a little too far for younger kids.
Alternatively, take a ride on the West Highland Line Steam Train. (now often incorrectly called the Hogwarts Express – but don’t tell your kids that!) This train runs from Oban to Mallaig near the Isle of Skye and you can get a return trip. This route has been voted the top rail journey in the world and kids will love it.
It’s free to park and walk to the viaduct (although there is a charge for the museum). You need to buy tickets for the train- prices vary according to season.
You can visit in any weather- riding the train is a great rainy day activity to keep kids entertained.
If you’d like to stay nearby, choose the Glenfinnan House Hotel.
Things to do With Kids Near Me – Wales
Wales has an abundance of attractions for kids. From visiting Welsh beaches to exploring medieval castles, this country is a perfect destination for a day out with the kids. Some of the best family activities in Wales include:
- The Royal Mint Experience
- 24-Hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour in Cardiff
- Plantasia Tropical Zoo in Swansea
- Greenwood Family Park, Y Felinheli
- Zip World Fforest
Portmeirion
Photo of Portmeirion
With beautiful views of Snowdonia National Park, there is a tiny, but a most colorful village in the UK. Built between 1883-and 1978 by architect Clough Williams-Ellis is one of the most child-friendly locations in the UK. The kids will fall in love with exploring a completely different world. This unique place looks more like Italy than Wales. An idea of the Italian-style village in the Welsh climate sounds crazy, but who wouldn’t want to take a siesta in this little paradise? There is plenty of space for kids to run around while you can just relax and admire the views.
Every building in the village is Grade I or Grade II listed with eye-catching colorful facades. Portmeirion is also surrounded by huge woodlands, which can be explored by train. If your kid loves train rides, then the 70 acres of forest gardens at Y Gwyllt are a fun way to explore Welsh nature. Whether you stop at Chinese Lake and walk down back to the village or enjoy a full ride, this will be an unforgettable experience.
How much are tickets in Portmeirion?
The entry fee for adults is £17.00 and £10.00 for children between 5-and 15 years old. The best way to save some money is to buy family tickets. All income from the tickets helps to preserve this beautiful location. Visiting Portmeirion is recommended during nice weather when all flowers are blooming and this place looks like from fairy tale. In summer kids can also enjoy shallow water in the center of the village, where they can walk in and play with the fountain.
Also, if you bring a scooter for your kids, they can explore Portmeirion on two wheels. They will ride around the fountains and incredible flowers. You will probably spend 2-3 hours in Portmeirion as it is a very small village. However, there are many shops and cafes so why not stay there longer for ice cream or afternoon tea?
Where to stay in Portmeirion?
If you are looking for an amazing hotel, choose 4-Star Hotel Portmeirion. It is in a stunning location with views of Welsh beaches and mountainous landscapes. The hotel’s outdoor swimming pool is just a cherry on top of the cake.
Things to do With Kids Near Me – Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom offers incredible activities for kids. Belfast in particular is one of the best places to visit on a family trip. Some of the best days out with the kids in Northern Ireland include:
- Vertigo Titanic Park
- Belfast Zoo
- Ulster Museum
- Lost City Adventure Golf
- Aunt Sandra’s Candy Factory
The Titanic Museum in Belfast
Photo of the Titanic Museum by Jori from thetejanaabroad
Place recommends Nicole from gofargrowclose
The Titanic Museum in Belfast in Northern Ireland is an enormous multi-level interactive museum. It brings to life how the Titanic was built, what passengers got to experience once onboard, and why it sank. The museum offers nine different mesmerizing sections. Those include an incredible ride that takes you into the re-creation of how the Titanic was built. It is a fantastic addition to any Belfast itinerary.
This attraction is engaging for families with children of all ages. It is also fantastic and interesting for adults as well. The price is reasonable – £13 for adults and £10 for children between 5-and 15 years old.
This activity is inside so it is a good excursion if the weather is cold or wet. In addition to the museum, you can explore the SS Nomadic, the last remaining White Star Line, and other outside exhibits. Accordingly, if this interests you, make sure you dress for the weather.
Tickets for both the Titanic Museum and the SS Nomadic are £21.50 for single adult tickets. However, there are lots of discounts for other guests, such as families of four, students, and seniors.
You must buy tickets in advance and online. They are issued for a day and time.
A fantastic hotel in Belfast is Tara Lodge. It offers different size rooms and bed configurations and an excellent breakfast. It is located in the student district so there are lots of great pubs and restaurants nearby.
Things to do With Kids Near Me – London
Visiting the capital of England with your kid can be a great experience. With so many attractions around the city, it will be hard to choose one. Some of the best days out with the kids in
Madame Tussaud’s museum of wax figures
Photo of Miley Cyrus in Madame Tussaud’s museum
Whether your kids want to see their favorite heroes from Marvel movies or famous singers, there is no better place than
You can book an online standard ticket with prices starting at £33.50. If you want to save some money and explore more amazing places with your kid in
The top quality of wax figures makes it one of the best museums in the world to visit. All details are very impressive and it is really hard to tell if that is the real person or a wax figure. There are different themes of exhibitions in Madame Tussaud’s museum. You can see some athletes, join a VIP party with Angelina Jolie or see great minds such as Albert Einstein. However, kids will love mostly Marvel’s superheroes. This quite expensive attraction in London is once in a lifetime experience.
SEA LIFE London Aquarium
Photo of jellyfish in Sea Life
If you already got a ticket for multiple attractions, you cannot miss a visit to Sea Life
You will need a maximum of 2 hours to explore Sea Life
Fascinating creatures, especially sharks will impress the youngest! Visiting, Sea Life
Things to do With Kids Near Me – East of England
If you are looking for a day out with your kid just a few hour’s drives from
- SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth
- BeWILDerwood
- Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach
- Merrivale Model Village
- Roarr! Dinosaur Adventure
BeWILDerwood Norfolk
Photo of BeWILDerwood by Mandi from bigfamilylittleadventures
Place recommends Mandi from bigfamilylittleadventures
Bewilderwood is a great family day out for all members of the family, especially if you love the outdoors. It is nestled in the rural Norfolk area of Hoveton. This place has something for everyone. From zip wires, playground equipment, rope bridges, slides you use mats with to go VERY fast, also suitable for the grown-ups too!
They have face painting, some storytimes, and a lovely cafe offering delicious homemade treats
The entire place is based around a story about the Twiggles and the Boggles. As a result of that, each activity has some link to the story. It includes a boat ride to find Mildred Crocklebog, which the children love, the story was written by the owner Tom Blofeld. You can also purchase the books in the gift shop.
Bewilderwood is a paid attraction, but it is an all-day event. In fact, you may not even get to see and do everything in one day. It’s very popular, so it’s unlikely you will find any discounts on ticket prices. The pricing is based on height, so anyone under 92cm is free and the most expensive ticket is £21.50. This is a great value for an entire day that will wear all of the children out!
It is a better experience during nice weather, but we have visited in the rain before and it’s still been fun, just very wet!
Where to stay near Bewilderwood?
There are lots of amazing places in Norfolk to stay. Bewilderwood is quite remote, so you will need a car to get there. A family-friendly accommodation can be found at Waveney River Centre for somewhere quiet, if you would prefer a holiday type park, there are various haven and Parkdean Holiday parks in the area, including Cherry Tree and Wild Duck.
Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach
Photo of the Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach by Izzy from norfolktravelguide
Place recommends Izzy from norfolktravelguide
Sitting proudly at the top of Great Yarmouth’s Golden Mile is the Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach, one of the best things to do in Great Yarmouth with kids. Sprawling across a huge nine-acre site, Great Yarmouth’s top theme park is loud, colorful, and in your face, making it the perfect place to take the kids for a day out!
With a mix of 28 thrill-seekers rides, and traditional attractions including a 1932 wooden roller coaster, a 4D cinema, gardens, amusement arcades, and food outlets, this is a full-day outing!
Whether you love the retro dodgems, the white knuckle Lightning 360, or the traditional carousel, you’ll find a ride here. Small kids will enjoy the more gentle rides, featuring Dumbo and fairy tale characters. Bigger kids will head for the newest ride, introduced for 2022, the Pendulum. It sends riders over 15 meters into the air, upside down!
Once you’ve had your fill of excitement, explore the gardens where you can play a round of crazy gold, visit the upside-down house, compete with remote control cars, and pan for gold. You’ll also find snack bars and eateries here so you can refuel for another round of rides!
Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach is open from the 26th of March to the 30th of October every year. Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach runs two sessions a day, morning and afternoon – if you want to spend the whole day, this counts as two sessions. If you’re planning on visiting more than once, then a season pass is a good way to save money.
Roarr! Dinosaur Adventure
Photo of the Roarr! Dinosaur Adventure by Mandi from eastangliafamilyfun
Place recommends Mandi from eastangliafamilyfun
Roarr! Dinosaur Adventure is a brilliant family day out in Norfolk for everyone, but especially for dinosaur fans!
There are so many different activities to take part in. It’s undoubtedly an all-day attraction, and there’s something for all ages from toddlers to teens.
There are over 25 dinosaur-themed activities, across 85 acres. It includes a giant indoor soft play area, high ropes for the teenagers, Dinosaur Trail, or live shows with Dippy The Dinosaur and Friends. In the warmer weather bring the children’s swimming things as there’s a brilliant splash zone for them to play in.
My favorite is Dippys Raceway, they are like dinosaur go-karts that you can ride on with the children and race around the track.
If you are an animal lover they have a secret animal garden which is home to lots of different animals from goats to iguanas. In addition, there is even an option to take part in an animal encounter.
Roarr! is perfect on a warm summer day with the splash zone. Lots of the activities are just as fun in bad weather, although the play area does get rather crowded if there is a downpour. But if you are prepared for inclement weather and dressed suitably, Roarr! is just as much fun in the bad weather as the good.
Roarr! is a paid-for attraction. However, if you live local they have some great offers for passes. They sometimes team up with other local attractions to offer money off if you have a season ticket for another venue.
Where to stay near Roarr! Dinosaur Adventure?
Looking for somewhere to stay near Roarr, Round The Woods Yurts and Glamping is a brilliant family-friendly option. Another option is Mundesley Holiday Village, but Norfolk has such an abundance of places to stay, that you are spoilt for choice!
Things to do With Kids Near Me –Dorset/Hampshire
Another option for a day out not far from
- Durdle Door Beach
- Moors Valley Country Park and Forest
- Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium
- Splashdown in Poole
- Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park
Moors Valley Country Park and Forest
Photo of the Moors Valley Country Park and Forest by Angela from exploring Dorset
Place recommends Angela from exploring Dorset
When you’re looking for a low-cost family day out, a country park is a great option for the whole family. Moors Valley Country Park is situated on the Dorset / Hampshire border. Parking is within a large car park at BH24 2ET, with an hour and daily charges.
You can easily spend a whole day at Moors Valley and still not see everything. From the famous Gruffalo trail, there’s also a free play trail that is accessible for pushchairs. If you don’t mind spending money when out and about, there’s also a great steam train that travels around the park. Also, the Go Ape Adventure, high nets adventures, and also Segways for hire.
Keeping the costs down is also easy when visiting if you take a picnic with you and explore the expanse of forest paths available for visitors. There are also two large play parks, suitable for both toddlers and older children.
Moors Valley is also very dog friendly if you’re perhaps holidaying in the area with your dog and looking for dog-friendly days out in the UK. They are even allowed in the restaurant area.
If you are thinking of staying in the area, with close links to both Bournemouth and Southampton, there are plenty of great family-friendly places to stay. You’ll be spoiled for choice!
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