Days Out With The Kids: Fun Ideas In The UK

Looking for a fun-filled day out with the kids? Fuller's Presents Wind in the Willows is a magical theatre experience that brings the beloved characters of Toad, Mole, Rat, and Badger to life. From high-speed car chases to cheeky weasels and daring escapes, this lively show is packed with excitement, music, and plenty of laughs. It's the perfect way to introduce little ones to live theatre while keeping the whole family entertained. Be sure to grab lunch before the show - pre-book your table and make the most of a brilliant day together.

Situated in Crowborough, East Sussex, Realms VR is a brilliant indoor day out for the whole family. They offer VR gaming experiences for ages seven and up, while their VR escape rooms are suitable for over 12s.

You can battle it out head-to-head, or work together to solve puzzles and challenges. There are all sorts of fun themes too, from aliens to ninja trials and haunted mansions.

If you're on the hunt for fun activities to enjoy with the little ones in London, why not swing by Afternoon Tea at The Chesterfield Mayfair for a delightful mid-morning treat with a candy shop twist? Indulge in everything from scrumptious homemade scones, sandwiches, and pastries featuring funky lollipops and delectable peanut butter cups. It's a seriously sweet treat for all ages, available for £39 per under-12-year-old.

Swap screen time for stage time with a family day out to Fuller's Opera in the Garden. The pub garden atmosphere, comic twists, and modern script make Così fan tutte an ideal introduction to live performance for young audiences.

Pair it with a relaxed pre-show meal and you've got a full afternoon of food, fun, and theatrical flair - without the opera snobbery.

Step into history with guided tours of the newly restored Maison Dieu (Dover Town Hall), where expert-led sessions explore the building's 800-year story, from medieval hospital to Victorian town hall, with tickets from just £8. For families, the Dragons, Ghosts and Gargoyles tour lets you play medieval smells roulette, dress in historic costume and more.

Whether you're a history buff or looking for a unique day out, these events offer a rare chance to explore one of Dover's most iconic landmarks in a fresh and engaging way. There's even live events and sport thrown in for good measure, like live wrestling (from £12) and a Frankie Valli tribute act (from £20).

For families with children, The Freston Boot provides engaging activities like self-led spooky trails around the grounds, perfect for letting kids run off some steam. With its welcoming atmosphere and diverse range of events, this spot is an ideal destination for families seeking both relaxation and entertainment.

FLY-KID X FAMILY RAVE is the ultimate family-friendly daytime bash packed with nostalgic jams, taking place in both North and South London. Get ready to groove to everything from Beyonce to Bruno Mars, Missy Elliot to Madonna, Drake to Dua Lipa, and a whole lot more. While you soak in the beats, your kids can enjoy some top-notch entertainment, including awesome face painting, street dance lessons, hip-hop dress-up fun and more.

Forget the screen time - treat the family to a lively day out with Fuller's Shakespeare in the Garden. With a mischievous story full of fairies, forest fun, and magical mix-ups, A Midsummer Night's Dream is the perfect intro to theatre for curious young minds.

Pair it with a family-friendly lunch in the garden, and you've got a laid-back day out that blends culture, comedy, and quality time.

Nestled away in the Suffolk countryside, The Boot oozes traditional pub charm - think inviting lighting, wooden floors and exposed brickwork. This June, it's extending its warm welcome specifically to mums and little ones. 

As you unwind, take a breather and connect with other local parents, you'll capture your baby's tiny details on canvas to craft a lasting keepsake. To keep you refreshed along the way, there's tea, coffee and a steady supply of tasty biscuits.

When it comes to child-friendly days out in the UK, Hull Adventure is perfect. This top multi-activity centre includes family bookings, including for the 700-metre all-weather karting circuit where you can reach speeds of up to 40mph (minimum age 8 to 13 with adult driving, 14+ to drive self).

Not only that, but there's also 5-a-side bubble football and family old-fashioned sports days.

In the oh-so-charming Malt Kiln Farm Shop in the beautiful village of Stretton-under-Fosse, Rebecca's Kitchen gives you much more than a meal at the local cafe. Pull up a pew with the fam in its stunning garden or light and airy dinner to tuck into fresh, seasonal produce sourced straight from skilled butchers and British farmers.

For a special treat, order up an afternoon tea, with delicate pastries, finger sandwiches and artisan sausage rolls. Got hungrier mouths to feed? There's plenty more on offer, from succulent roasts to sandwiches, jackets and soups.

LEVEL1 is your one-stop-shop for family fun. An epic playground, it's the place to settle scores, ignite rivalries and taste sweet victory.

Round up your crew and get on down for mini golf, climbing walls, high ropes, racing sims, AR darts and plenty more. When it's time to refuel, head to the kitchen for pizza, burgers, hot dogs and all kinds of sweet treat.

Is there any better way to spend a day out than exploring Britain by foot? Strap on your walking shoes and prepare to soak in the stunning English countryside, from the serene country paths and riverbanks down South to the breathtaking hills and valleys up North. Check out our list of the top walks and hikes in England.

Embark on a journey through the tales of fables and adventures, as we unveil the UK's treasure trove of castles. Each one, a unique masterpiece, promises a day filled with drama, history, and stories waiting to be discovered. Whether you fancy a prince or princess-worthy day out, our guide to the best castles in the UK is your ticket to a trip back in time.

Get set to uncover some seriously mind-blowing vacation spots in our hand-picked guide to the 13 best beaches in Devon, and start plotting your next getaway to the South West.