Skip to Content

The 27 Best Cities In The UK And Ireland To Visit With Kids

Are you planning a vacation to the United Kingdom or Ireland with your family? Or wondering which Ireland or UK cities to visit with kids? You have come to the right place!

From busy London to quaint and quiet Kilkenny and from lively Galway to historic Bath and Oxford, there is a perfect child-friendly city break for every family.

27 best UK and Irish cities to visit with kids

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

London Tower Bridge sunrise

Since becoming parents, we've taken our kids on several (city) trips. Traveling as a family, sharing travel adventures and learning about new cultures with your kids is a wonderful and enriching experience.

To provide you with lots of travel inspiration, I’ve asked family bloggers about their favorite kid-friendly cities in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

The result is this list which includes 27 of the best places to visit in the UK and Ireland with kids, but it’s by no means exhaustive.

Nevertheless, I hope it will give you lots of ideas when planning your (next) family UK/Ireland trip!

Plan your trip like a pro with these tools:
✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com.
✈️ Get the best car rental deal for your road trip on Rentalcars.com or Localrent.com.
✈️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda.
✈️ Book the best tours via Get Your Guide, Viator or Klook.
✈️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing.

Cities in the UK and Ireland with kids: map

You can find all the UK and Irish cities for families included in this post in the map and list below.

Click here for the interactive map

20 best UK cities with kids

  1. Bangor, Northern Ireland
  2. Bath, England
  3. Belfast, Northern Ireland
  4. Brighton and Hove, England
  5. Bristol, England
  6. Cardiff, Wales
  7. Chester, England
  8. Derry, North Ireland
  9. Durham, England
  10. Edinburgh, Scotland
  11. Fort William, Scotland
  12. Glasgow, Scotland
  13. Inverness, Scotland
  14. Leeds, England
  15. Liverpool, England
  16. London, England
  17. Newcastle upon Tyne, England
  18. Oxford, England
  19. Salisbury, England
  20. York, England
westminster-abbey-london

7 best cities in Ireland with kids

  1. Cork, Ireland
  2. Dublin, Ireland
  3. Galway, Ireland
  4. Killarney, Ireland
  5. Kilkenny, Ireland
  6. Limerick, Ireland
  7. Waterford, Ireland

Family-friendly cities in the UK and Ireland

1. Bangor, Northern Ireland

bangor-northern-ireland-phenomenalglobe.com

Allan from It's Sometimes Sunny in Bangor: Bangor is one of the UK's newest cities being awarded city status (2022) at the Queen’s Jubilee. It is also an up-and-coming tourist destination with a lot of investment and development in the years ahead.

Bangor has always been a popular seaside destination in Northern Ireland with many coastal attractions and plenty to offer families and kids.

One of the main tourist attractions in Bangor is Pickie Funpark, found next to the main marina and seafront.

pickie-fun-park-in-bangor-northern-ireland-phenomenalglobe.com

Here you'll find lots of fun activities for kids of all ages, such as Pedalo Swans, Disco Ducks, Mini Golf, and playgrounds. Pickie also marks the start of a scenic walk along the North Down Coastal Path which is perfect active families who love the outdoors. 

Bangor is relatively small and can be easily navigated on foot, with more highlights to explore in the more central areas, including two large parks which are always popular with kids.

Castle Park is where Bangor Castle and the Museum are located. Ward Park is a typical British park with duck ponds, aviaries, playgrounds, and lots of activities and events during the summer months. 

Click here for the best family hotels in Bangor

2. Bath, England

visit-bath-england-phenomenalglobe.com

Ann from The Road Is Life: visiting the historic city of Bath (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) makes an excellent day trip from London for the whole family.

While the adults can soak up the city's fascinating history, there are plenty of activities on offer to keep the kids busy as well. 

The historic center of Bath is fairly compact which means that you can easily see the most popular attractions on foot.

Instead of walking, you could also take the Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus which is a fun way for kids to see the sights. 

? Make the most of your time in Bath with a combined boat and walking tour. See the highlights of the city both on foot and on the water on a fully guided tour. Check availability.

The biggest draw to Bath is the Roman Baths museum where you'll get the chance to see some amazingly well-preserved Roman sites.

bath-with-kids-phenomenalglobe.com

With costumed characters and audio guides for children, this is a fantastic way to begin your explorations around the city.

Take a stroll across the famous Pulteney Bridge, one of the only bridges in the world with shops lining both sides. There are some lovely little shops to browse and let the kids pick out a souvenir or two.

A visit to Bath isn't complete without stopping for lunch at the oldest building in town, Sally Lunn's tea house. This historic building dates back to the 15th century and is the home of the famous “Bath Bun”.

There is also a little museum below the teahouse showing what the original kitchen looked like.

Click here for the best family hotels in Bath

3. Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast with kids

Faith from XYU and BEYOND: Belfast was named one of the coolest cities on earth by National Geographic.

Leaving its troubles far behind, Belfast is one of the best cities to visit in the UK with children.

Due to the popularity of the HBO series Game of Thrones and the Titanic Experience, more and more people are visiting Belfast.

An incredibly vibrant city, Belfast is easily one of the greatest places in the U.K. for families and children. It's a very walkable city with plenty to see and do.

St. George's Market is one of the oldest covered markets in Europe. This is where the city's residents hang out on weekends. Grab some amazing paella or French crepes, or simply enjoy a full Irish breakfast while the kids explore.

You can take in the city's history on a Black Taxi Tour and learn about the story of the conflict between two communities and see stunning artwork with a local guide.

Or hang out and enjoy the craic in the Cathedral District with its outstanding pubs and restaurants and brilliant street art.

Children are allowed in all pubs until 9 o'clock at night and can enjoy traditional music sessions.

Narnia - Belfast with kids

Wander around the University District and check out the Ulster Museum. There are loads of funky little shops, a gorgeous park, and plenty of time to just wander around.

Go for a pint at one of Belfast's oldest pubs the Crown across the road from The Europa, Europe's most bombed hotel.

Or head up the Black Mountain in the Divi's for spectacular views of the city, a brisk mountain walk, and a lovely cuppa at the Stone Tea House.

Click here for the best family hotels in Belfast

4. Brighton and Hove, England

Brighton with kids

Danni from Live in 10 Countries: a proper seaside holiday is one of those memories we all treasure with family – and that's exactly what the twin city of Brighton and Hove delivers!

Of all the UK's seaside resorts, this one in Sussex has a unique colorful culture and a host of attractions that will suit kids and adults.

Long stretches of the beach are the perfect place for dog walking, but even better, in summer you can BBQ on the beach or picnic on Hove Lawns, just behind the seafront.

All that and brightly colored beach huts, set between cafes serving delicious ice cream and sticks of rock will make your visit a day to remember.

Central Brighton will tempt kids with its Toy Museum, featuring an enormous electric model train and all the glitz and funfair rides of Brighton Pier.

Kids will love to ride up the Brighton i360, a 138-meter-tall futuristic glass viewing pod. It's the perfect spot to admire panoramic views of Brighton and the South Coast. Book a skip-the-line-ticket.

Round off the perfect day with a stroll to the Royal Pavilion. As an iconic building, it's a must-see, but it's also home to a fun museum that's full of exhibits from the past and will suit families who like to uncover the past. Check ticket availability.

Click here for the best family hotels in Brighton and Hove

5. Bristol, England

ss-great-britain-brighton-phenomenalglobe.com

Claire from Europe in Winter: the capital city of the West Country and arguably the UK’s coolest city, there’s plenty on offer for kids in Bristol. 

The main highlights of the city center are walkable, making it easy for active families to get around.

That being said, if your feet get tired, there are Hop-on Hop-off buses connecting different points of interest in the city. 

For a quintessentially Bristolian experience, climb on board the SS Great Britain, a historic ocean steam liner that always has activities for children.

Explore the Clifton Suspension Bridge, which has children’s trails to help kids understand the history in a fun or interactive way.

Afterward, take a stroll through the gorgeous Ashton Court, which is a huge country park and the ideal place for an outdoor picnic!

More contemporary attractions include We The Curious, which is Bristol’s science museum and is specifically catered for kids, Aerospace Bristol, or the Bristol Aquarium.

Or, head into Cabot Circus, the main shopping center, and enjoy a range of kid-friendly restaurants and an indoor crazy golf course. 

Many of Bristol’s main attractions are all-weather, which makes it one of the best places to visit in England in winter too! 

Click here for the best family hotels in Bristol

6. Cardiff, Wales

Cardiff Castle - visit Cardiff with kids

Cath from Passports and Adventures: another great city in the U.K. to visit with kids is Cardiff.

The Welsh capital has a lot to offer families, from museums to parks to a beautiful castle. The city center is very family-friendly with the main shopping streets fully pedestrianized.

The center also boasts a magnificent medieval castle with many different areas for kids to explore.

Kids will love to venture into the Norman Keep, the castle apartments, and the walls of the castle, which hold a secret. I won’t spoil it for you…

The city center also plays host to Bute Park, a beautiful park with an arboretum and playgrounds sitting behind Cardiff Castle itself.

Just across the road from the castle, you will also find the National Museum which often plays host to special exhibitions to accompany its permanent ones.

Slightly outside the center (located near Cardiff Bay), you can find Techniquest, one of the best things to do in Cardiff with kids. This interactive science center hosts special toddlers’ days on certain Fridays throughout the year.

Combined with the playgrounds and other family-friendly sights and activities, Cardiff is one of the best towns to visit with toddlers.

If you've got more time to spend in the area, also pay St. Fagan’s a visit. The Welsh National History Museum is a great family day out and chronicles Welsh life for over 1000 years.

Click here for the best family hotels in Cardiff

7. Chester, England

chester-with-kids-phenomenalglobe.com

Paulina from UK Every Day: Chester is a beautiful city with many historic buildings. It's a fantastic place to visit for families and is located not far from the Welsh border.

Exploring Chester with kids is easy because the city is very walkable. That being said, you can also get tickets for the Hop-On-Hop-Off double-decker bus for effortless transportation as well as panoramic views of the city.

Grosvenor Park is a lovely spot to see squirrels or have fun in the park play area.

This park is close to many attractions, such as Chester Roman Amphitheatre or Queens Park Bridge. Enjoy an ice cream while sitting at the bank of the river Dee.

Or set sail on the River Dee to see a different side of the city of Chester. Cruises leave The Groves every hour, offering marvelous views of the city and countryside from the water. Get your tickets here.

One of the best attractions in Chester for kids is Chester Zoo, with species from all over the world. Kids will love the elephants and tigers as well as the playgrounds inspired by Madagascar or the Indonesian city of Manado.

With so many things to do in Chester, your kids will surely have a great day. Plus, outdoorsy families will enjoy going on a day trip from Chester to admire some of the best waterfalls in Wales.

Click here for the best family hotels in Cardiff

8. Cork, Ireland

cork-with-kids-phenomenalglobe.com

Maria from Maptrekking: Cork is a wonderful Irish city with kids. It's not a big city, however, there is a lot of history in Cork that they can learn about.

And while there are much fun paid activities, there are also lots of free things to do in Cork in case you’re on a budget.

Visiting the Cork Public Museum is free and this museum has a lot of nice displays. Plus it’s located right next to Fitzgerald’s Park on the River Lee.

Fitzgerald’s Park is the nicest green space in the city and a great option if your kids want to play instead of visiting the museum.

Another short stop should be at Elizabeth Fort since it has a lot of historical significance, but also great views of the city.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, stop at the largest covered market in Ireland, the English Market.

And if you have any science lovers in your family, make sure to visit Blackrock Castle Observatory. This 16th-century castle is now an education center for all things science tech, and engineering.

The city center is on an island in the middle of the River Lee with many bridge connections, making traffic congest a lot. Walking or taking the bus or a taxi is the best way to get around Cork City.

Click here for the best family hotels in Cork

9. Derry, North Ireland

ancient-derry-walls-north-ireland-phenomenalglobe

Faith from XYU and Beyond: Londonderry or Derry as many prefer is a walled city in Northern Ireland that is surrounded by the only ancient walls in Ireland to survive.

It's a great place to visit with kids as there is so much history here and it's a very easy walkable city. The Walls around the city were built in 1619 and you can walk around the city along them for 1.5 kilometers.

From the walls, you can see many of Derry’s famous areas such as Bogside where you will be able to check out the famous murals, the Bloody Sunday Memorial, and the Free Derry sign.

From the Tourist Centre by the River and the Peace Bridge, you can easily walk to the Guildhall, where you can see the incredible stained glass windows, and learn about the Plantation of Ulster.

The Guildhall is the place in 1995 where Bill Clinton the President of the USA spoke about the Peace Accord in Northern Ireland.

Enjoy superb views over the city while walking the city walls, posing by the ancient cannons, and in front of the Derry Girls mural.

Along the way, you can stop at some of Derry’s great museums such as The Tower Museum with permanent exhibitions that include The Story of Derry and An Armada Shipwreck.

Another great Museum to check out is the Museum of Free Derry which is about the people’s story of the struggle for civil rights, the descent into conflict, Free Derry and Bloody Sunday.

If you plan to visit multiple sights in Derry it's worth looking into the Derry Attractions Pass. You'll get access to 10 attractions in Derry for one great price. Click here to learn more.

Click here for the best family hotels in Derry

10. Dublin, Ireland

Dublin with kids

Eoin from Dolly's Quest: Dublin is one of the most visited cities in Europe and rightly so! This stunning little city has something for everyone.

From famous breweries and nightlife to one of Europe’s largest parks, Dublin can accommodate all interests.

Summer is peak season as visitors tend to avoid the rain as much as possible, but there is still plenty to see in winter.

? Discover the city of Dublin at your own pace with a ticket for the hop-on hop-off tour bus. With stops at Dublin’s major attractions, it is the ideal way to explore the city.

Some of the best attractions in Dublin include the Guinness storehouse, Collins barracks, and Phoenix Park.

Phoenix Park is especially popular with families and kids. Visitors can try to catch a glimpse of the president in Aras An Uachtarain, feed the wild deer who call the park home, or take a trip to Dublin Zoo.

For those interested in history, Dublin has more than enough to offer. You can visit the home of the authors James Joyce and Bram Stoker, and learn about Ireland's fight for Independence, or the largest Viking settlement outside Scandinavia.

And the places mentioned here are just a glimpse of what this astounding city has to offer all year round!

Click here for the best family hotels in Dublin

11. Durham, England

durham-with-kids-phenomenalglobe.com

Sinead from York With Kids: Durham is often overlooked as a U.K. destination to visit with kids.

However, there are several attractions that kids will enjoy and, as Durham city center is compact and mostly pedestrianized, it is easy to visit the major attractions on foot on a day trip to Durham. 

Start your visit at an impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Durham Cathedral. Kids will instantly recognize the cathedral’s cloisters as Hogwarts from the Harry Potter movies.

Don’t miss the Chapter House which is featured in the movies as Professor McGonagall’s office. Durham Cathedral is also known for its unusual architecture and colorful stained-glass windows.

Older children can climb the 365 steps of the central tower for a bird’s eye view of the city.

Nearby the cathedral is the Durham Museum which charts the history of the city and the Palace Green library, a small archaeological museum.

A one-minute walk from the museum is Durham Castle. Visitors can pre-arrange tours of the 11th Century privately owned castle.

Kids will also enjoy wandering Durham’s cobbled streets or visiting the Victorian indoor market and ornately decorated Town Hall.

Alternatively, enjoy a quiet walk along the banks of the River Wear which runs through Durham city center. 

Click here for the best family hotels in Durham

12. Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh with kids - photo by Happiness Travels Here

Kaylie from Happiness Travels Here: Edinburgh in Scotland is a fantastic city to visit with kids! Edinburgh has family-friendly attractions, a compact and walkable city center, child-friendly restaurants, and excellent public transport.

The city's top attraction is Edinburgh Castle. Join an engaging English-language guided tour to discover its incredible 3,000-year history and the significant role it has played in shaping Scotland.

Book fast-track entry tickets for Edinburgh Castle here.

Don't forget to pick up the kid's quiz from the audio guide desk in the Castle and head off on a treasure hunt. This will take you past crown jewels, canons, dungeons, and grand halls.

Visit the Royal Mile, Edinburgh’s most famous street. Here you’ll pass historic landmarks like St Giles Cathedral and the Scottish Parliament. You’ll also find plenty of street performers and bagpipers. 

The Royal Mile sits along the crest of a hill with narrow passageways called Close’s running off to the sides. These steep, historic alleys give interesting views and are fun to explore. 

edinburgh-with-kids-phenomenalglobe.com
Pin for later ⤴️

The National Museum of Scotland is also found in Edinburgh. This museum is free to visit and has multiple interactive exhibitions that are perfect for kids.

Download the free app or pick up a map in the lobby. Kids will love the Natural History, Explore, and Imagine exhibitions best. Plan to spend at least half a day visiting the museum!

Alternatively, visit Camera Obscura & World of Illusions where you can experience and take part in over 100 interactive exhibits.

The museum actually encourages a ‘touch everything' attitude, perfect when visiting with kids.

Take your kids to discover the regal splendor of Edinburgh’s Palace of Holyroodhouse complex. Explore the State Apartments, see Mary Queen of Scots' historic chambers, the Throne Room, and more.

Got more time to spend? Rent a campervan and hit the road for an amazing Scotland family road trip! 

Click here for the best family hotels in Edinburgh

13. Fort William, Scotland

Fort William with kids

Priyanko from the Constant Traveller: Fort William, a tiny town in the Scottish Highlands, means different things to different people.

Mountain climbers revere Fort William as the base camp from where they try to summit Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the U.K.

Families that lead stressful lives come to live an idyllic life away from the big cities and enjoy the many things to do in Fort William.

Harry Potter Hogwarts Express

And then there are my brethren – fans of Harry Potter who book the Jacobite Express train as soon as it opens for reservations. Why? Because the Jacobite is the real Hogwarts Express!

In fact, the first thing I did after booking my tickets to the U.K. was reserve my seat on the Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William to Mallaig, a port town in the Scottish Highlands.

For families looking for some history, there's the excellent West Highland Museum and the Jacobite Uprising to learn about, which most likely gave the now-iconic train its name.

The natural surroundings also encourage camping as well as walking at least part of the famed West Highland Way, an excellent way for families to bond together.

Enjoy a Jacobite train ride

Jacobite steam train aka the Hogwarts Express - visit Fort William with kids

But nothing beats the steam-billowing Jacobite train ride. When I finally took my seat, I was surprised to find the level of enthusiasm amongst fellow Potter fans, a large number of whom were traveling families who had made the journey here as part of a pilgrimage of sorts.

An entire group of Japanese tourists of all ages was dressed in Gryffindor costumes while an elderly couple who loved the Potter books held hands throughout the train ride.

The Japanese grandfather passed rare Japanese whiskey to show his appreciation for the train ride while his extended family ran around the train taking selfies. 

As for me, passing the Glenfinnan viaduct meant the culmination of a long-cherished dream to visit an actual Harry Potter filming location.

And what better place than the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands to do it in!

Click here for the best family hotels in Fort William

14. Galway, Ireland

galway-ireland-phenomenalglobe.com

Pamela from the Directionally Challenged Traveler: the wonderful city of Galway is like Dublin's younger sister situated on Ireland's western coast. This underrated city is a great city to visit with kids.

There is a variety of things to do in Galway for travelers of any age. Its personality can be found just by walking the streets.

Visit the Latin Quarter and Quayside for multicolored, local shops and restaurants and enjoy live music and street performers on each street corner.

The history of the city intertwines with the modern city. The Galway Cathedral, Lynch's castle, and the Spanish Arch are in the center of the city and offer insight into the history of the area.

Head down the Long Walk for a great view of the water and city. Colorful homes line the waterfront and in summer, ducks and swans swim around the shoreline.

Connemara National Park is a breathtaking nature break right near Galway, possibly one of the greatest National Parks Ireland has to offer.

Families can learn about native woodland and wildflower meadows on the children's discovery trail at Brigit's Garden right outside the city.

Galway's cobblestone streets, warm personality, and charming accommodations make it a great family destination!

If you've got an extra day to spend in Galway, I highly recommend joining this day tour to the Cliffs of Moher and The Burren.

Experience the beauty and wonder of the Wild Atlantic Way as your driver and guide take you from Galway to the majestic Cliffs of Moher with plenty of stops along the way. Check availability here.

Click here for the best family hotels in Galway

15. Glasgow, Scotland

Street art in Glasgow - Photo by Kathi Kamleitner

Kathi from Watch Me See: Glasgow is an exciting destination for any kind of city traveler, but particularly for families with kids, there is a lot to do and see!

The city is small and very walkable – but whenever one of your (younger) children get tired, the hop on hop off bus is nearby and easier to navigate than public transport.

The city is incredibly budget-friendly, not only when it comes to accommodation, but also because there are so many free things to do.

Most of the museums in Glasgow are free to enter and museums like the Riverside Museum for Transport and the Kelvingrove Museum are particularly family-friendly.

Riverside Museum and Tall Ship - Photo by Kathi Kamleitner

Active families will love the number of parks in Glasgow, which is actually Gaelic for “Dear Green Place”.

Some of the best parks in Glasgow are Kelvingrove Park, the Botanic Garden, and Glasgow Green and they boast playgrounds, playing fields, skate parks, and plenty of open green spaces for playtime or picnics.

In addition, there is always a wide range of family-friendly events, whether it is kids' cinema at the GFT, the theater at the Scottish Youth Theater or Tramway, or special workshops and classes at institutions around the city.

There is never a shortage of things to do in Glasgow with kids!

Click here for the best family hotels in Glasgow

16. Inverness, Scotland

inverness-scotland-phenomenalglobe.com

Alex from Just Go Exploring: the capital of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness has many family-friendly activities both in the city and its tranquil surroundings.  

Start by taking a walk along the banks of the River Ness. Along the way, you'll have excellent views of the beautiful Inverness Castle.

About 20 minutes walk south from the center of town are the Ness Islands, a series of little wooded islands connected by bridges. 

This is a great place for wildlife spotting, and there are many (stroller-accessible) trails that your kids will love exploring.

The Eden Court Theatre puts on child-friendly shows throughout the year, and the grounds of Inverness Castle make a great place for a family picnic.

The best way to get around the city is on foot. Inverness is a fairly small place and most destinations are easily walkable.

?Consider joining this walking tour with a knowledgeable, local guide to learn more about the beautiful city of Inverness.

inverness-with-kids-phenomenalglobe.com

For those wanting to see some of the stunning scenery of the Highlands, Inverness’ location in northern Scotland also makes it a perfect base for outdoor activities.  

Some excellent places to visit nearby include the picturesque Black Isle and Rogie Falls – one of the best places in the UK to see leaping salmon (especially during the autumn months).

To give your kids a taste of real adventure, consider taking them for a night of wild camping, which is permitted in most parts of Scotland. 

Some of the best camping spots near Inverness include the shores of Loch Ness (keep an eye out for the legendary Nessie!) and the northern edge of the Cairngorms National Park.

Click here for the best family hotels in Inverness

17. Killarney, Ireland

killarney-with-kids-ireland-phenomenalglobe.com

Janelle from Make The Trip Matter: Killarney is the perfect town to stay in with kids to explore the stunning nature of southern Ireland.

The town itself has adorable shops and restaurants (such as Garret’s or Porterhouse) that are nice to walk through, or you can visit St. Mary’s Cathedral. 

The most popular thing to do in Killarney is the Ring of Kerry, a coastal driving route that starts in town and runs through some of the most popular natural attractions in the area.

If you don't have your own wheels, you can book this Ring of Kerry day trip from Killarney. Your kids will love exploring the forest, admiring the Torc Waterfall, and gazing over Dingle Bay looking for seals.

Other must-see sights within the Killarney portion of the Ring of Kerry are the Muckross House (which has a garden, abbey, and traditional farm onsite), Killarney National Park, and the 15th-century Ross Castle.

If you want to go a bit further to the other side of the lake, kids especially love taking a pony and carriage ride through the gorgeous Gap of Dunloe

Or book a cruise on Killarney’s largest lake, Lough Léin, and drift through the islands with a backdrop of the beauty and splendor of the Killarney region.

It’s possible to get around the town of Killarney, the closer parts of the National Park, and Ross Castle (about 35 minutes) on foot.

However, to get to the rest of the attractions you will likely want to take a short taxi ride or rent a car

Click here for the best family hotels in Killarney

18. Kilkenny, Ireland

kilkenny-castle-ireland-phenomenalglobe.com

Isabelle from Cultured Voyages: not only is the city of Kilkenny a great city in Ireland to visit with kids, but it should also form part of any Ireland travel itinerary.

This medieval city is linked to Dublin by train, making getting there straightforward and its center is compact and highly walkable, making it easy to get around with children in tow.

Kilkenny is particularly unique to Ireland because the majority of its older buildings date back to medieval times.

It holds a distinctly medieval character and appearance that isn’t so common around the rest of the island. 

Enchanting for both children and adults alike is its warren of central streets and lanes that are fun to explore.

Look out for the street art from Cartoon Saloon, which is a Kilkenny-based cartoon creator that has been nominated no fewer than five times at the Academy Awards.

Kilkenny’s most famed attraction is its castle, which sits imposingly alongside the River Nore. A visit inside the castle will take less than an hour, so older children will enjoy a visit to take in the impressive interiors of the castle.

Castle Park is a real boon, however, with massive green space, walking trails, and a great playground for children. 

Just outside of Kilkenny, is Castlecomer Discovery Park. Set in 80 acres of woodland this activity center will keep even the most active of children entertained, offering activities like tree-top walks, Ireland’s longest zipline, paddle boats, and an Elf Village.

Click here for the best family hotels in Kilkenny

19. Leeds, England

leeds-owl-trail-phenomenalglobe.com_

Coralie from Grey Globetrotters: Leeds in West Yorkshire is a brilliant city to explore with kids.

It’s well connected to the rest of the UK by road and rail and small enough to explore on foot. Leeds also has a great bus service when little legs get tired.

Exploring some of the city’s museums is one of the best things to do in Leeds with kids.

The national collection of arms and armor at the Royal Armouries is always a popular destination for families, as is the gory Thackray Medical Museum with its depictions of Victorian medicine and surgery.

Families also enjoy following the Leeds Owl Trail around the city, spotting places where the owl – the symbol of the city – has been used.

Roundhay Park is the largest urban park in Europe, perfect for letting off steam, while the ruins of medieval Kirkstall Abbey never fail to inspire kids to explore.

Don’t miss visiting Abbey House Museum, where the kids can explore a real Victorian street, and peep into Victorian homes, an inn, shops, and the undertakers!

At Thwaite Mills, kids can see one of the last water-powered mills in Britain and learn what life was like for mill workers.

Alternatively, take a trip on the Middleton Railway which is the oldest working railway in the world.

Click here for the best family hotels in Leeds

20. Limerick, Ireland

king-johns-castle-limerick-ireland-phenomenalglobe.com

Cristine from Ireland Travel Guides: Limerick City is one of the largest and most populous cities in Ireland.

Limerick is also considered one of the most beautiful Irish cities with plenty of things to do for both grown-ups and kids!

The 13th-century King John’s Castle tells centuries of history through state-of-the-art technology that connects visitors to the tales of medieval Ireland.

There are also several museums in Limerick that hold various artifacts such as Limerick City Museum, Frank McCourt Museum, and the Maritime Museum (a place kids can both enjoy and learn from at the same time)!

Limerick has several parks and gardens, such as People’s Park and Terra Nova Fairy Garden (just a bit outside of the city), where a traveling family can relax, play or just enjoy nature.

Charming villages and districts punctuated with stone buildings, medieval designs, and Georgian architecture dominate the city as well. 

From medieval castles, museums, and parks to activity centers, there are enough things to see and do for everyone!

This makes Limerick City one of the best places to visit with kids in Ireland.

Click here for the best family hotels in Limerick

21. Liverpool, England

museum-of-liverpool

Rachel from Average Lives: Liverpool is a great place to visit with kids. It's home to a vibrant music scene, inspiring architecture, and world-class museums and is synonymous with music, football, and the arts.

Scousers are friendly and fun, and the city is bustling with attractions. Luckily, the center of Liverpool is compact, and you can reach most places on foot, which means it is easy to get around. 

Alternatively, avoid tired feet and book hop-on hop-off bus tickets. Learn about all the major sights and historic landmarks from a knowledgeable tour guide.

There are wonderful free things to do in Liverpool, which are great if you travel with kids as entrance fees add up quickly.

Many of these free sights are centralized at the Albert Docks, which means you can walk around the water, see the Beatles statues and venture into the fabulous museums.

Undeniably, Liverpool's interactive museums are world-class and provide exhibitions, which you and your kids will love.

Visit the Maritime Museum, where through a fascinating exhibition, you can learn more about the city's connections to the slave trade and the history of slavery.

Liverpool's rich history is fascinating and is displayed beautifully at the Museum of Liverpool.

It houses over 6000 objects and offers excellent displays that allow you to learn more about Liverpool's past and current issues by getting all the family involved from football to a karaoke machine. It's a lot of fun!

Click here for the best family hotels in Liverpool

22. London, England

London with kids

Emily from Kids and Compass: when listing the top places to visit in the UK with kids, there is one city that can't be omitted… London is perhaps the greatest city in the world.

Ride the London Eye (book fast-track tickets here and avoid waiting in the long queue) and admire Big Ben.

Or go for a stroll in the Kensington Gardens and visit Kensington Palace to learn the surprising stories of many of its inhabitants over the centuries, from Queen Victoria to Diana, Princess of Wales.

London is full of history, culture, and arts. You could spend months here and still feel as though there’s plenty left to do. 

London has also got a huge amount of things to do with kids, especially fun but educational attractions. 

There are world-class museums that are entirely free (except for special exhibitions) like the Natural History Museum and the British Museum. 

Older kids will enjoy learning about over 1000 years of history at the Tower of London as well as admiring the famous Crown Jewels. Get Tower of London tickets here.

Also be sure to attend the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace, definitely something that will impress them. Check the schedule here.

Not everything has to be about history or culture though, as London’s parks are second to none.

Besides the aforementioned Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park and St James’ Park are central London standouts, while Kew Gardens is one of the best gardens in the world (though a little further afield).

London is great for shopping too. Little ones will go crazy for Hamley's toy shop, while older teens will love the buzz on busy Oxford Street.

In the evening, if you’ve got the energy that is, London’s theatre scene also has several shows suitable for kids of all ages, including The Lion King, Wicked, Aladdin, and many more. 

Also, consider spending Christmas in London, your kids will love the festive lights, lavishly decorated Christmas trees, and beautifully designed Christmas displays in Harrods and Hamleys.

There are also plenty of great places to eat and young foodies will love one of these London food tours (except for the Twilight one, that's more of a grownups activity;).

Whatever you decide to get up to in London, one visit definitely won’t be enough!

Click here for the best family hotels in London

23. Newcastle upon Tyne, England

newcastle-upon-tyne-phenomenalglobe.com_

Moumita & Sankha from Chasing the Long Road: Newcastle is situated on the bank of River Tyne in North East England.

The city is famous for its gorgeous bridges, colorful past, football, stunning architecture, and museums.

There are plenty of wonderful family-friendly things to do in Newcastle upon Tyne for an enjoyable holiday with kids.

Take a tour of the historic Newcastle Castle, after which the city is named. You can explore the castle’s narrow passageways, chambers, dungeons, and prison cells.

There are quite a few free museums around Newcastle. You can see an impressive display of historical objects from Hadrian’s Wall at the Great North Museum: Hancock.

The nearby Discovery Museum is filled with fun and interactive displays about local history and science. 

Also, kids will enjoy a visit to the Beamish, the Living Museum of the North, a beautifully preserved open-air museum to make the visitors take a glimpse at how life was in Northeast England in the era of the industrial revolution.

Once here, hop on the vintage tram and explore the different sections. It’s fun, interactive, and educational, making it suitable for young kids and adults alike.

Newcastle has an extensive network of public transport. Most of the attractions are close enough to explore on foot.

Click here for the best family hotels in Newcastle upon Tyne

24. Oxford, England

christ-church-oxford-phenomenalglobe.com_

Alice from Adventures of Alice: Oxford is a great city and there are lots of things to do there that’ll be fun for both you and the kids.

It’s full of history and architecture for you to enjoy and also some lovely parks where you can sit down with the kids and have a picnic.

One thing that you can do is visit Oxford Castle, which was built by William the Conqueror and has been used as a fortress, prison, courthouse, royal residence, and college. 

If you or your children love Harry Potter, consider booking this Christ Church Harry Potter film locations tour. You'll get to see the famous Great Hall, and also one of the staircases in Harry Potter.

Being a major UK city and one connected to the famous university, it is quite easy to get around.

The bus times are quite good and they also offer a good all-day park and ride service which is great if you’re driving into oxford as otherwise, parking can get quite expensive.

Click here for the best family hotels in Oxford

25. Salisbury, England

salisbury-with-kids-phenomenalglobe.com_

Sarah from Slow Travel: Salisbury is a popular city for families visiting the UK.

Ideally placed just a short distance from London, the south coast, the New Forest, and the Cotswolds, it is the ideal place to base yourself if you want to fit as much into your family holiday as you can.

This ancient medieval city with its traditional buildings and the soaring spire of Salisbury Cathedral.

With several museums, Salisbury it's a beautiful place to explore. there are also lots of green parks which offer activities from paddling in the river to ziplines.

In case of inclement weather, Salisbury has indoor play centers, a trampoline park, LaserA, bowling, and a medieval cinema, which is always a unique experience.

Stonehenge and the surrounding UNESCO landscape are close by, as are the ruins of Old Sarum which kids love to play in, rolling down the ramparts and clambering over the stone walls.

Wilton House has a large outdoor adventure play park set in immaculate grounds, and ten miles away is Paultons Park, a huge theme park that has the famous Peppa Pig World for toddlers as well as plenty of thrilling rides for teenagers.

Marwell Zoo is a few miles away, as is the New Forest Water Park with lakes covered in inflatables to play upon.

For those looking for quieter pursuits, the county is filled with luscious green countryside for walks, cycling, horse riding, and exploration.

The whole area is well served by buses and trains making it the ideal place for a family holiday without a car.

Click here for the best family hotels in Salisbury

26. Waterford, Ireland

viking-longboat-reginalds-tower-waterford-phenomenalglobe.com

Cath from Travel Around Ireland: one of the best cities to visit with kids in Ireland is Waterford.

Located in the southeast of Ireland, Waterford is Ireland’s oldest city, established over 50 years by the Vikings before Dublin. And its Viking heritage is visible in the aptly named Viking Triangle.

Take the kids into Reginald’s Tower and see Viking artifacts. Don’t forget to see if you can spot the canon hole in the outside wall. For older kids, there is a walking tour of the Viking Triangle near Reginald’s Tower.

There are several museums to visit in Waterford and a great little tourist train that will give you a tour of the city, great for train fans.

Just a short drive from the city center is Waterford Castle Resort. This 4-star hotel and golf resort is located on a private island and can be visited using the car ferry.

Once there you can enjoy walks on the grounds, watching out for the herds of deer. You can even pop into the castle or golf clubhouse for lunch.

Waterford City is one of the best places to visit in County Waterford and there is plenty on offer for families with kids, young or old.

Click here for the best family hotels in Waterford

27. York, England

York with kids

Leona from Wandermust Family: one of the best places to visit in the UK with family is York!

Easy to get to either by car or train from most major UK cities and close to Leeds international airport, York is very accessible wherever you are coming from!

There are tons of family-friendly things to do in York whatever the weather, such as the fabulous National Railway Museum, river cruises, and the yummy Chocolate Story Museum.

For older children, you can learn about some of York’s more gruesome history on a ghost-walking tour or a trip to York Dungeons! 

It is also a great place to visit for the budget-conscious family! A trip to York doesn’t have to be expensive for families.

There are plenty of free activities, such as walking the historic city walls, visiting the national railway museum, or taking a trip to the Shambles!

On top of that York is full of historical gems that no visit to the city is complete without.

First, be sure to visit the York Minster and marvel at the stained glass. With older children, climb the tower for unrivaled views across the city!

Clifford Tower is another gem that explores some of York’s more unpleasant history! And, at any time of year, children will love the Museum Gardens!

My little one especially loves a visit to York during Christmas to see the beautiful illuminations!

Click here for the best family hotels in York

Cities to visit in Ireland and the UK with kids: in conclusion

I hope this list has given you lots of ideas about which city in the UK or Ireland to visit next with your family.

Feel free to ask any questions you may have by leaving a comment below. Happy travels!

This post was updated in December 2022.

Looking for more family travel inspiration? Read which kid-friendly cities to visit in Scandinavia and Europe.

Anna

Sunday 21st of April 2019

The pictures are very beautiful. I am getting inspired to plan a trip just from looking at the pictures.

Lotte

Monday 22nd of April 2019

Thank you Anna! I hope to visit every single city on this list:-) So far only London, Dublin and Edinburgh...