Kids look forward to their long summer holidays each year, but for parents it can be a time of real stress! The best way to keep little ones entertained and happy is with the promise of a family day out or two. These can work out very expensive though, so you will want to choose the best possible day out to suit your family. Here are our top 5 suggestions:
Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo, in Chester, Cheshire, is one of the largest zoos in England, with so much to see and do that it’s the perfect day out with your children in the summer holidays. Chester Zoo has over 11, 000 animals – including some of the most endangered in the world – spread out over 110 acres of land. There are lots of cafes and refreshment stalls all over the complex, and gift and souvenir shops for you to buy something to remind you of the day. The zoo may be large but it is well sign posted, and has its own monorail and a waterbus for when you’re feeling tired or fancy seeing a view of the whole park.
West Midlands Safari Park
West Midlands Safari Park has been voted the most popular tourist attraction in the West Midlands by children and parents, and it’s not hard to see why. During August, the park introduces the ‘Summer Nights’ late opening times, opening from 10am until 9pm. Not only can you drive through the park in your vehicle to see the animals, but West Midlands Safari Park also hosts its own rides, attractions, feeds and shows throughout the day. Children will delight in seeing the animals up-close during the penguin feed and sea lion show.
Hatton Adventure Farm
Hatton Adventure Farm in Hatton Country World in Warwickshire specialises in fun farmyard animals for children to observe, pet and feed, as well as fun fair and tractor rides, children’s shows and displays of falconry. Set in Hatton Country World, there are plenty of places to eat, shop and relax while watching your children enjoy themselves! Snorty’s Bouncing Barnyard is a large indoor play area also featured at Hatton Adventure Farm with its own restaurant for those that are feeling peckish.
Gullivers Theme Parks
Gullivers Theme Parks are located in Warrington, Milton Keynes and Matlock Bath. All three theme parks have lots of rides and attractions for all the family, and most are under cover so visitors don’t need to worry about the weather! All of the parks have something different to offer, though all guarantee you the same day of fun. Gullivers Theme Park in Warrington hosts Gullivers World Theme Park, Splashzone, Star Studios, the Gullivers Hotel and the Burtonwood Heritage Centre. The Milton Keynes park has Gullivers Land Theme Park, Splashzone, a Dinosaur and Farm Park, and Gullivers Campsite for those looking to stay over. The park in Matlock Bath has the theme park and also a special Spy Zone. The Gullivers Fun theme parks are specially designed for children between the ages of 2 and 13, so is the perfect place to take your younger ones this holiday.
Go Ape!
Go Ape is the UK’s number one forest adventure for those that enjoy exploring and trying new things. In total there are 29 Go Ape locations all over the UK so wherever you are there should be one local to you. The typical Go Ape adventure is the 2 to 3 hour long ‘Tree Top Adventure’ featuring zip wires, swings and crazy crossings. There are also Tree Top junior courses for younger children, and Forest Segway experiences for everyone to enjoy! Go Ape is an excellent summer day out, and is all about working as a team, having fun and bringing out the adventurer in yourself!