The UK Is Great for Families
The United Kingdom is one of the most family-friendly travel destinations in the world. Free museums, expansive parks, historic castles, and dedicated children's attractions make it easy to keep young travellers entertained while parents enjoy the experience too.
ETA Applications for Families
Every family member needs their own ETA, including children and infants. Each application must be linked to the individual's passport. When applying through TravelReady24, you can complete applications for your entire family in one session — the process saves your progress so you can work through each family member's details at your own pace.
Top Family-Friendly Attractions
- Natural History Museum, London: Free entry, with dinosaur galleries and interactive exhibits that captivate children of all ages
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter, located just outside London, is a must for fans of the wizarding world
- Edinburgh Castle: Perched on a volcanic rock, the castle brings Scottish history to life with guided tours and spectacular views
- LEGOLAND Windsor: A theme park dedicated to LEGO, perfect for children aged 2 to 12
- The Cotswolds: Storybook villages, gentle countryside walks, and farm visits offer a peaceful break from city sightseeing
Getting Around with Children
Children under 11 travel free on London's buses and Tube when accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket. Pushchairs (strollers) are welcome on public transport, though some older Tube stations lack step-free access — check before you travel. For longer journeys, trains are comfortable and often faster than driving.
Dining with Kids
Most UK restaurants welcome children, and many offer dedicated children's menus. Pubs that serve food are generally family-friendly during daytime hours. For quick meals, supermarkets like Marks & Spencer, Tesco, and Sainsbury's offer excellent prepared foods including sandwiches, salads, and snacks.
Practical Tips
- Rainy day plans: Always have an indoor backup activity — museums, aquariums, or indoor play centres
- Comfortable shoes: UK sightseeing involves a lot of walking, even for little legs
- Snacks: Carry water and snacks for longer outings. Supermarkets are everywhere for top-ups
- Travel insurance: Particularly important when travelling with children — medical costs for non-UK residents can be significant
- Nap-friendly itinerary: Do not overschedule. Leave time for rest, especially with younger children
