Ideas for your Summer Staycation
With foreign holidays becoming increasingly expensive, many families are choosing to stay closer to home during the summer holidays. Entertaining children for six whole weeks without hopping on a plane might sound daunting, but there’s plenty of fun, adventure and memory-making to be had right here in the UK.
From garden games to local days out, here are some of our favourite family-friendly summer staycation ideas that won’t break the bank.
Create Hotel Resort Vibes with a Garden Pool Party
Recreate the feel of a sunny holiday resort by hosting a mini pool party at home. All you need is a warm day, a paddling pool and a little imagination.
Add some upbeat music, simple garden games and a barbecue with burgers, hot dogs or veggie options to complete the experience. A few deck chairs and colourful towels instantly give that laid-back summer feel.
Life’s a Beach
You can’t beat a classic British beach day. Pack swimming costumes, sunscreen and a picnic, then head to your nearest coast for a budget-friendly day out that everyone will enjoy.
Buckets, spades and inflatable toys can be picked up cheaply, and many beaches are easily accessible by public transport.
Turn it into an activity day with sandcastle competitions or shell collecting. Shells can be painted and decorated at home as a lasting souvenir.
Create Your Own Sports Day
Local parks are perfect for burning off energy, especially when you turn a simple outing into a family sports day. It’s a great way to encourage children away from screens and into the fresh air.
Classic games like tug of war, rounders, sack races and egg-and-spoon races can be created using everyday items.
Sleep Under the Stars on a Camping Trip
Camping is a brilliant way to enjoy a holiday feel without the cost of hotels or flights. Local campsites are easy to find and often include showers, small shops and family-friendly facilities.
If travelling isn’t an option, camping in the garden can be just as exciting for younger children.
Pop-up tents make life easy and give you more time to enjoy the outdoors – no poles, no stress.
Experience a Little Animal Magic
Zoos, aquariums and farms are always a hit with children and offer a great mix of fun and learning. In and around Bristol, there are plenty of animal attractions that make for an easy day out.
Rainy Day Activities (Because This Is Britain…)
British summers are unpredictable, so it’s always good to have a few indoor ideas up your sleeve.
Board Games, Not Boredom
Host a family board game tournament using games you already own. Card games alone can provide hours of entertainment.
Add a playful forfeit for the losing team – washing up after dinner is a popular choice!
Kitchen Fun
Baking is a great rainy-day activity that children love. From mixing ingredients to decorating cakes, it’s hands-on, creative and tasty.
Indoor Treasure Hunt
Create a treasure map of your home and set up clues around each room. It’s an exciting way to turn a dull day into an adventure.
Small prizes at each stop keep enthusiasm high.
The Lucky Dip Activity Jar
If decision-making becomes a challenge, create a lucky dip activity jar. At the start of the holidays, ask each family member to write down one or two activity ideas.
When inspiration runs low, take turns picking an activity from the jar.
Staying at home for the summer doesn’t mean missing out. With a little creativity, your staycation can be packed with fun, family time and memories that last far longer than the holidays themselves.