Half-term holidays – where to go with the kids

By Kingfisher Visitor Guides

October is just around the corner, so here at Kingfisher Visitor Guides, we thought we’d let you know where you should be heading for your half-term break. Spending quality time with your family is important, as is having the chance to unwind from your daily routine. We have put together some ideas to help you plan the perfect getaway, packed with activities for both kids and adults to enjoy.


City breaks: London

A city break is always an exciting option for little ones. You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to things to do, especially during the October half-term holidays with all the extra events for kids.

What better city to explore than London? Jam-packed with museums, sights and entertainment for the whole family, there’s no danger of getting bored! Learn while having fun at some of the best museums for children in the country like the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum.

Blue whale skeleton in the Hintze Hall at the Natural History Museum in London

Natural History Museum is home to Hope, the famous 25.2-metre long blue whale skeleton

For a magical experience they’ll never forget, take them to see a West End Show. Bursting with the colours and sounds of Africa, The Lion King is a timeless favourite and bound to be a hit with the whole family!

For some Halloween spooks, book a ticket on the Ghost Bus Tour or visit the London Dungeons.


Read more: Pay a visit to the UK’s buzzing capital


Family resorts: Butlin’s

Let’s face it, having everything in one place just makes life easier. If you don’t like planning but want to make sure your kids have a great time, a family-oriented entertainment resort is a great option for you.

Butlin’s offers three seaside locations to choose from: Bognor Regis resort on the outskirts of South Downs National Park, Minehead resort in Exmoor and the original resort in Skegness, Lincolnshire opened in 1936.

With endless activities, live shows and events for all ages, many of which are included in the price of your stay, Butlin’s allows you to have a ton of fun and relax all-in-one. There’s always something to see or do including sports, games, arts and crafts, an extensive selection of shows and even an onsite fairground. With comfortable family accommodation and a wide range of dining options, you will have everything you need right on your doorstep, so you won’t need to worry about a thing!

Without a doubt, they will be buzzing for the scariest season of the year with special Halloween activities in store – the hardest part will be choosing what to do!


Family adventure holiday: Sherwood Forest

Looking to escape cities and crowds? Then an adventure holiday ensconced in nature could be just the answer. Located throughout the UK, Forest Holidays are experts in outdoor family adventures coupled with comfortable and unique accommodation.

Forest Holidays' cabin in Sherwood Forest

Dotted among the statuesque pines of Sherwood Forest, Forest Holidays’ cabins are almost hidden from view

Treat yourselves to a family lodge with hot tub in Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire. Adults will have the opportunity to put their feet up in the relaxing surrounding of a pine tree forest, while the little ones discover the forest of Robin Hood and Little John with the forest rangers. Put your archery skills to the test, go horse riding or discover the nearby Creswell Crags Ice Age caves. These are just some of the activities on offer in the area.

The wooden cabins are all equipped with a kitchenette and living area, and of course, we cannot forget the hot tubs! Every cabin has an inviting hot tub outside on the deck, perfect for the whole family to enjoy on chilly days or for a cheeky glass of bubbly once the kids are in bed.


Read more: A history of Nottinghamshire


Farm stays: Nettlecombe Farm

Farm holidays are fantastic for a family-bonding break, where you can watch the kids learn all about life on the farm and the animals that live on it. Animal feeding, tractor rides and local produce make this a wholesome and enchanting experience.

Located on the idyllic Isle of Wight, Nettlecombe is a charming family-run farm with a rustic touch. The little ones will get the opportunity to meet the furry residents that include classic farm animals like sheep, rabbits and chickens, as well as some more unusual guests like alpacas, donkeys, Shetland ponies and reindeers. The little ones will love the opportunity to pet and feed some of the animals during your stay while learning all about their habits and personalities.

The accommodation ranges from converted barns and stables to cottages and rooms in the farmhouse itself. Other facilities on the farm include a big Wendy house, an outdoor play area and a charming wooden tractor. Adults can also enjoy a yoga session in the barn and fishing in the nearby lake.


Modern musical masterpiece Hamilton at London’s Victoria Palace Theatre


Read more

Know before you go – Buckingham Palace

Our top reasons to visit Hampshire & the Isle of Wight

The best way to spend a weekend in Nottinghamshire

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Image credits: ©Butlin's; Forest Holidays; Nettlecombe Farm; The Trustees of the Natural History Museum, London; Video: YouTube/OfficialLondonTheatre

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