Open Travel Guide
Family travel in England

England Family Travel Guide 2026

Travelling England with children: the activities, stays, and meals that genuinely work for families.

The short answer: start with Natural History Museum, Legoland Windsor and Harry Potter Studio Tour. This guide profiles 5+ family-friendly activities in England, with prices, timing, and the practical notes that decide whether each one earns a place in your plan.

England is the largest and most populous country of the United Kingdom, offering a remarkable blend of ancient history, vibrant cities, and stunning countryside. From the iconic streets of London to the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, rugged moors of Yorkshire, and dramatic coastlines of Cornwall, England captivates visitors with its extraordinary diversity. World-class museums, medieval castles, Shakespearean heritage, and a thriving arts and food scene make England one of the world's most rewarding travel destinations.

Family activities

Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.

All ages

Natural History Museum

The blue whale (Hope), T. rex animatronic, earthquake simulator, and dinosaur galleries are perennial children's favourites. One of the world's finest natural history museums and completely free.

Duration: 3-5 hours

3-12

Legoland Windsor

England's most family-friendly theme park with over 55 rides, the spectacular Miniland (Lego models of London and European cities), and rides suitable for all ages from 3 upwards.

Duration: Full day

8+

Harry Potter Studio Tour

Walk through the actual Great Hall, Diagon Alley, Platform 9¾, and Dumbledore's office sets from the Harry Potter films. See original costumes, props, and the enormous Hogwarts castle model.

Duration: 3-5 hours

All ages

Chester Zoo

Voted the UK's favourite zoo with 12,000+ animals in 125 acres. The Monsoon Forest (free-flight orangutans), Africa Savanna, and the nocturnal animals house are exceptional.

Duration: Full day

5+

Beamish Open Air Museum

A living museum recreating life in north-east England in three eras. Vintage trams, a working colliery, costumed interpreters, and a 1940s home front bring history spectacularly to life for children.

Duration: Full day

Family-friendly hotels

Accommodation designed with families in mind.

Family

Center Parcs Longleat Forest

Self-catering forest lodges with access to an all-weather Sub-Tropical Swimming Paradise, outdoor activities, cycling trails, and adventure activities for all ages. One of England's best all-inclusive family experiences.

Family

Watergate Bay Hotel

A spectacular beach hotel directly above one of Cornwall's finest surf beaches, with Extreme Academy surf lessons, family-friendly bistro and terrace, and stunning Atlantic views.

Family

Bovey Castle

A grand Edwardian country house hotel within Dartmoor National Park. Golf, spa, outdoor activities, and excellent family dining make this a premium all-round family retreat.

Dining with kids

Eating out as a family.

Tip

English pubs are genuinely family-friendly; look for beer gardens and pub gardens in summer where children can run freely

Tip

Pizza Express, Wagamama, Nando's, and Yo! Sushi are reliable family-friendly UK restaurant chains with children's menus across England

Tip

Most family attractions have their own cafes; quality varies but they are convenient for avoiding mealtime travel with tired children

Tip

High chairs are widely available in restaurants across England; breastfeeding in public is legal and accepted throughout

Tip

Sunday lunch (noon to 4PM) at a quality pub is an excellent family experience; children's portions of Sunday roast are usually available

Tip

Children's portions are available at most English restaurants; don't be afraid to ask even if not stated on the menu

Family travel tips

Practical advice for stress-free family trips.

Tip

Build downtime into every day — over-scheduled kids melt down faster than tired adults.

Tip

Carry snacks, water, and a small first-aid kit at all times.

Tip

Many attractions offer discounted family tickets — ask at the ticket window.