Hit the road! 50+ family attractions worth visiting this summer
From cool castles and funky farms to adventure parks and safaris – here are 50 unmissable family day trips to tick off your list around the Muddy counties
BEDFORDSHIRE BUCKINGHAMSHIRE BERKSHIRE CAMBRIDGESHIRE CORNWALL DERBYSHIRE DEVON DORSET ESSEX GLOUCESTERSHIRE HAMPSHIRE ISLE OF WIGHT HERTFORDSHIRE KENT LEICESTERSHIRE NORFOLK NORTHAMPTONSHIRE NOTTINGHAMSHIRE OXFORDSHIRE RUTLAND SOMERSET SUFFOLK SURREY SUSSEX LONDON CHESHIRE YORKSHIRE WARWICKSHIRE WILTSHIRE WORCESTERSHIRE
HERTFORDSHIRE
Cloud 9, Hemel Hempstead
What could be better than a HUGE indoor inflatable park, packed with Gladiator-style games, dodgeball, surf simulator, obstacle course, Nerf gun shooting gallery, last man standing and more? Erm… how about one that has a licenced bar that serves cocktails and tasty food and has bar games for adults – think interactive darts, pool and shuffleboard, plus TV screens showing sports and the chance to book a private Karaoke party to boot. This really is one for the WHOLE family. Tickets from £13.50 for an hour, or buy a school holiday ticket for £19 to cover you for a day of fun.
Hertfordshire Zoo, Broxbourne
Didn’t know Herts had its own zoo? This Muddy Award-winning family attraction has been recently re-branded from its former life as Paradise Wildlife Park and has bags of fun for all ages on offer. Open all year with access to a mega menagerie of wildlife from big cats and primates to a world of birds, reptiles and amphibians and even farmyard animals. You may also recognise it from BBC’s One Zoo Three, which is filmed here. Plus there are keeper talks and seasonal events, from the Summer Lates to a Christmas Grotto. AND, don’t miss the life-size animatronic dinosaurs in the World of Dinosaurs. There’s also a softplay, beach zone, Rex express train, adventure golf and, for the dads and granddads, the National Speedway Museum (random, I hear you think, but the zoo’s owner used to be a Speedway racer!).
BERKSHIRE
Bucklebury Farm & Deer Safari Park, nr Reading
For a day out that’s farmy, fun, and just pretty darn fabulous, you’ll want to head to Bucklebury Farm – just a quick 30 minute zip outside Reading. It’s home to so many furry friends, Old McDonald would have a field day. Pigs, sheep, donkeys, goats, ponies, and rabbits to name a few. But its most famous residents are the four breeds of majestic deer that freely roam the estate. Hop on a tractor safari, and brush antlers with them. Afterwards, the kids can let off some steam on the brilliant indoor and outdoor play areas complete with zip wire, obstacle courses, and go karts. Fancy an overnighter? There’s five rustic glamping tents to rest your head under the stars too.
LEGOLAND, Windsor
Block out the diary! Folk travel for miles around to get their creative chops on this brick-tastic day out. LEGOLAND is packed with stuff for kids of all ages to enjoy, from the epic roller coasters to the giant LEGO Brick City, interactive activities, and Adventure Golf. Make a weekend of it. New for 2024, the Woodland Village has recently opened with 150 lodges that sleep 2-5 people, plus 10 premium options that host up to 7. The high octane Minifigure Speedway ride has literally just opened too. Plus, the special Ninjas Unite summer event is currently on until 2 Sep where budding ninjas can put their skills to the test, enjoy exhilarating live shows, and meet their favourite characters.
CORNWALL
The Lost Gardens of Heligan, Pentewan
Once overgrown, lost to the brambles of time, the 200 acres of garden and estate at The Lost Gardens of Heligan has been beautifully and gradually restored – perfect for the whole family to explore. Explore the Victorian Productive Gardens and Pleasure Grounds, winding your way along paths laid out over two centuries ago. Further into the estate discover The Jungle: a sub-tropical journey through bamboo tunnels and under majestic tree ferns, giant rhubarb and bananas, and across one of the UK’s longest Burmese Rope Bridges in Britain, stretching 100 feet above ancient tree ferns and across the Jungle floor. Explore the Jungle Giants trail and enjoy the massive outside playground on the East Lawns – and on selected evenings, you can try this out by night too and enjoy food and drink and the sunset. Elsewhere on the estate you’ll find the lost world of traditional and rare breeds, wildlife and ancient woodlands.
Trebah Gardens, Helford
Peaceful solitude or outdoor family adventure – there’s something for all visitors at the beautiful sub-tropical gardens of Trebah on the banks of the Helford River near Falmouth on the south coast. One of Cornwall’s Great Gardens, Trebah is a magical year-round delight. Steeped in heritage, creativity and the spirit of innovation, four miles of footpaths wind through dazzling exotic planting down to the shores of the Helford River and Trebah’s private beach, with many secret garden corners waiting to be discovered, and even a unique outdoor theatre – with all manner of child centric outdoor theatre on offer this summer. Little ones will enjoy the dedicated play space, older visitors the plant shop, and everyone the programme of events across the year, including family adventures and peaceful solitude. Dogs are welcome on leads, and although the steep valley isn’t ideal for manual wheelchairs, Tramper mobility vehicles are available to hire from 10am for all day use when pre-booked. All visitors enjoy free entry to Trebah Kitchen, as well as the new walled Court Garden, the plant centre and shop and with admission don’t miss the Boathouse Beach Café down on the shore of the Helford.
St Nectan’s Glen, Nr Tintagel, Cornwall
Just down the coast from the rugged romantic windswept Tintagel Castle, leave behind Arthur, Tristan and Isolde, and journey instead through temperate Atlantic rainforest and woodland. Here nature, rather than history, has shaped one of Cornwall’s most unspoilt hidden corners. This is the sacred spiritual site of St Nectan’s Glen. Here the river Trevillet has carved its way through Late Devonian slate, created a magnificent 60 foot waterfall and punched a hole through the original kieve (basin). Water now cascades through the beautiful valley with the waterfall accessible via the woodland walk which is approximately one mile long, and is said to have healing properties.
DEVON
The Box Museum, Gallery & Archive, Plymouth
Plymouth’s multimillion museum has much to educate and entertain, kicking off with the huge ship’s figureheads weighing a collective 20 tonnes hanging at the entrance. Mooch around the permanent galleries for an insight into Plymouth’s naval and wartime history, including an immersive film voiced by Dawn French where you feel part of the maritime action. Marvel at the full-size replica of a woolly mammoth which once lived around these parts and a gleaming glass gallery devoted to a natural history collection featuring 1,000 pickled marine creatures. There’s even a media lab where you can try your hand at being a TV presenter in front of a green screen. All free, except for some of the visiting exhibitions.
RHS Garden Rosemoor, Great Torrington
With 65 acres of life-affirming gardens, and just 15 minutes from the Atlantic Highway, here’s the perfect cross-generational family crowd-pleaser. Far from being all formality, there are two dedicated play areas suited to young and older kids; the Brash has a slide, sandpit, bug magnifiers and climbing features, or pack them off to The Copse to make, er, beautiful, music on the spiro-giro musical pipe. The paths are buggy-friendly, or if you’re with parents who’re not so good on their pegs, hire a tramper. Not forgetting a number of excellent eateries, and there’s the August Flower Show in August. Family tickets £38.10.
Little Orchard Alpacas, Axminster
Bored of the zoo? These alpaca walks and experiences suit all ages from 5+, ranging from a very easy alpaca ramble around a Devon orchard to longer walks around the woodland. Having fed these amiable creatures their fruit and grass nuts, it’s your turn for a treat: tasty cakes and cream tea, all homemade by their knowledgable owner, Vic who cares for this 21-strong herd at her family-run alpaca farm. They’ll even come to you – by appointment – they’re polite like that. It’s Muddy-approved, naturally – read our rave review. From £22.50pp.
DORSET
Dorset Adventure Park, Corfe Castle
Tackle giant floating obstacle courses on two lakes surrounded by 18-acres of woodland with the ruins of Corfe Castle as a backdrop – for kids and adults alike. Want to get muddy as well as wet? Slip, slide and clamber under and over 50 obstacles along their 2km mud trail. You can hire wetsuits and shoes, bring a picnic or buy burger and chips from the snack shack.
Monkey World, Wareham
Go meet some of your closest relatives in the 65-acre ape rescue centre, which provides sanctuary for hundreds of rescued (from labs, circuses, pet shops, etc) and endangered primates from around the world. Maybe you’ve seen it on TV? A series filmed at the centre is currently airing on Sky Nature. Your little monkies can also swing around on three adventure playgrounds, follow trails and get refuelled in two cafès.
SOMERSET
Cheddar Gorge & Caves, Cheddar
The gorge itself is spectacular – craggy limestone peaks, wild flowers, goats – and the views from the walks around the top are breathtaking. Go underground to two of Britain’s oldest show caves filled with stalagmites and stalactites and where Cheddar Man, the UK’s oldest complete skeleton at 10,000 years old, was found. You can also go caving, climbing, try and get out of their escape rooms, visit the museum. Over the summer hols, you can discover what it was like to live as a prehistoric person in Caveman Curiosity, with talks, demos, quizzes and trails, until 1 Sept.
The Holburne Museum, Bath
The former Georgian party house in the centre of Bath was the city’s first public art gallery. Today it houses a permanent exhibition of fine and decorative arts from the collection of Sir William Holburne and an exciting and eclectic temporary programme of exhibitions and events. No stuffy museum, this year’s exhibitions include internationally renowned artist and internet sensation Mr Doodle AKA Sam Cox (above), until Sun 1 Sep, Henry Moore in Miniature, until Sun 8 Sep, Holburne Museum’s Family Art Camps until 9 Aug – and there’s a great little cafè.
ESSEX
Braintree Village
Braintree Village’s mix of must-have big labels, great dining and memorable experiences makes for a great day out in Essex. During August it’s launching a brand-new open-air summer cinema showing family-friendly films including Wonka and Encanto. To keep little ones entertained you can also stop by the outlet’s Creative Club for free arts and crafts activities until 1 Sep. What’s more, Braintree Village is dog-friendly, so your woofer doesn’t have to miss out on the family fun! The businesses that welcome well-behaved dogs into their premises display an icon in their window, so are easily recognised. Parents are also spoilt for choice, as Braintree Village is home to more than 70 premium brands – all with up to 60% off the RRP. Shop classic designer favourites such as Polo Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein and Kate Spade New York, alongside high-street heroes including Monsoon, Reiss and French Connection. Then, if you want to grab something to eat, the outlet has restaurants such as The Real Greek, Pizza Express and Bill’s, alongside grab-and-go options from the likes of Pret and Cornish Bakery.
Markshall Arboretum & Gardens
Set between Braintree and Colchester, Markshall Arboretum & Gardens ticks all the boxes for a family day out. Dating more than 1,000 years, the landscape offers visitors a journey through diverse landscapes and ecosystems, while at the heart there’s a living library of global trees, where rare specimens thrive. For younger visitors, there’s natural play areas and Percy’s Play & Picnic Paddock, where imaginations run wild amid the fallen logs, climbing frames and secret hideaways. Then, after a day exploring, unwind at the Honywood Tearoom, where hot and cold drinks await, plus breakfasts and lunches (we’ve got our eye on the cheesy fries) and afternoon tea. They even have plenty of local events on, from local singers to a magnificent December light trail not to be missed.
GLOUCESTERSHIRE
Cotswold Farm Park, Cheltenham
Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park will keep you cooing for hours. Kids will love the Animal Barn where there are animals a-plenty to pet. Listen to talks from keepers and have a go at lamb and goat bottle-feeding (hold on tight, they get hungry) or go to the chick hatching barn. Younger ones will love the playground and Dolly’s Den play area, then go on a Family Farm Safari ride. In August visit the glorious Flower Fields where you can pick your own sunflowers to take home.
Cotswold Country Park and Beach, South Cerney
Pack the sunscreen and swimmies, this is one of the best family days out in the Cotswolds. Boasting the UK’s largest inland sandy beach, with a beautiful large lagoon and mini-childrens’ lagoon. Get stuck into watersports, boating, kayaking or SUP then have a round of mini golf and pedal go-karts. There is a high adrenaline AquaVenture inflatable course too, this bouncy mountain of fun is the largest of its kind in the region. After all that exertion relax with a picnic by the shore, or hire a BBQ and make it a party with friends or family.
WORCESTERSHIRE
Broadway Tower & Museum, Broadway
Broadway Tower & Park is a top English Heritage day out, set on a 200-acre estate of parkland. Your ticket includes all you need for a memorable day – Tower Museum with roof platform and the Deer Park where you can book for a deer feed-and-greet encounter. Explore the fascinating and quirky nuclear bunker and then hire a bike, trailer or e-bike from Tower Barn and whizz around one of the stunning cycling trails. Refuel at Broadway Tower’s Morris & Brown or the Espresso Bar café or tuck into a family picnic.
HAMPSHIRE
Beaulieu, New Forest
Home to the National Motor Museum, this historic estate has everything from F1 and Supercars to Chitty, Chitty Bang Bang, a giant Outspan orange car and the Only Fools and Horses Trotter family Robin Reliant. Kids will love the monorail and Little Beaulieu adventure playground.
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Portsmouth
Ahoy, shipmates! Explore 500 years of naval history by the water, including the Victorian flagship, HMS Warrior, Vice-Admiral Lord Nelson’s world-famous flagship, HMS Victory, and the amazing Mary Rose Museum, home to the largest collection of Tudor artefacts in the world. (Be sure to catch the 4D cinema experience showing how she was reclaimed from the Solent). If they’re not worn out after all that, take the kids to Action Stations to scale the rock wall and take on the Commando assault course.
ISLE OF WIGHT
Tapnell Farm Park, Yarmouth
Overlooking the sea in the beautiful West Wight, Tapnell Farm Park is a full family day out with a superb seasonal calendar of events and year-round go-karts, jumping pillows, sledge slides and straw barn. Meet all creatures great and small – including cheeky meerkats and super cute wallabies. If you fancy making a holiday of it, stay at one of the well-kitted out eco glamping lodges or farm cottages.
KENT
Elmley Nature Reserve, Isle of Sheppey
An internationally recognised site for the the conservation of rare birds, plants, animals and insects, Elmley is positioned on the edge of the Isle of Sheppey and is the only family-owned and managed National Nature Reserve in the country where you can stay overnight. And this summer sees the launch of two new bespoke cabins which are perfect for family fun. The most spacious in the collection, they are each able to accommodate up to two adults, and two children (under 10). With kingsize beds, pull-out double beds, indoor wood burners, kitchenettes, and en suite shower rooms, as well as outdoor roll top baths, and fire pits for toasting marshmallows, they have been thoughtfully designed to highlight the extraordinary nature setting, whilst offering guests a stylish escape.
Hever Castle, Hever
There’s so much to love about this historic destination, read about the full summer line up here – with something for everyone from Falconry Displays, a Supercar Weekend and the annual Summer Jousting Tournaments on weekends from now until Sun 1 Sep, to a Yew Maze and a Water Maze (perfect for cooling off). We especially love the elaborate play areas which include Acorn Dell, a natural playground for toddlers and children up to seven years old, or for older children there’s the brilliantly interactive fort, called Tudor Towers, an adventure playground aimed at children 7-14 years old. These are superb for getting their imagination going and inspiring interactive play.
Port Lympne Safari Park, Hythe
Home to the county’s only safari experience, as well as over 900 animals across 75 species – this wildlife park and breeding sanctuary offers a range of animal encounters as well as a huge raft of brilliant accommodation options. Jump on board a safari truck, included in your entry ticket and travel through the Reserve’s South American, Asian and African Experiences spotting amazing animals along the way, including Kent’s only giraffe herd, camels, bears, zebra and many more. There’s plenty of wonderful walking routes to explore too, where animal enthusiasts can see big cats, including the resident lion pride and playful cubs, gorillas, monkeys, lemurs, black rhino and tapir to name a few. Plus, dino-mad kids will love the UK’s largest outdoor dinosaur exhibition – with life-sized prehistoric creatures on site too.
LEICESTERSHIRE
Belvoir Castle, Grantham
The outdoor wooden playground at Belvoir Castle is sprawled across four acres of gorgeous greenery and nestled within the castle grounds. It features hidden tunnels, climbing walls, four slides, a zip line, an enormous pirate ship and is perfect for all ages. Head across the road to The Engine Yard retail shopping village, hike up to the spectacular castle and explore the gardens.
The National Space Centre, Leicester
The iconic National Space Centre in Leicester, with it’s 42m tall Rocket Tower, is easily a full day of fun activities for all ages to enjoy, with interactive galleries, the UK’s largest Planetarium, and a low Earth orbit cruise included in your ticket, plus science busking, talks and workshops. The glass elevator to the galleries at top of the tower is quite the experience too.
RUTLAND
Aqua Park Rutland, Rutland Water
Head to the shores of Rutland Water, where you’ll find the phenomenal Aqua Park Rutland. Open between May and September, it’s a water park for ages 6 and up where you can do flips off the Tornado Tower and brave cliff jumps, blast bags, giant slides, monkey bars and balance beams, it’s an adrenaline fuelled day out for groups, families, adults and kids, who might even fall asleep in the car in the way home. Win. Now you just need a gorgeously sunny day to enjoy it.
NORTHAMPTONSHIRE
Silverstone Museum
If you think this cutting edge motorsports heritage museum will appeal only to petrol heads and F1 addicts then think again. It’s thoughtful, engaging and pays homage to Silverstone’s historic legacy, not just in terms of motor sports, but also further back (think medieval abbey, RAF base and rural farming). Obviously there is also loads of fabulous racing paraphernalia to gorge on too, with cars dating back through motorsports history right up to Lewis Hamilton’s F1 winning Mercedes and plenty of adrenaline junkie fun to be had.
Stanwick Lakes, Stanwick
Craving a wide open space to revel in the great outdoors, burn off some energy and enjoy the natural surroundings and resident wildlife? Escape the rat race and head to gorgeous Stanwick Lakes, a bucolic nature reserve in 750 acres, with a diverse range of habitats and an abundance of wildlife. Kids will love the adventure playground, assault course and adventure trail, whilst families can enjoy the cycle trails (you can hire bikes on site), walking routes, walkers refreshment kiosk, lakeside cafe and strikingly designed, low carbon usage visitor centre.
SUFFOLK
The National Horseracing Museum, Newmarket
Trot along to this family-friendly museum in central Newmarket with the whole family this summer to learn fascinating facts about horseracing history through exhibitions, immersive activities, and an exciting schedule of events. You don’t have to be into horses to have fun here – plus there’s loads on for kids, think art and craft workshops, al fresco music performances in the King’s Yard, Shetland pony racing and a race horse simulator to have a go on. To top it off there’s the The Tack Room restaurant that serves meals using the region’s finest seasonal produce and The Bakery for pre-order picnic boxes as well as pastries, cakes and bakes.
Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park, near Ipswich
Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park, winner of Best Family Attraction in the National Muddy Awards 2024, is a fabulous day out for the whole family. There’s the wildlife park with over 80 species and breeds including traditional, rare and exotic animals from crocodiles, camels and capybara to pigs, and guinea pigs. There’s also the WonderWood – a magical play area for den building as well as the land of the ancient dinosaurs. Each summer you can even camp with dinosaurs if that’s your kids passion! Adults will enjoy the restaurant, vegetable and flower gardens, as well as the freshly made pizzas in the rustic woodland pub. You can also pick up some local treats from the brilliant farm shop, and gift, clothing and crafts shops on your way out.
CAMBRIDGESHIRE
Johnson’s of Old Hurst, Huntingdon
Johnson’s of Old Hurst is a sustainable family attraction that has something for everyone and you can while away several very enjoyable hours here. There’s a large and bountiful farm shop with a butchery full of meat directly from the farm. They also sell exotic meats – ostrich, crocodile, buffalo and unusually python. Kids will love visiting the crocodile and alligator farm (one of the only ones in the country). There’s also the zoological gardens where you can see wallabies, macaws, lizards, snakes, owls, cattle, deer and buffalo. Once you’ve had your animal adventure check out the on-site cafe or steakhouse, and then burn off energy at the excellent play area. For summer 2024 there’s also a big top circus on site from 15 – 25 Aug.
Ferry Meadows, Peterborough
Want to get kids off screens and into the fresh air. There’s nowhere quite like Ferry Meadows for wholesome fun – over 658 acres of gorgeous country park with walking routes, cycling trails and water-based activities galore. It’s not just open space though, there’s a visitor centre and two cafés, play areas, Nene Outdoors Watersports and Activity Centre (where you can hire swan or dragon pedalos, kayaks and paddleboards, and sign up for courses and clubs), as well as an adventure railway and a camp site. New for summer 2024 there’s an outdoor theatre and cinema event, Summer Nights, with plenty of family-friendly options.
SURREY
Godstone Farm, Godstone
From animal encounters and dinosaur trails to camping and Surrey’s biggest soft play, Godstone Farm serves up a feast of activities every summer. Located in beautiful open countryside just outside the pretty town of Godstone, and only a short trot away from junction 9 of the M25, there’s plenty to fill a full day at the farm. There are more than 500 animals including highland cows, reptiles, llamas, giant rabbits, horses, goats, pigs, and more, plus an Animal Interactions Barn where you can get up close to furry and feathered friends. It’s home to Surrey’s largest soft play, and there’s a huge outdoor adventure playground too, plus The World of Dinosaur Roar! Discovery Trail.
Hobbledown, Epsom
A world of mystical fun awaits at Hobbledown in Epsom. Based on the children’s book written by Angela Kecojevi, Hobbledown is an adventure park with a difference. Visit the farm and zoo where you’ll find a wide collection of animals from armadillos to meerkats, capybara to camels. Then pop into the Thinkery performance space is where you can meet the real-life Hobbledown characters, including Fern the Fairy, Professor Topperpot, and Huck, Tipp and Eliza the Hobblers. Special events are held in the Thinkery including storytelling and educational animal sessions. For those who like adventure, there’s a high ropes course plus Fern’s Castle with tunnels, towers, slides and a dragon at the top. Hobbledown’s sister site, Hobbledown Heath in Hounslow is also worth a visit with four themed villages: Buckbridge Market, Cribble Creek, Wilderness Wood and The Mining Village, which are set in over 100 acres of beautiful woodland and meadows.
SUSSEX
Weald & Downland Living Museum, Chichester, West Sussex
Step back in time into the Anglo-Saxon era (crikey, that’s old) at this replica village where you and the brood will discover over 50 rescued rural buildings spanning 950 years. Throughout the summer there’s outdoor theatre, a toddler club, special trails and demonstrations all themed around live in rural South East England over 1,000 years ago. Each property has been relocated and painstakingly rebuilt within beautiful parkland in the South Downs near Chichester – and things come to life as you hear stories of the people who lived and worked in the buildings. You’ll want to spend a whole day here, walking in the woods, bring your own picnic and dogs are welcome too. When it’s time, kids can play hide and seek in the real homes and workplaces of bygone centuries and it’s all in one gorgeous setting.
Pooh’s, Piglet’s and Owl’s houses, Ashdown Forest, East Sussex
Famously the home of a certain Winnie The Pooh, in the Ashdown Forest you can go on a treasure hunt to find Pooh, Piglet and Owl’s houses, hiding in the trees. There’s also Pooh Sticks bridge and further up into Hatfield is Pooh Corner and themed tea room and museum dedicated to the bear and his pals. It’s also a former deer-hunting forest and still hosts a few Bambi today. For adults (well, kids are welcome too) we suggest The Dorset Arms, Withyham – right on the edge of the forest. The pub’s owner, Earl De La Warr, regularly pops by and if you’re lucky, he’ll share how his father used to play with Christopher Robin and his toy bear in the ‘100 Acre Wood.’
WEST MIDLANDS
The Wave, Coventry
For an absolute screamathon then you’re going to want to head to this state-of-the-art waterpark right in the heart of the city. At the centre are six exhilarating high octane slides with light and sound features, from the Torrent – which drops riders 20 metres – to rollercoaster rides like the Cyclone ending in the plunge pool and the Wave Pool. Also for younger swimmers there’s the Reef; a splash pad area with jets, tipping buckets and smaller accessible slides for toddlers, along with the lazy river and wave pool churning more than over 20 million litres of water a day. Sound a bit too much for you? If they’re old enough to leave then sneak off to the onsite Mana Spa for a few hours of downtime.
Black Country Living Museum, Dudley
Step more than 250 years back in time at this open air museum of rebuilt historic buildings and costumed actors and staff. See the horse and carts trot by as you explore the carefully preserved shops, workhouses and homes. Take part in a 1912 school lesson, become a miner, and whatever you do, make time you try the fish and chips. Bostin’!
WARWICKSHIRE
Warwick Castle, Warwick
We all like a wander around a historic old castle – but not all castles are created equal (there’s only so long a pile of ruins will keep them occupied…). Warwick Castle is one of the exceptions – there’s dungeons, spooky tours, mazes and a Zog playground for little ones. Did I forget the jousting, pyrotechnic displays on the castle walls and host of foodie events it puts on? If you fancy making a night of it there’s the Knights Village for glamping and luxury lodges or the new Warwick Castle Hotel.
Lucky Tails Alpaca Farm, Atherstone
Now this is pretty much a guaranteed animal-lover hit! Alpacas, donkeys, meerkats, baby rabbits — all the fuzzy farmyard (and, er, savannah) cuteness you could ask for, in one well-organised and friendly place. It makes for a dreamy family trip: a hint of education and a hefty dose of cuteness, with the thrill of walking a fluffy alpaca (and posing for selfies), or meeting a curious meerkat.
WILTSHIRE
Longleat, Warminster
Tucked away on the Wiltshire-Somerset border, Longleat makes for a stonking day out. First up, there’s the safari park, legendary for its lions and other big cats. Drive through rolling fields and sprawling outdoor enclosures, where you’ll spot everything from giraffes to African wild dogs, monkeys and wolves. Once that box is ticked, you’ll still find shedloads to entertain the family for the rest of the day. Pop to the walk-through safari to see cuddly koalas, meerkats and handfeed the brightly-coloured lorikeets, then jump on a boat and look out for seals in the lake. There’s a fab adventure playground too, plus (for the summer) Jungle Mania, a mammoth inflatable. With 400ft of twists, turns and tunnels, this is a great one for the kids to burn off steam. Dinosaur fan in the family? Head to the Longhouse, where you’ll find vast animatronic dinosaurs until 1 Sep. Day tickets to Longleat cost from £32.50, and you can find out more here. If you fancy making it an overnighter, check out nearby Fairwood Lakes Holiday Park.
Bowood House & Gardens, Calne
Bowood House & Gardens is a firm Muddy fave, thanks to the adrenaline-fuelled Adventure Playground, mile-long lake and fab al fresco events. Home of the Marquis and Marchioness of Lansdowne, the house is set within 100 acres of landscaped ‘Capability’ Brown parkland. But for the kids, it’s all about the vast Adventure Playground with its life-sized pirate ship, scramble nets, ariel walkways and steep slides. If that sounds a bit spicy, head to the Partridge Play Area, which is specifically for under 7s. There you’ll find a boat swings, a ball pit and jumping pillow too. If role play is more their bag, you’ll find a mini farm shop, farm yard and café in the Activity Barn. Here for an overnighter? Bowood also has tons of summer events, including the annual Wiltshire Game and Country Fair on 10 and 11 Aug, and lashings of al fresco theatre. Alternatively, get organised and book your brood into one of Mud & Guts’ outdoorsy sessions, which include delights such as den building, fire lighting, tree climbing and rope swinging. Family tickets to Bowood cost from £42, find out more here.
LONDON
Tate Modern, South Bank
A modern art museum and children don’t always go hand-in-hand, but Tate on the South Bank is exceptional. Muddy’s taken the kids here many times and they’ve always loved it, whether that’s rolling down the slope in the enormous Turbine Hall (yes it’s allowed, we’ve put it to the test!) to using the digital sketch pads on Level 3 to create their own art, which is then projected on the wall (you can even order a T-shirt of the design so they can wear their creation at home). Older kids are going to want to get involved in the exhibitions too, for example this summer sees artist Oscar Murillo transform the Turbine Hall into a vast painting garden, with everyone encouraged to take part in creating a vibrant art work of epic proportions. Get involved.
Horniman Museum & Gardens, Forest Hill
Winner of best Family Attraction at year’s London Muddy Stilettos Awards 2024, Horniman Museum in south east London never fails to entertain. A charming mish-mash of natural history and anthropology, plus gardens, butterfly house, aquarium and, err, musical instruments, Muddy’s kids have always preferred it to the revered Natural History Museum in South Ken. Why? Because it’s smaller, more fun, more interactive and the exhibits feel like they were designed by kids, rather than what adults think kids should learn. You can lose an hour watching live bees and mice in the Nature Base or following the sundial trail in the gardens, but this summer it’s all about Dinosaur rEvolution, where five enormous animatronic dinos (including a seven-metre-long T-Rex) dominate proceedings, plus fossils, skeletons, games and activities.
NOTTINGHAMSHIRE
The Welbeck Estate, Welbeck
Historic rural Welbeck Estate in the heart of Sherwood Forest offers that rare cross-generational combo that keeps everyone happy. Take a woodland or river nature walk, explore the fabulous farm shop, or get a hit of culture at the award-winning Harley Gallery showing ever-changing exhibitions by leading modern artists, or the impressive Portland Collection displaying the historic art. Want an insider tip? The leafy Harley Art Trail is especially lovely, taking in everything from cave art to contemporary art. Start from The Courtyard at Welbeck and head up to archaeological park Creswell Crags (which also has free entry and lots of children’s activities during the school holidays).
NORFOLK
Pensthorpe Natural Park, Fakenham
With beautiful gardens, wildfowl galore, nature trails, pond-dipping, adventure play equipment and the classiest indoor play area we’ve ever seen, Pensthorpe Natural Park really is the place to bring everyone from Granny to baby. There’s always a fun adventure trail to follow – this summer’s themes are Fairytales and Superheroes – or den-building to be done around the beautiful gardens, and lots of bird-spotting if that’s your bag. We admit it might not be the first choice for your teenagers, but they will be won over by the flamingos don’t you worry. Make a night of it by staying over in the swish and new this year pop-up glamping site.
ROARR! Dinosaur Adventure, Lenwade
Dino addicts, this one’s for you. ROARR! Dinosaur Adventure, set across 85 acres in Lenwade, is the largest dinosaur-themed adventure park in the UK. A fam favourite for years, there’s sooo many activities for kids of all ages to get their claws into – high ropes, crazy golf, a cool raceway, secret animal garden, splash zone water park, ball pitts and indoor play for littlies, archaeological digs and the most recent addition, mechanised rides – say hello to the Swing-O-Saurus and Raptor Contraptor! There’s also walks through the park where you’ll discover all sorts of life-sized dinosaurs as well as live shows with the resident mascot, Dippy the Dinosaur. Even if they aren’t Dino mad, they are hard pushed not to have a great day out here.
DERBYHIRE
Heights of Abraham, Matlock Bath
It’s not often you get to ride a cable car in the UK and this one is a real thrill for kids (dogs can go too). The Heights of Abraham is a Full Day Out and this summer there’s stacks to keep you busy at the top – from newly opened woodlands walks, cool light shows through illuminated caverns, fossil hunting, adventure playgrounds and of course the brilliant views. Top tip: Get there early. It’s well worth getting a jump on the day and being among the first to ride the cable car because it can get seriously busy here during weekends and holidays. Parking is limited too – when you smugly return to your car later on and witness the queues, you’ll thank me for getting you out of bed.
CHESHIRE
Chester Zoo, Chester
There are zoos and then there is Chester Zoo, which has more than 135,000 animals spread across 125 acres, plus it’s a conservation and education charity committed to preventing extinction of species, so your entrance ticket is going to a great cause too. From critically endangered orangutans to lively lemurs (if your kids are fans of King Julian in the Madagascar films, you’re going to need to visit), there’s something for all ages to enjoy on a day out here. If you want to make the visit even more exciting book an experience, such as feeding giraffes or eating breakfast overlooking the black rhino habitat. Warning, the gift shop is exceptionally good, so if you know your child’s going to fall for a £30 fluffy snow leopard or life-like snake, whisk them through as quickly as possible.
BeWILDerwood
Obsessed with getting the kids off screens and outdoors? Then you’re going to want to book a family pass to this adventure park pronto. No fancy rides, no pricey junk food, BeWILDwewood is designed around a 70-acre forest and imaginative play, including slides, super long zip wires, massive sky mazes, rope bridges, treehouses, den-building and storytelling. Based on the magical books written by Tom Blofeld (you can buy them in the gift shop), you’ll meet the characters along the way. Muddy’s visited the original BeWILDERwood in Norfolk and can confirm it’s more fun than you can shake a stick at (though you’ll probably want to keep the stick for den-making). It’s aimed at ages 2-12, but we took a 13-year-old and they still did the maze, zip-wire and tucked into the tasty food served up at The Munch Bar and Cosy Cabin.
YORKSHIRE
The Deep, Hull
An award-winning attraction best described as an aquarium on steroids, and one of those rare places that really does appeal to all ages – your toddler (under 3s go free) or teen and their grandparents will enjoy a day trip here. Muddy’s ridden in the glass lift which carries you through the middle of the main 10m main tank filled with sharks, stingrays and moray eels – it’s really quite something to behold as they glide by. But before you reach the tank, there’s a whole evolution of sea life to discover, including interactive displays, computer-generated exhibits and fossil-finding. Don’t miss the Gentoo penguins in the Kingdom of Ice, walking the underwater tunnel or designing your own sea creature at Digi:Sea.
Stockeld Park, Wetherby
Magical mazes, pedal Go Karts, enchanted forests, boats, farm-themed playgrounds, indoor inflatables, a spider’s lair, tree climbing, teepee encampment, giant sandpits and the Playhive, one of Europe’s largest indoor play centres. There’s a reason Stockeld wins family attraction awards, and reading that sentence it’s easy to see why – there’s an ENDLESS amount of things to do in the grounds of this country house estate. And they care about families so much, there’s even a Rainy Day Pass, where anyone with pre-booked tickets is given a complimentary return pass if it rains for more than two hours. Sold.
