Where to Take the Kids? - UK's Top Attractions for Kids

The school holidays are upon us and after a week of reasonable weather when the kids can amuse themselves outside, the weather’s turning cold and wet again and up and down the country, parents are panicking over how to keep the kids entertained. Many websites dedicate themselves to identifying free days out but when free means the kids are going to be bored stiff, walking around a needlework museum or hiking the Pennine Way, you’ll soon realise that a few quid spent here and there on attractions that will really entertain them far outweighs the grief you’ll get elsewhere.

So what are the top UK attractions and are they all in the London area? Here are a selection, dotted around the country that are sure to entertain, amuse and give your battered eardrums a break

The South West - Babbacombe Model Village Torquay
 

More of a model town and based on Torquay itself, the beautiful landscaped grounds are packed with miniature buildings many with humorous names and funny activities going on inside. Audio guides to the industrial buildings represented are provided at each point and are in different languages. Prices are £32 for a family ticket of two adults and two children.

London and the South East – Chessington World of Adventures
 

Chessington World of Adventures is one of Britain’s top theme parks with amazing roller coasters and plenty of fun activities for the little ones. This summer it’s hosting a Moshi Monsters Festival where the kids can meet all their favourite characters. Family tickets for Chessington cost £80 if booked a week in advance.

The Midlands – Alton Towers
 

Alton Towers is the daddy of all theme parks and is set in the grounds of a stately home so the less brave can enjoy the house and gardens whilst the more adventurous can try the amazing rides that vie with Chessington for thrills. Prices at Alton Towers for a family ticket are £78 if booked online in advance

The North – Jorvik Viking Centre York
 

The Jorvik Centre is a fantastic day out for children they can dress in Viking outfits, go on a sights and smells tour of a Viking settlement before being able to hold Viking objects in a small interactive museum. You can go on to visit the new attraction called DIG which covers the archaeology of the site. A family ticket will set you back £39.95.

Wales – Cantref Adventure Farm and Riding Centre
 

Something a little different mixing farm animals with adventure; it has Britain’s longest toboggan ride as well as animal shows and petting areas. If you feel even more adventurous, you can rent a horse and pony trek the nearby Brecon Beacons. Family tickets cost £31 for two adults and two children.

Scotland – Dundee Science Centre Sensation
 

This is the UK’s only interactive science centre based around the senses and a fabulous experience it is too. Children and adults will be mesmerised and astounded by what they find out and experience. £25 will get you a family ticket and you should allow three hours for your visit.

These attractions are sure to keep the kids smiling and happy with the only complaint likely to be ‘Can we go again tomorrow?’