Anyone with a family knows that holiday itineraries are always to be made with the children in mind. We’ve assembled a few of our favourite family walks in the UK so that when you set out on your next holiday adventure, you’ll know exactly where to go to take in all of the best natural beauty, while keeping the kids entertained.
Buttermere, Cumbria
For families staying in the Lake District, the options for family walks in the Uk are endless, and it’s easy to fill entire days with treks into nature. For families with young children, we recommend a walk around Buttermere Lake. The beaches vary from mossy and muddy to wave-lapped and rocky, and the coastal lake path is just bumpy enough to keep young children entertained – and to tire them out, too. You’ll want to budget two hours to get around the lake with the little ones.
Tintagel, Cornwall
Families visiting Cornwall can easily delight children with stories of the birthplace of King Arthur during a walk from Tintagel Village to Hole Beach. Toddlers and older children will love the wildflowers, the lookout from Penhallic Point, and the footpath once used by quarrymen. You’ll take in all of the beauty of the rugged coasts of Cornwall, pass the crumbling ruins of Tintagel Castle, and arrive at Merlin’s Cave on the sands of Hole Beach. Remember to bring a shovel and spade for sandcastles!
Owl Trail, Leeds, West Yorkshire
Family walks in the UK don’t have to be in the countryside, and if you’re planning a city holiday in Leeds, an urban jaunt can be an adventure in its own right. Following the Leeds Owl Trail is a fun activity for the whole family. As you tour through the city in search of owl statues while learning about the heritage of Leeds. The Civic Owl Trail takes about 40 minutes to complete, making it perfect for smaller children, while families with older kids can follow the Grand Owl Trail for another 90 minutes.
Rhossili, South Gower Coast, Wales
For a walk that’s easy enough for toddlers and entertaining enough for older children (not to mention the adults), visitors to Wales will want to follow the Rhossili headland walk. An hour or so will take you along the famous cliffs of Wales and the limestone rocks of the coast. Thrill the young ones with tales of pirates that once sailed the area as you head to the breathtaking views at Worm’s Head. Don’t forget to view the shipwrecked Helvetia at low tide on Rhossili Beach.
Treasure Trails, South West Coast Path, Cornwall
For families willing to forgo typical nature walks in favor of pint-sized swashbuckling adventures, there are walks made just for kids along the South West Coast Path in Cornwall. Prepare to spend a few hours, or even half a day, solving clues and riddles to find hidden treasure.
You’ll be treated to some of the best scenery of the south coast – hidden creeks and quiet coves, twisting trails and harbour towns – while enjoying an action-packed day with the family.
These are just a few of our favorites. Do you know of any family-friendly walks? Add your favorites to the comments section below.