Your plans whilst you’re in the Lake District don’t always have to involve lakes. There are so many great things that you can do in this National Park.

Of course the Lake District National Park is predominately known for its many mountains and lakes. But you will also find plenty of alternative things to do that you can add into your day. Whether you are staying at our Thanet Well Lodge Retreat or our Keswick Reach Lodge Retreat or somewhere else, this list of alternative ideas will be perfect for you. Have a read below and see which ones you are going to add to your next trip to the Lake District.

The Lakes Distillery

Setmurthy, Near Bassenthwaite Lake, Cumbria, CA13 9SJ

At The Lakes Distillery you can enjoy going on a range of different tours. From the distillery tour & tasting to the Lakes whisky tour and even a whisky & chocolate pairing tour. Each will take you behind the scenes where you can learn all about the distillery and the science behind creating the alcohol that is made here. There is also a bistro at the distillery that you could book into either before or after your tour to explore another area of the venue.

find out more

Alpacaly Ever After

The Lingholm Kitchen & Walled Garden, The Lingholm Estate, Portinscale, Keswick, CA12 5TZ

In The Lingholm Estate you will find Alpacaly Ever After, an Alpaca farm where people can come and meet the alpacas, feed them, take photos, ask questions and even walk them around the grounds. It’s a great experience if you are an animal lover and want to learn more about alpacas! The activity itself lasts around half an hour and prices start at £7 for children and £15 for visitors 12 and over.

find out more

The Puzzling Place

Museum Square, Keswick, CA12 5DZ

Known for being the world of illusion, The Puzzling Place is an optical illusion paradise. Here you will find the perfect picture opportunities and you’ll not believe your eyes with some of the illusions around this puzzling place. There are a range of different rooms that are fascinatingly fun and will leave you questioning what was and wasn’t real in each room. It’s the perfect place to go with families, couples and friends.

find out more

Afternoon Tea in Cockermouth

3 Crown St, Cockermouth, CA13 0EJ

Sit back, relax and enjoy an afternoon tea experience in The Trout Hotel in Cockermouth. Whether you are celebrating an occasion or you just want a luxurious experience to add into your day this will be perfect. And there are so many different ones to choose from, a classic afternoon tea, a gin and tonic afternoon tea or an afternoon tea with either Laurent Perrier Brut or Laurent Perrier Rose. The selection of sandwiches, pastries, cakes and sweet treats are also included.

find out more

Honister

Honister Pass, Borrowdale, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5XN

At Honister you will find a range of different outdoor and indoor adventures to suit all types of adventurers. From canyoning to mine tours, climbing the mine to going across an infinity bridge. There are so many fun, adrenaline fuelled experiences that will be perfect for the thrill seekers out there. The location was also the last working slate mine in England and they have a shop where they have used the slate to hand-craft various products.

find out more

Tree Top Trek

Brockhole, Windermere, Lake District, LA23 1LJ

Take to the tree tops and enjoy an adventure like no other with various activities. You could complete a tree top obstacle course, bounce around in treetop nets with slides, tunnels and ball zones, or climb a 10m high wall and make your way down on a 250m zip line! There are so many fun adventure opportunities that you can get involved in here. And there is something for everyone to try out too which makes it the perfect day out.

find out more

Shed 1 Distillery

The Old Calf Shed, North Lonsdale Road, Ulverston, Cumbria, LA12 9AU

Shed 1 Distillery is ran buy husband and wife, Andy and Zoe Arnold-Bennett. They started their distillery in there garden shed in 2016 but have since relocated to a bigger location where they can provide visitors with a visitor centre, a tour of the gin distillery with gin tasting and the opportunity to make your own gin. There is also a gin afternoon tea that you could book and enjoy with friends. Once you’ve finished with your time at Shed 1 Distillery don’t forget to pick up some gin to take home from their shop onsite.

find out more

Path to Adventure

Keepers Cottage, Ashlack, Grizebeck, Kirkby in Furness, LA17 7XN

The perfect addition to your day would be Path to Adventure, they have a huge variety of outdoor activities that you can do in the Lake District. There are things like ghyll scrambling, canoeing, abseiling, bushcraft, rock climbing, guided walks, scrambling and archery. So why not be at one with nature, take in all the breath taking sights around the Lake District and create some memories in an unforgettable adventure. Like the other things to do above, there are so many choices which make it perfect for groups of all ages to come and enjoy.

find out more

Lakes Escapes

Stanley St, Workington, CA14 2JD

Test your skills and see how well your group work together under pressure at Lakes Escapes. It’s an escape room centre where groups of up to 8 people have to solve puzzles, riddles and tasks to provide them with information to escape. The hard part of this escape room challenge is that you only have 60 minutes to escape. There are 7 different rooms available for you to try all with different themes from Christmas, pirates, detectives and more!

find out more

Keswick Brewing Co.

Brewery Ln, Keswick, CA12 5BY

Keswick Brewing Co. is a craft brewery which has an onsite bar called the Fox Tap along with brewery tours available. And a beer shop where you can purchase some of the beer that has been brewed onsite! They have won over 15 different awards for all of the beer they have brewed. In the bar you will find 6 cask and 4 keg beers and plenty of canned and bottled beer too. Along with wines, ciders, spirits and soft drinks so there is something for everyone.

find out more

Both of our resorts in the Lake District will make the perfect base to head out and explore. And there are so many alternative things to do in different areas of the national park. Find out more about each resort and see which would be perfect for you.

• explore Keswick Reach Lodge Retreat
• explore Thanet Well Lodge Retreat

Two new species of dinosaur have been discovered on the Isle of Wight and are thought to have roamed the island around 129 million years ago!

The two species that have been discovered are both carnivorous dinosaurs that belong to the spinosaurid group. To give you an idea of size, experts have said that they believe they would have been around 9m (29ft) in length with skulls that are 1m (3ft) long. There was around 50 bones that they’ve collected and they are going to be going on display at the Dinosaur Isle Museum in Sandown.

take a look at the Sky News article to learn more

Due to the Isle of Wight having an ever-changing coastline you will find that is is an amazing place for dinosaur and fossil discovery. Before this recent discovery there have been plenty of other species discovered there in the past. Keeping on topic of dinosaurs and the Isle of Wight, we have put together a list of some dinosaur related things to do whilst you’re on the island.

Dinosaur Isle

Culver Parade, Sandown, PO36 8QA

Dinosaur Isle is a dinosaur museum that is in Sandown on the Isle of Wight. Due to so many dinosaur discoveries that are made on the island it makes sense to have a museum dedicated to all the species. The museum was designed by the architect Rainey Petrie Johns who was inspired by the shape of a Pterosaur – it is apparently the first custom build dinosaur museum in the whole of Europe! Inside the museum you can find everything dinosaur related like robotic dinosaurs, fossils, bones and all the information about each dinosaur too.

find out more

Restricted Area 5 at Blackgang Chine

Ventnor, Blackgang, PO38 2HN

Land of Imagination at Blackgang Chine is the UK’s oldest theme park and has many different lands that you can explore. One of them being Restricted Area 5, a place that you must enter at your own risk! There are huge life size moving dinosaurs all around Restricted Area 5 and it would be one of the most realistic dinosaur encounters you will have experienced. Some of the dinosaurs that you will see are the Argentinosaurus, T-Rex and a Triceratops trio. It’s a great experience for all dinosaur lovers out there to enjoy.

find out more

Dinosaur Expeditions

Military Rd, Brighstone, Newport, PO30 4PG

If you love dinosaurs and fossils and want to have a go at discovering some during your time in the Isle of Wight then the Dinosaur Expeditions will be perfect for you. They have a centre onsite where they collect scientifically important fossils as well as giving people the chance to go on a fossil hunting trip with an experienced and professional guide. There are two main areas that the trips go to, one is Yaverland beach which is near Sandown and the other is on the south-west coast and goes from Atherfield to Compton.

find out more

Dino Islands Golf Adventure

39 Culver Parade, Sandown, PO36 8AT

Just down from Dinosaur Isle you will find Dino Islands Golf Adventure. So if you want to have a full day of dinosaurs you could pair these two together. Dino Golf will take you on a prehistoric adventure where you have to complete a family-friendly 18 hole experience. This multi-level golf course has various life-size dinosaurs and water features that you can see from all the different holes you will have to complete. It’s a great experience and will be a fun addition to your action-packed day out on the island.

find out more

We have two incredible resorts that are located on the Isle of Wight. Both will provide you with a getaway where you can relax, charge up, and have time to explore the island.

• explore Woodside Coastal Retreat
• explore Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat

The Peak District National Park is known for its outstanding beauty and incredible viewpoints so why not explore them whilst you’re in the area.

Whether you are staying in our Rivendale Lodge Retreat or not, this list of viewpoints we’ve put together are definitely worth considering during your time in the Peak District. If you love walking, taking beautiful photos and exploring new places then you will definitely appreciate all that the National Park has to offer. These viewpoints are perfect to explore all year round and you can enjoy breath taking views at all of them.

Solomon’s Temple

Poole’s Cavern Visitor Centre, Buxton, SK17 9DH | 19 mins

Solomon’s Temple is a historical landmark that sits at the summit of Grin Low hill. Some may know this temple as Grinlow Tower and was built in 1896 by architect William Radford Bryden. The area it is located in is Buxton Country Park which has a 100 acre woods that you can explore along with GoApe, a shop, picnic area and toilets.

• 3 different trails to the viewpoint (25, 30 or 45mins)
• There are stairs to get to the top of the viewpoint
• Enjoy incredible views across the spa town of Buxton
• You can camp at the country park from Easter till October

find out more

Derwent Edge

Hope Valley, S33 0AX | 60 mins

Derwent Edge consists of a short but challenging walk with the reward of Derwent Edge at the top where you can enjoy views as far as the eye can see. The walk to get there is easily followed thanks to the signs that you will see along the way. Or follow the link below which gives you a step by step on what the walk consists of and where you can park.

• Views of Ladybower Reservoir, Crook Hill, Win Hill & Kinder Scout
• 2.5 mile walk that will take around an hour to complete
• Short, challenging walk with fairly steady climb up and steep descent
• The terrain consists of moorland and rocky paths

find out more

Dovedale Stepping Stones

Dovedale, Ilam, Ashbourne, DE6 2AY | 15 mins

The popular Dovedale Stepping Stones can be accessed from Ilam Park which is a 158 acre country park owned by the National Trust. There’s also  Dovedale House within this park along with the Dovedale stepping stones that you can walk to. Along the walk you will see plenty of wildlife like sheep and cattle so ensure if you have dogs that they are on leads.

• 3 mile circular walk which takes around 2 hours
• Head out early for the walk as it gets busy
• After heavy rain stepping stones are often submerged, save walk for when the weather has been dry
• One of the most popular hotspots in the Peak District

find out more

Thor’s Cave

Ashbourne, ST13 7TS | 16 mins

Located in the Manifold Valley of the White Peak in Staffordshire, Thor’s Cave has become an extremely iconic natural cavern to explore. The cave can be seen at the foot of the valley 80ft up so you can imagine how impressive the views are when you get to the opening of the cave. The circular hike will take you over a mixture of paths and open grounds.

• One of the Peak District’s most iconic landmarks
• 5 mile walk which takes around 3 hours to complete
• Excavations at the cave revealed 10,000 year old remains
• The Verve used Thor’s Cave for the cover art for ‘A Storm in Heaven’

find out more

Stanage Edge

Hope Valley, S32 1DZ | 44 mins

If you are looking for somewhere with stunning views and a unique hike then heading to Stanage Edge would be a great idea. There are various car parks around the area which create different types of walks but the most popular is around 9km long. During the walk you can also find the popular Robin Hood’s Cave.

• Stanage Edge is around 3.5 miles in Length
• Most popular car park to use is Hathersage Village Car Park
• Walking route is 9km and takes around 3-4 hours
• The Dale Road parking will make your route shorter

find out more

Ladybower Reservoir

Hope Valley, SS33 6RA | 45 mins

The Ladybower Reservoir is a Y shaped reservoir that the River Derwent and River Ashop flow into. It is extremely popular as a walking route and many visitors also come just to enjoy the views and scenery around the reservoir. Particularly the Ladybower Reservoir “plug hole” which you can see in the image above.

• Built between 1935 and 1943 and opened by King George VI
• Rainbow and brown trout are in these waters
• 5 mile walk around the reservoir takes between 1 and 2 hours
• Shaft spillways (plug hole) is there to regulate water levels after prolonged rain spells.

find out more

There are so many other amazing viewpoints in the Peak District that you can explore. They are the perfect way to have a day out if you are staying at Rivendale Lodge Retreat. Our resort can then help you relax and unwind with the on-site bistro & bar.

explore Rivendale Lodge Retreat

Keep all the kids entertained during your break away and explore the local area for the day. Below you will find some of the best days out with kids in and around Wareham, Dorset.

And if you are staying with us for a holiday at Wareham Forest Lodge Retreat we hope you find this useful and get some ideas of what to do with your little ones to make the most of your time here. There is so much on offer when it comes to things to do along the southern coast of England, particularly in the Dorset area. So we’ve picked the best of the bunch that are suitable for kids and listed them below for you.

Poole Old Town & The Quay Murder Mystery Treasure Trail

The Quay, Poole, BH15 1BQ | 15 mins

Whether it’s your first time in Poole or not, this murder mystery treasure trail will be the perfect activity for you and the kids to enjoy. The overall idea of this treasure trail is that you have to work together to solve sneaky clues that you unlock at various buildings in this self-guided trail route. It’s a circular trail and starts at the visitors centre and then trails all around the old town and ends at the Quay. See if you all have what it takes to eliminate the suspects and correctly discover who the culprit is.

find out more

Poole (Dolphin) Leisure Centre

Kingland Road, Poole, BH15 1TN | 15 mins

At Poole (Dolphin) Leisure Centre you will be able to enjoy a swimming session in either the small pool or the main pool they have on offer to use. Before you go it is best to check their swimming timetable as things may change each day with their family swimming times depending on what they have on. The family swimming sessions are usually on for an hour and would cost you no more than £20 for a family of 4!

find out more

Putlake Adventure Farm

High Street, Swanage, BH19 3EU | 25 mins

There are so many things in Putlake Adventure Farm to keep your little ones entertained. With tractor rides, outdoor play equipment, a real working farm, animals, indoor soft play area, pedal go-karts, trampolines, birds, a pet centre…the list could go on but you get what we mean. It’s the perfect place for children ages 0-10 years to enjoy and there is also a tearooms so adults can enjoy some tea and cake or a bite to eat for lunch!

find out more

Sandbanks Crazy Golf

Banks Road, Poole, BH13 7QQ | 27 mins

Perfect if you are looking for fun for the kids and the adults, Sandbanks Crazy Golf is an 18 hole outdoor crazy golf course that will provide you with plenty of fun. No matter what plans you may already have sometimes there is nothing better than injecting some friendly competition into your holiday fun. It’s the best crazy golf course on the South Coast and it is located right next to the beautiful beach so you can enjoy the views.

Lemur Landings

Tower Park Leisure Complex, Poole, BH12 4NY | 15 mins

If you are looking for a children’s entertainment centre then Lemur Landings is the place for you. Located in the Tower Park Leisure Complex, your kids will be able to enjoy the soft play area which is one of the biggest in Dorset. Along with some epic climbing walls and ‘The Ted Shed’ where your little ones can make their own teddy bears to take home. There are more than enough things to do here to keep everyone entertained.

find out more

Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park

Wareham Road, Organford, Poole, BH16 6EU | 3 mins

Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park can offer you everything you’d expect from a farm park. You will be kept busy with a tractor trailer ride, pig racing, animal activities, go karts, sand and water play area, a duck pond, maize maze and plenty of other things. It’s another day out that is perfect to keep the kids entertained but also provide parents and adults with a fun experience as you see plenty of farm animals and learn all about them too.

find out more

Hollywood Bowl

Tower Park Leisure Complex, Poole, BH12 4NY | 15 mins

If you like the sound of Lemur Landings and you are on the Tower Park Leisure Complex then Hollywood Bowl would be a great shout for something else to do whilst your there. There are 24 lanes along with a designated VIP area, an American themed diner and an amusement area. So not only can you go head to head in a fun game of bowling you could also grab a bite to eat and play on some of the arcade games.

find out more

Corfe Castle Model Village

The Square, Corfe Castle, Wareham, BH20 5EZ | 18 mins

If history is an interest of yours and you want to show the kids something a little bit different to just an ordinary castle then having a day out at Corfe Castle Model Village would be the perfect idea. Sitting in the heart of Corfe Castle village on the Isle of Purbeck you will be able to enjoy the 1/20th scale model of the castle and the village as it was back in 1646! As well as the model village you can also explore the gardens around and have a rest at the Courtyard Café.

find out more

Witbit Water Park

Arfleet Mill Lakes, Studland Road, Dorset, BH20 5JG | 17 mins

In the summer months we couldn’t think of anything better than a trip to Witbit Water Park. Located at the Arfleet Mill Lakes this inflatable obstacle course is the perfect challenge for both friends and family! You will be taking part in a range of different inflatable obstacles that will test your climbing, balancing and strength. You will be guaranteed unbeatable fun with everyone and there is also a snack shack that serves hot and cold food and drink options.

find out more

Upton Country Park

Poole Road, Upton, Poole, BH17 7BJ | 10 mins

With 160 acres of parkland, shoreline and formal estate gardens, Upton Country Park would make the perfect trip for a day out with the kids. You can explore all the grounds and take in the stunning views of the grand Grade II listed Georgian Mansion House and the kids can keep entertained at Spurrier’s Play Park with the Splash Fountain.

find out more

Mr Mulligans

Exeter Road, Bournemouth, BH2 5AF | 28 mins

Mr Mulligans is a venue that takes crazy golf to a whole new level. This adventure golf experience has two epic courses, an 18 hole course and a 27 hole course. Along with the adventure golf courses there is also a bar and restaurant so you can make a full day out at Mr Mulligans. Perfect for families who want to have fun, or even for a birthday party, no matter what your age is you are bound to have some fun here!

find out more

Our Wareham Forest Lodge Retreat would make the perfect base for your family holiday so that you can then try out all of the amazing things listed above. There are also so many amazing ways to keep everyone entertained on the resort too such as the beautiful forest that surrounds the area.

explore Wareham Forest

Whether you’re searching for a seaside getaway or a countryside escape, South Devon has everything you’re looking for.

Our stunning Hawkchurch Resort & Spa is perfectly placed in South Devon for you to discover all it has to offer. Being surrounded by the picturesque Devonshire countryside and only a short drive away from the golden sands of the Jurassic Coast.

We thought we would help to narrow down the best attractions so you can start planning your getaway with a list of our top picks below.

Beer Beach

Seaton, EX12 3BZ / 20 min drive

A wonderful shingle beach that’s surrounded but stunning limestone cliffs. Only a short walk away from the charming and picturesque village of Beer, with independent shops and stores waiting to be explored. The beach was once a smuggler’s haven with its cove-like features. There are mackerel fishing trips available to book as the beach still operates as a fishing port, with specially designed boats that are launched by very skilled fishermen.

find out more

Seaton Jurassic Visitor Centre

Seaton, EX12 2WD / 20 min drive

Take a journey back in time and see all the local discoveries from fossil hunters and geologists over the decades. The Jurassic Coast is home to thousands of prehistoric fossils and you can learn all about them at the visitor centre. Jump aboard the time-ship which will take you back 200-million years to the Jurassic seas, where you can control what kind of prehistoric creatures you want to meet. During your journey, you’ll also be shrunk down and land in a giant rock pool display, with spectacular models and hands-on activities to explore.

Exe Estuary Trail

Exmouth, EX8 1 DG / 1-hour drive

A newly constructed 16-mile cycle and walkway through beautiful scenery. The trail is mostly flat so can be enjoyed by all (even the fur-buddies in your life!). It runs around the whole the Exe Estuary and links Exmouth, Exeter, and Dawlish Warren while running along the picturesque River Exe. Whether you choose to walk or cycle the trail, it’s a wonderful couple of hours out, enjoy the countryside and seeing Exmouth in a whole new way.

find out more

Stuart Line Cruises

Exmouth, EX8 1FE / 55 min drive / Pre-booking needed

A multi-award-winning, family-run passenger boat company, offering a fantastic way to see the Jurassic Coastline. The cruises have been running since 1968 and are hugely popular way to see the coast, with the calm waters of the River Exe helping throughout the year. They have a whole host of different cruises you can book to see the best that South Devon has to offer.

• Guided bird watching
• Day trips to the English Riviera
• Circular cruises of the Jurassic Coast
• Exeter Canal Cruises into the heart of the city

visit website

Exeter Cathedral

Exeter, EX1 1HS / 1-hour drive

Discover a thousand years of inspiration at one of Europe’s most significant cathedrals. Exeter Cathedral offers history, architecture, and unique treasures all in one place, being home to the world’s longest, uninterrupted, Gothic stone vaulted ceilings. See the sledding flag from Scott’s legendary British Antarctic Expedition and a 15th Century astronomical clock, which shows how the solar system was understood during that time. There are also family activities and guided tours to enjoy.

visit website

Beer Quarry Caves

Seaton, EX12 3AS / 30 min drive / Pre-booking needed

Book a guided tour of the 2000-year-old, man-made caverns! These mind-boggling caverns run deep and were carved out by the brave men and boys for the stone to be used in some of the most prestigious buildings in the country, including Exeter, Winchester, St. Pauls, and Norwich Cathedrals. Up until the 16th Century they used picks to cut the rock, but in the early 18th Century they started using handsaws, all done by candle-light for up to 14 hours a day. Learn more about the quarry caves and the people who worked there on your tour.

visit website

The Donkey Sanctuary

Sidmouth, EX10 0NU / 25 min drive

Visit the hundreds of acres that lots of rescued donkeys call home. The resident donkeys love to meet new people and showing off their fun and unique personalities. The sanctuary is an award-winning attraction and is free to visit. Why not adopt a friendly donkey and help rescue others all over the world? It’s a wonderful day out for all ages, with activities, talks, and walking trails available to book too.

visit website

There really is something for everyone in South Devon, with so much history to explore you’re sure to love spending time with us at Hawkchurch Resort & Spa where you can enjoy a fascinating day out in the local area, and fantastic spa facilities in the evening.

more about Hawkchurch

There are lots of things to do with your family along the Cornish coastline, from zoos to pirates!

With so many things to do and places to see in and near Newquay, we thought we would narrow it down for you and put our top favourites all in one blog post. There are endless miles of golden sands to explore, from Fistral Beach to Lusty Glaze, but Newquay has so many family-friendly attractions waiting for you too, you’ll love spending time along the stunning coastline.

Find out more about our top picks of the things to do in Newquay with the family below when you visit us at Piran Meadows Resort.

Pirate’s Quest

Newquay, TR7 1RA / 20 min drive / Pre-booking needed

Visit this family-fun attraction and learn all about Cornwall’s fascinating pirate past. The hour-long adventure is a fully immersive walk-through with real-life pirates! Escape a shipwreck, find your way through the mystical caves and explore the murky 18th Century streets and replica tavern. If you’re brave enough: enter the Sunken Village of Damned, where screams and laughs await you but don’t worry there’s a safe path for those who don’t want to brave the terrors too!

Flambards Theme Park

Helston, TR13 0QA / 1-hour drive / No booking needed

Perfect for the thrill-seekers in your family, you can take to the skies with endless rides, including the Sky Raker, spectacular Space Shuttle, and the Hornet rollercoaster. There are also rides for the little ones, with the Tiny Tots Pirate Ship being a favourite, as well as the fabulous and traditional Carousel. Head inside for the award-winning attractions where you can learn all about British history with interactive displays. Including digging up fossils in the Prehistoric Journey, learning how the Victorians lived in the Victorian Village and learning what life was like during World War II in Britain in the Blitz walk-through.

visit website

Blue Reef Aquarium

Newquay, TR7 1DV / 20 min drive / Pre-booking needed

Located on Towan Beach in Newquay, the Blue Reef Aquarium offers a fantastic journey through local waters, all the way to exotic shores through fascinating displays and underwater creatures. There are over 40 displays to discover, showcasing local reef sharks which can grow up to two meters! Meet the friendly loggerhead turtles and learn how long they live and enjoy the sights from the walk-through Ocean Tunnel, filled with colourful fish and sharks. Say a big hello to the most interesting creature, the Giant Pacific Octopus, which has blue blood, 3 hearts and a brain-shaped like a doughnut!

visit website

Newquay Zoo

Newquay, TR7 2NN / 15 min drive / Pre-booking needed

Home to 1000 of the worlds rarest and most endangered animals, Newquay Zoo is not only a family-fun day out, you’ll be helping conservation all over the globe too! There are so many places to visit and you can travel the world with the exhibits, from the sizzling savannahs of Africa, the stunning sub-tropical gardens to the picturesque rainforests of South America. There are so many friendly animals waiting to meet you, and you can learn all about them from the knowledgeable keepers who have talks and educational feeding times too.

visit website

Start planning your escape to North Cornwall with our beautiful Piran Meadows Resort, where you’re only a short distance away from all the family attractions and the miles of golden sands, as well as having fabulous facilities on your doorstep!

more about Piran Meadows

There are so many places to go and things to do in North Wales that we thought we would pick out the best ones to show you.

Whether you’re looking for stately homes, stunning gardens, or historic castles, this post is for you. We’ve listed the best tourist hot spots to visit in North Wales and with our four locations in the region offering holiday home ownership, and two holiday destinations, you’re sure to find the perfect escape for you.

The North Wales coastline is waiting for you to explore and discover all the legends, history, and adventures.

Erddig Hall

Wrexham, LL13 0YT / Pre-booking needed

A stunning National Trust property, which was constructed in 1687 and is now one of the best-preserved stately homes in the country. The house is filled with historical furnishings, artwork, and fascinating stories, book a guided tour and find out all about the lives of the people who lived here. The picturesque walled garden is still in the same layout from the 18th Century gardeners and offers stunning views over the countryside. Explore the out-buildings with various shops/stores, including a blacksmiths, joiners and stables housing beuatiful horses.

visit website

Llechwedd Deep Mine

Blaenau Ffestiniog, LL41 3NB / Pre-booking needed

The mines are now part of the fabulous ZipWorld family, you’ll be able to explore 500ft down into the stunning 19th Century slate mine. The tour takes one hour and fifteen minutes and includes all 16 underground floors of the mine (yes, we said 16!), including the 8 underwater layers. This spectacular tour also includes a display of light technology and enhanced reality technology, showcasing what life was like down the mines for the brave men who worked there and carved these mines.

visit website

Bodnant Gardens

Colwyn Bay, LL28 5RE / Pre-booking needed

Another National Trust property that offers a peaceful day out with stunning views and glorious gardens. Bodnant Gardens is one of the oldest (and most visited) formal gardens in Wales. It overlooks the Conwy Valley and has spectacular views of the valley from seating areas and secret gardens. Founded in 1874, the Italiante terraces and waterfall have not changed, but there has been wonderful additions, including the peaceful riverside garden. The gardens are mostly known for their stunning 55 meter Laburnum arch, which was originally planted in 1880 and still flowers every May and June. It’s also home to a popular tearoom with beautiful views and a wide-ranging menu.

visit website

Beaumaris Castle

Beaumaris, LL58 8AP / Pre-booking needed

An impressive moated castle, Beaumaris is now a Cadw property and kept in wonderful condition. Located on the Isle of Anglesey, you can take in the imposing caslte’s defensive circular towers and enjoy the stunning views from the top. Walk the walls and find out more about the history of King Edward I’s largest Welsh castle. The castle was built in 1295, with five metre thick walls and an enclosed inner courtyard, ensuring it could hold up during medieval feuds.

visit website

Caernarfon Castle

Caernarfon, LL55 2AY / Pre-booking needed

Another of King Edward I’s Iron Circle Welsh castles, Caernarfon Castle was built in 1283 as a seat for his eldest son, Edward Prince of Wales. The castle took 37 years to complete, having 13 towers and two gates, it’s regarded as one of the most impressive and best-preserved medieval fortresses in Europe. The castle was used in Prince Charles’ investiture in 1969, and has featured the Netflix show, The Crown.

visit website

Start planning your next adventure along the stunning Welsh coastline and discover all the lost legends and historic stories waiting for you.

• our North Wales holiday destinations
• our North Wales sales destinations

We’ve picked the top four family-friendly things to do in Somerset near our Cheddar Woods Resort & Spa.

There’s so much waiting to be explored in the countryside, we wanted to help you plan your next UK holiday breaks with the kids. In our list we’ve got everything from indoor play areas to farmyard favourites, there’s something to do for the whole family.

Mendip Activity Centre

Where: Winscombe, BS25 5PQ / How far: 10-min drive / Pre-booking needed

A fabulous day out in Somerset with activities for all ages. Try out the unusual frisbee golf, test your skills with dry skiing or get your adrenaline going with tobogganing or kayaking. They also have a range of target sports, including axe throwing, air rifle ranges and activity archery, where you have to complete an activity course while shooting from a bow and arrow! You’ll also be able to learn about living in the woods with bushcraft and survival skills, as well as learning how to build a raft.

find out more

Hope Nature Centre

Where: Trowbridge, BA14 9QD / How far: 1-hour drive / Pre-booking needed

The 15-acre centre is located in the picturesque Southwick Country Park and is a wonderful and peaceful nature centre, perfect for all ages. There are lots of farmyard animals waiting to meet you, you’ll be able to join in on the goat walks and enjoy the donkey meet and greets. The Land Train can take you on a tour of the whole centre, and you’ll be able to stop off and enjoy some breakfast or lunch at the on-site cafe.

find out more

Court Farm Country Park

Where: Banwell, BS29 6DL / Haw far: 15 min drive / No booking

An all-weather attraction, there is something for all ages to enjoy on your day out in Somerset. There are two indoor play areas for all ages, a fantastical outdoor adventure play area perfect for older children, play barns for little ones, and exciting safari jeep adventures! Enjoy a tractor ride, meet the adorable animals and say hello to the friendly llama’s, cows, pigs, rabbits and magical red deer all waiting for you.

find out more

Puxton Park

Where: Weston-super-Mare, BS24 6AH / How far: 20 min drive / Pre-booking needed

A perfect attraction for all ages and a fantastic family day out in Somerset. The older children will love the aerial climbing, all ages can enjoy the fast and furious slides. The whole family can get competitive with the mini-golf range, find your way around the maze and defend the giant fort! Enjoy a peaceful trip around the boating lake, while the little ones will spend hours in the JCB play diggers. Puxton Park also has two indoor adventure play areas, with a separate toddler area including a ball pool so the little ones and can run around to their heart’s content. Enjoy the friendly farm animal petting sessions throughout the day, and marvel at the daily flying display at the Falconry Centre, where there is also owl encounters available. There really is so much to discover for all ages at Puxton Park.

find out more

Start planning your day out in Somerset and find out more about our countryside resort. Cheddar Woods Resort & Spa has everything you need for a self-catering breakaway, with a range of family-friendly facilities available, including an activity programme, an indoor heated swimming pool, and outdoor play areas. We have something for all ages to enjoy.

more about Cheddar Woods

We’ve listed the best 6 family-friendly attractions near our Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa for you to explore.

Whether you’re searching for a perfect soft play or endless animal adventures, we’ve got you covered for things to do with kids in Norfolk. Located in King’s Lynn, our Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa is the perfect base to explore the countryside, find your next adventure with the family-friendly facilities available, and discover the best days out with the kids in Norfolk.

Read more and start planning your escape to Norfolk.

Roarr! Dinosaur Adventure

Where: Norwich, NR9 5JW / How far: 40 mins drive / Pre-booking needed

A fantastic family day out, with something to do for all ages. Explore the 85-acre park with lots of play areas, indoor and outdoor, including the Dinomite with large slides, climbing nets, ball pools, and a two-level play area for under 5’s. Find the next T-Rex with the fun Dinosaur Trail where you can earn stickers. Venture to the Secret Animal Garden to meet some cute critters, including wallabies and Kune Kune pigs. There is so much more waiting for you.

find out more

Wroxham Barns

Where: Hoveton, N12 8QN / How far: 1-hour drive / Pre-booking needed

The Barns have everything you need for a fabulous day out with the kids in Norfolk and is one of the most popular places to visit with rides, slides, and adorable animals. Visit the Piggery and meet the cute micro pigs, cheeky goats and see the wonderful Rabbit village. Jump as high as you can on the jumping pillows and race around the track in the Go-Karts, or find adventure on the pirate ship before testing your skills on the mini-golf course. You’re sure to have a fantastic day out here.

find out more

Banham Zoo

Where: Banham, NR16 2HE / How far: 1-hour drive / Pre-booking needed

Discover over 2000 animals in this 50-acre award-winning attraction in Norfolk. Meet the breath-taking big cats, including tigers, cheetahs, and the stunning snow leopards. Head to ‘Eureka’, the subtropical house for a range of species waiting for you, including the two-toed sloth. Visit the Birds of Prey exhibition, where you’ll learn about the lives of these spectacular birds and see the barn owls and bald eagles fly over your head!

BeWILDerwood

Where: Hoveton, NR12 8JW / How far: 1-hour drive / Pre-booking needed

Let imagination run wild at one of the best kids’ activities in Norfolk. Venture to this award-winning forest adventure, where you’ll meet Swampy and his forest inhabitant friends. There’s so much to do, including exploring treehouses, running along jungle bridges, and finding your way through the sky maze. Take in the woodland along the enchanted river with a ride on the Bewilderboats. The attraction also has a range of scheduled activities for all ages, including puppet shows, fancy dress days, and storytelling events.

find out more

Congo Rapids Adventure Golf

Where: Easton, NR9 5GA / How far: 40 min drive / No booking needed

A great family day out at an 18-hole adventure golf course. The course is fantastically themed throughout, with obstacles including waterfalls, a volcano, a caged gorilla, a jeep and even a real-life airplane! Can you make it through the Congo?

find out more

Wroxham Miniture Worlds

Where: Hoveton, NR12 8QJ / How far: 1-hour dive / No booking. Contactless payment only. No buggies or pushchairs on certain days.

An interesting day out at one of the most popular places to visit in Norfolk. The largest indoor modeling attraction at over 10,000 square feet is also home to some of the world’s largest railway models that are permanently displayed. The attraction is split into different zones for you to wander through, including the railway zone with models of all sizes, the doll displays, and a whole city made from Lego. You can also discover the UK’s top 100 toys exhibition, where you can see handbuilt dollhouses and vintage arcade games you can actually play.

find out more

Our Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa is perfect for a self-catered breakaway in the countryside, where you can explore all the things to do with kids in Norfolk. We also have a fantastic range of family-friendly facilities, including an indoor heated swimming pool, outdoor splash zone, activity programme including archery, and lots of outdoor play areas for all ages.

explore Norfolk Woods

We’ve found the best dog-friendly beaches for you and your four-legged pal when you’re on your pet-friendly holiday to our Piran Meadows Resort in Newquay

Whether you’re searching for the best dog-walking areas with stunning scenery or looking for a full family day out with your pooch, these sandy beaches are the perfect place for you. Enjoy the summer sun and surf the waters of the Cornish coast with your dog when you visit these beaches on your pet-friendly holiday to Cornwall.

Fistral Beach

Distance from resort: 20 min drive | Postcode: TR17 1HY | Dogs allowed all year round

One of Cornwall’s most popular beaches, with a surf centre, cafes, surfboard and wetsuit hire company – there’s so much to do here. With such a vast expanse of golden sands waiting for you, you’ll love a dog walk or a day sunning yourself at Fistral Beach.

Crantock Beach

Distance from resort: 20 min drive | Postcode: TR8 5RN | Dogs allowed all year round

A large, golden sandy beach that’s perfect for getting away from the busy summer crowds. Explore Piper’s Hole cave towards the western end of the beach, which has carvings dating back over 100 years.

Holywell Bay

Distance from resort: 20 min drive | Postcode: TR8 5DD | Dogs allowed all year round

This a beautifully deceptive cove, hidden behind large sand dunes you’ll find a mile stretch of white sandy beach waiting for you. Holywell Bay takes it’s name from the hidden cave in the northern side of the cliffs, which you can explore during the low tide.

Watergate Bay

Distance from resort: 20 min drive | Postcode: TR8 4AD | Dogs allowed all year round

Ideal for long walks along a sandy beach during low tide. The Extreme Academy calls this beach home, offering surfing, kitesurfing, and kite buggying, you can also enjoy delicious food with Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen Restaurant on the beach front.