How to Plan a Family Staycation in 2022

A staycation is the perfect way to spend quality time together as a family. Whether you go away for a week or a weekend, the UK boasts fascinating history and fun activities that make it a brilliant place for a short break. Like any holiday, there are several things to consider when planning a family staycation in the UK. Aside from choosing a great location, it’s also important to set a budget and find things to do that the whole family will enjoy.

 

Want to plan a relaxing getaway in 2022? Read on for our ultimate family staycation guide, with tips to help you take care of every detail.

 

Decide on a budget

When planning a staycation, one of the first things you need to decide on is a budget. Some of the costs you’ll need to consider are:

• Travel
• Hotel
• Food
• Activities and attractions

Once you’ve decided on the amount you’d like to spend, you can start searching for fantastic staycation destinations around the UK. Whether you plan a daily budget or a weekly budget, keep in mind that the idea behind a staycation is to spend less than you would on a holiday abroad.

 

Plan activities

Be sure to plan your staycation activities well in advance and choose a location based on what everyone would like to do while they’re away. For example, if you enjoy walks as a family, a countryside staycation may be the right option for you. Similarly, if you want to do a lot of sightseeing, you might prefer to plan a staycation in a city location.

Research your ideal activities and check the individual websites for information on how to book.

 

Find the ideal staycation location

The next step is to research and book an ideal location. Keep reading for our top four UK staycation destinations.

 

Cheltenham

Cheltenham is a picturesque town located on the edge of the Cotswolds, known for its racecourse and regency buildings. There are plenty of cultural attractions for families to enjoy, from the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway to Cotswold Farm Park.

Our Leonardo Hotel Cheltenham hotel is the perfect home away from home during your staycation. Ideally situated close to Cheltenham spa station, it’s an excellent choice if you’re travelling to Cheltenham by train.

 

Activities

Some of Cheltenham’s top attractions for families include:

• The Paint It Yourself Pottery Co.
• Dinky Street
• Walks with Hawks

 

Top tip for packing

If you’re lucky enough to enjoy sunny weather while you’re away, there are plenty of green spaces to enjoy around Cheltenham. Remember to pack suitable clothing for the outdoors, such as trainers, hats and jumpers.

 

Liverpool

If you want to escape to the city for your family staycation, Liverpool is a good option. Home to Albert Docks, Anfield Stadium, and more museums than any city outside of London, Liverpool has lots to see and do.

Located in the heart of the city, Leonardo Hotel Liverpool is a superb staycation hotel.  Featuring spacious rooms and a family-friendly restaurant, it’s just the place to relax after an action-packed day.

 

Activities

Some of Liverpool’s top attractions for families include:

• Museum of Liverpool
• Royal Albert Dock Liverpool
• World Museum

 

Top tip for packing

If you’re spending your staycation in Liverpool, the chances are you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Make sure to pack comfortable footwear and plan for all weather conditions by bringing a raincoat, too.

 

Cardiff

With its beautiful surrounding countryside, historic sites and huge range of restaurants, Cardiff is excellent choice for a holiday in the UK. Its many attractions mean there’s something to suit all ages, making it a good city for a family break. Learn more about Cardiff’s history at Cardiff Castle, wander around the National Museum, or enjoy a wonderful afternoon at Treetop Adventure Golf Cardiff.

Looking for staycation hotels in Cardiff? Book a stay at Leonardo Hotel Cardiff, featuring 142 comfortable guestrooms and a modern restaurant to have dinner together as a family.

 

Activities

Some of Cardiff’s top attractions for families include:

• Cardiff Bay
• Cardiff Castle
• Treetop Adventure Golf Cardiff

 

Gateshead

Gateshead is a trendy town in Northern England that sits opposite Newcastle. It’s home to top attractions, including the Millenium Bridge and the Angel of the North, that make it a great place to explore. The town offers plenty of family-friendly activities, such as the Life Science Centre and the Discovery Museum.

And if you’re looking for a family-friendly hotel, book a stay at Leonardo Hotel Newcastle Quayside, offering quick access to Gateshead.  

 

Activities

Some of Gateshead’s top attractions for families include:

• Angry Birds Adventure Golf
• Discovery Museum
• The Angel of the North  

 

Put together a list of rules

Before you leave for your UK holiday, it might be a good idea to put together a list of rules for the whole family to stick to. These could include:

• Limited use of mobile phones
• No checking Emails throughout the trip

Following a set of rules can help provide structure and ensure that everyone can switch off and enjoy themselves.

 

Pack the essentials

Packing for a holiday in the UK can be tricky. It’s best to pack a variety of clothing items to prepare for every weather eventuality. Some of the essentials you must remember to pack for a staycation are:

• Light layers
• A raincoat
• Trainers
• A phone charger
• A book
• A first aid kit
• Sunscreen  

 

Check for staycation deals

Before making hotel reservations, make sure you aren’t missing out on any great-value staycation deals that could save you money. Browse the Leonardo Hotels staycations page packed with amazing deals that could make your next getaway even more enjoyable.