England with Kids

Visiting England with kids is a must for any family seeking a blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. This guide will provide you with essential information on what to see, where to go, what to eat, and parks and attractions for kids, along with the best times to visit and a suggested 10-day itinerary. Let’s embark on this exciting journey through England!

What to See

In London:

• Museums: The British Museum, Natural History Museum, and Science Museum offer free entry and are packed with interactive exhibits perfect for kids.
• Famous Landmarks: The Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and the Globe Theatre are must-visits, although they do have admission fees.
• Markets and Parks: Explore Borough Market, Camden Market, Hyde Park, and Kensington Gardens. Enjoy a walk along the River Thames or take a boat ride on the Regent’s Canal.

Outside of London:

• Harry Potter Studio Tour: A magical experience for fans of the series.
• Windsor Castle: Visit the Queen’s residence and explore its beautiful grounds.
• Richmond: Relax in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, or Richmond Park.

Brighton:

• Brighton Pier and Beachfront: Enjoy a classic seaside experience.
• The Lanes: Wander through this eclectic area full of shops and cafes.

Salisbury and Stonehenge:

• Salisbury Cathedral: Home to one of the original Magna Carta documents.
• Stonehenge: A short drive from Salisbury, this iconic prehistoric monument is a must-see.

Bath:

• Roman Baths: Explore the ancient baths and learn about Roman history.
• Royal Crescent and Bridgerton Tours: Discover beautiful Georgian architecture and filming locations from the popular series.

The Cotswolds:

• Village Tours: Visit picturesque villages like Bourton-on-the-Water, known for its charming streets and Model Village.

Birmingham:

• Black Country Living Museum: Learn about the Industrial Revolution.
• Think Tank Birmingham Science Museum: A great spot for science enthusiasts.
• Warwick Castle and Cadbury World: Enjoy a medieval castle tour and a chocolate-making adventure.

Stratford-Upon-Avon:

• Shakespeare’s Birthplace: Visit the home of the famous playwright.
• Stratford Butterfly Farm: A delightful experience for kids.

Oxford:

• University Walking Tour: Explore the historic university and the Bodleian Library.

The Lake District:

• Natural Beauty: Enjoy lakes, mountains, and small villages. Ideal for outdoor activities and camping in the summer.

Where to Go

• London: Start your journey in the capital, spending at least a week if possible.
• Outside of London: Plan day trips to Windsor, Richmond, and the Harry Potter Studio.
• Brighton: Spend a day or two enjoying the seaside atmosphere.
• Salisbury and Bath: Allocate a couple of days for these historic cities.
• The Cotswolds: Plan for a day or two to explore the villages.Birmingham and Stratford-Upon-Avon: Make sure to allocate at least one full day for each of these destinations.
• Oxford and Lake District: These locations are better suited for longer trips, but can be skipped if you’re on a tight schedule.

What to Eat

• Traditional English Breakfast: Don’t miss out on starting your day with this hearty meal.
• Fish and Chips: Enjoy this classic dish either by the seaside or in a local pub.
• Afternoon Tea: Immerse yourself in a quintessential English experience, particularly in places like Bath.
• Local Markets: Explore Borough Market in London and other markets across the country for a wide variety of local and international foods.

Parks and Attractions for Kids

• London’s Playgrounds: Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens offer excellent play areas.
• Sea Life Aquarium: Located in central London, this is a great spot for marine life enthusiasts.
• HMS Belfast: Take the opportunity to explore this historic warship on the Thames.
• Cruises: Embark on a daytime Thames river cruise for a fun and scenic adventure.

When to Go

The best time to visit England is between April and October when the weather is warmest. It’s best to avoid school holidays in August, and consider the half-term breaks in February, June, and October for less-crowded attractions.

Rough Travel Plan for 10 Days

Day 1-3: London

Take the chance to visit major museums, landmarks, and markets.

Don’t forget to enjoy Hyde Park and take a Thames river cruise.

Day 4: Greater London

Go on a tour of Windsor Castle and Richmond Park.

Day 5-6: Brighton

Explore the beachfront and The Lanes.

Day 7: Salisbury and Stonehenge

Visit Salisbury Cathedral and the famous Stonehenge.

Day 8: Bath

Tour the Roman Baths and Royal Crescent.

Day 9: Cotswolds

Visit Bourton-on-the-Water and other charming villages.

Day 10: Stratford-Upon-Avon

Make time to explore Shakespeare’s birthplace and the Butterfly Farm.

Tips for Tourists

• Transportation: Take advantage of the extensive rail system or consider renting a car for added flexibility.
• Weather: Pack a waterproof jacket and lightweight layers to prepare for the unpredictable weather.
• Accommodation: Consider booking Airbnbs, vacation rentals, or house-sitting options to save on lodging costs.
• Crowds: Plan your visit around British school holidays to avoid peak tourist times.
• Local Interactions: Engage with the locals to enhance your travel experience and appreciate the diverse regional accents.

England offers a wide range of experiences that are perfect for families with kids. From exploring historical sites to enjoying outdoor adventures and indulging in delicious local cuisine, your trip to England is bound to be memorable. Use this guide to plan your itinerary and ensure a fun-filled and educational adventure for the whole family. Happy travels!