Short journeys, sandy beaches and rainy-day backups — the UK regions that make travelling with little ones easy.
With young children, the best destination is often the one with the shortest journey and the most to do when it rains. The UK is full of family classics that tick both boxes — here are a few regions that consistently work well for families with little ones.
Cornwall & Devon
The south-west coast is a family staple for good reason: gently shelving sandy beaches, rock pools, and a string of family attractions for the inevitable wet afternoon. Stick to the calmer north-Devon and south-Cornwall beaches for paddling with toddlers.
The Lake District
Easier than it sounds with small children. Plenty of flat, pushchair-friendly lakeside walks, boat trips on Windermere, and farm attractions mean you don't need to be hardened hikers to enjoy it.
Norfolk & Suffolk
Wide, safe beaches, the Broads, and a slower pace make East Anglia a quiet favourite. Great for families who want sand and space without the long drive to the far south-west.
Choosing a base
- Look for a stay within easy reach of both a beach and an indoor attraction.
- Self-catering with a washing machine beats a hotel room for a week with kids.
- An enclosed garden buys you a coffee in peace while the children play safely.
Browse family-friendly stays in these regions on our destinations pages — each one shows verified Family Safety Scores so you can shortlist with confidence.
Find a stay you can trust
Browse family-friendly homes with verified Family Safety Scores.