Whether you fancy an adventure in the capital or a seaside holiday, the South West has a huge range of family staycation spots. Boasting incredible scenery, charming towns and world-class attractions, the UK is the perfect place for an Easter trip.
Ready to make some memories? Read on for our top family Easter break ideas in the South West.
The best places to visit in the South West during Easter
London
When it comes to Easter breaks for families, there’s nowhere quite like the capital. There are many free things to do in London, so you won’t have to splash out to enjoy a fun-filled day.
Tick off multiple attractions at once with a free London walking tour. Learn about this historic city from an expert tour guide and see iconic sights such as Big Ben, the London Eye and Buckingham Palace. Make your day even cheaper with SWR Rewards and 2FOR1 tickets to some of the South Bank’s most exciting attractions. Simply buy your tickets direct and travel by train with a National Rail train ticket.
Fancy a spot of shopping? In that case, head to Covent Garden in London’s West End. Here you’ll find shops, restaurants and markets, with something for everyone to enjoy. The markets are a great place to pick up all sorts of goodies, from sweet treats to crafts. At Eastertime, Covent Garden often hosts fun activities for little ones, so keep an eye out for what’s in store this year.
Enjoy the fresh air at Kew Gardens, one of the world’s most important botanical gardens. There’s plenty to explore here, from the Japanese gardens to the rare plants in the Temperate House. What’s more, kids will love playing in the Children’s Garden, a fun space to run around. Enjoy 22% off Family Visit tickets for two adults and two kids, or 2FOR1 entry when you travel by train.
Great Pagoda
London is also home to many museums and galleries – many of which are free to visit. Check out the current exhibitions that everyone is talking about, or visit the Tate Modern to see a range of contemporary art.
Family-friendly restaurants: Pizza Pilgrims Covent Garden, Jungle Cave, Hard Rock Café, Spaghetti House
Where to stay: Premier Inn London Tolworth Hotel, Britannia International Hotel, DoubleTree by Hilton London - Tower of London
If you want to spend your Easter staycation by the sea, Bournemouth is just the place. Located on the UK’s south coast, this resort boasts seven miles of sandy beaches, along with beautiful gardens, excellent restaurants and fun activities. Whether you visit for the whole week or spend 48 hours in Bournemouth, you’re guaranteed an amazing holiday.
There’s lots to see and do in Bournemouth during the Easter holidays. For an action-packed day out, visit RockReef Adventure Centre, stationed at the end of Bournemouth Pier. Thrill-seekers will love the indoor climbing walls, high ropes obstacle course and pier-to-shore zipline, providing an incredible experience for the whole family.
If you’re searching for Easter holiday activities, why not play a round of golf at Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf? Filled with fun challenges, this 18-hole course is perfect for a spot of friendly competition.
Get out in nature at Bournemouth Lower Gardens, only a five-minute walk from the Pier. See beautiful springtime floral displays, visit the aviary and listen to live music at the Pine Walk bandstand. Afterwards, head down to Bournemouth Beach, where you can relax on soft sands and paddle in the sea. This beach has been ranked one of the most child-friendly in the UK and has spectacular views of the Purbecks and the Isle of Wight.
Family-friendly restaurants: El Murrino, Urban Reef, Aruba, Chez Fred
Where to stay: Travelodge Bournemouth Seafront, Royal Bath Hotel, Hilton Bournemouth
How to get there: Hop on a South Western Railway train to Bournemouth station
Windsor
If you want to visit a historic town this Easter, Windsor is the perfect option. With a magnificent castle, gorgeous parks and rich history, this riverside setting is well worth a visit.
Windsor’s most famous landmark is Windsor Castle, where you can learn more about the UK’s kings and queens. This is the oldest castle in the world and has been the home of 39 British monarchs. Visitors can look around and step inside areas such as the Semi-State rooms. There’s also a family trail to follow – great for keeping the kids entertained. And don’t miss the Changing of the Windsor Castle Guard ceremony, which takes place on selected days throughout the week.
Changing the Guard (Image credit: Royal Collection Trust (c) His Majesty King Charles III 2022)
If you fancy a stroll during your staycation, head to Windsor Great Park. In springtime, the park comes to life with beautiful flower displays in dazzling colours. Make sure to visit Daffodil Valley to spot gorgeous buds coming into bloom. As since spring is nesting season, you may even see young fledglings in the trees.
If your little ones are LEGO® fans, pay a visit to LEGOLAND® Windsor this Easter. Featuring 55 thrilling rides and attractions, this popular theme park promises an unforgettable day out. Whether they’re racing a LEGO ® car or watching a live show, kids are sure to have a great time here. Make the most of 2FOR1 entry when travelling to LEGOLAND® by train.
Pirate Falls: Treasure Quest
Family-friendly restaurants: Bel & The Dragon, Enzo’s, Pizza Express, The Boatman, Sebastian’s Italian
Where to stay: Travelodge Windsor Central, Holiday Inn Express Windsor, Macdonald Windsor Hotel
How to get there: Catch a train to Windsor & Eton Riverside or Windsor & Eton Central station
Portsmouth
Looking for things to do for the Easter holidays? With attractions and events all year round, Portsmouth has plenty to keep visitors entertained. From historic sites to brilliant museums, there’s so much to pack into a family holiday.
Start your tour of the city at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, where you can learn more about naval history and visit famous ships, including HMS Victory and HMS Alliance. Keep costs low and enjoy 20% off Ultimate Explorer tickets with SWR Rewards.
The Spinnaker Tower is another must-visit attraction and Portsmouth’s most famous landmark. Standing at 170 metres tall, it offers superb views over Portsmouth Harbour and the city. Those brave enough can also walk over the glass Sky Walk, with a unique view of the harbour below.
For an afternoon of retail therapy, head to Gunwharf Quays shopping outlet, one of the best in the South West. Offering up to 60% off usual retail prices, you’re sure to bag some bargains here. Other entertainment includes a cinema, a ten-pin bowling alley and a miniature boat hire experience.
And if you want to learn more about the city, visit Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery. Free to enter, this attraction illustrates how life has changed over the years and features exciting displays.
Want to enjoy an Easter staycation in the South West? Kickstart your break with South Western Railway and find the best ticket type for your journey. We have a range of train tickets available, as well as GroupSave tickets, plus Railcards and discounts to save you money when you travel. And don’t forget to check out our Where Next blog for even more staycation inspiration.
