The long summer holidays are the perfect excuse to explore somewhere new. Whether you're looking for a beach day, a family walk, or just a way to get the kids off their screens, here are five summer holiday destinations that are well worth adding to your list.
1. Visit the Coast
Three Fun Things to do at the Beach:
- Fly a kite on a windy beach
- Go rock pooling to see what creatures you can spot
- Build an epic sandcastle
Top Tip
Whatever the forecast says, it's always a good idea to take a pair of wellies!
2. Visit a Historic Town
Another thing we're blessed with in the UK is our well-preserved history. From the ancient Roman walls of Chester to the grandeur of Edinburgh, there are historic towns and cities packed with stories around every corner.
Pull on a comfortable pair of trainers and spend the day exploring streets, hidden alleyways and landmarks that have stood for hundreds of years. It's a chance to follow in the footsteps of those who came before us - while racking up plenty of steps of your own.
Three Fun Things To Do in a Historic Town:
- Climb the town walls and see how much of the city you can spot from above.
- Create a photo challenge and hunt for the oldest door, the strangest statue, or the most crooked building.
- Follow a ghost trail or historical walking route and uncover local legends along the way.
Top Tip
Wear comfortable shoes and book ahead for tours as they can get busy!
3. Head to the Hills
The countryside is packed with beautiful walking routes, from rolling hills and dramatic peaks to quiet valleys and winding woodland. Whether you are tackling a well-known trail or simply following a signpost to see where it leads, a day in the countryside is a great way to blow away the cobwebs, stretch your legs, and enjoy some spectacular views. Don't forget a good pair of walking shoes and a picnic for the top!
Three Fun Things To Do in the Countryside:
- Go on a hunt and see how many birds, wildflowers or butterflies you can spot.
- Find the perfect picnic spot with a view and enjoy lunch surrounded by nature.
- Play trail leader, taking turns to choose which footpath, gate or signpost the group follows next.
Top Tip
It's supposed to be fun! Don't worry about scaling the mountain to its summit, - some of the best views are found halfway.
4. Go Fruit Picking
There's something wonderfully wholesome about a day spent fruit picking. Across the UK you'll find plenty of opportunities for gathering your harvest. Farms are bursting with berries throughout the summer. Wander the rows and try not to eat more than you pick! Many fruit farms also have cafes, farm shops, and play areas, making them an easy way to fill a summer afternoon.
Don't forget to slip on your sunny day sandals, slap on a sun hat, and slop on the SPF.
Three Fun Things To Do at a Fruit Farm:
- Hold a taste test and decide which strawberry is the sweetest.
- See who can find the biggest fruit without squashing it.
- Take home your haul and turn it into smoothies, jam, crumble or a summer dessert.
Top Tip
If you are foraging in the wild, make sure you're able to confidently identify your pickings.
5. Take a Boat Ride
Watching the world go by from the water gives you a completely different perspective. Whether it's a ferry crossing, a river cruise, a canal boat trip, or a wildlife watching tour, getting out on the water can turn an ordinary day out into a relaxing adventure. From seal spotting to waving at the walkers, there's always something to see along the way. Casual shoes with a bit of grip will help you stay upright on board.
Three Fun Things To Do on a Boat Ride:
- Play spot the wildlife and keep count of birds, fish, seals or other animals you see.
- Be captain for the day and take turns navigating with a map or choosing landmarks to look out for.
- Wave challenge: see how many people on the shore, towpath or passing boats wave back.
Top Tip
Check sailing and tide times, and pack an extra layer - it's always cooler out on the water.
Making a Day of It
One of the best things about a summer day out is that it doesn't need to be complicated. Pack plenty of snacks, leave room for a spontaneous ice cream stop and don't worry about fitting everything in. The best trips are often the ones where you slow down and just enjoy the change of scenery.
What's been your standout day out this summer?
