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Looking for the perfect break with the family? There are plenty of destinations that make for the best UK summer holiday breaks. Below are our top picks for a brilliant staycation where you can explore the hidden gems of England and Wales over the summer holidays.

Coastal escape

Broad Haven beach, Pembrokeshire

What better way to mark the start of summer with a visit to the seaside? Embrace the salty air, golden stretches of sand and mesmerising rock pools on this sensational Blue Flag beach. If you’re fancying a stroll, the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path offers remarkable views over the dazzling crystal ocean. A shorter walk across the sand will take you to the village of Little Haven, a quaint fishing village bursting with charm. If you’re fancying a chance to sleep under the stars this summer, why not book a stay in a Landpod so you can get closer to nature? It’s the perfect way to wind down after a day playing in the sun, sand and surf with your family and friends. YHA Broad Haven is just a stone’s throw away from the beach, providing guests with a prime seaside spot.

Stay at YHA Broad Haven

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Visit a theme park

Roller coaster on blue sky background.

The summer holidays are the perfect time to plan a visit to a theme park, our favourite being Alton Towers. For the adults and teenagers, there’s the classic coasters like Rita, The Wicker Man and Oblivion. Tiny tots can enjoy CBeebies Land and the In the Night Garden Magical Boat Ride. If you’re looking for something a little less white-knuckle, you can walk through the gorge in Dovedale to the famous stepping stones which have been a huge draw since they were first laid in the mid-19th century. With YHA Ilam Hall situated close by, you don’t have to worry about the tiring car journey home. A perfect holiday choice for the whole family.

Book YHA Ilam Hall

Safari park fun

Meerkats on lookout

Chester Zoo is home to over 20,000 weird and wonderful animals. Covering an impressive 128 acres of zoological gardens, you’ll see everything from cheeky chimpanzees and giant giraffes to curious meerkats and proud lions. Don’t forget to visit the award-winning botanical gardens. If you’ve got a passion for plants, there are hundreds of hidden gems in this haven of greenery. There are exciting play trails for the little ones to enjoy and you can even book a special experience to meet the animals. With YHA Chester Trafford Hall being a short car journey away, it’s the perfect opportunity to book the ultimate fun packed summer holiday.

Book YHA Chester Trafford Hall

Happy hiking

Golden hour view of Great Gable, from Wasdale Head, Lake District

Why not put the iPads away and hit the Lake District trails with your kids? The Lakes really do have something for everyone when it comes to walking – including those with little legs. Spend the summer days climbing rolling hills, exploring quaint villages, ambling through miles of ancient evergreen forest, and taking in remarkable views which the little ones will love. The Lake District is an unforgettably beautiful and magical destination especially in the summer for walkers of all ages, with gentle hill walks for young walkers just starting out and of course the major mountain challenges for older families. Whether you’d prefer a stay in a private en-suite room, a night under the stars in one of our camping and cabins options, or to bring your own tent and rise with the sun and songbirds, we have something to suit everyone. With many YHA’s located in the Lake District, why not book a stunning summer retreat for you and your loved ones? It will certainly be the best UK summer holiday break.

Book a YHA in the Lake District

Go exploring on two wheels 

Cyclists family traveling on the road at sunset

Exploring the landscapes of England and Wales on two wheels is the perfect way to spend quality time together as a family during the summer holidays. From Cornwall and the Lake District to the Peaks and Wales, there are plenty of routes to take. Here’s our favourite family friendly cycle routes across England and Wales. We’ve got plenty of properties for your cycling holiday too! 

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Photo credit: Lessimol / Lauren / Soloviova Liudmyla / Zoe / Peter / Adobe Stock

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Written by Ruby Higton

Here is Ruby and she is a digital marketer at YHA. She looks after social media, content writing and SEO. Her favourite hostel is YHA Perranporth.

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DestinationsUK summer holiday breaks for the family