BEST PLACES TO GO IN THE UK FOR HALF TERM BREAK

The United Kingdom may be small, but when it comes to amazing escapes and incredible history nothing can come close to beating it. Summer is over, and with the crunching of leaves under our feet we know that the October half-term break too is round the corner. With so many families missing their summer holidays this year lots of people are looking to try and get some time away during the school’s half-term to places they can enjoy whilst staying distanced and safe. So, here are some of the country’s best places where you can embrace the Autumn chill with friends and family, before the thermals and umbrella season is upon us.

BEST PLACES TO GO IN THE UK FOR HALF TERM BREAK

Hampshire: for forest fun

Coming from Hampshire myself, I knew I had to start with here. For me, it has so much to offer – from the forest to the sea, cities to hilly walks there’s so much to do in this southern county of the UK. Even if your kids are averse to the outdoors, a stay in a log hut cabin in the middle of Hampshire’s Blackwood Forest is certain to change their mind. From guided ranger walks, biking and going over cross country paths, there are a plethora of woodland activities to keep the kids interested. The town of Winchester, a short drive away, is a beehive of food activity serving the best local food and some signature seafood dishes with some beautiful architecture and Marwell Zoo nearby.

Orkney: for bird lovers

In September and October Orkney is flooded with migratory land and seabirds. These islands may not be the ideal sunbathing type, but if you reach North Ronaldsay during Autumn, you can stay cooped in the bird observatory and see some of the rarities of Britain. As well as birds, seals are in abundance here, as are the killer whales which prey on them from time to time. For most birdwatchers, catching the glimpse of a puffin is the highlight of a trip to Orkney.

Snowdonia: for hikers

Excellent walking trails set among spectacular and rugged countryside, hiking in Snowdonia provides an excellent base to discover the many attractions this place has to offer. The kids will love the early morning panoramic views of the woodlands and the Carneddau mountains as they amble over Watkins Path, one of the main hiking trails in Snowdon. Take a break from hiking and take the family to the Railway Museum at Penrhyn Castle or visit the array of pubs, restaurants and art galleries in nearby towns. Snowdonia National Park is the largest park in Wales with many scenic attractions and is also home to the largest lake.

Pembrokeshire: for seaside activities 

Alluring beaches and scenic walking paths make Pembrokeshire an ideal destination for a promising half-term break. The place also happens to be a food heaven made from authentic products sourced from the Haverfordwest farmer’s market. While adults can enjoy a drink at some of the best pubs in England, children can watch a session of Welsh cheese production from the galleries at Caws Cenarth. Pembrokeshire has over 50 beaches, ranging from vast stretches of white sand like Freshwater West to tiny secluded rocky coves at Cwm yr Eglwys.

Bristol: for surfing

Instead of hopping on a plane and heading to a faraway island to experience this epic sport, you now only have to go as far as Bristol to catch a wave. Today, Bristol is the leading place in the UK to surf on the new inland surfing lake at The Wave, where anyone, from beginner to expert, can surf on safe and consistent waves at any time of the year. If you are seeking some freedom, choose from a range of breezy walks available in the surrounding rural areas. With more than 100 great waves guaranteed each hour, you can hit the water almost anytime.

Lake District: for seclusion and privacy

Recently voted as a top destination of 2020, the Lake District is an ideal short trip destination for those families seeking some peace and tranquility. Once you have ticked all the boxes of oneness with nature, there are loads of attractions for the children to partake in. A prime example in this picturesque region is Lake Windermere, the largest natural lake in England. Children can get themselves a row boat or even Segway around the Windermere. Keen children can visit the Derwent Pencil Museum, home to the first ever pencil of the world.

Blackpool: for theme park lovers

Known for the famous Pleasure Beach, Blackpool is a fun place to head to for a few days of half-term family fun. Home to the UK’s most ride intensive amusement park with ten roller coaster rides and over one hundred other adrenaline rush inducing attractions, there is something in Blackpool for all ages. In case the weather plays spoilsport, you can always head to the Sandcastle Water Park, the largest indoor arena of its kind in the UK.

Isle of Wight: for natural beauty

This half-term family destination is hardly two hours from London by ferry or better still if you want to please the kids, by hovercraft. This easy to access vacation hotspot offers the ideal solution for a short escape for the whole family. Famous for rocky cliffs, award winning beaches and pretty villages, the Isle of Wight now enjoys the status of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, as a result of the diverse range of flora and fauna found here as well as the spectacular natural beauty of the surroundings.

West London: for nature enthusiasts

While London might be a little busy for a relaxing family half-term break, the areas of Hampton Court and Richmond Park are perfect for the October family half-term break getaway to some historical and natural sights. Both these places are beautiful in Autumn and you can enjoy the creature comforts of city life without having to compromise on convenience. This also happens to be the deer rut season and the children are sure to enjoy watching the stags bellowing, clashing antlers and charging at each other.

Where are you headed for this half-term break?

The United Kingdom provides an ideal setting for a half-term break. Whether you have little ones who want to play in puddles or older children itching to explore the surroundings, a short family holiday brings everyone together. So all you need is gather the entire brood and allow yourself time and space to enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

XOXO