When it comes to family holidays, 2020 hasn’t been the most forgiving year. The unprecedented outbreak of COVID-19 nearly put a complete stop to summer 2020 and all our travel plans, holiday hopes, and summer escapes. While travel restrictions have now been lifted, there are still certain measures in place that make going abroad for a holiday somewhat tricky. The British government has published a list of countries that require a 14-day quarantine period. One option to avoid that is to enjoy a staycation. Family holidays in the UK, for a comparatively small country, are idyllic as the whole country has an abundance of areas to escape to that boast some incredible natural beauty, such as the south of England.
Keep reading to discover some of our favorite places to visit in the south of England
The south of England is a diverse part of the world. From rolling hills, stunning woodland, and historic towns to beaches, rugged coastlines, and epic countryside, whether you’re looking for the best destination for family holidays, or you’re just planning weekend getaways, the south of England has something to offer everyone. We’ve put together a shortlist of places in the south of England to offer some inspiration for places to visit for your family holidays this year.
Visit Cornwall; holidays on the southern tip of the south of England
Our first port of call on this whistle-stop tour of the south of England is Cornwall. Beaches, rugged coastlines, and some stunning coastal towns, Cornwall holidays have long been popular with Brits and tourists from further afield alike. When you visit Penzance, Port Isaac, or Mousehole, it’s easy to see why. Add the number of things to do in Cornwall to the equation, and you’re onto a winner. With a number of surfing beaches to choose from, the Eden Project with its botanical gardens, Lands End, and Tintagel Castle, steeped in history and Arthurian legend, holidays in Cornwall are perfect for the whole family.
Best places to visit in the Cotswolds
From Bath to Chipping Camden, the Cotswolds are undeniably one of the most beautiful regions in England. Any trip to the south of England, especially if you’re heading to the West Country, should include a stop here. With chocolate box Cotswold towns and Cotswold villages like Bourton-on-the-Water, the Roman baths in the stunning city of Bath, and Gloucester cathedral to the open, rolling hills in this idyllic part of the world, there are plenty of things to do in the Cotswolds and a plethora of places to visit. In the Cotswolds, cottages, charming getaway houses, and luxury camping in the Cotswolds abound and offer visitors easy access to all the sights.
Spend your family holidays on the Jurassic Coast
There are a number of reasons to visit Dorset. With the beautiful, historic city of Sherborne that has several country fairs each year, Corfe Castle, and of course, the uniquely beautiful Jurassic Coast, it’s one of the best places to visit in the south of England. Visit Lulworth Cove, the home of the iconic Durdle Door or head to Studland, set in the stunning Studland Nature Reserve with views of Old Harry’s Rocks and enjoy relaxing on some of the most beautiful stretches of the South Coast. Perfect for weekend getaways, it’s a wonderful place to totally escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a memorable family trip.
Go to Kent, the garden of England
Head to the southeast of England, and enjoy exploring the stunning county of Kent. Kent is as diverse as it is beautiful. With swathes of beautiful countryside, there’s no questioning its title of the garden of England, and there are plenty of great places to visit in Kent. With coastal towns like Margate that have long been popular with holidaymakers and the historic city of Canterbury with the cathedral made famous by its importance to pilgrims, all add to the beauty of Kent. A family trip glamping in Kent is the perfect way to explore the county.
Plan family holidays in the New Forest
Set in Hampshire, the New Forest was William the Conqueror’s personal hunting ground, reserved for the king and his entourage to enjoy. Nowadays, it is open to the public, and the wildlife can explore free of medieval hunting parties. Holidays in the New Forest are perfect for families. In the New Forest, cycle routes weave through trees and into open ground, and walking in the New Forest will give you the opportunity to see all the native flora and fauna. You’ll come across a fair few of the famous New Forest ponies that live free and wander the forest in their herds amongst the wildlife that call the forest home.
