A Week of Family Fun in the United Kingdom

Saturday, December 9: Explore London

Start your trip with a visit to the iconic Big Ben and take a stroll along the River Thames. In the afternoon, head to the Natural History Museum to discover fascinating exhibits and interactive displays. End the day at Covent Garden, where you can enjoy street performers and browse the unique shops.

• Big Ben: £0 (exterior view), 1 hour
• Natural History Museum: £0 (entry is free), 2-3 hours
• Covent Garden: £0 (entry is free), 2-3 hours

Sunday, December 10: Discover Edinburgh

Begin your day with a visit to the historic Edinburgh Castle, where you can explore its grand halls and learn about Scotland's rich history. In the afternoon, take a walk along the Royal Mile and visit the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions for some interactive fun. Wrap up the day by enjoying panoramic views from Arthur's Seat.

• Edinburgh Castle: £18 per adult, £11.50 per child, 2-3 hours
• Camera Obscura and World of Illusions: £16.50 per adult, £13.50 per child, 2-3 hours
• Arthur's Seat: £0 (entry is free), 2-3 hours

Monday, December 11: Explore Bath

Spend the morning exploring the Roman Baths, a well-preserved ancient bathing complex. In the afternoon, visit the Jane Austen Centre to learn about the famous author's life. Take a leisurely walk through the Georgian streets and end the day at the Bath Abbey.

• Roman Baths: £18.50 per adult, £9.50 per child, 2-3 hours
• Jane Austen Centre: £12 per adult, £6 per child, 1-2 hours
• Bath Abbey: £0 (entry is free, donations welcome), 1-2 hours

Tuesday, December 12: Enjoy the Lake District

Start your day with a scenic drive to the Lake District National Park. Spend the morning exploring the picturesque town of Windermere and take a boat trip on Lake Windermere. In the afternoon, visit Beatrix Potter's former home, Hill Top, and immerse yourself in the world of Peter Rabbit.

• Boat trip on Lake Windermere: £9 per adult, £5 per child, 2-3 hours
• Hill Top (National Trust): £14.50 per adult, £7.25 per child, 1-2 hours

Wednesday, December 13: Adventure in Cardiff

Start your day by exploring Cardiff Castle and its impressive Gothic architecture. In the afternoon, visit the interactive Techniquest Science Discovery Centre for an educational and fun experience. End the day with a leisurely walk in Bute Park.

• Cardiff Castle: £15 per adult, £12.50 per child, 2-3 hours
• Techniquest Science Discovery Centre: £9 per adult, £7 per child, 2-3 hours
• Bute Park: £0 (entry is free), 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Pettigrew Tea Rooms, located just a short walk from Cardiff Castle. Indulge in their famous homemade scones and a pot of tea. Average cost for a meal is about £10 per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, head to The Potted Pig, a trendy gastropub tucked away in an old bank vault. Enjoy their mouthwatering pork dishes and extensive craft beer selection. Average cost for a meal is about £15 per person.
• End your day with a memorable dinner at The Clink Restaurant, situated within the walls of Cardiff Prison. Feast on gourmet dishes prepared by inmates in a unique dining setting. Average cost for a meal is about £25 per person.

Thursday, December 14: Discover Warwick Castle

Travel to Warwick and immerse yourself in the medieval history of Warwick Castle. Explore the castle's grand interiors, watch fascinating shows, and walk along the castle walls. Enjoy the beautiful gardens surrounding the castle.

• Warwick Castle: £20.40 per adult, £17.40 per child, 3-4 hours

Friday, December 15: Experience the Harry Potter Magic in London

Visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter and go behind the scenes of the beloved movie series. Explore the sets, costumes, and props used in the films. In the evening, stroll through the magical Diagon Alley at the Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9¾.

• Warner Bros. Studio Tour: £47 per adult, £39 per child, 4-5 hours
• Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9¾: £0 (entry is free), 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a family-friendly off the beaten path experience, visit the Cotswolds. Explore picturesque villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Bibury, and enjoy the peaceful countryside. Don't miss the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, where you can see a variety of animals up close.

Check out hotel and flight prices for your trip here.