Nature & national parks
Mountains, waterfalls, forests and starry skies. The great outdoors is the best-value day out there is, and kids sleep brilliantly afterwards.
Photo: Seljan Salim on Unsplash
Scout’s verdict
Pick a short trail with a “wow” at the end: a waterfall, a view, a beach or an ice cream. Kids walk further for a reward.
Showing 10 of 10 adventures
Cumbria, England
Lakes, fells and boat trips. Some of England’s best walking.
Scout: Pick a short lakeside walk with a café at the end.
Derbyshire and around, England
Caves, edges and trails, easy to reach from many cities.
Scout: Former railway trails are flat and great for bikes and buggies.
County Antrim, Northern Ireland
Thousands of hexagonal basalt columns, and a legend about a giant.
Scout: Walking to the stones is free. The visitor centre charges.
Cornwall, England
Giant biomes with a rainforest inside, plus play areas and events.
Scout: The rainforest biome is warm. Wear layers.
Richmond, London
World-famous gardens with a treetop walkway and children’s play garden.
Scout: The treetop walkway is a hit with all ages.
California, USA
Waterfalls, giant sequoias and granite cliffs.
Scout: Check if timed-entry reservations apply in peak season.
Arizona, USA
One of the world’s great views, with easy rim walks.
Scout: Stick to rim trails with young kids. Carry water.
Wyoming, Montana and Idaho, USA
Geysers, hot springs and bison, in the world’s first national park.
Scout: Stay on boardwalks in thermal areas: it’s dangerous off them.
Parks and woodland near you
Trails, play areas, bug hunts and den building, all free (parking may charge).
Scout: Pack a picnic and make it a full day.
Dark sky parks and reserves
Dark sky parks and reserves have some of the best night skies around.
Scout: Go on a moonless night and let eyes adjust for 20 minutes.
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Cost bands are a rough guide to a typical family visit, not prices. Always check current prices, ages and opening times on the official site.
Try geocaching, stargazing, wildlife watching or a first family camping trip. In the US, see national parks with kids.
Last updated: 14 October 2026
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