Top Places To Visit In the UK In Summer
Are you planning a summer vacation filled with epic adventures? Well, look no further. The UK has some truly unique places to visit in summer, where the sun shines and adventure awaits.
Explore the rugged highlands of Scotland, the picturesque landscapes of Wales, the historical wonders of England and the mystical charm of Northern Ireland. This uniquely diverse corner of the world is exciting for adults and kids of all ages.
And who better to guide you than us, a British family who’s lived and roamed across Scotland and England. We’ve also hiked the Welsh mountains and valleys, looking for hidden gems and well-known treasures, and explored the Irish countryside seeking adventure.
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Best Places To Visit In The UK In Summer
The UK has something for every family member, whether you’re seeking towering mountains, a day at the beach, or centuries-old castles and cities.
These are some of our favourite family-friendly summer destinations in Scotland, England, Wales, and Ireland. Add these to your itinerary for some epic adventures with kids.
Summer In Scotland
The northernmost country in Great Britain combines natural beauty, rich history, outdoor activities, and family-friendly attractions.
Visiting Scotland is an excellent choice for adventure-seeking families looking to explore famous Scottish landmarks, especially during the summer months. Here are a few places we recommend visiting in Scotland this summer:
- Edinburgh: Explore Edinburgh Castle, stroll along the Royal Mile, and visit dynamic attractions like Camera Obscura or the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
- Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle: Take a boat trip on Loch Ness, try to spot the legendary Loch Ness Monster and visit a ruined castle before immersing yourself in the surrounding Highland scenery.
- Isle of Skye: Enjoy awe-inspiring landscapes, visit Fairy Pools, and discover the history of Dunvegan Castle.
- North Coast 500: Journey the famous 500 mile road trip through some of Scotland’s most rugged terrain. Explore stunning remote beaches, hiking trails, waterfalls and discover dozens of hidden gems that lie off the beaten path.
Summer in Scotland can mean long days bathed in sunlight, perfect for exploring ancient castles, embarking on scenic hikes, cruising tranquil lochs or hopping between remote islands.
Holidaying in Scotland is the perfect opportunity to let children’s imaginations run wild amidst the tales of legendary warriors and mythical creatures. Every moment will be an adventure in itself! The further north you go, the longer the daylight hours, with the most northern areas barely getting dark on the summer solstice in June.
🤩 We loved this guided tour of Edinburgh Castle << Book Here
Summer In England
England is the most visited country in Great Britain and offers many activities and attractions for families. Hundreds of towns and cities sit between huge areas of open countryside, perfect for exploring as a family.
Summertime in England brings sunny weather, which is ideal for families looking to visit the seaside, hike national parks, or picnic. Here are a few places we recommend visiting in England this summer:
- London: Visit its most iconic landmarks, such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum. Make sure to catch family-friendly attractions like the Harry Potter Studio Tour.
- Cornwall: Relax on beautiful beaches, explore the Eden Project, and visit the historic Tintagel Castle, associated with the legend of King Arthur.
- York: Walk the medieval city walls, explore York Minster, and delve into history at the Jorvik Viking Centre.
- Peak District: Explore the striking landscapes by hiking, cycling or rock climbing. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely picnic in its picturesque surroundings.
Families can immerse themselves in history by visiting famous landmarks such as Stonehenge and Hadrian’s Wall, or seek thrills in theme parks like Alton Towers. Its cities have abundant cultural experiences, from world-class museums to bustling street markets, ensuring endless entertainment for both kids and adults alike.
England is the perfect destination for families seeking relaxation and adventure amidst stunning surroundings in summer. It has a comfortable, temperate climate and diverse landscapes with something for everyone to enjoy.
🤩Book this tour of the Tower of London with kids
Summer In Wales
Wales in summer offers families a delightful blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and stunning landscapes. With iconic valleys, coastal cliffs, beautiful beaches and charming villages, Wales is the perfect destination for a memorable family getaway.
Here are a few of the best places to visit in Wales for families this summer:
- Pembrokeshire Coast: Enjoy outdoor activities like coastal walks and boat trips to see seals and dolphins, as well as explore picturesque towns like Tenby and St Davids.
- Snowdonia National Park: You can hike or take a scenic train ride up Mount Snowdon, visit adventure parks like Zip World, and explore the slate mines.
- Cardiff: Visit Cardiff Castle, explore Techniquest’s interactive science exhibits, and enjoy family-friendly shows at the Wales Millennium Centre.
Explore ancient castles, spot coastal wildlife or embark on scenic hikes; there’s something to captivate every family member.
With its warm hospitality and endless opportunities for adventure, summer in Wales promises to be a magical experience for families seeking to create cherished memories together.
🤩 Book a family friendly tour in Wales here
Summer In Ireland
Explore Ireland’s best-known attractions, with its natural wonders steeped in myth and legend. Take in the breathtaking views over one of the most beautiful coastlines in Europe and enjoy thrilling experiences that will surely be a hit with adventurous kids.
Here are a few places we recommend visiting in Ireland in the summer:
- Giant’s Causeway: Marvel at the unique geological formations, take a coastal walk, and visit the Giant’s Causeway.
- Belfast: Explore Titanic Belfast, discover the history of the Troubles at the Ulster Museum, and take a Black Cab tour to learn about the city’s history.
- County Antrim Coast: Visit Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, explore picturesque villages like Cushendall, and enjoy scenic drives along the coast.
- Derry/Londonderry: Walk along the historic city walls, visit the Tower Museum, and take a guided tour to learn about the city’s turbulent past.
Northern Ireland’s cities come alive in the summer months with festivals, events, and family-friendly activities. Summer in Ireland promises endless opportunities for families to create cherished memories together, whether you’re exploring the great outdoors or immersing yourself in city life.
🤩 Take your family to Titanic Belfast for a history lesson they will love
When Is Summer In The UK?
While the weather in the UK can be unpredictable, June, July, and August are generally considered summer months. May and September occasionally get a look in, too, but they are less reliably warm or dry. As with many places worldwide, these months will vary in temperature and rainfall from year to year, but summer is still one of the best times to visit the UK.
Summer brings longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures across most parts of the country. Outdoor activities, festivals, wildlife watching, and travel are all popular activities, and it is the ideal time for families to explore the diverse landscapes and attractions the UK offers.
Best Summer Months To Visit The UK
We’ve already established that June, July, and August are considered Summer in the UK, but let’s take a closer look to help you plan your vacation.
June
The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with prolonged daylight hours allowing more time to explore outdoor attractions and activities. Additionally, many tourist destinations are less crowded compared to the peak summer months of July and August, making it easier to enjoy popular attractions.
June also marks the beginning of the festival season with a wide variety of events across the UK. Many of these are suitable for families, allowing them to immerse themselves in the local culture and festivities, such as the Highland Games or county shows.
July & August
July and August typically have warmer and more predictable weather, with long hours of daylight. This makes it ideal for families to maximise outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Many attractions, parks, and outdoor events are in full swing during July, offering plenty of family-friendly fun and entertainment options. Additionally, August is packed with festivals, events, and attractions across the UK, providing plenty of opportunities for family-friendly fun and cultural experiences.
July and August are peak tourist seasons in the UK, and booking accommodation and popular attractions in advance is essential. Many schools are on summer breaks during these months, adding to the crowds.
May Or September
Although not traditionally summer in the UK, May and September can bring delightful weather with far fewer crowds. Despite the less predictable weather, they are two of our favourite UK travel months.
How Long Is Enough To Visit The UK In Summer?
The ideal duration for a family trip to the UK in summer depends on various factors, such as the number of destinations you wish to explore, the pace of your travel, and your interests.
We recommend taking at least two weeks to cover some of the key regions and attractions in the UK. This allows for a more relaxed and immersive experience with time to visit iconic cities like London and Edinburgh. You’ll be able to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland, England, Wales, and Northern Ireland and indulge in cultural activities, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly attractions.
However, extending your stay to three or four weeks or more will provide more flexibility if time permits. You’ll be able to delve deeper into the UK’s diverse offerings, ensuring a truly memorable summer getaway for the whole family.
Tips For Travelling With Family In Summer
Travelling with kids during school summer vacations can be tiring and expensive. Follow these simple travel hacks to make the most of the places you visit in the United Kingdom.
- Plan and book accommodation in advance. Family-friendly hotels or vacation rentals book up quickly, and booking at least 6-12 months in advance is required for some popular areas.
- Pack appropriate clothing for variable weather conditions, especially in Scotland and Ireland. It is not unusual to experience all four seasons in a day, even in Summer! Ensure your UK packing list includes a raincoat and sun protection.
- Take advantage of family discounts and passes available for attractions, like ‘Two for One’. We keep our budgets low by selecting free activities such as hiking, visiting museums and exploring beaches.
- Be flexible with your itinerary to accommodate the interests and energy levels of everyone in the family. There are too many things to cram into a short visit; be selective with some ‘must see’ items and enjoy more relaxed family time.
FAQs | UK Summer Holiday Destinations
Families have a good choice of accommodation, including family-friendly hotels, bed and breakfasts, self-catering cottages, holiday parks and even castles!
Summertime in the UK typically brings warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, but it can still be unpredictable. It is advisable to pack layers and be prepared for occasional showers.
Absolutely! The UK offers many family-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences perfect for summer vacations. And, despite its northern latitude, the sea is warm enough to swim in.
Yes, many attractions cater specifically to young children. Theme parks, petting zoos, interactive museums, and playgrounds offer little ones plenty of fun.
There are plenty of free attractions like parks, museums, and beaches for families to explore. Consider self-catering accommodation and take advantage of family discounts offered by attractions and transport providers.
Final Thoughts | Places To Visit In The UK In Summer
The UK is one of the best places to visit in summer, whether scaling mountains, delving into history, or simply soaking up the sun on a sandy beach. There’s something for every family, and with plenty of travel options, getting around is a breeze.
There is no shortage of treasures for you to discover. The rugged Scottish Highlands, charming English villages, picturesque landscapes of Wales and the enchanting beauty of Northern Ireland await. We promise you will be satisfied!
