This summer may nearly be over but many of us will already be starting to think about next year’s summer holiday. These are a great opportunity to spend precious quality time with family and create memories that will last a lifetime. Planning early gives you something exciting to look forward to, and can sometimes save you money.
Whether you’re planning your next staycation in the UK or planning to venture abroad, there are countless family summer holiday ideas to suit every budget and interest. The UK offers some fantastic destinations for family holidays, and you won’t need to worry about international driving regulations or additional car insurance considerations.
Beach Destinations
Cornwall remains one of the most popular choices for family holidays. With its stunning coastline, family-friendly beaches, and attractions like the Eden Project, Cornwall offers something for everyone. Devon is another excellent option, with Woolacombe and Croyde Bay providing perfect sandy beaches for building sandcastles and enjoying water sports.
Adventure and Theme Parks
For families seeking thrills, consider visiting Alton Towers, Thorpe Park, or Chessington World of Adventures. Most offer combined accommodation packages with park entry, making them convenient options for families.
National Parks and Nature
The Lake District offers breathtaking scenery and gentle hiking trails suitable for children. Alternatively, consider the New Forest, where you can combine nature walks with pony spotting and cycling adventures.
European Family Summer Holiday Ideas
If you’re planning to drive to Europe for your family holiday, ensure your car insurance covers European travel. Some insurers provide the compulsory minimum insurance required when driving the insured vehicle in Europe for a certain length of time. You will need to check with your insurer exactly which European countries the cover extends to. Remember that you must let your insurer know if you plan to take your car abroad.
Family-Friendly European Destinations
- France: The Dordogne region offers camping, canoeing, and cave paintings at Lascaux
- Spain: Costa Brava provides beautiful beaches with shallow waters perfect for young children
- Netherlands: Center Parcs locations offer indoor and outdoor activities regardless of weather
Budget-Friendly Family Summer Holiday Ideas
Summer holidays don’t have to break the bank. Here are some cost-effective family summer holiday ideas:
Camping and Glamping
Camping is still one of the most affordable ways for families to holiday, with plenty of sites listed on camping search websites where you can compare prices, facilities, and reviews. Glamping offers a similar experience with a little more comfort for those who prefer not to rough it.
Self-Catering Holidays
Booking self-catering accommodation gives you full control over food costs and mealtimes—something especially helpful when travelling with children. Platforms such as Airbnb, Vrbo, and Cottages.com make it easy to find and book family-friendly options.
Low-Cost Family Fun
Some of the best summer holiday activities don’t cost anything at all, from relaxing beach days with a picnic, to exploring National Trust grounds, enjoying forest walks and nature trails, or joining in with local festivals and events.
Making Memories That Last
The best family summer holiday ideas focus on experiences rather than expensive destinations. Whether you choose a week in a luxury resort or a weekend camping trip, the key is spending uninterrupted time together. Consider creating a holiday journal or photo album during your trip. Children love documenting their adventures, and these keepsakes become treasured reminders of your family summer holiday.
Safety First
Whatever family summer holiday ideas you choose, prioritise safety:
- Ensure all passengers wear seatbelts
- Take regular breaks during long drives
- Keep emergency contact numbers easily accessible
- Maintain your vehicle according to manufacturer guidelines
Remember, the best family summer holiday ideas are those that bring your family together while creating positive, lasting memories. Whether you’re exploring British coastlines, European cities, or local attractions, the most important element is quality time spent together.
Start planning your family summer holiday early to secure the best deals and ensure your chosen accommodation meets your family’s needs. Remember to review your car insurance policy and let your insurance company know if you are planning on taking your car outside the UK.
