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Family days out for lessLocal, national and around the worldPart of the Shmor.ai network

Riders with arms in the air on a roller coaster

Teen days out

Days out teenagers actually want

Adrenaline, independence and something worth posting about. Here’s Scout’s pick of days out teenagers rate, plus ways to stop teen tickets costing adult prices.

Escape rooms Go-karting Zip lines Surfing

Photo: Hannes Knutsson on Unsplash

Scout the Fox

Scout’s verdict

Scout’s teen verdict

Give them a say, add a mate, and pick something with a bit of risk (the safe, supervised kind). Escape rooms, karting and zip lines win almost every time.

Best thrill: Coaster parks & zip lines
Best on a budget: Skate parks, bowling, free museums
Watch out: Adult prices from 12–16

Adventures for teens

Filter by place and budget, or let Scout surprise you.

Riders with arms in the air on a roller coaster

Theme parks££ Mid-range

Photo: Hannes Knutsson / Unsplash

Alton Towers Resort

Staffordshire, England

Big coasters for teens, CBeebies Land for little ones, plus a water park and hotels.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Thrill rides first while queues are short, CBeebies Land after lunch.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A roller coaster track against a blue sky

Theme parks££ Mid-range

Photo: Jonny Gios / Unsplash

Thorpe Park Resort

Chertsey, Surrey, England

Fast, big rides aimed squarely at teens and thrill-seeking adults.

TeensOutdoor

Scout: The teen pick near London. Check height limits for younger siblings.

Official site ↗

People riding a spinning fairground ride

Theme parks££ Mid-range

Photo: Ethan Hoover / Unsplash

Chessington World of Adventures

Chessington, Surrey, England

Family rides and a zoo in one ticket. A strong mixed-age day.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Plan your route around the animal talks.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A roller coaster at an amusement park

Theme parks££ Mid-range

Photo: Somruthai Keawjan / Unsplash

Blackpool Pleasure Beach

Blackpool, Lancashire, England

A classic seaside park with historic coasters, right by the beach.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Pair it with free beach time to stretch the day.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

People riding a spinning fairground ride

Theme parks££ Mid-range

Photo: Ethan Hoover / Unsplash

Drayton Manor Resort

Tamworth, Staffordshire, England

Thrill rides plus Thomas Land, a whole area themed on Thomas & Friends for little engine fans.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Thomas Land is a toddler dream. Bigger kids can do the coasters.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A roller coaster track against a blue sky

Theme parks££ Mid-range

Photo: Jonny Gios / Unsplash

Flamingo Land

North Yorkshire, England

A theme park and zoo combined, with rides for every age.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Rides and animals in one ticket makes it great value for mixed ages.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World, Orlando

Theme parks£££ Splurge

Photo: Kitera Dent / Unsplash

Walt Disney World Resort

Orlando, Florida, USA

Four theme parks and two water parks. A holiday, not a day out.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Two parks done well beat four done in a rush.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A castle-style building lit up at night

Theme parks£££ Splurge

Photo: Aditya Vyas / Unsplash

Universal Orlando Resort

Orlando, Florida, USA

Three theme parks including Epic Universe, with the Wizarding World of Harry Potter across all three.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Get park-to-park tickets to ride the Hogwarts Express.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A fairy-tale castle lit up at night

Theme parks£££ Splurge

Photo: PAN XIAOZHEN / Unsplash

Disneyland Resort

Anaheim, California, USA

The original Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, side by side.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: The parks are next door, so park hopping is easy here.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Riders with arms in the air on a roller coaster

Theme parks££ Mid-range

Photo: Hannes Knutsson / Unsplash

Cedar Point

Sandusky, Ohio, USA

A legendary coaster park on Lake Erie, famous with thrill-seekers.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Coaster-mad teens will rate this one. Check height limits.

Official site ↗

Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Paris

Theme parks£££ Splurge

Photo: Bastien Nvs / Unsplash

Disneyland Paris

Marne-la-Vallée, near Paris, France

Disneyland Park and Disney Adventure World, home of World of Frozen since March 2026.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Do two days, and hit World of Frozen early.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Fireworks over a fairy-tale castle at night

Theme parks££ Mid-range

Photo: Jayme McColgan / Unsplash

Efteling

Kaatsheuvel, Netherlands

A fairy-tale park with an enchanted forest walk and coasters for older kids.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: The Fairytale Forest suits toddlers and grandparents alike.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A roller coaster at an amusement park

Theme parks££ Mid-range

Photo: Somruthai Keawjan / Unsplash

Europa-Park

Rust, Germany

Germany’s biggest theme park, themed on European countries.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Plan two days. It’s huge.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Water slides at a water park

Theme parks££ Mid-range

Photo: Konrad Burdyn / Unsplash

PortAventura World

Salou, Spain

Theme park, Ferrari Land and a water park near the Costa Dorada beaches.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Perfect add-on to a beach holiday.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

People riding a spinning fairground ride

Theme parks££ Mid-range

Photo: Ethan Hoover / Unsplash

Parc Astérix

Plailly, near Paris, France

Funny, very French park with strong coasters and family rides.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: A great second park on a Paris trip.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A fairy-tale castle lit up at night

Theme parks££ Mid-range

Photo: PAN XIAOZHEN / Unsplash

Tivoli Gardens

Copenhagen, Denmark

One of the world’s oldest amusement parks (1843), magical after dark.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Go in the evening for the lights.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Riders with arms in the air on a roller coaster

Theme parks££ Mid-range

Photo: Hannes Knutsson / Unsplash

Phantasialand

Brühl, near Cologne, Germany

Richly themed park famous for its intense coasters, with family areas too.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: A bucket-list park for coaster-loving teens.

Official site ↗

Water slides at a water park

Water parks & pools££ Mid-range

Photo: Konrad Burdyn / Unsplash

Sandcastle Waterpark

Blackpool, Lancashire, England

A big indoor water park on Blackpool’s seafront: slides, wave pool and toddler areas.

All agesIndoor

Scout: Indoor and warm, so it’s rain-proof. No longer on new Merlin passes.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A family walking along a wooden boardwalk through a field at golden hour

Water parks & pools£££ Splurge

Photo: Jessica Rockowitz / Unsplash

Center Parcs

Forest villages across the UK and Ireland

Forest short breaks built around an indoor tropical pool, bikes and activities.

All agesIndoor + outdoor

Scout: A short break, not a day out. Midweek breaks are usually cheaper.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Water slides at a water park

Water parks & pools££ Mid-range

Photo: Konrad Burdyn / Unsplash

Rulantica

Rust, Germany (next to Europa-Park)

A huge Scandinavian-themed indoor water world beside Europa-Park.

All agesIndoor

Scout: Give it its own day rather than squeezing it in.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Water slides at a water park

Water parks & pools££ Mid-range

Photo: Konrad Burdyn / Unsplash

Siam Park

Costa Adeje, Tenerife, Spain

A Thai-themed water park in Tenerife with famous slides and a giant wave pool.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Arrive early and grab a sunbed. Suncream on!

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Water slides at a water park

Water parks & pools££ Mid-range

Photo: Konrad Burdyn / Unsplash

Universal’s Volcano Bay

Orlando, Florida, USA

Universal Orlando’s volcano-themed water park with virtual queuing.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: A great rest day between theme parks.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A family walking on the beach holding hands

Water parks & pools££ Mid-range

Photo: Jennifer Kalenberg / Unsplash

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon

Walt Disney World, Florida, USA

Disney’s shipwreck-themed water park with a big surf pool and gentle areas for little ones.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Check seasonal opening: Disney water parks close for refurbishment at times.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Water slides at a water park

Water parks & pools£ Budget

Photo: Konrad Burdyn / Unsplash

Your local leisure pool

Leisure centres near you

Flumes, wave machines and inflatable sessions at local pools.

All agesIndoor

Scout: Look for family swim sessions and fun inflatable times.

Scout’s guide

Two giraffes standing side by side

Zoos & aquariums££ Mid-range

Photo: Daley van de Sande / Unsplash

Chester Zoo

Chester, England

One of the UK’s biggest zoos, run by a conservation charity.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Comfy shoes! It’s a big site.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A mother gorilla hugging her baby

Zoos & aquariums££ Mid-range

Photo: Carrie Borden / Unsplash

London Zoo

Regent’s Park, London

The world’s oldest scientific zoo, run by ZSL.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Check the National Rail Days Out Guide offer first.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A safari vehicle driving through dry bush

Zoos & aquariums££ Mid-range

Photo: Ed Wingate / Unsplash

Longleat

Wiltshire, England

A drive-through safari park plus a stately home and adventure play.

All agesIndoor + outdoor

Scout: Windows up where the signs say: monkeys love car aerials.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A cheetah standing on a rock

Zoos & aquariums££ Mid-range

Photo: Tomáš Malík / Unsplash

West Midland Safari Park

Bewdley, Worcestershire, England

A drive-through safari plus walk-through areas and family rides.

All agesIndoor + outdoor

Scout: Do the drive-through first, then the walk-round areas.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A boy feeding deer through a fence

Zoos & aquariums££ Mid-range

Photo: Daiga Ellaby / Unsplash

Yorkshire Wildlife Park

Doncaster, South Yorkshire, England

Walk-through wildlife park known for its polar bears.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Walkways are long but flat, which is good for buggies.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A visitor watching a penguin swim past the glass

Zoos & aquariums££ Mid-range

Photo: Zachary Spears / Unsplash

Edinburgh Zoo

Edinburgh, Scotland

A hillside zoo famous for its penguins.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Hilly, so bring a sturdy buggy or carrier.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A toddler touching the glass of an aquarium tank

Zoos & aquariums££ Mid-range

Photo: Caroline Hernandez / Unsplash

SEA LIFE aquariums

Centres across the UK

Indoor aquariums with sharks, rays and penguins at some centres.

All agesIndoor

Scout: Perfect rainy-day rescue, usually 1.5–2 hours.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Two giraffes standing side by side

Zoos & aquariums££ Mid-range

Photo: Daley van de Sande / Unsplash

San Diego Zoo

San Diego, California, USA

World-famous zoo in Balboa Park.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Use the bus tour to save little legs.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

An adult and child looking into a large aquarium tank

Zoos & aquariums££ Mid-range

Photo: lucas Favre / Unsplash

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Monterey, California, USA

Sea otters, kelp forests and a giant open-ocean tank.

All agesIndoor

Scout: Don’t miss the otter feeds.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A cheetah standing on a rock

Zoos & aquariums££ Mid-range

Photo: Tomáš Malík / Unsplash

ZooParc de Beauval

Saint-Aignan, Loire Valley, France

One of Europe’s best-known zoos, with giant pandas and a cable car.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Two days lets you see it all.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A girl carrying a pumpkin she has picked

Farms & pick-your-own£ Budget

Photo: Patrick Fore / Unsplash

Pick-your-own farms

Fruit farms near you

Strawberries in summer, apples and pumpkins in autumn. Pay for what you pick.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Go early in the season for the best pickings.

Scout’s guide

Two children sitting on a hay bale surrounded by pumpkins

Seasonal events£ Budget

Photo: Christopher Luther / Unsplash

Pumpkin picking

Pumpkin patches near you (autumn)

Hay-bale mazes, wheelbarrows and the perfect carving pumpkin.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Book a timed slot at weekends and wear wellies.

Scout’s guide

The vaulted Hintze Hall at the Natural History Museum, London

Museums & scienceFree

Photo: Claudio Testa / Unsplash

Natural History Museum

South Kensington, London

Dinosaurs, a blue whale skeleton and an earthquake room. Free general admission.

All agesIndoor

Scout: Arrive at opening for the dinosaur gallery.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A museum hall with a whale skeleton hanging from the ceiling

Museums & scienceFree

Photo: Toa Heftiba / Unsplash

Science Museum

South Kensington, London

Space, flight and hands-on science. Free general admission.

Ages 5–11TeensIndoor

Scout: Some interactive galleries charge. Check before you go.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Looking up at a dinosaur skeleton in a museum

Museums & scienceFree

Photo: Aditya Vyas / Unsplash

National Museum of Scotland

Edinburgh, Scotland

Dinosaurs, Dolly the sheep and hands-on galleries. Free general admission.

All agesIndoor

Scout: Head up to the rooftop terrace for city views.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Visitors exploring a dinosaur fossil gallery

Museums & science££ Mid-range

Photo: Chris Nguyen / Unsplash

National Space Centre

Leicester, England

Rockets, a planetarium and space galleries.

Ages 5–11TeensIndoor

Scout: Catch a planetarium show: check times on arrival.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Two adults and a child looking out at a mountain view

Museums & science££ Mid-range

Photo: Nils Huenerfuerst / Unsplash

Royal Observatory Greenwich

Greenwich, London

Stand on the Prime Meridian and catch a planetarium show.

Ages 5–11TeensIndoor + outdoor

Scout: Greenwich Park next door is free and great for a picnic.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Visitors exploring a dinosaur fossil gallery

Museums & scienceFree

Photo: Chris Nguyen / Unsplash

Smithsonian museums

Washington, DC, USA

Most Smithsonian museums are free, including Natural History and Air and Space.

All agesIndoor

Scout: Two museums a day max with younger kids.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A boy leaning on the glass of an aquarium full of fish

Museums & science££ Mid-range

Photo: Nur Taufik Zamari / Unsplash

Exploratorium

San Francisco, California, USA

Hundreds of hands-on science exhibits on San Francisco’s waterfront.

Ages 5–11TeensIndoor

Scout: Teens love the evening events: check the age rules.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Two adults and a child looking out at a mountain view

Museums & science££ Mid-range

Photo: Nils Huenerfuerst / Unsplash

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Merritt Island, Florida, USA

Real rockets, astronaut stories and the Space Shuttle Atlantis.

Ages 5–11TeensIndoor + outdoor

Scout: An easy add-on to an Orlando trip. Check launch schedules.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A museum hall with a whale skeleton hanging from the ceiling

Museums & science£ Budget

Photo: Toa Heftiba / Unsplash

Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie

Paris, France

One of Europe’s biggest science museums, with a dedicated children’s area.

All agesIndoor

Scout: Book the children’s area (Cité des enfants) in advance.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

An adult and child looking into a large aquarium tank

Museums & science££ Mid-range

Photo: lucas Favre / Unsplash

NEMO Science Museum

Amsterdam, Netherlands

A hands-on science museum in a striking green building, with a rooftop terrace.

Ages 5–11TeensIndoor

Scout: Great on a rainy Amsterdam day.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Looking up at a dinosaur skeleton in a museum

Museums & scienceFree

Photo: Aditya Vyas / Unsplash

Your local museum

Museums near you

Many local museums are free and run holiday trails and crafts.

All agesIndoor

Scout: Ask at the desk for a kids’ trail sheet.

Scout’s guide

A stone castle under white clouds

Castles & history££ Mid-range

Photo: Ian Murphy / Unsplash

Warwick Castle

Warwick, England

A medieval castle with shows, towers and family events.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Climb the towers early, before queues build. It’s on the Merlin pass.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A grey stone castle against a blue sky

Castles & history££ Mid-range

Photo: E Mens / Unsplash

Alnwick Castle

Northumberland, England

Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films. Try broomstick training.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Broomstick training is pure joy for young wizards.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A grey stone castle against a blue sky

Castles & history££ Mid-range

Photo: E Mens / Unsplash

Tower of London

London

The Crown Jewels, Yeoman Warders and nearly 1,000 years of history.

Ages 5–11TeensIndoor + outdoor

Scout: Join a Yeoman Warder tour: they’re great storytellers.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A stone castle under white clouds

Castles & history££ Mid-range

Photo: Ian Murphy / Unsplash

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh, Scotland

Scotland’s famous castle, with the Honours of Scotland and city views.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Book a timed ticket online. Popular slots go fast.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A grey stone castle against a blue sky

Castles & history££ Mid-range

Photo: E Mens / Unsplash

Dover Castle

Dover, Kent, England

A huge medieval castle with secret wartime tunnels beneath.

Ages 5–11TeensIndoor + outdoor

Scout: English Heritage members go free.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A stone castle under white clouds

Castles & history£ Budget

Photo: Ian Murphy / Unsplash

Caernarfon Castle

Gwynedd, Wales

A mighty medieval fortress cared for by Cadw.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Climb the towers for views over the Menai Strait.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A family walking together on a grassy hill

Castles & history££ Mid-range

Photo: Seljan Salim / Unsplash

Stonehenge

Wiltshire, England

The world-famous stone circle, with a visitor centre and Neolithic houses.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Book ahead. Members of English Heritage go free.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Cinderella Castle reflected in the moat at Magic Kingdom

Castles & history£ Budget

Photo: Jorge Martínez / Unsplash

Neuschwanstein Castle

Bavaria, Germany

The fairy-tale castle on the hill in the Bavarian Alps.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Tickets are timed. Book well ahead in summer.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A grey stone castle against a blue sky

Seasonal eventsFree

Photo: E Mens / Unsplash

Heritage Open Days

Across England, every September

Hundreds of historic places open for free, with tours and family events.

All agesIndoor + outdoor

Scout: Some events need booking. Check the website in August.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A family walking together on a grassy hill

Nature & national parksFree

Photo: Seljan Salim / Unsplash

Lake District National Park

Cumbria, England

Lakes, fells and boat trips. Some of England’s best walking.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Pick a short lakeside walk with a café at the end.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A family walking through a field with their dog

Nature & national parksFree

Photo: Kateryna Hliznitsova / Unsplash

Peak District National Park

Derbyshire and around, England

Caves, edges and trails, easy to reach from many cities.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Former railway trails are flat and great for bikes and buggies.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Two parents and a child holding hands on the seashore

Nature & national parksFree

Photo: Natalya Zaritskaya / Unsplash

Giant’s Causeway

County Antrim, Northern Ireland

Thousands of hexagonal basalt columns, and a legend about a giant.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Walking to the stones is free. The visitor centre charges.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A happy family running together in a sunlit garden

Nature & national parks££ Mid-range

Photo: Aleksandra Sapozhnikova / Unsplash

Eden Project

Cornwall, England

Giant biomes with a rainforest inside, plus play areas and events.

All agesIndoor + outdoor

Scout: The rainforest biome is warm. Wear layers.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A family relaxing on a picnic blanket in a park

Nature & national parks££ Mid-range

Photo: Liviu Boldis / Unsplash

Kew Gardens

Richmond, London

World-famous gardens with a treetop walkway and children’s play garden.

All agesIndoor + outdoor

Scout: The treetop walkway is a hit with all ages.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Deer grazing in a meadow below Half Dome in Yosemite

Nature & national parks£ Budget

Photo: Johannes Andersson / Unsplash

Yosemite National Park

California, USA

Waterfalls, giant sequoias and granite cliffs.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Check if timed-entry reservations apply in peak season.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Two adults and a child looking out at a mountain view

Nature & national parks£ Budget

Photo: Nils Huenerfuerst / Unsplash

Grand Canyon National Park

Arizona, USA

One of the world’s great views, with easy rim walks.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Stick to rim trails with young kids. Carry water.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Deer grazing in a meadow below Half Dome in Yosemite

Nature & national parks£ Budget

Photo: Johannes Andersson / Unsplash

Yellowstone National Park

Wyoming, Montana and Idaho, USA

Geysers, hot springs and bison, in the world’s first national park.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Stay on boardwalks in thermal areas: it’s dangerous off them.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A child in yellow wellies walking through autumn leaves

Nature & national parksFree

Photo: Zachary Kadolph / Unsplash

Country parks & forests

Parks and woodland near you

Trails, play areas, bug hunts and den building, all free (parking may charge).

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Pack a picnic and make it a full day.

Scout’s guide

A boy and girl walking across a green field

Escape rooms & trailsFree

Photo: Alvin Mahmudov / Unsplash

Geocaching treasure hunts

Hidden all around you

Use a free app to find hidden “caches” near you: a real-world treasure hunt.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Brilliant for turning a walk into a mission.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A fairy-tale castle lit up at night

Nature & national parksFree

Photo: PAN XIAOZHEN / Unsplash

Stargazing at a dark sky place

Dark sky parks and reserves

Dark sky parks and reserves have some of the best night skies around.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Go on a moonless night and let eyes adjust for 20 minutes.

Scout’s guide

A family walking on the beach holding hands

Beaches & seasideFree

Photo: Jennifer Kalenberg / Unsplash

Jurassic Coast fossil hunting

Dorset and East Devon, England

A World Heritage coastline famous for fossils on its beaches.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Search the beach, not the cliffs, and check tide times.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A family walking on the beach holding hands

Beaches & seaside£ Budget

Photo: Jennifer Kalenberg / Unsplash

A classic seaside day

Seaside towns near you

Sandcastles, pier arcades, crazy golf and chips on the prom.

All agesIndoor + outdoor

Scout: Choose lifeguarded beaches and swim between the red and yellow flags.

Scout’s guide

Riding a zip line through a forest

Zip lines & high ropes££ Mid-range

Photo: Nadiia Ganzhyi / Unsplash

Go Ape treetop adventures

Forests across the UK

Rope bridges, zip wires and Tarzan swings high in the trees.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Check the age and height rules for each course before booking.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Sliding along a zip line

Zip lines & high ropes££ Mid-range

Photo: Perry Grone / Unsplash

Zip World

Wales and the Lake District

Big zip lines, underground adventures and trampolines in caverns.

Ages 5–11TeensIndoor + outdoor

Scout: Weight and age limits apply to some rides. Check first.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Hot air balloons rising over the landscape

Zip lines & high ropes££ Mid-range

Photo: ian dooley / Unsplash

iFLY indoor skydiving

Centres in the UK and worldwide

Float on a column of air in a vertical wind tunnel. No plane needed.

Ages 5–11TeensIndoor

Scout: Check minimum ages and weight limits for your centre.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Riding a zip line through a forest

Zip lines & high ropes££ Mid-range

Photo: Nadiia Ganzhyi / Unsplash

High ropes & climbing towers

Activity centres near you

Many activity centres and farm parks have low and high ropes courses.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Low ropes courses suit younger kids. Start there.

Scout’s guide

An indoor trampoline park

Indoor fun£ Budget

Photo: Lawrence Crayton / Unsplash

Trampoline parks

Trampoline parks near you

Wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits and dodgeball courts.

All agesIndoor

Scout: Look for toddler-only sessions for under-5s. Grip socks needed.

Scout’s guide

A bowling ball hitting the pins

Indoor fun£ Budget

Photo: Karla Rivera / Unsplash

Bowling

Bowling alleys near you

Bumpers for little ones and fierce family rivalries for teens.

All agesIndoor

Scout: Weekday daytime games are often cheaper.

Scout’s guide

A neon sign for escape rooms

Indoor fun£ Budget

Photo: Zachary Keimig / Unsplash

Laser tag

Laser tag arenas near you

Team games in a neon arena. Brilliant for birthdays.

Ages 5–11TeensIndoor

Scout: Check minimum ages: some arenas are 7+.

Scout’s guide

A neon sign for escape rooms

Indoor fun£ Budget

Photo: Zachary Keimig / Unsplash

Kids’ cinema mornings

Cinemas near you

Many cinema chains run cheaper kids’ screenings in the holidays.

All agesIndoor

Scout: Check your local cinema’s holiday kids’ club.

Scout’s guide

A neon sign for escape rooms

Indoor fun£ Budget

Photo: Zachary Keimig / Unsplash

Arcades & games centres

Seafronts and leisure parks near you

Retro machines, air hockey and VR games.

Ages 5–11TeensIndoor

Scout: Set a budget on a play card before you start.

Scout’s guide

Climbing an indoor bouldering wall

Indoor fun£ Budget

Photo: Yns Plt / Unsplash

Climbing & bouldering walls

Climbing centres near you

Taster sessions teach the basics. Bouldering needs no ropes.

Ages 5–11TeensIndoor

Scout: Book a family taster first: staff set you up safely.

Scout’s guide

A neon sign for escape rooms

Escape rooms & trails££ Mid-range

Photo: Zachary Keimig / Unsplash

Escape rooms

Escape rooms near you

Solve puzzles as a team to “escape” in 60 minutes.

Ages 5–11TeensIndoor

Scout: Ask for a family or beginner room, and the minimum age.

Scout’s guide

A boy and girl walking across a green field

Escape rooms & trails£ Budget

Photo: Alvin Mahmudov / Unsplash

Self-guided treasure trails

Towns and villages near you

Follow clues around a town to solve a mystery, at your own pace.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Great for making a town walk feel like an adventure.

Scout’s guide

Two go-kart drivers on a race track

Karts, skates & bikes££ Mid-range

Photo: David Armstrong / Unsplash

Go-karting

Karting tracks near you

Junior and family sessions at indoor and outdoor tracks.

Ages 5–11TeensIndoor + outdoor

Scout: Age and height rules vary by track. Check before booking.

Scout’s guide

A skateboarder at a skate park at sunset

Karts, skates & bikesFree

Photo: Robson Hatsukami Morgan / Unsplash

Skate parks

Public skate parks near you

Free ramps for scooters, skateboards and BMX.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Helmets on, and go early before it gets busy.

Scout’s guide

Skate park ramps covered in graffiti

Karts, skates & bikes£ Budget

Photo: ALEXANDRE LALLEMAND / Unsplash

Roller skating rinks

Roller rinks near you

Disco lights, music and roller skates. A retro favourite.

Ages 5–11TeensIndoor

Scout: Beginners’ sessions are less hectic.

Scout’s guide

A family walking through a field with their dog

Karts, skates & bikesFree

Photo: Kateryna Hliznitsova / Unsplash

Traffic-free family bike rides

Trails and cycle paths near you

Old railway paths and forest trails: flat, car-free and great with bike hire.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Choose a route with a café or playground halfway.

Scout’s guide

A group of people learning to surf

Surf & paddle££ Mid-range

Photo: Buddy AN / Unsplash

Surf lessons in Cornwall & Devon

North Cornwall and North Devon beaches

Beginner surf lessons with wetsuit and board included at many surf schools.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Pick a school with qualified instructors and lifeguarded beaches.

Scout’s guide

A surfer riding a wave on an orange board

Surf & paddle££ Mid-range

Photo: Joseph Greve / Unsplash

The Wave

Near Bristol, England

An inland surf lake with waves on demand, and lessons for beginners.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Check minimum ages for lessons before booking.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A group of people learning to surf

Surf & paddle££ Mid-range

Photo: Buddy AN / Unsplash

Kayaking & paddleboarding

Lakes, rivers and coasts near you

Guided taster sessions on calm water are a great first go.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Always wear a buoyancy aid, and go with a guide first.

Scout’s guide

People skating on an outdoor ice rink

Snow & ice££ Mid-range

Photo: Brian Kyed / Unsplash

The Snowdome

Tamworth, Staffordshire, England

Real indoor snow for ski and snowboard lessons, sledging and ice skating.

Ages 5–11TeensIndoor

Scout: Beginner lessons are the best way in. Gloves are a must.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

People skating on an outdoor ice rink

Snow & ice££ Mid-range

Photo: Brian Kyed / Unsplash

Chill Factore

Manchester, England

An indoor real-snow slope with lessons and snow play.

Ages 5–11TeensIndoor

Scout: Snow play sessions suit younger kids who aren’t ready to ski.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Skating on an ice rink

Snow & ice£ Budget

Photo: Natalya Karpeka / Unsplash

Ice skating rinks

Ice rinks near you (plus winter pop-ups)

Year-round rinks and festive outdoor rinks in winter.

Ages 5–11TeensIndoor

Scout: Skate aids help little ones find their feet.

Scout’s guide

Twinkling red and white festive lights

Seasonal events££ Mid-range

Photo: Cole Ciarlello / Unsplash

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

Hyde Park, London (winter)

A huge seasonal festival with rides, an ice rink, markets and shows.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Weekday daytime visits are calmer. Some attractions are ticketed separately.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A steam train crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct in the Scottish Highlands

Trains & steam££ Mid-range

Photo: Jack Anstey / Unsplash

The Jacobite steam train

Fort William to Mallaig, Scotland

The “Hogwarts Express” route over the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Seasonal.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: No tickets? Watching it cross the viaduct is free.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A heritage steam train passing through a forest

Trains & steam£ Budget

Photo: Denis Chick / Unsplash

Heritage steam railways

Preserved railways near you

Short rides behind real steam engines, plus themed event days.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Check the timetable. Most don’t run every day.

Scout’s guide

Twinkling red and white festive lights

Seasonal events££ Mid-range

Photo: Cole Ciarlello / Unsplash

Christmas light trails

Gardens and estates near you (winter)

Illuminated evening trails through gardens and parks.

All agesOutdoor

Scout: Early-evening weekday slots are often cheaper.

Scout’s guide

A Platform 9¾ sign for the Hogwarts Express

Film & TV tours£££ Splurge

Photo: Aditya Vyas / Unsplash

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London

Leavesden, near Watford, England

Real Harry Potter sets, props and costumes. Under-5s free.

Ages 5–11TeensIndoor

Scout: Allow 3–4 hours and book direct.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

A red steam locomotive on a railway line

Film & TV toursFree

Photo: B K / Unsplash

Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross

King’s Cross station, London

The trolley vanishing into the wall. Your own photo is free.

All agesIndoor

Scout: Go early to beat the queue.

Scout’s guide

A castle-style building lit up at night

Film & TV tours£££ Splurge

Photo: Aditya Vyas / Unsplash

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

The Making of Harry Potter, in Tokyo since 2023.

Ages 5–11TeensIndoor

Scout: Book timed tickets well ahead.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

Riders with arms in the air on a roller coaster

Film & TV tours£££ Splurge

Photo: Hannes Knutsson / Unsplash

Universal Studios Hollywood

Los Angeles, California, USA

A working film studio with a famous Studio Tour, rides and a Wizarding World.

Ages 5–11TeensOutdoor

Scout: Do the Studio Tour early, before queues build.

Scout’s guide Official site ↗

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.

Saving on teen tickets

Many attractions charge adult prices from age 12, 15 or 16. Compare age bands before you book.
Students may get discounts with valid ID.
Group and birthday packages can work out cheaper per person for escape rooms, karting and laser tag.
Rail 2FOR1 offers and annual passes still apply to teens.

More teen ideas

Read days out with teenagers, the best thrill rides for teens, teen birthday ideas and a London day out with teens.

Last updated: 14 October 2026

Frequently asked questions

What can I do with a bored teenager?

Try an escape room, go-karting, a climbing wall, a zip line, a surf lesson or a thrill park. Letting them choose, and bring a friend, makes a big difference.

At what age do attractions charge adult prices?

It varies. Many charge adult prices from 12, 15 or 16. Check the age bands on the attraction’s ticket page.

Where shall we go next?