Family break in Barcelona

Family break in Barcelona

Reviews of family-friendly short breaks

Whether you have tots or teens, family life is hectic and demanding, making short breaks a must. The ways in which you can have fun and relax together are endless, from city breaks in stunning locations all around the world to long weekends on farms where you can help take care of the animals and run wild in nature.

Geodesic domes © Loch Tay Highland Lodges, Perthshire.

30 Amazing Family Glamping Sites around the UK

United Kingdom, Channel Islands, Jersey, England, Leicestershire, Warwickshire, Cornwall, Devon, Essex, Gloucestershire, Hampshire, New Forest, Kent, Lancashire, Norfolk, Staffordshire, Surrey, Sussex, Wiltshire, Yorkshire, Scotland, Wales, Pembrokeshire

Rhonda rounds up the best places around the country offering 'camping for softies'...

© Feather Down Farm

Best Farmstays with Kids Around the UK

United Kingdom, England, The Cotswolds, Cornwall, Derbyshire, Devon, Dorset, Isle of Wight, Lancashire, Wiltshire, Scotland, Wales

We round up our favourite family holiday venues where you’ll never hear the words: ‘Get off my land!’

[copyright] © Vale of Glamorgan Council

Free Things to Do in Wales with Kids

Wales, Cardiff, Snowdonia, Cardiganshire, Gwyneth, Pembrokeshire

Nick tells us about family holiday options and excursions in Wales on a tight budget.

Camping in Pembrokeshire, Wales[copyright]© Rhonda Carrier[/copyright]

Top 10 Family Campsites in Wales

United Kingdom, Wales, Snowdonia, Pembrokeshire

We round up some of the best places to pitch a tent, to take your campervan or to go glamping in Wales.

Surfing in the UK.[copyright]© Rhonda Carrier[/copyright]

Best Places for Surfing and Bodyboarding with Kids in the UK

United Kingdom, Channel Islands, Guernsey, England, Cornwall, Devon, Yorkshire, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Berwickshire, Wales, Snowdonia, Pembrokeshire

We look at the finest spots in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland to take the family on a surfing break.

Blue Lagoon, Pembrokeshire.[copyright]© Rhonda Carrier[/copyright]

A Family Camping Break in Pembrokeshire, Wales

United Kingdom, Wales, Pembrokeshire

Rhonda and crew seek out some blissful isolation – and some coasteering action – in a remote spot right on the coastal path.

Offer of the week

Exclusive Offer - 10% off with Forest Holidays. Book and stay before 31 Dec 2020.

Camping in Dorset.[copyright]© Rhonda Carrier.[/copyright]

A Extended-Family Camping Break in Weymouth, Dorset

United Kingdom, England, Dorset

Rhonda enjoys a budget getaway by the seaside with her family, parents and step-siblings.

Canoeing in Dorset.[copyright]© Jurassic Coast Activities.[/copyright]

Best Places for Canoeing and Kayaking with Kids in the UK

United Kingdom, Channel Islands, England, Cornwall, Cumbria, Dorset, Manchester, Merseyside, Liverpool, Northumberland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales

We share the top spots to take to the water in England, Scotland and Wales, from lochs dotted with deserted islands to the open sea.

Exmoor wild ponies.[copyright]© Exmoor Pony Centre.[/copyright]

Best UK Walking and Hiking Destinations with Kids

United Kingdom, England, South East England, Cornwall, Cumbria, Derbyshire, Devon, Dorset, Hampshire, New Forest, Kent, Somerset, Suffolk, Sussex, Eastbourne, Yorkshire, Scotland, Wales, Snowdonia

We look at great walking and hiking spots in England, Scotland and Wales with kids of all ages, from tots in child-carriers to reluctant teens.

Kionslieu Farm, Isle of Man.[copyright]© Rhonda Carrier.[/copyright]

A Family Break on the Isle of Man

United Kingdom

Rhonda Carrier and family walk goats, brush up on their mountain-biking skills and spot seals on the British Crown dependency in the Irish Sea.

Barrule Plantation, Isle of Man.[copyright]© Rhonda Carrier.[/copyright]

Best Places for Cycling and Mountain-biking in the UK with Kids

United Kingdom, England, South East England, Cornwall, Derbyshire, Dorset, Kent, Norfolk, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales

We round up the best places around the UK to take your kids cycling or mountain-biking, whether for a day out for a short break.

Pond-dipping [copyright]© Broads National Park.[/copyright]

Top 10 Free Days Out in Norfolk

Norfolk

Deborah and her crew scour the child-friendly destination for the best free family attractions, natural and cultural.

Ideal for the youngest of children; a short adventure in Lapland.

Best Adventure Holidays for Families with Toddlers

Take a look at our favourite options to take your toddlers on a family adventure trip

Family friendly days out (Go Ape!)

Best Experience and Activity Days for Families

Our favourite activity days for families, carefully chosen by us, for you.

ZSL Whipsnade Zoo

Best Zoos and Wildlife Parks for Families

United Kingdom

Browse our favourite selection of Zoos and Wildlife parks to take the family.

Family days out at Thorpe Park.

Best Theme Parks for Families

United Kingdom

Enjoy our carefully chosen selection of the best thrill-seeking theme parks for the family

Family friendly museums and arts (Great Court, British Museum)

Best Museums and Arts for Families

United Kingdom

Browse our hand-picked selection of the best museums and arts for the whole family to enjoy.

Deepdale Campsite, Norfolk.[copyright]© Deepdale Backpackers & Camping.[/copyright]

Great Family Campsites in England

United Kingdom, England, Devon, Kent, Norfolk, Suffolk, Yorkshire

Our pick of the top places for a camping holiday with kids in Norfolk, Devon, Kent and elsewhere.

Sandy Balls Holiday Village in Hampshire

Best Holiday Parks for Families in the UK

United Kingdom

Browse our selection of the best holiday parks for families in the UK, crafted for your family.

Pointe St Gilles campsite, Brittany.

Best Holiday Parks for Babies and Toddlers

Europe

Our favourite holiday parks for babes and toddlers, hand picked for you.

Pine Cliffs, a Luxury Collection Resort, Algarve.

Best Luxury Family Holidays in Europe

Europe

Explore our selection of the best luxury family holiday in Europe - you deserve it!

Dog-friendly lodges with Forest Holidays and Cropton Cabins.

Best UK Pet and Child Friendly Self-Catering Holidays

United Kingdom

Our carefully selected best pet- and child-friendly self-catering hotels in the UK.

Camping la Ferme de la Serraz, Haute Savoie.

Best Pet-and Child-Friendly Campsites

Europe

The very best pet-and-child-friendly resorts for the kids, and your families pet.

Moonfleet Manor, Dorset.

Best UK Baby and Toddler Friendly Resorts

United Kingdom

Our range of the best UK baby and toddler friendly resorts in the UK.

Family Cycling Holiday: Quiet Lanes of Mallorca.

Best Farmstay Family Holidays in Europe

Europe

Our favourite European farmstays for the family, carefully selected by the team.

Country Kids, Languedoc-Roussillon.

Best Luxury Farmstay Family Holidays

The finest luxury farmstay family holidays, carefully tailored for the family.

Pointe St Gilles campsite, Brittany.

Best Camping Holidays for Families with Babies and Toddlers

Europe

The very best baby-and-toddler-friendly campsites tailored for the family.

Golf practice at La Manga

Best Family Holidays with Golf Lessons

Explore our selection of the best family golfing holidays around the world.

Château Les Carrasses, Languedoc-Roussillon.

Best Self Catering Family Villas within Resorts

Europe

Enjoy our favourite self catering family villas within resorts

Country Kids, Languedoc-Roussillon

Best European Holidays and Breaks with Grandparents

Europe

Browse our range of European holidays and breaks to enjoy with all generaatons.

Enchanted Village at Alton Towers Resort.

Best Theme Park Breaks

Europe

Explore our hand-picked selection of family-friendly theme parks to get everyone's heart pumping.

Watergate Bay Hotel, Cornwall.

Best UK Seaside Short Family Breaks

United Kingdom

Our favourite short breaks for the family on the UK coast.

Outdoor pool at The Feversham Arms Hotel & Verbena Spa.

Best Family-Friendly Places to Stay with a Spa: UK

United Kingdom

Our favourite places to stay in the UK with a spa - you've earned it.

Family relaxing in hot tub in Cropton

Family-Friendly Places to Stay with a Private Hot Tub

A selection of family friendly places to stay with a private hot tub.

Family-friendly cottage in Cumbria

Best UK Holidays and Breaks with Grandparents

United Kingdom

Our perspective on great places for a UK break with the kids and their grandparents

© Forest Holidays.

Top 20 Eco-friendly Places to Stay around the UK with Kids

United Kingdom, Channel Islands, England, County Durham, Devon, Gloucestershire, Hampshire, Herefordshire, Lincolnshire, London, Norfolk, Northumberland, Somerset, Suffolk, Yorkshire, Scotland, Edinburgh, Wales, Pembrokeshire

Rhonda rounds up our favourite sustainable and environmentally friendly family holidays and breaks around the UK.

Setting out on the Tissington Trail.[copyright]Rhonda Carrier.[/copyright]

A Peak District Family Break

Derbyshire

Rhonda and boys enjoy one of Derbyshire's family-friendly cycling trails from a welcoming youth hostel base.

The Pineapple, Dunmore © Landmark Trust

Unusual Places to Stay in the UK with Kids

United Kingdom, England, Devon, Norfolk, Suffolk, Sussex, Yorkshire, Scotland, Wales

Our hand-picked recommendations for Britain’s quirkiest places to stay as a family for a UK short break.

The entrance to Fabula at Efteling.

A Weekend Break at Efteling Theme Park, Netherlands

Europe

Conrad and 11-year-old Zac check out the new and old at the iconic attraction.

Southwold Pier.[copyright]© Southwold Pier.[/copyright]

Top 10 Family Beach Holidays in East Anglia and Kent

South East England, Kent, Norfolk, Suffolk

Emma gives the rundown on some of the UK's most family-friendly seaside resorts.

The spa at Bluestone National Park Resort.

A Family Holiday at Bluestone National Park Resort, Wales

United Kingdom, Wales, Pembrokeshire

Angelina and clan rate the Pembrokeshire holiday village.

Blue Lagoon near Reykjavik, Iceland[copyright]© Blue Lagoon.[/copyright]

A Teen Trip to Iceland

Europe, Iceland

Our travel agent Julie's eldest children take their first solo holiday in and around Reykjavik.

La Paradeta, Barcelona.[copyright]© La Paradeta.[/copyright]

'Living Like Locals' on a Barcelona City Break with Kids

Spain, Costa Brava, Barcelona

Rhonda and family assess the pros and cons of 'authentic' travel.

Wild camping in Scotland.[copyright]© Perth & Kinross Council.[/copyright]

Family holidays: Wild Camping in Scotland

Scotland

Andrew and his teenage kids taste the heady freedom of camping on the Isle of Skye

Accommodation at Villages Nature® Paris.

A Family Break at Les Villages Nature® Paris and Disneyland Paris

Europe, France, Ile de France, Marne-la-Vallée, Paris

We check out a great base for visiting the famous theme-park.

The playground at the Rosliston Forestry Centre.[copyright]© Rhonda Carrier.[/copyright]

A UK Family Break in the National Forest, Derbyshire

Derbyshire

Rhonda and family discover the Rosliston Forestry Centre with its family-friendly cycle routes.

Sailing into Skye[copyright]Rhonda Carrier.[/copyright]

A Family Cruise Holiday in the Hebrides, Scotland

Europe, United Kingdom, Scotland

Rhonda sees wildlife galore and discovers sustainable communities on a family-friendly cruise around Skye and the Small Isles.

Circus Restaurant, Parc Asterix

A Family Break at Parc Astérix, Northern France

France, Picardy

Rhonda and sons check out the new attractions at the iconic theme-park celebrating its 30th birthday.

Pool at the Park Plaza London Waterloo.

A Review of the Park Plaza Waterloo, London

London, England, United Kingdom

Rhonda checks out a family-friendly hotel with a pool, just a short stroll from the London Eye.

Setting off to explore sea caves from Swanpool Beach, Falmouth.[copyright]Rhonda Carrier.[/copyright]

A Kids' Day Out at Elemental UK Beach Club, Cornwall

Cornwall

Rhonda Carrier waves her sons off on coastal adventures at Swanpool Beach in Falmouth.

Looking for Roman ruins in Longis Bay, Alderney.[copyright] © Rhonda Carrier.[/copyright]

A Family Break in Alderney, Channel Islands

Channel Islands

Rhonda and crew canoe over Roman ruins and sleep in a Victorian fort on the remote island of Alderney.

Halloween decorations in Brooklyn[copyright]Rhonda Carrier[/copyright]

An October Half-term New York City Break with Kids

New York

Rhonda and family combine living like locals with being tourists in one of the world’s most exciting cities.

Winter on the South Bank.[copyright]Southbank Centre[/copyright]

What to Do and Where to Stay in London this Christmas

London

Rhonda checks out unmissable festive events and the top accommodation in the British capital for 2018.

A reindeer sleigh-ride with Santa's Magic.[copyright]Rhonda Carrier[/copyright]

A Santa’s Lapland Christmas Holiday, Finland

Europe, Finland, Lapland

Rhonda and boys take a Twixmas break 200km north of the Arctic Circle.

Water zorbing at the City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia.[copyright]Rhonda Carrier[/copyright]

10 Reasons to Take the Kids to Valencia, Spain

Europe, Spain

Rhonda shares her tips for a family break in Spain's third-largest city, including a day at the City of Arts and Sciences.

Androcles and the Lion at the Boing! festival in August.

Best Family-Friendly Festivals in 2018

United Kingdom, England, South East England, The Cotswolds, Cheshire, Cornwall, Cumbria, Derbyshire, Dorset, Herefordshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, London, Oxfordshire, Suffolk, Sussex, Wiltshire, Yorkshire, Scotland, Wales

Rhonda looks at old favourites and new offerings on the family-friendly festival scene.

© Muxima, Portugal.

20 Eco-friendly Places to Stay with Kids in Mainland Europe

Sweden, Ibiza, Spain, Slovenia, Slovakia, Romania, Algarve, Portugal, Poland, Tuscany, Puglia, Italian Lakes, Italy, Peloponnese, Crete, Greece, Ardèche, Rhone Alpes, Poitou Charentes, Normandy, France, Central Bohemia, Europe

Rhonda roots out the most tempting places for a green family holiday on the Continent.

Santa surveying London from The Shard.[copyright]www.theviewfromtheshard.com[/copyright]

A Day Out in London at the Shard and HMS Belfast

London, United Kingdom, Istanbul

Eleven-year-old Dan Cook shares his experiences of two iconic sites in the British capital.

Carousel near the Eiffel Tower.

Top 10 Things to Do in Paris with Kids at Christmas

Paris, France, Europe

Rhonda shares her tips for a festive family break in the French capital.

Evening view of Aquatis and the hotel.

A Family City Break in Lausanne, Switzerland

Switzerland

Rhonda reviews a new aquarium-vivarium and its on-site hotel in a charming setting on Lake Geneva.

The Ghan © Great Southern Rail.

Top 15 Family Rail Journeys Around the World

Morocco, India, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Greece, Sicily, Turkey, Istanbul, Mexico, Peru, Canada, British Columbia, Vancouver, San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Scotland

Georgina scours the globe for the best family adventures by train.

Exhibit at the Capitoline Museums.[copyright]Musei Capitolini.[/copyright]

Insider Tips for Family Breaks in Rome, Italy

Rome, Italy

Context Travel founder, mother and former Rome-dweller Lani Bevacqua shares her top family attractions for kids in the Italian capital.

Baby on lounger.[copyright]© Rhonda Carrier.[/copyright]

Best Babymoons and Baby Breaks

Hampshire, Cornwall, England, United Kingdom, Massachusetts, USA, Brittany, France, Bermuda, Caribbean, Wiltshire, Pembrokeshire

We round up the best places for a pre-baby getaway or for a first holiday with a newborn.

Room with a view at the Park Plaza County Hall.

A Family Break at the Park Plaza County Hall, London

London

Rhonda checks out one of the capital's most family-friendly hotels.

Rogner Bad Blumau Hotel, Austria, in winter.[copyright]© Rogner-Bad Blumau Hotel & Spa.[/copyright]

Unusual Places to Stay in Europe with Kids

Sweden, Spain, Romania, Norway, Amsterdam, Netherlands, Lapland, Sicily, Italy, Ireland, Pas de Calais, Paris, France, Finland, Austria, Europe

Rhonda seeks out the quirkiest places to give your kids a Continental holiday they’ll never forget.

© Fossil Expeditions, Florida.

13 Thrilling Places to Find Fossils and Dinosaur Remains

Egypt, North America, Canada, USA, Florida, United Kingdom, England, Dorset, Isle of Wight, London, Shropshire, Yorkshire, Wales, Pembrokeshire

Georgina digs deep to uncover the world’s most fertile fossil and dinosaur-bone hunting grounds.

Perranporth Beach.

A Family Break at Haven Perran Sands, Cornwall

Cornwall

Rhonda and family take advantage of one of the best beaches in southwest England.

View from the cottage garden.

A Family Winter Break on the Llyn Peninsula, Wales

United Kingdom, Wales, Snowdonia

We appreciate the chance for some family time and beach fun on the Welsh coast.

Mountain-biking/fat-biking in Les Sybelles © Arvan VTT.[copyright]© Arvan VTT[/copyright]

A Family Ski Holiday in Saint-Sorlin-d’Arves, French Alps

France, Rhone Alpes, Savoie

Rhonda finds a great-value, child-friendly and very French resort with a short transfer time.

Vampire at Chessington World of Adventures.[copyright]© Chessington World of Adventures Resort.[/copyright]

A Halloween Break at Chessington World of Adventures Resort, Surrey

South East England

Rhonda and family ride Vampire and rate the themepark's October half-term happenings.

© Corinthia Hotel Budapest.

A Mums’ Break in Budapest, Hungary

Budapest, Central Hungary, Hungary

Rhonda checks out the city of spas.

Cooling off in the rooftop pool at Jam Hotel.[copyright]Rhonda Carrier[/copyright]

A Family City Break at Jam Hotel, Brussels

Brussels

Rhonda and sons find a funky but family-friendly option perfect for a stay in the Belgian capital.

© Retrocampervan

Top 6 Family Campervan Holidays in the UK

United Kingdom, England, Cumbria, Dorset, Kent, London, Norfolk, Shropshire, Scotland, Wales

Georgina picks out the best places around the country to explore by campervan with kids.

An inhabitant of the Swinton Park estate.[copyright]© Swinton Park.[/copyright]

Our Favourite UK Luxury Hotels for Larger Families

Yorkshire, Wiltshire, London, Devon, England, United Kingdom

Tracey shares her top places to stay with rooms for five people or more.

Meeting the animals at Surrey Docks Farm, London.[copyright]Rhonda Carrier[/copyright]

A Family Break in Rotherhithe and Greenwich, London

London

Rhonda and kids find that it can pay to go a little off-the-beaten track during the school holidays.

Catamaraning at Port du Crouesty.[copyright]Pierre & Vacances.[/copyright]

A Family Holiday at Pierre & Vacances Port du Crouesty, Brittany

Brittany

Rhonda and family check out a family-friendly resort on the beautiful Morbihan coast.

© Sligachan Hotel.

Top 5 No-Bookings Family Campsites Around the UK

Scotland, Cumbria, Cornwall, England, United Kingdom

The best sites that invite you and the kids to just pitch up, without reservations.

Holkham Beach.[copyright]© The Victoria Inn[/copyright]

A Family Break at the Victoria Inn, Holkham Estate, Norfolk

Norfolk

Nick and family enjoy high days and holidays in a classic seaside hotel.

Spa terrace at the © Hotel Arts.

A Luxury Family Break at the Hotel Arts, Barcelona

Barcelona

Rhonda and crew see the Catalan capital from on high at the iconic beachfront property.

The Restaurant du Lac © Rhonda Carrier.

A Family Break at the Hôtel des Trois Hiboux, Parc Astérix, Picardy

Picardy

Rhonda enjoys a very Gallic themepark and hotel a short hop from Paris.

The Château d'If © Office de Tourisme et des Congrès de Marseille.

A Marseille City Break with Kids

Provence–Alpes–Côte d'Azur

Rhonda and family get a taste of France's oldest, and second-largest, city.

© Wicked the Musical.

A Family Trip to See Wicked at the Apollo Victoria, London

London

Lucy and daughter fall under the spell of The Wizard of Oz prequel.

© Hôtel Les Orangeries.

A Break with Baby at Hôtel Les Orangeries, Poitou-Charentes

Poitou Charentes

Rhonda and husband find the perfect place to celebrate a special anniversary with their son.

Quail's eggs cooked on a bed of hay, Noma.[copyright]Rhonda Carrier[/copyright]

A Family Meal at Noma, Copenhagen

Denmark

Rhonda takes her 10-year-old to the then 'World's Best Restaurant'.

The Magical Ice Kingdom © PWR Events Ltd Content[copyright]© PWR Events Ltd Content[/copyright]

A Family Trip to Winter Wonderland, London

London

Rhonda and kids preview the British capital’s sparkling Christmas amusement park and market.

© Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort.

Top 10 Places to Meet Santa Around the World

Melbourne, Finland, Paris, Lapland, Sweden, New York, Birmingham, Berkshire, London, Yorkshire

We take a tour around the globe in search of the best places to meet Father Christmas.

Dodging cacti at the Wild West themed Hotel Gold River at PortAventura.[copyright]Rhonda Carrier[/copyright]

18 Unmissable Theme-park Hotels around the World

Dubai, Asia, Japan, Europe, France, Ile de France, Marne-la-Vallée, Paris, Picardy, Italy, Italian Lakes, Spain, Costa Brava, USA, California, Southern California, Los Angeles, Florida, Orlando, United Kingdom, England, Berkshire, Staffordshire, Surrey

Rhonda takes a journey around the globe in search of the best places to stay at some of our favourite theme parks.

Andorra in Summertime: a Family Break

Andorra

Catherine and family find that there’s much more to Andorra than skiing and duty-free shopping.

A Family Break in the Sarthe, Northern France

Pays de la Loire

Catherine and crew stumble upon a secret corner of France far from the tourist hordes.

Old Hunstanton Beach.[copyright]Hunstanton YHA & Backpackers.[/copyright]

A Family Day Out on Old Hunstanton Beach, Norfolk

Norfolk

Lucy relives childhood beach trips with her family.

The Secret Village Adventure at Bluestone

An Easter Break at the Bluestone National Park Resort, Pembrokeshire

United Kingdom, Wales, Pembrokeshire

Lucy and family rediscover the joys of the Welsh holiday village.

The breakfast room at B+B Belgravia.[copyright]© B+B Belgravia.[/copyright]

A Family Break at B+B Belgravia, London

London

Rhonda checks out a family-friendly B&B in the heart of London.

The Leonora Carrington exhibition at Tate Liverpool.[copyright]Rhonda Carrier[/copyright]

A Review of Surreal Landscapes at the Tate Liverpool

Liverpool

Rhonda welcomes a new season of playful, child-friendly exhibitions.

Zac on South Beach, Miami.[copyright]Rhonda Carrier[/copyright]

A Miami Stopover with Kids, Florida

Florida, USA

Rhonda and Zac enjoy a brief interlude in the hip city by the sea.

SPECTRE ©2015 Danjaq, LLC, MGM, CPIL [copyright]SPECTRE ©2015 Danjaq, LLC, MGM, CPIL [/copyright]

‘Spectre’ Locations to Visit with Wannabe James Bonds

Morocco, Austria, Rome, London

We travel round the world in the company of the world’s best-loved secret agent.

The facade of The Capital, on Basil Street

A Family Break at the Capital Hotel, London

London

Rhonda and boys experience the perfect blend of culture, fun… and bling.

© Elding Whale Watching Reykjavík.

A City Break with Kids in Reykjavík, Iceland

Iceland

Rhonda and family check out some of the family-friendly highlights of the Icelandic capital.

The Star Flyer in Edinburgh at Christmas.[copyright]Image © Underbelly Ltd.[/copyright]

Top 10 Christmas and New Year UK City Breaks with Kids

Edinburgh, Yorkshire, Liverpool, London, Hampshire, Manchester, Birmingham, Warwickshire, England, United Kingdom

Rhonda looks at the best festive outings – and top family-friendly accommodation – around the country for 2016.

View of the Chrysler Building from the Kimberly Hotel

A Review of the Kimberly Hotel, New York City

New York

Rhonda and family enjoy the spacious offerings of – and spectacular views from – a boutique suite hotel in Manhattan.

© Castle Howard.

10 Unmissable Bonfire Night Events Around the UK

Wales, Edinburgh, Yorkshire, Worcestershire, Sussex, London, New Forest, Hampshire, Derbyshire, Cornwall, West Midlands, South East England, England, United Kingdom

The biggest, brightest Guy Fawkes Night events around the country in 2016 – and some great places to stay nearby.

A mock Viking battle in York[copyright]York Archaeological Trust[/copyright]

York with Kids: Top 10 Things to See and Do

Yorkshire

Rhonda rounds up the city’s best days out, restaurants and accommodation options.

© Leeds Castle[copyright]The Roseanne[/copyright]

10 Cosiest Cottages for UK Winter Breaks with Kids

United Kingdom, England, Scotland, Wales

Our favourite child-friendly cottages around the UK, with log-burners, hot tubs and/or indoor swimming pools.

Riding the tricycle in the Little Museum.[copyright]Dea Birkett[/copyright]

A Family Visit to the Little Museum of Dublin, Ireland

Dublin, County Dublin, Ireland

Dea and family find out things about Dublin – and about themselves.

The Roosevelt Island aerial tram[copyright]Cathy Limb[/copyright]

A Guide to New York City on a Budget with Kids

New York

Cathy shares 10 free/wallet-friendly things to see and do in Gotham.

Surfing at Vazon Bay.[copyright]© Guernsey Surf School[/copyright]

A Family Surfing Break in Guernsey, Channel Islands

United Kingdom, Channel Islands, Guernsey

Rhonda discovers a surprising family-friendly surfing destination within a short hop of the UK mainland.

Ripley, Zac and Ethan give the giraffes breakfast at Chessington.[copyright]© Rhonda Carrier[/copyright]

A Short Break at Chessington World of Adventures Resort, Surrey

South East England

Rhonda and sons go out of Africa at the themepark, zoo and safari-themed hotel.

Ripley takes a break near the Parthenon.

A Visit to the Acropolis and the New Acropolis Museum, Athens

Greece

Rhonda Carrier and her nine-year-old son find one icon that more than lives up to expectations.

Wild swimming © Wilderness Festival.

The Wilderness Festival with Kids

The Cotswolds

Rhonda watches as her sons go feral in the Wilderness.

Tulip Museum, Amsterdam.[copyright]Tulip Museum.[/copyright]

A Family Break in Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands

Dea and family check out some of the city's lesser-known museums.

The walking elephant at the Machines de l’Ile.[copyright]Rhonda Carrier[/copyright]

A Review of the Machines de l’Ile, Nantes, Western France

Pays de la Loire

Rhonda and her boys get inspired by one of France’s quirkiest attractions.

The Swarm, Thorpe Park.

A Family Break at Thorpe Park, Surrey

South East England, Surrey

Rhonda and her junior thrill-seeker Ethan rate the ‘up for it’ theme park.

Rafting at Boreatton Park © Conrad Williams[copyright]© Conrad Williams[/copyright]

A PGL Family Multi-Activity Holiday at Boreatton Park, Shropshire

Shropshire

Rhonda and family rate PGL’s flagship site.

The Grand' Place, Arras.

A Family City Break in Arras, Northern France

Pas de Calais

Dea and family discover a short-break destination with a fascinating history.

The Tivoli Gardens at Christmas.[copyright]Rhonda Carrier[/copyright]

A Christmas Family City Break in Copenhagen, Denmark

Denmark

Rhonda and family come over all festive in the Danish capital.

Rhonda's boys at Camp Nou.

A Barcelona Family Break including a Camp Nou Stadium Visit

Barcelona

Rhonda and her footie-mad boys explore the legendary stadium.

Kids at Butlins.[copyright]© Butlins.[/copyright]

A Family Break at the Wave Hotel, Butlins Bognor Regis, Sussex

Sussex, England, United Kingdom

Tracey relives childhood memories at the seaside classic, with her own kids in tow.

A child at the Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam.[copyright]© Van Gogh Museum.[/copyright]

A Day Out at the Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam

Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands

Rhonda takes her kids to get arty in the Netherlands capital.

Watersports at Center Parcs De Eemhof.

A review of Center Parcs De Eemhof, Netherlands

North Holland

The Cook family rate the Center Parc near Amsterdam.

Aboard the Herm Explorer, Guernsey[copyright]© Rhonda Carrier[/copyright]

A Day Out on the RIB Herm Explorer, Guernsey

Channel Islands, Guernsey

Rhonda and crew set sail for some wildlife action in the Channel Islands.

Oblivion © Alton Towers

A Review of Alton Towers Theme Park and Hotel

Staffordshire

Rhonda and family check out the new and the old at the UK’s biggest themepark

A bedroom at Yotel Gatwick.

A Review of Yotel and the Virgin v-room, Gatwick Airport

Sussex

Rhonda checks out two child-friendly facilities at the UK's second-busiest airport.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory afternoon tea, One Aldwych.[copyright]One Aldwych[/copyright]

A Family Break at One Aldwych, London

London

Rhonda charts a family love affair with the stylish Covent Garden hotel.

Playing by the Druid's Temple.

A Family Break at The Bivouac, North Yorkshire

Yorkshire

Rhonda and family rate a sustainable venue in northern England.

Playing a giant floor piano

A City Break in Liverpool: The Beatles Story, Sapporo Teppanyaki and the Hope Street Hotel

Liverpool

Rhonda and her crew explore the homegrown and the exotic in the Merseyside city.

The revolving tower at LEGOLAND Denmark.[copyright]Rhonda Carrier[/copyright]

A Family Break at Hotel LEGOLAND, Billund, Denmark

Denmark

Dea and family enjoy a stay in the home of LEGO itself.

Fencers at the Royal Armouries in Leeds[copyright]© VisitBritain [/copyright]

UK Family Breaks: Leeds with Kids

Yorkshire

Guns and gore lure Rhonda and her boys to Yorkshire’s biggest city.

A LEGO moose on the LEGOLAND log flume.[copyright]Rhonda Carrier[/copyright]

A Family Break at LEGOLAND Denmark

Denmark

Rhonda takes her LEGO-mad boys to the original themepark.

Finland with kids

Europe Family Holidays: Tampere, Finland

Finland

Emma and daughter discover the land of Moomins and short winter days.

The lounge at Soar Mill Cove.

A Parents’ Break at the Soar Mill Cove Hotel, Devon

Devon

Rhonda makes a bid for freedom – and fitness – at a family-friendly Devon hotel.

Boarding a gondola in Venice.[copyright]www.visit-venice-italy.com[/copyright]

A Family Break in Venice, Italy

Venice, Italy

Gracia and family take to the water in one of Italy’s most atmospheric cities.

Santa in his Woodland Workshop ©Center Parcs[copyright]Center Parcs[/copyright]

A Family Break at Winter Wonderland at Center Parcs Longleat Forest

Wiltshire

We check out the holiday village's Christmas offerings.

Goudurix rollercoaster © Rhonda Carrier.

A Family Trip to Parc Astérix in Picardy, Northern France

Picardy

Georgina and son discover a slice of Gallic themepark heaven.

Bliss products.[copyright]© Bliss.[/copyright]

Flying with Kids: Best In-flight Products for Families

North America, Latin America, Indian Ocean, Bermuda, Australia & Pacific, Asia

From antibacterial products to moisturisers, Angelina sources the best products to keep all the family flying high.

Ribby Hall Village, Lancashire.

A Family Break at Hoseasons Ribby Hall Village, Lancashire

Lancashire, United Kingdom

Rhonda and family find a budget base for a Blackpool break.

© www.thehighline.org

A New York City Break with Kids

New York

Dea discovers that the Big Apple is not just an adults' playground.

Southport with kids

UK Family Holidays and Breaks: Southport with Kids

Lancashire

Rhonda and family do like to be beside the seaside.

Liverpool with kids

UK Family Breaks: A Liverpool City Break with Kids

Liverpool

Rhonda and family find out what’s new in the historic maritime city.

Mosasaur at the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition.[copyright]© Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition.[/copyright]

A UK Family Break at Loch Ness, Scotland

Scotland

Ben and family go Nessie-spotting.

© Feather Down[copyright]Rhonda Carrier[/copyright]

A Family Break at Dolphinholme Farm (Feather Down), Lancashire

Lancashire

Rhonda and family experience the realities of life on a working goat farm.

Cycle holiday.[copyright]© Halfords.[/copyright]

A Family Cycling Break in Suffolk

Suffolk

Deborah and crew load up for family biking holiday

Bedruthan Steps surfing.[copyright]© Rhonda Carrier[/copyright]

A Family Break at the Bedruthan Hotel & Spa, Cornwall

United Kingdom, England, Cornwall

Rhonda and son take to the waves with a surfing lesson at a family-friendly hotel on the Cornish coast.

El Parque del Retiro, Madrid.[copyright]@elparquedelretiro[/copyright]

A Single-Parent City Break in Madrid, Spain

Madrid, Spain

Emily and son enjoy a Mediterranean break without a glimpse of the sea.

Shakespeare's birthplace © Visit Britain

UK Family Breaks: Stratford with Kids

Warwickshire

Dea seeks new strategies to encourage her offspring’s exam revision.

Alymra, Cyprus.[copyright]© Almyra.[/copyright]

Fabulous Father's Day and Year-Round Dads’ Breaks

Europe, Cyprus, Denmark, Germany, Spain, Andalucia, Barcelona, United Kingdom, England, Devon, London, Shropshire, Suffolk, Sussex, Yorkshire, Wales, Pembrokeshire

Rhonda checks out the best solo and family breaks for fathers, for Father's Day or all year round.

Multigenerational break © Forest Holidays.

A Family Break at Forest Holidays Forest of Dean Cabins, Gloucestershire

Gloucestershire

Lily assesses the pros and cons of a weekend break in forest cabins with extended family.

© Cuckoo Down Farm Yurts.

A Family Glamping Holiday at Cuckoo Down Farm Yurts, Devon

Devon

Abigail and son head to Devon for a blast of bucolic bliss, Mongolian style.

Family Breaks: Harrogate with Kids

Yorkshire

Rhonda and family discover the Yorkshire spa town from a family perspective.

A bathroom at Coworth Park © Dorchester Collection[copyright]© Dorchester Collection[/copyright]

15 Unforgettable Mums' Breaks with Kids: UK

Yorkshire, Worcestershire, Wiltshire, Suffolk, Hampshire, Gloucestershire, Dorset, Cumbria, Cornwall, Berkshire, Leicestershire, County Durham, England, United Kingdom, Latin America, Perthshire, Wales, Pembrokeshire

Rhonda tracks down the best places to combine a little ‘me’ time with some family fun.

A session with the falconer at Swinton Park.[copyright]Rhonda Carrier[/copyright]

A Family Break at Swinton Park, Yorkshire

Yorkshire

Rhonda discovers an oasis of family-friendly luxury – plus kids’ activities galore – in northern England.

UK Family Breaks: Ripley Castle, Yorkshire

Yorkshire

Rhonda gives her son the chance to be king for a day.

© Bamburgh Castle.

A Christmas Family Break in Northumberland

Northumberland

Rhonda and family spend the festive season by the British seaside.

A Family Break on the Chatsworth Estate, Peak District

Staffordshire, Derbyshire

Rhonda and family take a winter warmer on the Chatsworth Estate.

IllumiNations © Walt Disney World Resort.

Top 5 Tips for Making the Most of a Trip to Walt Disney World Resort

Orlando, Florida, USA

Our advice for enjoying the world-famous themepark complex to the max.

Child-Friendly Beijing: Insider Tips to the Chinese Capital

China

Travel agency founder and father of three Peter Danford shares his tips for enjoying Beijing with children.

Archery at Center Parcs Whinfell Forest.[copyright]© Rhonda Carrier.[/copyright]

8 Ways to Make the Very Most of Your Center Parcs Break

Wiltshire, Suffolk, Nottinghamshire, Cumbria

A guide on how to make the most of your break

© Edinburgh's Hogmanay.

8 Great Places to Celebrate the New Year with Kids

Edinburgh, London, Dorset, New York, USA, Andalucia, Spain, Vienna, Europe, Sydney

Rhonda checks out the best New Year events for families around the globe.

Playing in a Parisian park

Family City Breaks: Paris with Kids

Paris

Rhonda and gang fall in love with Paris all over again.

© www.thello.com

A Family Trip to Florence, Italy, by Overnight Train

Italy, Tuscany

Rhonda and family take the slow route to Italy.

Travelling by train with kids

Family Travel: 10 Reasons to Take the Train with Your Family

Georgina finds many compelling reasons to let the train take the strain on family holidays.

On-board a boat in San Francisco

Days out with Kids: Hyde Street Pier, San Francisco

San Francisco

Noelle and her crew go off the beaten track to learn about their city’s maritime heritage.

Georgina's trusty campervan.

Single-Parent Campervan Holidays with Kids

United Kingdom, France

Georgina and Arthur take to the road for some mum-and-son adventures.

© Caravan & Motorhome Shows

UK Campervan Holidays with Kids

United Kingdom

Georgina gives the lowdown on family campervanning in the UK.

© Stonehenge by YHA Salisbury.

Separate Family Holidays in the UK

United Kingdom, Wiltshire

Annemarie makes the case for divide and rule when it comes to family breaks.

Evening view of Mont Orgueil Castle.[copyright]© VisitBritain [/copyright]

A Visit to Mont Orgueil Castle, Jersey

Jersey, Channel Islands

Sarah and family discover the grand and mysterious Channel Islands sight.

The New Acropolis Museum © Rhonda Carrier.

10 Unmissable Museums with Kids in Mainland Europe

Switzerland, Spain, Lisbon, Portugal, Amsterdam, Netherlands, Rome, Italy, Greece, Paris, France, Finland, Brussels, Belgium, Europe

Georgina rounds up some of her favourite cultural venues on the Continent with kids.

Quad-biking at Center Parcs, © Rhonda Carrier

A Dads' Break at Center Parcs Elveden Forest, Suffolk

Suffolk

Two Dads, Six Kids, 48 Fun-packed Hours…

Lost in France: A Mini-Break Gone Wrong

France

Georgina and her six-year-old son find unexpected inspiration in a succession of holiday disasters.

A treehouse at the Domaine © Rhonda Carrier.

A Family Break at Eurocamp Domaine des Ormes, Brittany

Brittany

Rhonda and family experience the popular Breton campsite from different angles.

© Choco-Story

A Family City Break in Bruges, Belgium

Belgium, Europe

Tracey and kids discover that short breaks can be very tasty indeed.

A Place at the Beach: Kid-friendly eats and family breaks on the coast

Sussex

Sarah and family enjoy a family feast by the sea

One of the treasures at the Istanbul Archaeology Museums.[copyright]© Visit Istanbul[/copyright]

An Istanbul City Break with Kids, Turkey

Istanbul, Turkey

Georgina and son find out what the fascinating Turkish city has to offer children.

Rhonda and Ethan get to grips with their tandem.

An Amsterdam City Break with Kids

Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands, Europe

Rhonda and kids explore the family-friendly Dutch capital.

© Visita Sevilla.

A Single-Parent City Break in Seville, Andalucia

Andalucia

The single mum and her teenage son get to grips with Spanish, tapas and flamenco in the Andalucian capital.

Family Holidays: From Finland, With Love

Finland

Tracey Davies and her son experience Finland

Cropton Cabin © Forest Holidays

A Family Break at Forest Holidays Cropton Cabins, North Yorkshire

Yorkshire

Rhonda and family venture into ‘Gruffalo’ territory.

Feather Down Farms - Hollings Hill

A Family Break at Hollings Hill Farm (Feather Down), Herefordshire

Herefordshire

Lucy takes her tots glamping on a dairy farm with Malvern Hills views.

Hot tub in a Treehouse at © Center Parcs Elveden Forest.

A Family Weekend Break at Center Parcs Elveden Forest, Suffolk

Suffolk

Suzanne and her family enjoy a fun-filled self-catering getaway at the activity-packed holiday village.

Roe deer in Galloway.[copyright]© Galloway Conservation Park.[/copyright]

A UK Family Break in Galloway, Scotland

Scotland

Rhonda and family enjoy log cabin life in Scotland's biggest forest park.

Free Family Activities in NYC

New York

How to do the Big Apple on a budget.

The pool at Woolley Grange.

A Weekend Break at Woolley Grange Hotel, Wiltshire

Wiltshire

Outdoor swimming in January at a luxury family hotel.

Krakow: A delicious Poland family holiday

Krakov

Feasting on sausages and peirogi in Krakow.

A display at the Historial de la Grande Guerre © Rhonda Carrier.

A Tour of Somme Battlesites with Kids

Picardy

World War I history comes alive in northern France for Judy and son.

Dove Farm in the Peak District

Derbyshire family break: A Spring Weekend at Dove Farm

Derbyshire

A self-catering break in the Peak District.

Washington DC: A family sized break and menu

Washington, D.C.

Eating American classics in Washington DC.

Lambs © Turoe Pet Farm.

A Family Holiday in Connemara, County Galway

Ireland

Sarah and family discover glorious Irish beaches, animal attractions and a family-friendly hotel.

Dea Birkett's Eating with Kids: Self catering in Paris

Paris

Saving money on trip to the French capital.

Ice Age Room at Splash Landings Hotel, Alton Towers

A Review of Splash Landings Hotel, Alton Towers

Staffordshire

Nick and family delight in an overnight stay at the Staffordshire themepark.

Bemelmans Bar.[copyright]Carlyle Hotel, New York[/copyright]

A Family Tea with Madeline at The Carlyle Hotel, New York City

New York, New York, USA

Dea and family enjoy a heavenly high tea in the iconic Bemelmans Bar.

Kalnoky Castle, Transylvania, Romania

European Family Holidays: Count Dracula's Transylvania

Romania

A daring dinner with a Transylvanian count.

Room with a view at the Midland Hotel.[copyright]© Midland Hotel.[/copyright]

A Break with Baby in Morecambe, Lancashire

Lancashire, England, United Kingdom

Rhonda and husband rediscover the seaside resort with baby Zac.

Family breaks: Family camping in Suffolk

Suffolk

The best family campsites in Suffolk.

View towards the Skyline Pavilion.[copyright]© Butlin's.[/copyright]

A Family Break at the Shoreline Hotel, Butlin's Bognor Regis, West Sussex

Sussex, England, United Kingdom

Nick Dalton and family say Hi-de-Hi! to the family-friendly holiday camp.

© Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre.

A Family Break in the Chilterns, Buckinghamshire

South East England, Buckinghamshire

Following the trail of Britain’s best-loved children’s writer and discovering other Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire attractions.

Arthur at the seaside © Georgina Allen.

A Mother and Teacher’s Thoughts on Term-time Holidays

Sussex, Somerset, New Forest

Former primary school teacher Georgina and her son play hookie to take a campervan jaunt around Britain.

Thyme at the Premier Inn Greenwich.

A Family Break at the Premier Inn Greenwich, London

London

Rhonda and boys find out why the budget chain is so popular with those travelling with kids.

© The Look Out Discovery Centre

A Family Day out at The Look Out Discovery Centre and Coral Reef, Berkshire

South East England

Swashbuckling forest adventures within easy reach of London.

Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Fantasyland, Disneyland® Park

Family Theme Breaks: Disneyland with Young Kids

Paris

Rhonda explores Disneyland Paris 30 years after her first Disney experience.

© Visit Brussels.

A Family Trip to Brussels Christmas Market, Belgium

Brussels

John sees the popular festive event through new eyes.