Fun-filled family staycation ideas
So you want to go on holiday with your family, but don’t want to break the bank? You don’t need to blow your budget and travel far. Britain offers plenty of stunning holiday destinations that are just as good – if not better – than popular hotspots abroad. So why not stay local, save a few quid, and soak up what this beautiful country has to offer?
Why book a family staycation?
There are many reasons to stay local for your family holiday. You don’t need to book expensive overseas flights (which also helps the environment) or get confused about what you’re spending when using different currencies. Staycations allow you to pocket that cash and put it towards another trip in the future. They’re also easier travel-wise on the kids, whose patience may wear thin on longer plane flights. And if you’re road-tripping, you can take your pets along too. Our dog-friendly hotels will happily host your furry friends.
We've listed three places below that would be great choices for your family staycation. They all give something a little different, so take a browse to see what's in store at each location.
A country escape in The Cotswolds
With its rolling green hills and picturesque cottages, The Cotswolds are like something out of a storybook. What better place to take the kids for a family getaway? England’s largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty includes quaint villages such as Bourton-on-the-Water and Castle Combe, as well as more bustling towns such as Cheltenham and Cirencester.
The kids will love highlights such as Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park where they can meet friendly farmyard animals and The Oxfordshire Museum which shares the story of the local area from as far back as the Jurassic Period.
Fans of the wizarding world will also get to tick off the many Harry Potter filming locations in the region. Head to Church Street in Lacock to see Harry’s parents’ home and Gloucester Cathedral for a glimpse of Hogwarts’ hallways.
If the thought of a countryside escape has stolen your heart, why not stay on the cusp of The Cotswolds at Cheltenham Chase Hotel.
A city adventure in
Glasgow
Would you prefer treating your kids to a holiday in the city? If you’ve already ticked off London, then why not give Glasgow a visit? The city offers plenty of fun for the whole family from outdoorsy activities to indoor educational experiences.
Glasgow Botanic Gardens will entertain kids for hours as they discover plants from around the world, and the Glasgow Science Centre is sure to captivate their minds with its Planetarium, Space Zone and other exciting exhibitions.
What’s more, with Glasgow as your base, you can also whisk the kids off to Edinburgh to explore Edinburgh Castle and meander around the surrounding cobbled streets. The city is just over an hour away by car and a must-stop on a Scottish staycation.
Fancy booking your trip? Consider staying at the always welcoming Glasgow Westerwood Hotel.
Norfolk for a beach break
When it comes to holidays with the kids, nothing much beats the beach – especially if the weather is on the sunnier side. So, if your little ones are water babies, why not make Norfolk your next family holiday?
Wells-next-the-Sea has a lovely sandy beach, ideal for building sandcastles and lounging by the shore. And the Great Yarmouth’s seafront has a crazy golf course, trampolines and other attractions to entertain the kids for hours.
If your family loves a good train ride, you can also take them to the North Norfolk Railway for a trip around the coastlands. This is no ordinary train ride though, as little ones will have the chance to see the guard wave their green flag, listen for the whistle, and watch the steam whoosh the train to life – a memorable experience for everyone and a great family photo opportunity.
Love the sound of a Norfolk beach break? Get acquainted with our beautiful Dunston Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort – ideal for your family staycation.
3 things to consider when planning your family road trip
For a safe journey, it’s best to get your car serviced and make a few vital checks. The day before you leave, pop over to a petrol station or garage to make sure your tyres are pumped to the right pressure and top up your your oil and water. You can also wash your car so the windscreen and windows are clean for a clear view of the road.
Pack snacks like sandwiches, fruits and nuts. Growling stomachs are sure to bring the mood down, so always keep some healthy eats on hand for little ones to snack on. Create a family playlist so you have some tunes ready to play, you can also allow some screen time on longer trips, so remember to charge devices in advance.
Family road trips run smoother when you know how you want to get there. Plan your route in advance and ensure there aren’t any roadblocks that might slow you down. Map apps on your phone or car infotainment systems are simple to use and will give you real-time updates on the road to help you navigate any unexpected detours.
OUR LOCATIONS
Plan your next family staycation at The QHotels Collection.
