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When it comes to planning the perfect family holiday, parents often think about value for money and ease of travel.
Kids, on the other hand, have much simpler (and more honest) criteria: fun, freedom and memories.
So, if children had the final say, where would they choose to go?
Based on what consistently excites kids. Beaches, adventures, animals, ice cream and space to explore, here are some of the best family holiday destinations for kids. With favourites both in the UK and abroad.
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Cornwall – Beaches, Rock Pools, Pasties
Cornwall is a dream destination for my kids, who love the outdoors.
To be honest, my husband and I love Cornwall too. I feel like it is home away from home, but with more hills.
Cornwall has golden beaches, rock pools, great places to visit, and it feels like one big playground.
Why kids love it:
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Building sandcastles on beaches.
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Castles to explore, Tintagel and St. Michael’s Mount.
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Family attractions like The Eden Project and The Seal Sanctuary.
Why parents love it: It’s a classic UK family holiday that has it all.
Nature, learning and relaxation without needing a passport. Perfect.
Devon – Farm Parks, Coastal Fun
Devon is packed with family-friendly activities.
It’s like Cornwall but perfect for fossil lovers like my daughter.
Why kids love it:
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The Donkey Sanctuary is a must-visit.
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Beaches are perfect for paddling and fossil hunting.
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Amazing coastal towns to explore.
Why parents love it: Relatively easy driving routes, great accommodation options and something for all ages make Devon ideal for multi-generational family holidays.
Portugal – Sun, Surf, Smiles
Portugal regularly ranks as one of Europe’s best destinations for a family holiday. And my kids agree.
Why kids love it:
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Warm, safe beaches (especially the Algarve)
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Water parks.
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Ice cream, pizza and familiar food options.
Why parents love it: Short flight times, excellent value for money and genuinely child-friendly resorts.
Cumbria (The Lake District) – Nature, Freedom, Fresh Air
We visit Cumbria often, and my kids love the space to run, climb and explore.
Cumbria is a winner for outdoor, nature and photography-loving families.
Why kids love it:
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Boat rides on Lake Windermere
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Forest walks and waterfall hunts
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Outdoor activities like cycling and kayaking
Why parents love it: A slower pace, stunning scenery, and screen-free bonding time make this a refreshing family holiday choice.
Majorca – The Ultimate Kid-Approved Island
Majorca ticks nearly every box for a sun-soaked family holiday abroad.
Why kids love it:
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All-inclusive resorts with kids’ clubs
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Shallow beaches like Alcúdia
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Water parks and mini trains
Why parents love it: Reliable sunshine, short flights and excellent family resorts make Majorca stress-free and fun for everyone.
So… Do Kids Agree on the Perfect Family Holiday?
While every child is different, these destinations all share the key things kids care about most.
✔ Fun activities
✔ Freedom to explore
✔ Time with family
Whether you’re planning a UK break or heading abroad, these locations always give you unforgettable family holidays that kids actually talk about long after returning home.
What's Next?
If planning family days out sometimes feels overwhelming, you don’t have to do it alone.
I share simple, organised ideas to help busy mums plan stress-free adventures, without the chaos.
Join the Hive and download your FREE Family Day-Out Planner, created to help you plan fun days in minutes.
And if this post helped you, I’d love it if you shared it or followed along for more easy family planning tips.
Plan. Play. Enjoy. 🐝
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