Family holidays can seem like great adventures for children and adults alike but whether it’s the cost, heat or travelling that can prove too much with young children, we’re opting for staycations more than ever. With the Great British holiday back in fashion, we’re ditching airport stress, long haul flights with three toddlers under four and hiding in our hotel rooms during the hottest parts of the day.

The benefits for staying in Britain when holidaying with a young family are fairly obvious:

• You’ll save plenty of money which can be spent on activities and treating the children when away
• Cut out lengthy travelling with little ones
• Avoid excessively hot destinations
• Avoid busy periods abroad
• When staying in Britain, you can be sure of the food you’re eating and little ones will recognise what they’re eating
• Have access to the NHS all over Britain
• No language barriers
• The security of having access to your home in case of emergency

Although going abroad is associated with adventure and experiencing something new, you’d be pleasantly surprised the hidden gems of the rest of Britain.

Family holiday ideas

We’ve found just a few of the great family holidays that can be had all over the UK to suit a range of interests and ages.

• Family parks
• Cottage breaks
• Caravans
• Wigwaming
• Castle breaks
• Camping with a difference
• Farm
• Beach stays
• City breaks
• Activity holidays

Family parks

Family parks have always been popular holiday destinations in Britain. With plenty of entertainment and activities to keep even the most excitable kids happy and relaxing parents only zones to wind down, Holiday parks really do have something for everyone. Whilst the kids are in a kids club learning how to play a new sport, relax in the spa before meeting up for a family meal and catching an evening musical show.

Family parks such as Butlins have parks all over the UK so you don’t have to travel far to find family fun. Catering for a range of families, there is a variety of rooms and lodges to choose from in these tailor made get aways.

Cottage breaks

If you and your family want to see somewhere different, UK cottage breaks are ideal. There’s nothing quite like lazing by a real fire with a cup of hot chocolate to make your holiday house feel like a home. Cottages can be rented out all over the UK in all weathers so whether you’re hoping to enjoy sunny Cornwall in June or a cosy cottage to enjoy the snow in Glenshee, there’s a cottage to suit everyone. Just be sure to brush up on the art of fire lighting before leaving home!

Caravans

A few of you may remember the horror stories of caravanning holidays as a child or might have even experienced them first hand but let us assure you, a lot has changed in the world of the mobile home. No longer do you have to dash to the bushes at night for the toilet or huddle knees to ears round a tiny table for breakfast. Modern caravans have everything from TV’s to en suite rooms with double beds to enjoy. Whether you want to stay in a caravan park with entertainment and shop facilities or just stop when the notion takes you, caravaning is back and better than ever.

For something a little bit different, why not try the very bohemian chic VW campervans and resurrect the 60′s? Coming equipped with a gas stove and grill and a fridge cool box, enjoy the open road for a super cool roadtrip camping adventure.

Wigwaming

Wigwam holidays are sweeping the nation. This style of camping is great for young children because the self contained wooden wigwams have heating to keep everyone nice and toasty. These low cost cabins will keep everyone sheltered from the sometimes questionable British weather. With a variety of styles to choose from including annex sleeping spaces, all you need is some sleeping bags or duvets, some tasty treats and a collection of campfire ghost stories.

Castle breaks

Has your little girl always dreamed of being a princess? Why not let her imagination run wild with a fairytale castle stay. Families can rent out suites in real castles in Scotland, Ireland, England or Wales. From self catering to castle kitchens, little ones will love playing outdoors in the extensive grounds and mysterious rooms.

Camping with a difference

Camping is undoubtedly one of most memorable holidays a child can have. Something about watching Dad struggling to hammer in the tent pegs in 90 mph winds whilst we watch on from the comfort of the warm car really sticks in our minds. If you’re camping with particularly young children, or just fancy something a little bit different, why not opt for glamping or luxury camping? From four poster beds and chandaliers to hot water and wooden floors, luxury camping is a mix of chic hoteling with good old fashioned family fun.

Farm

For children who are obsessed with tractors, animals and all things found outdoors, a farm break is the ultimate adventure. Head to the countryside with the little ones and stay in a traditional farmhouse complete with homegrown veg and eggs in the morning. The children will love meeting all of the animals and getting muddy playing in the fields whilst you enjoy the fresh air and the country walks.

Beach stays

For a bit of the traditional British holiday, why not travel to the seaside for some sun, sea and sand. The past few summers have brought us some scorching days rivaling European temperatures throughout the summer months so pack the bucket and spade and head to the beach.

City breaks

Little ones will enjoy the bright lights of the city in some of Britain’s best towns and cities. Whether it’s taking a trip on the London Eye or exploring the old vaults of Edinburgh, there’s an adventure to be had in every city. With plenty of zoo’s, cinema’s, bowling alleys and places to eat, there won’t be a dull moment for little ones in the big city.

Activity holidays

For those with slightly older children seeking a challenge, why not go on a trip to the lakes? There are some great family parks with activities such as cycling, swimming, watersports and indoor sports to name just a few. There are plenty of activities to suit all ages and stages.

Photography: Dustin Jensen @Flickr