Stepping back from our busy routines to enjoy quality family time is invaluable. But with the increasing costs and logistical complexities of travelling abroad, more and more families are opting for staycations as a perfect alternative.
A staycation allows you to enjoy a well-needed break and create lasting memories without the stress and expense of international travel. But before we look at the different staycation ideas, its important to know what they actually are.
What Exactly Is a Staycation?
In simple terms, a staycation is a holiday spent in one's home country rather than abroad, or at home enjoying day trips to local attractions.
They can be just as fulfilling and enjoyable, providing fun opportunities to discover and appreciate the local surroundings, while typically spending less money than you would going abroad. It’s a win-win!
Whether you fancy staying home and making the most out of your back garden or embarking on a tranquil escape to luxury cabins, there are so many options for you and your family
Here are our top 5 fun family staycation ideas:
1. Set up Camp in Your Garden
There is so much fun to be had in your own back garden.
If you’re lucky enough to have the space, setting up a tent in your garden can be a great way to create lasting memories with the kids. Not to mention it’s free (after you’ve purchased a tent, of course).
You could even use this as a tester before the real camping holidays commence, as a fun sleepover to prepare the kids for the real thing.
If you’re fortunate enough to have access to a barbecue and the weather is nice - this is the perfect excuse to use it. After all, who doesn’t love munching on hot dogs, burgers and s’mores while sitting outside a tent in your own back garden? If the sun has its hat on, then plonk yourself in a camping chair, close your eyes and relax – you could be anywhere in the world!
2. Try Luxury Camping
If you’re interested in a camping adventure with a little more luxury, glamping is the perfect solution for you and your family!
What Is a Glamping Holiday?
To put it simply, a glamping holiday is a type of getaway that combines the fun adventure and closeness to nature of camping with the luxury and amenities of a hotel. It's perfect for those looking for a comfortable way to enjoy the stunning outdoors without sacrificing home comforts.
In the UK, you can find a range of different glamping accommodations:
Safari tents - These are roomy canvas tents that you can stand up in, filled with proper beds, furniture, and sometimes en-suite bathrooms.
Treehouses - Some glamping spots will offer elevated lodgings built among trees, typically offering stunning views and modern amenities.
Yurts - Round, tent-like structures that often come with wooden floors, heating, and comfortable furnishings.
Cabins/lodges - These are large wooden structures with fully equipped kitchens, bathrooms, and often luxury touches like hot tubs, and perfect for the whole family.
At Horse Park Hideaway, our cabins are hidden in the beautiful Lancashire countryside, with unspoilt views of the beautiful Bowland hills. Our cabins offer accommodation for everyone, that is amazingly unique, entirely relaxing and ever so romantic you will never want to leave.
We have 3 very unique cabins: the Fern cabin (our romantic boutique Cabin), the Connie Cabin (our fun family friendly cabin) and the Blossom cabin (our super modern sleek adults only cabin). You can find out all about our packages here, or head straight to our booking page to secure your cabin.
All 3 of our cabins are dog-friendly, so you don’t have to worry about leaving your furry friend behind!
3. Go to the Beach
A day at the beach is a classic staycation idea that offers endless fun for the whole family, especially if the sun is shining.
The UK's stunning coastline boasts numerous beautiful beaches, so you don’t always need to catch a flight to visit spots like these! Gather the gang, pack a picnic and spend the day building sandcastles, exploring rock pools and playing fun beach games like frisbee and volleyball.
Many beaches also offer the added convenience of nearby Airbnb accommodations, perfect for families looking to extend their stay without breaking the bank.
4. Visit a Local Hotel/Leisure Centre With a Pool
Why spend hundreds (if not thousands) of pounds taking the whole family abroad to enjoy a pool when you could just do it in your own area? Visiting a local hotel or leisure centre with a pool offers the perfect mix of relaxation and fun without the hassle of travel.
Many local hotels and leisure centres around the UK provide excellent facilities for all the family, including heated indoor pools, outdoor pools and water slides. Many also have dedicated children's areas. These venues also often have additional amenities such as spas, fitness centres, and on-site dining, allowing parents to unwind while kids have fun.
Plus, booking a staycation at a nearby hotel can offer the feeling of a mini-holiday, complete with comfortable accommodations and sometimes even special family packages that include meals and fun activities.
5.Visit London
If you’re looking for a city escape, one of the most exciting staycation ideas for the whole family is to visit London. The vibrant capital city offers a range of memorable attractions and activities that cater to all ages, from children to teens to adults.
Museums like the Science Museum, the British Museum and the Natural History Museum offer interesting and educational experiences for children and adults alike, with many featuring interactive exhibits.
London also features a number of spacious parks, such as Hyde Park and Regent's Park, providing perfect spots for a family picnic or a game of rounders.
And there we have it! We hope this article has inspired you and your family to explore the incredible staycation options available right here in the UK.
We are Horse Park Hideaway: a luxury camping retreat based in Preston, perfect for those seeking a tranquil getaway. To learn more about our cabins, please don’t hesitate to contact us via our enquiry form or horseparkhideaway@outlook.com.
For more staycation tips and insights, check out our glamping blog.
