With spring in full swing and summer just around the corner, families across the UK are looking for inspiring ways to spend time together. From vibrant festivals and immersive theatre to countryside escapes and inclusive cultural experiences, 2026 is packed with exciting options for all ages.
Here’s our round-up of some of the best family-friendly events and destinations to add to your calendar.
Norfolk & Norwich Festival: Creativity for All Ages
Returning from 8–24 May, the Norfolk & Norwich Festival transforms the historic city of Norwich into a hub of creativity for 17 days.
Families can enjoy everything from outdoor performances and interactive workshops to imaginative theatre designed ?????? for younger audiences. Highlights include a promenade version of The Wind in the Willows at Sheringham Hall, and Treekin, a nature-inspired performance shaped by local schoolchildren.
In Swaffham, kids can even run their own pop-up shop in the playful Kids Business, while creative installations and performances during the Welcome Weekend bring the streets to life. It’s a festival that truly invites children to take part—not just watch.
Cheltenham: The Festival Town Worth Visiting
Known as ‘The Festival Town’, Cheltenham is one of the UK’s top destinations for a family day trip or staycation.
Nestled on the edge of the Cotswolds, it offers a perfect blend of culture and countryside. With over 35 festivals each year—including music, literature and family-friendly events—there’s always something happening.
Beyond festivals, families can explore parks, museums and attractions like the famous observation wheel in Imperial Gardens, or venture further afield to nearby countryside spots. Add in fantastic food and a wide choice of accommodation, and Cheltenham makes an easy, enriching family getaway.
Tinwood Estate: A Relaxing Vineyard Escape Near London
For families (and parents) seeking a slower pace, Tinwood Estate in the South Downs offers a scenic countryside retreat just under two hours from London.
While adults can enjoy guided wine tastings and vineyard tours, the relaxed setting also makes it suitable for family visits, with picnics among the vines and open spaces to unwind.
For a special treat, the sparkling afternoon tea combines classic British favourites with award-winning English wine, while luxury lodges offer a peaceful overnight stay surrounded by nature.
National Space Centre: An Out-of-This-World Family Day Out
This Easter, the National Space Centre promises an action-packed experience for curious young minds.
Families can explore interactive exhibits, take part in science workshops and even embark on an immersive space mission at the new Tetrastar Spaceport. The UK’s largest planetarium adds another layer of excitement, with shows that bring the wonders of space to life.
With links to real-world missions like NASA’s Artemis II, it’s both educational and inspiring—perfect for budding astronauts.
WOMAD Festival: A Creative Playground for Kids
Taking place from 23–26 July, WOMAD Festival in Wiltshire is a must-visit for families who love music, culture and creativity.
The much-loved World of Children area offers everything from arts and crafts to dance workshops, circus skills and even cookery sessions. This year’s theme, One World, Many Stories, celebrates global culture through hands-on experiences.
New for 2026, the Launch Pod gives teens a space to explore music, DJing and creative careers, while younger children can enjoy safe play areas designed just for them.
Historic Royal Palaces: Inclusive Experiences for All
For families looking for meaningful and accessible days out, Historic Royal Palaces ( offers a range of inclusive events across iconic sites including the Tower of London and Hampton Court Palace.
Relaxed sessions provide quieter visiting times for neurodivergent and learning-disabled children, while British Sign Language tours and sensory-friendly experiences ensure more families can enjoy these historic settings comfortably.
These thoughtfully designed events make heritage more accessible, helping every child engage with history in a way that suits them.
Giffords Circus 2026 – Waterfield
This summer, step into the whimsical world of Giffords Circus with Waterfield, a living storybook under canvas inspired by English countryside folklore, touring the south of England from 02 April to 27 September. Experience daring circus acts, character-led storytelling, live music, and immersive design handcrafted by the Gifford family and their creative team. Giffords captures British heritage for over 25 years, founded by the Giffords family.
Circus Sauce offers a rustic three-course family style feast following the performance. Giffords Circus is the perfect event for families, couples, and anyone looking for a magical outdoor theatre experience.
Whether you’re planning a weekend adventure or a longer staycation, these destinations and events offer something for every age, interest and energy level—proving that family time can be as enriching as it is fun.
