When it comes to family days out in the UK, Nesquik and Virgin Experience Days have got you covered. Exhilarating theme parks, underground trampoline playgrounds and picture-perfect gardens - Britain is packed with an incredible amount of family-friendly activities. But with such a large variety of places to go, it can be difficult to plan a day out that’s fun for every family member.
That’s why we’ve rounded up the best things to do across the country, so no matter where you are, you’ll find something amazing to do with your nearest and dearest. Read on to discover your next day out.
The largest theme park in the UK, there’s no place quite like Alton Towers. Home to more than 40 rides and attractions, including seven world-class rollercoasters, there’s plenty to keep visitors of all ages entertained. Ride The Smiler’s world-record 14 inversions, face your fears on the new Nemesis Reborn and for little ones in tow, meet some famous faces in CBeebies Land.
Set in a picturesque location between Beeston and Peckforton Castles, The Ice Cream Farm is an indoor and outdoor play attraction that is perfect for the kids. There’s soft play, Europe’s largest indoor sand and water play, a crazy golf course and more to enjoy with your Play Pass. Taste buds will be treated to one scoop from over 50 unique flavours and you'll get to select a 1-litre tub to take home.
It’s the forest adventure that everyone’s talking about. With 35 locations across the UK, there’s bound to be a Go Ape adventure near you. From treetop challenges and segway sessions, to nets and axe throwing, there's something for every thrill-seeking family.
The first facility of its kind in the world, Bounce Below is a subterranean playground hidden in a 176-year-old disused cavern. Available throughout the year in all manners of weather, here you’ll be able to discover six levels of bouncy trampoline nets, slides the height of two double decker buses and colourful illuminated décor.
One for the Harry Potter fans! From the Great Hall to Diagon Alley, Warner Bros. Studio’s Harry Potter tour is a magical family day out. Find never-before-seen treasures and see the actual props, costumes, special effects and animatronics from the ground-breaking film series.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the epitome of botanical garden royalty, Kew Gardens is rightfully one of the UK’s top attractions. The lush expanse is a natural playground for little ones, meanwhile adults can be fascinated by the sheer range of climates, native and exotic plants on display. Don’t forget to stroll the tree-top walkway, see the serene lake and step into the tropical rainforest in the Palm House.
The UK’s largest zoo, Whipsnade Zoo is set in over 600 acres of the beautiful Chiltern Hills countryside. There are over 10,000 amazing animals to discover, including lions, tigers, rhinos and elephants. Other exhibits worth a visit are the rockhopper and African black-footed residents of the penguin pool, the Aquarium and Butterfly House.
The years between toy trucks and driving lessons pass very quickly. Fill the gap with a day celebrating the past, present and future of Silverstone and British motor racing at their interactive museum. There are over 60 hands-on exhibits to explore, as well as iconic cars and bikes on display that have played a pivotal role in the 70-year history of the circuit. The visit ends with a thrilling lap of Silverstone brought to life in a special-effects cinema.
If nothing bonds your family quite like the beautiful game, then you’ll want to hit up the myriad of stadiums that offer behind-the-scenes tours to loyal fans. Whether it’s Chelsea, Tottenham, Liverpool or Manchester United, the family team can gain exclusive access to areas normally reserved for players and officials.
B Bakery has designed the perfect kid-friendly afternoon tea in the form of their Paddington Bear bus tour. Hopping onboard an iconic Routemaster bus, tuck into an array of sweet and savoury treats, served alongside some of London’s best sights. Each table comes with a special built-in screen featuring a Paddington-guided animation of the tour. Paddington and Mrs Bird will tell you all about the famous landmarks and share the beloved bear’s view of the world.
Hopefully by now, you’ve discovered the destination for your next family day out. If not, don’t panic - browse the full Family Days Out range on Virgin Experience Days, boasting over 300 epic adventures for both big and little kids alike.