February half term is fast approaching and Britain is bursting with brilliant ideas for family days out. From stately homes with sprawling grounds to immersive museums and nature reserves, and even a couple of theme parks, there’s no shortage of options to fill your calendar with, wherever you are located. Opt for adventure with zip wires in Cornwall and trips down an old mine in Midlands, try a scavenger hunt in one of the country’s best museums or simply head out on a historical walk.
If you’ve not had time to plan any day trips and are searching for inspiration, look no further. Here are 50 of the UK’s best days out.
The Midlands
1. Alton Towers, Staffordshire
Among the stomach-churning highlights at Alton Towers are Nemesis, Air and Oblivion (a vertical drop of more than 180ft). One of the newer rides in the park is Wicker Man, the UK’s first new wooden coaster built in over 20 years, and last year saw the arrival of a new ride for little ones, Gangsta Granny, based on the book by David Walliams.
Contact: 0871 222 3330; altontowers.com
2. Chatsworth House, Derbyshire
Privately owned stately home Chatsworth House has grounds containing a maze, sculptures, ancient woodland, water garden and 1,000-acre park. Also a working farmyard, adventure playground – and an art collection housed in sumptuous rooms. The North Sketch Gallery contains a contemporary art installation by Jacob van der Beugel, portraying the DNA of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire.
Contact: 01246 565300; chatsworth.org
