By Parkdean Resorts on 27/07/2017
For grandparents, there’s nothing more special than spending quality time with the grandkids. Whether it’s a day at the beach or an afternoon exploring a beautiful country house, there are many places all over Britain where you can create amazing memories that the grandkids will remember forever.
Keeping the kids entertained over the summer holidays can often be tricky, and it can be hard to find an activity that’s perfect for both excited children and grandparents who want a relaxing day. However, there are plenty of activities and attractions all over Britain that are fun for the whole family.
If you’re on holiday with the grandkids this summer, we’ve unearthed some of our favourite places to go for a great day out.
Woolacombe Beach, Devon
With crystal clear waters and golden sands, Woolacombe Beach is one of Britain’s best beaches. Less than 20 minutes from Ruda Holiday Park, it’s previously been voted the number 1 UK beach on TripAdvisor, and has even featured on their list of the top 10 beaches in Europe.
Woolacombe has something for everyone, making it the perfect day out for all ages. Kids will love splashing around in the sea and searching in the rock pools for marine wildlife, whilst you relax on the sand in a deckchair. There’s also a coastal footpath to explore, ideal if you’d like a short, scenic walk. Take a stroll and look out for seals and seabirds along the way.
The nearby coastal town of Woolacombe has lots to enjoy too. With a wide variety of cafes, pubs and restaurants, there are plenty of places to relax and grab a bite to eat in the village.
There are lots of other beaches to visit along this beautiful stretch of coastline, so you can make a whole day of it. With its vast amount of shells, the nearby Barricane Beach is perfect for those who enjoy hunting for treasures in the sand. The gentle waters of Combesgate Beach are great for swimming and paddling, and those who love rock pooling will enjoy a trip to Putsborough Beach.
Video sourced from Cornwall and Devon TV
Framlingham Castle, Suffolk
The fascinating history and beautiful surroundings of Framlingham Castle make it an ideal place to visit with the grandkids, and grandparents will love it too. Only 45 minutes from Kessingland Beach Holiday Park, there’s lots to discover at the famous “castle on the hill”.
Soak up the history of Framlingham with a walk around the ancient castle wall, which has stood for more than 800 years! At 10.5 metres high, you’ll be treated to stunning views across Framlingham Mere and the surrounding countryside. To make it extra fun, there’s a unique way to get down from the castle walls too - a 6.6 metre slide that the kids are sure to love!
There are plenty of activities on offer to keep the grandkids entertained at Framlingham Castle. Uncover the stories of the people who lived here over the years, and see history come to life in exciting exhibitions. There are lots of games to enjoy too, including a dressing up station, so they can really immerse themselves in history.
Settle down for a picnic on the lawns surrounding the castle, or tuck into some tasty Tudor inspired treats in the Castle Café. There’s also lots of outdoor space for kids to run around and fly kites, while you sit back and soak up the dramatic views.
Blickling Estate, Norfolk
With striking gardens and a fascinating house to explore, there’s lots to see on a visit to the Blickling Estate. Set in the stunning Norfolk countryside, less than an hour from California Cliffs Holiday Park, Blickling makes a great day out for all ages.
The story of the Blickling Estate unfolds over a thousand years, so you’ll find lots to discover. Once the family home of Anne Boleyn, one of the wives of Henry VIII, there are countless stories to uncover on a visit. Find out about the estate’s role during World War 2, and explore the amazing RAF Oulton Museum, where you’ll hear all about the world of the RAF men and women who were based here during the war.
The countryside of Blickling has changed little over the years. There are lots of short walks on offer in the ancient woodland and the landscape surrounding the hall. There are also plenty of activities to keep the grandkids entertained, both indoors and outdoors, whilst you relax and refuel in the Farmyard Café.
One of the highlights of Blickling is its amazing gardens, which are at their best during the summer months. Take a stroll and discover the variety of amazing plants and colours, or relax on a bench in the secret garden and watch the world go by. Blickling is great for families, and you’ll find lots for your grandchildren to enjoy in the gardens too. Play a game of chess or croquet, explore the secret tunnels then rest up and enjoy a family picnic.
Bolton Abbey Steam Railway, Yorkshire Dales
Take a journey back in time with a visit to the Embsay and Bolton Abbey Steam Railway. Both stations are under 30 minutes from Todber Valley Holiday Park, so sit back and relax in the restored Victorian and Edwardian carriages, and enjoy views across some of Yorkshire’s most beautiful countryside.
Park up and hop on the train at Bolton Abbey Station, which has been lovingly restored to its former glory. Grab some refreshments in the station café, or pack up a picnic to enjoy on the lawn outside. There’s also a model railway to see, before you climb aboard the steam train for a trip down memory lane.
The return trip takes around an hour, so relax and soak up the views as you pass through some of the area’s best scenery. Listen to the puffing and hissing of the steam engine, a truly unique experience for the grandkids to enjoy. If you fancy it, hop off at Holywell Halt and watch the trains go by.
Once you’re back at the station, it’s well worth a visit to Bolton Abbey itself - less than 5 minutes away. Admire the majestic ruins of the priory and explore over 30,000 acres of beautiful countryside. There are plenty of short walks to try and lots of idyllic places to rest and put your feet up. The grandkids will love paddling and fishing in the river, playing on the grass and hopping across the stepping stones.
Video sourced from JG Productions
Where’s your favourite place for a day out with the grandkids? We’d love to hear all about it on our Facebook page.