Adventure Holidays in Britain: Top 7 Family-Friendly Options
2025-05-26
Looking for something different for your next family break? Family adventure holidays in Britain are a great way to create memories, explore the outdoors, and spend quality time together. Whether you fancy climbing sea cliffs, following Viking footsteps, or splashing through scenic coastlines, the UK has plenty of exciting options that are perfect for kids and adults alike.
Let’s take a look at some of the most exciting family-friendly adventures you can try across Britain, especially in beautiful, history-filled Orkney.
Explore Brough of Birsay: Where Nature Meets History
If your family loves a mix of walking, wildlife, and history, Brough of Birsay is a must-visit. This small tidal island off the coast of Orkney can only be reached on foot when the tide is low, adding a fun twist to your adventure. Once across, you’ll find ancient Norse ruins and breathtaking views of cliffs and seabirds. It’s perfect for a light hike and a hands-on history lesson for curious kids.
Climb the Old Man of Hoy: For the Brave-Hearted
Got teens who love a challenge? Head to The Old Man of Hoy, a 137-metre sea stack that rises dramatically from the sea. Even if you don’t climb it (leave that to the pros!), the hike to the viewing point is a brilliant family trek with coastal views, fresh air, and maybe even puffins. It’s one of Orkney’s most photographed spots, and for good reason.
Cycle Through the New Forest, Hampshire
For a peaceful but fun-filled family adventure, the New Forest is hard to beat. With gentle cycle paths, wild ponies, and ancient woodland, it’s perfect for younger children just learning to ride or teens who want a scenic challenge. You can hire bikes locally, stop for picnics, and even camp under the stars. It’s the ultimate nature escape. Just two hours from London.
Top Tip: Start your ride from Brockenhurst village and follow the family-friendly Rhinefield Ornamental Drive loop.
Dive Into History at Scapa Flow
For families who love stories of the past, Scapa Flow offers a fascinating journey into Orkney’s naval history. This natural harbour played a major role in both World Wars. You can visit the museum, see real shipwrecks beneath the water, and learn about the events that shaped modern Europe. It’s both educational and exciting, a great rainy-day option too.
Paddle the Wye Valley by Canoe
Fancy an adventure on the water? Take the family canoeing down the River Wye, which winds through some of the most beautiful countryside in Wales and England. With easy paddling routes and plenty of picnic spots, it’s a safe and scenic way to explore. You’ll pass castles, cliffs, and maybe even otters! It’s ideal for beginners and children aged 4+.
Top Tip: Start from Symonds Yat for a half-day trip that’s fun and manageable for families.
Time Travel at Maeshowe
Step into the world of ancient Orkney at Maeshowe, a 5,000-year-old burial tomb. It’s one of the best-preserved Neolithic monuments in Europe and is covered in Viking graffiti, yes, real Viking writing! A guided tour brings history to life and is ideal for families with older children who are into myths, legends, and epic tales.
Go Fossil Hunting on the Jurassic Coast, Dorset
Turn your family into explorers for the day along the Jurassic Coast. Stretching from Exmouth to Studland Bay, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its ancient fossils. Visit Lyme Regis or Charmouth to try fossil hunting, or just enjoy the stunning cliffs and seaside views. Kids will love finding real-life pieces of history, and you might just spot a dinosaur footprint!
Top Tip: Head to the Charmouth Heritage Centre for guided fossil walks and hands-on learning.
Where to Stay
After a day of adventure, you’ll want a cosy and welcoming place to rest your head. Hotels like The Stromness Hotel in Orkney make a great base. With comfy family rooms, hearty meals, and easy access to local attractions, it’s the perfect spot for relaxing evenings after full-on days.
Final Tips for Your Family Adventure Holiday
- Pack for all weather, British adventures often include a little rain!
- Check tide times, especially for places like Brough of Birsay.
- Bring snacks and water, adventures can be tiring, especially for little ones.
- Make it a game, turn hikes into scavenger hunts or photo challenges.
Why Britain is Perfect for Family Adventure Holidays
From wild coastlines to ancient mysteries, Britain is packed with exciting places to explore with your family. Whether you’re adventuring through the Orkney Islands or heading to the hills of the Lake District, there’s something for every age and energy level. Best of all? You don’t need to leave the UK to feel like you’re discovering a whole new world.
So pack your bags, grab your walking boots, and get ready to create unforgettable memories together.
Ready to plan your next great escape? Explore more family-friendly adventures in Orkney and beyond with us.
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