Top family-friendly UK city breaks for your next Bank Holiday

Published February 5, 2023 by Carsten

Fun for all ages in top UK cities

A bank holiday can be a great time to get out of the house and explore somewhere new. Yeah, of course you could head off to the countryside or visit some well-known attractions, but why not try something different?

Are you planning your next family-friendly UK city break for the upcoming bank holiday? If so, you'll be spoiled for choice.

But keeping the little ones entertained without spending a family fortune is not an easy task. It's best to choose a fun and budget-friendly destination, right? Walking for hours can be exhausting for little ones, so here are attractions that won't break the bank and will keep everyone happy.

London

Of course, if you're looking for a city that truly captures the spirit of Britain, you can't go wrong with the capital of England itself - London.

There are a wide variety of family-friendly attractions that cater to kids of all ages, making it a great place to visit with the whole family. From exploring the Natural History Museum to taking a ride on the London Eye, London has something for everyone.

One of the most popular family-friendly attractions in London is the Natural History Museum. This museum is home to an incredible collection of specimens, including fossils, dinosaurs, and other creatures that have roamed the earth for millions of years. Kids will love exploring the interactive exhibits and learning about the fascinating creatures that have lived before them. Additionally, the museum offers a range of workshops, hands-on activities, and events that are perfect for families.

The Science Museum is another great option for families who love science and technology. With a wide range of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, kids can learn about everything from the history of flight to the latest technological advancements. They can even take a virtual ride on a space shuttle, explore a planetarium, and learn about the stars and the universe.

Finally, no trip to London with kids would be complete without a visit to the London Zoo.

This world-famous zoo is home to more than 750 species of animals and is a great place for kids to learn about the incredible diversity of life on our planet. With plenty of opportunities to see animals up close, kids will love getting a chance to learn about and interact with the creatures that live there.

Whether you're looking for an educational experience or just a fun day out with the kids, London has something for everyone.

Family-friendly attractions in London: Links

London Eye Science Museum British Museum Buckingham Palace Madame Tussauds Natural History Museum London Zoo

York

Step back in time and embark on a journey of discovery with your family in the historic city of York.

From the towering York Minster to the hands-on Jorvik Viking Centre, and the captivating National Railway Museum, your kids will be entertained for hours. And if they need a break from all the excitement, the charming streets and shopping centers will be sure to entice them.

With plenty of hotels in the heart of the city, you won't have to worry about any transportation troubles or far walks in the rain. Make memories that will last a lifetime in the city of York.

Bath

Bath is a fantastic family-friendly destination for a UK bank holiday break.

With its stunning architecture, rich history, and endless attractions, Bath promises a memorable and enjoyable time for visitors of all ages. Whether it's exploring ancient Roman baths, admiring beautiful Georgian buildings, or discovering the city's impressive museums and galleries, there's something for everyone in Bath.

And after a long day of activities, families can rest easy knowing that there are plenty of hotels, bed & breakfasts, and restaurants to choose from.

TripAdvisor users have even named Bath as the world's number one destination, making it a must-visit location for families.

Cambridge

Discover the magic of Cambridge - a city brimming with opportunities for family fun.

From exploring the historic halls of the university to picnicking by the picturesque river, you'll never run out of things to do. Museums and parks are aplenty, offering endless hours of entertainment for the whole family.

And the best part? Cambridge is just a short journey away from major cities like London, Birmingham, and Manchester, making it the perfect choice for a UK Bank Holiday escape.

Liverpool

Liverpool is a great destination for families. It has loads of family-friendly attractions, hotels, and restaurants. Liverpool is also a great place to visit during the summer because there are outdoor events on offer such as festivals and concerts.

When you visit Liverpool with your children, the kids should have fun and learn about history at the same time. You could take them to The World Museum or Tate Liverpool, which both have plenty of interactive exhibits that will appeal to young minds! If you want some fresh air, then why not head down by the water at Pier Head where there are boats sailing around all day long? If you fancy something more active, then why not try a Segway Tour around town instead?

Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Looking for an exciting and family-friendly holiday? Look no further than Newcastle-upon-Tyne!

This charming city is filled with endless activities that will keep kids of all ages entertained and happy.

For the little history buffs (and grown-up museum lovers), the city is home to numerous attractions. So, why not take your kids for a couple of hours to the Great North Museum (free entry, no need to book) or the hands-on Life Science Centre? Then, there is The Discovery Museum, another freebie for all ages, complete with science maze and interactive exhibits. All museums showcase the rich natural and human history of the area, are fun and entertaining. A must-see while in Newcastle!

For those who love a bit of adventure during their staycation, check out the refurbished Tyne Pedestrian & Cyclist Tunnel that gets you by foot or by bike under the river from South Tyneside (Jarrow) to North Tyneside (Howdon).

With so many family-friendly attractions, Newcastle-upon-Tyne is the perfect destination for your next bank holiday break. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure!

Great North Museum Life Science Centre The Discovery Museum

Cardiff

Discover the hidden gems of Cardiff for your next family-friendly holiday break.

With attractions like the Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay Barrage, and the Welsh National Museum, there's something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

In the summer, head to the beach for some refreshing fun like swimming, cycling, or a leisurely walk along Cardiff Bay. Book a stay in one of the many family-friendly hotels with pools and play areas, and indulge in scrumptious meals at budget-friendly restaurants. Make memories with your loved ones in this vibrant city.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is not just any ordinary city!

It's a family-friendly wonderland waiting to be discovered! Treat your little ones to an adventure they'll never forget, from scaling the iconic Edinburgh Castle to touring the Royal Yacht Britannia.

But that's not all, there's so much more to explore and experience, especially if you're looking for something educational and culturally enriching. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Scotland at the National Museum of Scotland, featuring captivating exhibits from dinosaurs to gems and minerals. Get transported back in time and relive childhood memories at the Museum of Childhood, where you'll find toys and games from around the world.

Make your next UK Bank Holiday break one for the family scrapbook!

Oxford

Oxford is a magical city, perfect for families looking to make memories on a UK bank holiday break.

Beyond its historic universities and stunning architecture, this city offers a wealth of family-friendly activities, from museums brimming with scientific wonders to outdoor adventures along the River Thames.

Let your kids immerse themselves in history at the Museum of Natural History, where dinosaur skeletons roam, or marvel at ancient artifacts at the Ashmolean Museum.

With delicious food, parks, and cycle paths galore, Oxford is the perfect place for a family break filled with adventure, learning, and laughter. So why not plan your next family holiday in a city that promises to deliver a perfect blend of history, culture, and fun.

Birmingham

Do you want to take a break from your busy life? Why not visit Birmingham, a city full of surprises and a perfect destination for families. It is home to a wide range of attractions that cater to all ages, making it one of the best family-friendly destinations in the UK. From indoor fun and learning to outdoor adventures, Birmingham has it all.

One of the must-visits in Birmingham is the SEA LIFE Birmingham, a thrilling aquatic adventure that offers a unique insight into the fascinating world of sea creatures. From colourful tropical fish to the massive and majestic sharks, visitors will be able to get up close and personal with some of the most magnificent creatures in the ocean. It is a great opportunity to learn about the importance of conservation and the role each one of us can play in helping to protect our planet's ecosystems.

Another family-friendly attraction in Birmingham that is sure to capture the imagination of kids and adults alike is the Thinktank Science Museum. This interactive museum offers an entertaining and educational experience for visitors of all ages, with a wide range of hands-on exhibits, interactive displays, and live demonstrations. From the excitement of space travel to the thrill of exploring the human body, Thinktank has something for everyone and is guaranteed to inspire the next generation of scientists and explorers.

For a more sweet-toothed experience, why not take the kids to Cadbury World? It's a chocolate-filled paradise, where learning about the history of chocolate is fun... especially when they let you sample the delicious chocolate that is on offer. Plus, with a range of family-friendly accommodation options in the city, you can rest assured that your family will be comfortable and well taken care of during your stay in Birmingham.

Family-friendly attractions in Birmingham: Links

Thinktank Science Museum Cadbury World Sealife Centre Legoland Discovery Centre

When is a city considered “family-friendly”?

There is no official criteria or quality seal for family-friendly cities in the UK.

However, some of your favourite holiday booking websites like TripAdvisor and Expedia have done some research and compiled lists of the best family-friendly city break destinations in the UK.

These lists are based on various factors such as the availability of kid-friendly activities, safe public spaces, and affordable accommodation options and are regularly Updated. For families planning a bank holiday break in the UK, this can be really helpful as a reference.

In general, a city in the UK is considered to be family-friendly when it provides a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for families with children of all ages.

Some key factors that contribute to a city's family-friendliness include:

Safety

The city should have low crime rates and be generally safe for families to walk around, even after dark.

Accessibility

The city should be easy to navigate, with well-maintained public transportation systems, pedestrian-friendly streets, and accessible parks and play areas.

Activities and attractions

The city should have a variety of activities and attractions that are suitable for families, such as museums, theme parks, and family-friendly festivals and events.

Accommodation

The city should offer a range of affordable, family-friendly accommodation options, including hotels and flats with kitchen facilities, making it easier for families to prepare meals and save money.

Supportive local community

The city should have a supportive local community, with programs and services specifically designed for families, such as parenting support groups, schools, and playgroups.