Planning a holiday with toddlers is exciting. But it also comes with a unique set of challenges. Kids aged between two and three are generally little balls of energy, which means it’s important to plan a getaway that provides plenty of entertainment.
At kate & tom’s, we understand that traveling with toddlers calls for a unique approach. That’s why we’ve curated a list of the best holidays for toddlers, featuring destinations across the UK. As well as location ideas, we’ve thrown in a wide range of toddler-friendly activities the whole family can enjoy. All you need to do is pack the car!
Sandcastles and surf in Cornwall
Blue Flag beaches and nostalgia-soaked seaside towns make Cornwall one of the best holidays for 2 year olds. Challenge your little ones to a sandcastle building competition and cool off with a splash in the surf. There are beautiful coastal walks to discover, including lots of pram-friendly options.
Big-ticket attractions like the Eden Project promise a fun-filled day out in rain or shine. Meet animals from around the world at Newquay Zoo and discover vibrant underwater ecosystems at Blue Reef Aquarium. When it’s time to regroup, head back to your cosy Cornwall cottage for well-deserved rest and relaxation. Put the kids down for a nap and head out to the terrace to enjoy a glass of wine in the sunshine or a dip in the pool.
Hunt for fossils in Dorset
Dorset’s Jurassic Coast isn’t just a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also one of the best places in the world to hunt for fossils. Pint-sized explorers will love combing local beaches near Charmouth and Lyme Regis in search of ancient relics. When you’ve had your fix of palaeontology head to Monkey World in Wareham to come face-to-face with cheeky primates. It’s certainly one of the best holidays for 3 year olds.
A coastal escape to Pembrokeshire
If you prefer rugged coastal seascapes over rolling hills, you’ll love Pembrokeshire in Wales. Check into a luxury cottage near the coast and enjoy windswept beach walks and cosy nights by the fireplace.
Attractions like Pembroke Castle promise hours of entertainment for high-energy toddlers. It’s one of the best-preserved Norman castles in Wales and features a maze of tunnels, passages and stairways just waiting to be discovered. The combination of outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions makes Pembrokeshire one of the best holidays for 2 year olds.
Discover the magic of Beatrix Potter in the Lake District
The Lake District has enchanted artists and authors for centuries, including beloved English writer Beatrix Potter. Kids and adults alike love the World of Beatrix Potter in Bowness-on-Windermere, which brings the magic of characters like Peter Rabbit to life. Beyond Beatrix Potter, the Lakes offer plenty of outdoor activities to wear out little ones. Enjoy scenic lakeside strolls, set sail on a boat cruise and explore the amazing adventure playground at Lowther Castle.
Explore storybook villages in the Cotswolds
From Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water to Cirencester and Chipping Campden, the Cotswolds is dotted with storybook towns and villages. The region is famous for ice cream, making it one of the best holidays for 3 year olds. For adults, treats like Gloucester old spot pork, Bibury trout and Stinking Bishop cheese will have your mouth watering. Budding animal enthusiasts love meeting giraffes, rhinos and other exotic species at the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens.
Adventure awaits in Somerset
Somerset is another of the best holidays for 2 year olds. Walk on the wild side at Longleat Safari Park. Home to more than 120 species, the drive-through safari park gets you up close with cheetahs, giraffes, monkeys and more. The driving element makes this a fantastic activity for younger kids. Little explorers will be in their element at Wookey Hole Caves, a unique family attraction that showcases a hidden subterranean world.
Urban fun in London
What better place to entertain a toddler than London? Chef-driven restaurants and trendy bars aren’t the only draw in the capital. Though of course if you can secure a babysitter for the night, you’re free to explore this side of the city. London is one of the best holidays for toddlers because it’s packed with kid-friendly activities, including a laundry list of museums.
Be amazed by majestic African lions at London Zoo and watch sharks, turtles and rays cruise through crystalline tanks at SEA LIFE London Aquarium. For an adorable afternoon head to Paddington and explore the Pawprint Trail. It celebrates the much-loved children’s book character Paddington Bear and takes you past a series of cute sights and attractions. Finish with a trip to Hamleys, the legendary London toy store, where your little one can purchase their very own Paddington Bear.
A coastal escape in Northumberland
If you really want to escape the hustle and bustle, Northumberland is a top choice. Head to the peaceful Bamburgh beach, which stretches from Bamburgh castle all the way down to Seahouses, providing ample space to find your own little corner for your toddler to enjoy. From Seahouses, you can take a boat trip around the Farne Islands, where you’ll see everything from puffins to seals.
If you’re travelling with older siblings, be sure to stop by Alnwick castle nearby too. The majestic building was used as Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films – most notably the lesson where Harry learns to fly his broomstick!
Plan a toddler-friendly staycation with kate & tom’s
Travelling with toddlers doesn’t have to mean compromising on comfort. At kate & tom’s, we’ve selected a range of luxury, child-friendly holiday cottages designed to meet the needs of young families with toddlers. Our large cottages have features like spacious living areas, separate bedrooms, well-equipped kitchens and private gardens, that make it easy to stick to your routine while you’re away. After a day of sightseeing with toddlers in tow, there’s nothing more relaxing than returning to a home away from home.
Need help finding a toddler-friendly property? Email [email protected] today to discuss your needs and find out more about how to plan the best holidays for toddlers.
