October half term is the perfect time to make the most of bright and crisp autumn days with the kids - before the clocks go back, days get shorter and Christmas mayhem descends. Whether you’re looking for sea air,city exploring, or bracing country walks, here are five trips to take in the UKfor a perfect change of scenery, courtesy of LateRooms.com.
The beach break - Brighton
The great British seaside may come into its own in summer, but a trip in autumn can be just as good. Head to the beach for stone skimming, paddling (yes really, the water’s warmer in October than the whole of summer) and beach games. The infamous Brighton Pier is open year round, with seaside stalls, fairground rides and plenty of food options to keep the kids entertained. And don’t miss a ride on the ghost train (it is almost Halloween after all). If the weather’s not playing ball, head inside to the Brighton Sea Life Centre which is home to sharks, sting rays, turtles and jellyfish amongst others.
Stay - The King’s Hotel, 3*
Located right on the sea front and close to the West Pier, this hotel makes for easy navigating of the beach and town. Double, triple and family rooms are all available and lots have sea views to make the most of your beach break.
The city stay – Glasgow
If you’re looking for the hustle, bustle and bright lights of a city staywith the kids, Glasgow is one of the UK’s most absorbing and under-explored options. You’ll find live music, street entertainers, vibrant shopping and dining, and of course plenty of interesting child friendly activities on hand to keep the whole family busy. Try the Glasgow Science Centre and Planetarium where the kids can get involved with experiments, or explore the riverside’s Tall Ships (for free).
Stay – The Hallmark Hotel, 4*
The Hallmark Glasgow is in the heart of the city and has 12 family apartments which give you space to spread out. There’s an indoor pool, to keep the kids entertained along with a health club and spa (if you’re looking to wind down). The hotel’s own brasserie restaurant means you can always dine in at the end of a day’s sightseeing.
The capital getaway – London
There’s no doubting it has some of the UK’s biggest hitters when it comes to family attractions, but a stay in the capital can hit your wallet pretty hard too. Instead, make the most of things to do for free. The Natural History Museum is a popular choice and rightly so –dinosaur fans will love the Dinosaurs Gallery, with a T-Rex fossil, Triceratops’ skull and more. If you prefer to catch animals before they reach the fossil stage, head to Golders Hill Park Zoo – which features ring-tailed lemurs, Kookaburras and ring-tailed coatis – or St James’ Park to see the Pelicans. And yes, they’re both free.
Stay – Mercure London Kensington, 4*
Offering fantastic value in Kensington, with the Victoria & Albert, Natural History Museum and Science Museum all close by, this hotel makes a great and economical base, with rooms from £99.
The cultural escape – York
Steeped in history, York’s tangle of twisting lanes, impressive ancient buildings and riverside location feels fairly magical whatever your age.
Explore the Minster, run up to Clifford’s Tower for views of the city and to tire out younger legs, or hire a boat for a self-drive trip down the River Ouse. For pint-sized train lovers, make a trip to the National Railway Museum which is free and features over 100 locomotives to explore. You’ll also find a miniature railway to ride and children’s storytelling in half term. York Dungeon is an atmospheric walking tour through York’s horrible history – not for nervous kids!
Stay – The Royal York Hotel, 4*
Recently refurbished, the hotel is right next to the train station, making it to get to and just a short walk to the heart of the city center. Views of York minster put the city’s history on your doorstep and there’s an indoor swimming pool and spa to enjoy too.
The County Retreat - Lake district
If you’re looking to take in some country air, switch off and reconnect with the family, a trip to the ever-popular Lake District will provide unforgettable views, water sports, cosy pubs and some of the UK’s best walking spots. Windermere provides a great base with plenty of activities to get involved in either around or on the lake itself. Take a trip on a steamer, hire a boat, head to the Lakes Aquarium or walk around the lake with an ice cream. A short drive will take you to quieter and stunning areas perfect for family hikes.
Stay – Beech hill Hotel & Spa, 4*
Set in landscaped gardens with stunning lake vistas, the Beech Hill Hotel puts you right at the shores of Windermere. Family rooms come with lake views and there’s a 40ft indoor heated pool and sauna, along with an outside spa pool to ease away any walking related aches and pains. The onsite restaurant holds a AA rosette.
All hotels can be booked through LateRooms.com
If you enjoy my blog, please consider following me on Bloglovin'
