Top 5 Family Activities for the Summer Holidays
With the summer finally kicking into gear, families around the nation are ready to take advantage of the shining sun by setting off for some exciting days out. But where are the top places to visit in the UK this summer?
This month, we’re taking a look at the top 5 destinations for a fun-filled family trip, to help you make the most of the summer holidays.
Dreamland, Margate
Immerse yourself in the bygone age of classic British amusement parks by visiting Margate’s newly refurbished and reimagined Dreamland. The revival of the park has led to clever redesigns and improvements – spearheaded by designer Wayne Hemingway – which captures the optimistic, joy filled history of the park while updating and modernising it for current generations. The restoration project is ongoing, and more can be expected to be added to the park in the coming months and years, but for now there is plenty to enjoy. From carousels, a roller disco and the iconic big wheel, to the helter skelter, ‘Counter Culture Caterpillar’, and the classic scenic railway, the whole family can find something to enjoy during a day out at Dreamland.
Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo is one of the top zoos in the world, and the most visited in the UK, with 12,000 animals from over 400 species calling it their home. Not only does the zoo offer a comprehensive insight into animal life, allowing you and your children to become familiar with some extraordinary animals you may have never had the chance to see before, but their is an impressive brand new development sure to be the highlight of your summer.
The ambitious ‘Islands’ project was completed earlier in the year, and takes visitors on an immersive conservation expedition through a re-creation of six Southeast Asian islands. The unique climates and habitats of: Panay, Papua, Bali, Sumatra, Sumba and Sulawesi are all open – as well as the impressive ‘Monsoon Forest’, and can be explored either on foot or via a lazy river boat trip. The attraction is definitely one of the most spectacular experiences you can find in the UK this summer, so be sure to check it out.
Explore the Jurassic Coast
Some of the most striking, beautiful scenery in the UK is tucked into the south coast, and one of the most historical sights you can find is the Jurassic Coast in Dorset. A World Heritage Site, the Jurassic Coast stretches 96 miles, passing by a number of seaside towns such as Bridport, Lyme Regis, Weymouth, Sidmouth and more. The coast is filled with unique and varied geology and landforms, and there are plenty of fossil hunting activities to enjoy against the splendrous ocean backdrop. Spend the day digging for fossils and trekking the beaches, then retire to one of the coastal towns in the evening to enjoy the timeless British seaside town atmosphere. It doesn’t get much better than that.
KidZania
Trying to satisfy the needs and wants of your kids during their seemingly endless time off over the summer holidays can be a difficult task, but KidZania in London gives you a hand by giving control to kids aged 4-14. KidZania is an incredibly unique approach to education and entertainment, providing kids with a working city where they can role-play as firefighters, scientists, police officers, doctors, athletes and more as a way of teaching them about the working world while letting them enjoy independence.
Kids can watch shows in the theatre, enjoy meals in one of the many restaurants, and earn and save ‘KidZos’ – the currency of KidZania – by trying out some of the various different jobs on offer. If you child has ever wondered what it would be like to be a professional photographer or television presenter, they can give it a go at KidZania, and they can spend the KidZos they earn on many goods and services throughout the KidZania city.
Treetop Nets – Windermere, Lake District and Ripon, Yorkshire
The UK’s first aerial netting adventure park offers unique fun for the entire family, suspended at heights of 12 meters between trees, Treetop Nets is filled with walkways, tunnels, slides and trampolines made entirely out of netting! There’s no need for harnesses, as the netting is entirely safe and the adventure park is enclosed by nets itself, so you’re free to jump, bounce and run to your heart’s content. For an active, fun and exciting experience that you’ve never seen before, Treetop Nets will give you a day out to remember, no matter how old you are.
Transport
Of course, if you’re planning to visit any of the fantastic places we’ve described but are wanting for adequate transport, you can’t go wrong by hiring a minibus or MPV to make sure everyone gets there without any trouble. Car hire opens up a great deal of freedom when it comes to going away, and hiring a minibus or MPV means you don’t have to leave anyone out – the more the merrier!
Gatwick Car and Van Rental offer high quality minibus and MPV hire at affordable prices, perfect for day or weekend trips. For ultimate ease and convenience, get in touch with Gatwick Car and Van Rental today to discuss the rental options available to you.