Best Places for Families to Travel in England

England is a treasure trove of family-friendly destinations, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of London or enjoying the seaside charm of coastal towns, there's something to delight children and adults alike. From interactive museums to sprawling parks and historic landmarks, England's cities and towns are perfect for creating lasting family memories. Here are some of the best places to visit with kids, complete with attractions that cater to younger travelers and tips to make the most of your family adventure.

London

London is a playground for families, with its iconic landmarks and plethora of activities. The Natural History Museum and the Science Museum in South Kensington are favorites among kids for their interactive exhibits and awe-inspiring collections. The Harry Potter Studio Tour on the outskirts of London is a magical experience for fans of the series. For outdoor fun, Hyde Park offers paddle boating and the Princess Diana Memorial Playground. The best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is pleasant, though attractions can be crowded. To save, consider purchasing a London Pass for discounts on multiple attractions.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, a quintessential London experience that's both free and fascinating for kids.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Premier Inn London County Hall is family-friendly and centrally located. For a meal, try the Rainforest Cafe, which offers an immersive jungle-themed dining experience.

Bath

The historic city of Bath is a hit with families thanks to its blend of Roman history and Georgian architecture. The Roman Baths are a must-visit, where kids can learn about ancient history in an engaging way. The city also boasts the interactive Bath Sports and Leisure Centre, perfect for active families. Visit during the spring or fall to avoid the peak tourist season. Family tickets are often available for attractions, providing a cost-saving option.

Travel Tip: Take a dip in the Thermae Bath Spa's rooftop pool, which offers stunning views of the cityscape (note that children must be over 12 to enter the spa).

Where to Stay & Eat: The Apex City of Bath Hotel is welcoming to families, and for a casual meal, The Stable offers a kid-friendly menu with delicious pizzas.

York

York is a city that takes you back in time with its medieval walls and Viking heritage. The Jorvik Viking Centre is a highlight for families, offering a glimpse into the lives of Vikings with its reconstructed village and artifacts. The National Railway Museum is another favorite, featuring historic trains and interactive exhibits. York is charming year-round, but visiting in the spring or autumn can be especially pleasant. Look out for York Passes for discounts on multiple attractions.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to walk along the ancient city walls, providing a unique perspective of York and a fun adventure for kids.

Where to Stay & Eat: Stay at the Novotel York Centre for family-friendly accommodations, and enjoy a meal at the child-friendly York Cocoa House, where you can indulge in chocolate-making workshops.

Edinburgh, Scotland

While not in England, Edinburgh is a short journey away and a fantastic destination for families. Edinburgh Castle and the Camera Obscura & World of Illusions are big hits with children. Dynamic Earth offers an interactive journey through our planet's history. The Edinburgh Zoo is also a must-visit, especially to see the famous penguin parade. Summer is a great time to visit, especially during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, but be prepared for crowds. Booking attractions in advance can often save money.

Travel Tip: Arthur's Seat provides a relatively easy hike for families and rewards with panoramic views of the city.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre is a good option for families, and for a hearty meal, try The Elephant House, known as the birthplace of Harry Potter.

Manchester

Manchester is a vibrant city with plenty to keep kids entertained. The Science and Industry Museum is interactive and educational, while LEGOLAND Discovery Centre is perfect for younger children. Heaton Park is the city's largest park with a playground, animal farm, and tram museum. Visit Manchester during the off-peak seasons of spring and autumn to avoid the crowds. Many museums in Manchester are free, making them great options for a budget-friendly trip.

Travel Tip: Catch a Manchester United or Manchester City football match if you can; the atmosphere is electric and memorable for sports-loving families.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Staycity Aparthotels Manchester Piccadilly offers space for families, and for a fun dining experience, try Hard Rock Cafe Manchester.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare, is a quaint town that's great for families. The Royal Shakespeare Company offers performances that can captivate older children, while the MAD Museum is full of quirky mechanical art that's fun for all ages. Visit during the spring or summer to enjoy the town's outdoor beauty. Many attractions offer family tickets, which can help save on admission costs.

Travel Tip: Take a family-friendly tour of Shakespeare's Birthplace to bring the bard's story to life for your kids.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Crowne Plaza Stratford-upon-Avon is welcoming to families, and for a unique dining experience, try the Butterfly Farm's on-site cafe.

Cambridge

Cambridge is not only a hub of academic excellence but also a wonderful city for family visits. Punting on the River Cam is a delightful way to see the city's historic colleges, and the Fitzwilliam Museum offers family-friendly activities and workshops. The Cambridge Science Centre is another interactive spot that's perfect for curious minds. The best times to visit are late spring and early autumn. Many of the city's attractions are free, making it a budget-friendly destination.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Cambridge University Botanic Garden, which has a variety of plants and a fun trail for kids.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Hilton Cambridge City Centre is centrally located and family-friendly, and for a casual meal, head to The Clarendon Arms, which has a welcoming atmosphere and a children's menu.

Brighton

Brighton is a vibrant seaside town that's perfect for a family getaway. The Brighton Pier offers classic seaside fun with rides and arcade games, while the SEA LIFE Brighton aquarium introduces kids to marine life. The Brighton Toy and Model Museum is a hidden gem that delights with its collections. Summer is the best time to enjoy the beach, though it can be busy. Look for combination tickets for attractions like the aquarium and the i360 viewing tower to save money.

Travel Tip: Take a bike ride along the Brighton seafront, which has dedicated cycle paths and offers a great way to see the coast.

Where to Stay & Eat: Jurys Inn Brighton Waterfront is a family-friendly hotel with spacious rooms, and for a meal, try the Coal Shed, which has a great kids' menu.