The kids are off school for the next few weeks so now is the time to organise your diary to ensure that you have a fun-filled summer with plenty of days out with the kids.
There are thousands of historic places up and down the UK where you and your whole family can visit for some family fun and adventures. Visiting historical sites and museums is not only fun for all the family, but it’s also a great way to entertain the kids, whilst still ensuring that they are learning something new over the summer holidays.
Or if you have a loved one, even, who is a bit of a history buff - why not plan a weekend road trip to somewhere they will absolutely love?
Don’t worry, we have done the hard work for you and found 10 historic affordable days out in the UK!
1) Tower of London
The Tower of London is a must-see during every trip to London. It offers a vivid glimpse into centuries of history that are all stored behind its massive walls.
You shouldn't be shocked by the length of the line to enter as it is a popular attraction. A London Pass from online providers such as Attraction Tickets will grant you quick and "free" access so you may spend more time there (the pass itself costs money but includes entry to the Tower and nine other very popular attractions). It's the kind of spot you could go back to repeatedly.
The Tower also houses a substantial collection of historical armour. It is intriguing to observe even if you are not a devotee or an expert on ancient weapons.
Your kids will definitely enjoy this trip!
2) Stratford-Upon-Avon
Stratford upon Avon is a beautiful region with several rivers, parks, and historical sites. The biggest butterfly farm in Europe is located there as well.
Shakespeare fans can rejoice because his hometown is the only place where you can feel the closest to this renowned playwright. His birthplace, gravestone, daughter's house, and even his mother's childhood home are all worth a visit. You could also stop to see a theatre show, there are always lots of performances at the theatre for all the family, just take a look at Theatre Tickets Direct in advance of your visit.
After you've seen enough Shakespeare, visit Warwick Castle for some jousting, a maze, and even a dungeon tour. What child doesn’t imagine themselves as a knight or princess? Make their childhood fantasy come true!
3) Whitby Abbey
The Abbey was the earliest monastic site in Whitby, having been established in AD 657. It developed into one of the most significant religious centres in England over time.
In addition to its historical importance, Whitby Abbey has gained notoriety from a variety of artists and authors, most notably Bram Stoker, the author of the masterpiece Dracula. So if your favourite little person is a fan of Dracula, a visit to Whitby Abbey is a must! And if they haven’t read it yet, you can pick up a copy of Dracula in advance from Waterstones to really get them interested.
4) Stonehenge
Stonehenge is located in the heart of an exceptionally rich archaeological landscape. It plays a crucial role in archaeology and is a remarkable source for the study of prehistory. Who built it, when, and why has been the subject of numerous competing theories.
This area is a rich source of knowledge on the ceremonial and funerary customs of Neolithic and Bronze Age people since it contains more than 350 burial mounds and significant prehistoric monuments like the Stonehenge Avenue, the Cursus, Woodhenge, and Durrington Walls. Take a look at English Heritage Shop for an activity book about Stonehenge before you go to keep the kids entertained during your visit.
Your kids will be absolutely fascinated by Stonehenge and may have their own theories as to who built it and why, after all, our children have the best imaginations!
5) Black Country Living Museum
An absolute must-see and popular family-friendly excursion is the Black Country Living Museum in Dudley. A living open-air museum that has won awards. It uses structures, cars, items, and even costumed individuals to depict the history of the first industrial district in the globe. The past quite literally comes to life!
There are collections from that era in every home, workshop, and store. The location is approximately 26 acres so wear comfortable shoes. For all the best activities and events check out Tripadvisor where you can find links for tickets in advance too!
Your favourite historical figures will narrate tales of what it was truly like to live and work during this revolutionary era. This popular and interactive museum will keep the kids entertained all day.
6) Sherwood Forest
Every child has heard of Robin Hood, let their imagination come to life by visiting Sherwood Forest Country Park - a 450-acre location inside the larger Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve, to see the fabled residence of Robin Hood.
The visitor centre has a café, two stores, restrooms, a brief film presentation about the background of Sherwood Forest and the Nottinghamshire Dukeries, as well as a modest yet intriguing Robin Hood exhibition.
If you want activities for all the family to take part in, why not try Archery! Check out sites like Groupon who have some great deals available for archery training at Sherwood Forest.
Walk through the forest to the Major Oak. There are several oak trees in this area that are hundreds of years old. What could be better than a family day trip away from the hustle and bustle?!
7) The Natural History Museum
Obviously, learning about natural history is a great reason to visit The National History Museum, and you can pick up tickets before your visit from sites such as Viator. With more than 80 million specimens spread across five distinct collections, four distinct zones, and numerous interactive exhibitions, the museum provides both a wealth of knowledge and an entertaining experience for all the family.
From Skeletons and replicas of mammals, reptiles, birds, insects, and dinosaurs to Earth science and the origins of life, there is literally something for all the family to enjoy and learn together.
8) Warwick Castle
Warwick Castle, which William the Conqueror erected in 1066, has hosted a number of infamous guests, including monarchs, queens, knights and nobles, a visit here would be an amazing treat for your very own little princes and princesses!
With tales that some ghosts have been seen lingering in these revered rooms even today, your kids will be entertained as they walk through the history of this castle. There are always lots of events on at Warwick Castle and you can get tickets quickly by visiting Ticket Master online.
With its award-winning interactive displays, reenactment team, and spectacular acts like jousting and their trebuchet, Warwick Castle is not just any castle; it's an immersive experience that takes you back in time!
9) Hadrian’s Wall
Hadrian's Wall is naturally brimming with history - there is something inspiring about it, even though it is simply a shadow of what it once was.
There are a number of museums throughout the length of Hadrian's Wall that includes intriguing relics. The Roman Fort and Museum at Housesteads, the Roman Museum at Senhouse, and Chester's Roman Fort and Museum are examples of these.
Something not to be missed is the reconstructions which will take you back in time and inspire the imaginations of your children.
10) Edinburgh Castle
Finally, why not take a trip to Edinburgh to visit Edinburgh Castle? The ancient fort is perched high above Castle Rock, a spectacular extinct volcano that dates back 700 million years.
There is so much more to learn about Edinburgh's history, including the War of Scottish Independence, which you and the family can learn all about by visiting the castle and touring the many rooms. Your kids will love taking a step back in time and history. And while you’re there, why not visit Edinburgh Dungeon’s – there are lots of tours throughout the day and night! You can get dungeon tour tickets at sites such as Days Out online before your trip to bag a bargain!
