Nine best things to do with your kids and the dog during half-term
Struggling to come up with ideas for things to do this half-term that include the whole family? Perhaps the kids dream of going to a particular place but it means your four-legged family members will miss out. Well, you’ve come to the right place as we believe no one should be left at home, which is why we rounded up our favourite ideas for kids and dogs.
1. A lake cruise
Location: Lake District
Best for: Taking in incredible views
Place to stay: Skiddaw
Yep, you read that right. Windermere Lake Cruises in the Lake District offer dog-friendly cruises, for free - and dogs are even given their own ticket. Head to the likes of Ambleside or Bowness, and explore the many walking routes, pubs, shops and cafes on dry land, which welcome well-behaved pooches. It’s not just a great place for the dogs though as there are lots of family-friendly activities like water sports and cycling tours which will keep kids entertained.
2. Wildlife Park and Gardens
Location: The Cotswolds
Best for: Meeting other animals
Place to stay: The Old Chequer
Dogs are rarely allowed in wildlife parks and zoos, but the Wildlife Park and Garden in the Cotswolds does welcome those on a lead. Here, you’ll find more than 160 acres of parkland which is home to over 260 animals. Get up close and personal to the likes of rhinos, giraffes and maybe even a few baby meerkats! There’s also an on-site shop and food area to really make a whole day out of it.
3. The Milky Way Adventure Park
Location: Devon
Best for: Letting off some steam
Place to stay: Devon Barn
While your dogs might not be allowed on the rides, Devon’s Milky Way Adventure Park does allow them to explore the site on a lead. As well as lots of rides for all ages, there’s an outdoor play area and acres of land to explore. The park itself has been designed for little and older children, and there are activities for every kind of weather. Soft Play, Gravity Rider and the Cosmic Typhoon are sure to keep all ages entertained. An on-site cafe means everyone can refuel too.
4. Sightseeing in the capital
Location: London
Best for: Bringing the past to life
Place to stay: Mayfair Apartment
Did you know that many of London’s attractions actually allow dogs inside? Even Tower Bridge! So, a dog-friendly walk along the Thames taking in all the famous sights is a great way to spend a day. Don’t forget to head to Buckingham Palace and wave to the Queen before heading to St James’ Park which will be a hit with two and four-legged children! Head into one of the local delis and stock up on a delicious feast, find a quiet spot to lay down the blankets and don’t forget the ball for a family game of catch - or even fetch!
5. Go to the beach
Location: Cornwall
Best for: Having a splash
Place to stay: 6 The Hillocks
The UK is home to some incredible beaches and Cornwall even has a few dog-friendly beaches. Some of the most popular include Port Isaac, Great Par, and Samson. It is worth checking whether dogs are allowed off their lead but, usually, if you keep them under control, and clean up after them, they’re allowed in the waters! Of course, for your children, there’s sandcastle-making, water sports and the appearance of an ice cream van to keep them happy!
6. Avebury Henge
Location: Wiltshire
Best for: A dog-friendly walk
Place to stay: Barn in Wiltshire
While Stonehenge might be more well-known, dogs unfortunately aren’t allowed there. So, instead, why not visit Avebury Henge in Wiltshire? It’s free to get in but you will need to pay for parking. And, once in, you’re free to explore and wander as you like. You will need to keep your dog on a lead though as the henge shares its fields with some resident sheep!
7. Hadrian’s Wall
Location: Carlisle
Best for: Reenacting history
Place to stay: Allergarth Barn
Another historical attraction that’s great for families with dogs is Hadrian’s Wall in Carlisle. It’s actually 73 miles long and can be reached from York and Northumberland so it’s a good one to add to the list wherever you’re staying. The Wall itself was built over 2000 years ago. Today, it’s surrounded by walking routes and, even though history might not be their favourite subject, the kids are sure to love bringing the stories to life.
8. Beeston Castle
Location: Cheshire
Best for: Picnic pit stops
Place to stay: Cheshire Lodge
While Beeston Castle in Cheshire offers incredible dog-friendly walks and fun exploration, one of the nicest things to do is enjoy a picnic when you get to the top. Not only is it a peaceful family activity but the views are simply spectacular. On a clear day, you can see all the way from the Pennines to the Welsh mountains. The Castle is also surrounded by 40-acre woodland and has a history that dates back 4000 years!
9. Go shopping
Location: Portsmouth
Best for: Snapping up some deals
Place to stay: Purple Cloud Cottage
Perhaps you need to kit the kids out in some new gear or maybe your teenager loves a certain brand? Either way, you might not think that your pup can come along but Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth welcomes dogs in stores! Browse over 90 designer brands at a reduced price. Just be sure to keep your dogs on the leads when you’ve shopped until you’ve dropped. There are a few restaurants and seating areas which make for a great lunchtime treat too!
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