How does Rest Less make money
We make money through advertising and commission from affiliate links, which enable us to offer Rest Less as a free service to our users. The content on this page may use affiliate links, which track traffic from our website to a third party provider and enable us to receive a commission or payment from any traffic we refer.
* Affiliate links on this page have an * next to them. We place enormous importance on our editorial independence and the integrity of our content which means that we will never change how we write about something as a result of an affiliate link.
There are still plenty of opportunities to plan day trips while the weather is good and, luckily for us, the UK has no shortage of places to choose from.
To give you some ideas, we’ve put together a list of 19 popular places to visit for a day out. While it’d be impossible to cover them all, we’ve included everything from adventure days in underground caves to exciting museums and outdoor activities, so hopefully something piques your interest.
1. Puzzlewood, Gloucestershire
Described as ‘the most magical forest on the face of the Earth’, the ancient woodland of Puzzlewood in the Forest of Dean is the perfect destination for anyone who loves being outdoors.
This forest is rumoured to have inspired author JRR Tolkien in his works, The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, and it’s no wonder. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll understand why Puzzlewood is also such a popular film location. It’s featured in productions such as Merlin, The Secret Garden, and Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
Visitors can enjoy a mile and a half of pathways through the trees and rocky gorges, and say hello to the range of animals that live there – including Highland cattle, donkeys, chickens, and ducks.
If you’d like to learn more about this ancient forest, you can visit the Puzzlewood website.
2. Discovery Point, Dundee
Royal Research Ship Discovery is the legendary three-masted ship that British explorer Captain Scott and his team used to reach Antarctica (which they then explored on foot) in 1902. The ship remained there, frozen in ice, until 1904 when two relief ships arrived to free her, and the expedition travelled home.
Following its expedition, RRS Discovery was used by sailors to explore the globe. It then became a research vessel and was used to train young Sea Scouts for many years.
Today, RRS Discovery is moored at the Discovery Point museum in Dundee, where visitors can climb aboard and learn about the ship’s fascinating history. Check out their official website to learn more.
Enter for your chance to win a 7-night stay at HPB Stigliano
Discover the beauty of Tuscany with an unforgettable break at Stigliano, our beautifully restored hilltop village surrounded by rolling vineyards, olive groves and spectacular countryside.
Your return is in holidays but like most investments your capital is at risk. Initial payment from £5,000 and quarterly fee (under £39) provide access to HPB holiday homes. Initial and ongoing charges. User charges of around £388 for a studio, £597 for a two-bedroom. Surrender possible after two years, you will receive less than you invested. Advertisement by HPB Management Limited, HPB House, Newmarket, CB8 8EH regulated by FCA, FSCS scheme does not apply.
3. Alton Towers, Staffordshire
Set in 500 acres of beautiful countryside, Alton Towers is a popular theme park and waterpark resort. It’s the perfect destination for anyone looking for an adrenaline rush or to get in touch with their inner child.
With over 40 rides and attractions, Alton Towers is the UK’s largest theme park, with plenty to explore – and many people say that one day isn’t enough. So, why not consider turning your trip into a short break at the Alton Towers Resort itself or a nearby hotel?
Whether you decide to ride The Smiler (the rollercoaster with a world-record number of loops) or get soaked on one of the rapids, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
If Alton Towers is too far away, you might find an alternative on this list of the top 10 theme parks from Theme Parks UK.
4. Alnwick Castle, Northumberland
Dubbed ‘the Windsor of the North’, Alnwick Castle is the second-largest inhabited castle in the UK and has been the home of the Northumberland family for over 700 years.
While its fascinating history is one benefit, in more recent times, Alnwick has also served as a film set for various film and television productions, including Downton Abbey and Harry Potter.
Exciting birds of prey displays and medieval demonstrations are held at the castle, and you’ll also find plenty of information about which scenes from various productions were filmed at Alnwick. So whether you like medieval history, modern television, or simply enjoy exploring magnificent buildings, Alnwick Castle offers a mix of everything.
You can learn more on the Alnwick Castle website.
5. OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory, County Tyrone
If you fancy getting lost in the stars, consider taking a trip to OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory in Northern Ireland’s Davagh Forest.
Opened in April 2020, it’s the 78th area in the world to be accredited as an International Dark Sky Park. This is because the area’s lack of light pollution means the night sky is dark enough to see the stars properly.
Visitors are welcome to arrive any time during the night to stargaze, though if you’re stopping by later, the park recommends staying close to the observatory building and car park.
There’s plenty of archaeology to discover here, too, with standing stones, stone circles, and burial tombs also on-site. With OM Dark Sky Park Exhibition guided tours, bat walks, and forest bathing, you won’t be stuck for choice. If you’re interested, you might like to visit their website.
6. The Centre for Computing History, Cambridge
The Centre for Computing History in Cambridge is unknown to many of us, but it’s a must-visit for any computer history enthusiasts or anyone looking to learn something new.
Here, visitors can play around with vintage monitors and marvel at the early game consoles and calculators on display. There are also interactive exhibitions and educational workshops, as well as various activities and events running. Check out their official website if you think this might be for you.
7. Go Ape, Nationwide
If you’re looking for an action-packed outdoor activity that tests your fears, then look no further than Go Ape. This high ropes, zipline, and tarzan swing course is available across the country in a variety of exciting outdoor locations, including secret forests, stately homes, and urban jungles.
Go Ape has no upper age limit on their adventures and is built on the mantra that everyone should live adventurously, regardless of age.
So, if you’re ready to step outside of your comfort zone and have some fun, Go Ape will take you on a journey you won’t forget. And the best part is that, once it’s completed, you’ll be handed a certificate to recognise your achievements.
Want to give it a go? You can find a list of Go Ape locations on their website.
8. Didcot Railway Centre, Oxfordshire
Didcot Railway Centre is a living museum of the Great Western Railway. Here, you can immerse yourself in the history and progression of locomotives, imagine yourself in the shoes of a train driver or fireman, and explore beautifully restored coaches from Victorian Times to the 1940s.
Guests can enjoy unlimited rides on Great Western Railway heritage steam trains during their designated ‘Steam Days’. Rides on heritage diesel trains are also available, and the centre’s ‘Discovery Days’ allow visitors to explore the 21-acre museum at their leisure and enjoy the various exhibits up close.
Since some activities are only available on certain days of the week, it’s recommended you plan your visit to avoid disappointment. You can do so on the Didcot Railway Centre website.
Enter for your chance to win a 7-night stay at HPB Stigliano
Discover the beauty of Tuscany with an unforgettable break at Stigliano, our beautifully restored hilltop village surrounded by rolling vineyards, olive groves and spectacular countryside.
Your return is in holidays but like most investments your capital is at risk. Initial payment from £5,000 and quarterly fee (under £39) provide access to HPB holiday homes. Initial and ongoing charges. User charges of around £388 for a studio, £597 for a two-bedroom. Surrender possible after two years, you will receive less than you invested. Advertisement by HPB Management Limited, HPB House, Newmarket, CB8 8EH regulated by FCA, FSCS scheme does not apply.
9. The Wave, Bristol
If you’re hoping to try out some water sports this summer, why not head down to Bristol’s inland surf destination, The Wave?
Welcoming absolute beginners to pros, The Wave offers all visitors the opportunity to experience surfing in a secure and accessible environment. Even better, The Wave uses 100% sustainable energy to power its wave pool.
With various food options and beautiful natural surroundings, there’s plenty of opportunity to relax and spend quality time with loved ones while you’re here. Camping is also available on site for those who wish to extend their stay.
For a clearer idea of what to expect, why not check out our introduction to surfing or visit The Wave website?
10. Silverstone Interactive Museum, Northamptonshire
If you’re a British motor-racing history enthusiast, then a trip to Silverstone Interactive Museum is well worth it. Having provided the stage for many remarkable Formula 1 moments, there’s much to explore and uncover at Silverstone.
The relaunched Silverstone museum is packed with over 60 interactive shows and displays of unique racing cars and memorabilia from more than 75 years of motorsport. And if you’d like to see what it’s like to sit behind the wheel yourself, consider finishing your tour with the simulator experience.
You can find out more on the Silverstone Interactive Museum website.
11. Visit a festival, UK-wide
If you think festivals are a place only for teenagers and young adults, think again. Today, festivals are wide-ranging, with everything from music and food to arts, culture, and animals. So whether you fancy dancing to live music, discovering great food, or trying a new activity, there’s a festival for almost everyone.
Festivals are the perfect place to get away from everything and make special memories with loved ones, either for a day or a full weekend.
Some of the best festivals that are popular among mature adults include Latitude, Wilderness, and WOMAD.
Alternatively, if you’d prefer something a bit more low-key, why not consider one of these family-friendly festivals from Mini Travellers. While festival season is nearly over this year, many are taking bookings for 2027.
12. Urquhart Castle and Loch Ness, Inverness-shire
Set in Scotland’s dramatic Highlands with views over the legendary Loch Ness lie the ruins of Urquhart Castle. Steeped in medieval history, visitors can climb the Grant Tower, explore the castle’s prison cell, stand in wonder at the Great Hall, and discover the castle’s impressive collection of artefacts.
Though if history isn’t your thing, you’ll be free to enjoy the views of the castle ruins with the stunning backdrop of Loch Ness and the hills of the Great Glen from the cafe.
Containing more water than all the lakes of England and Wales combined, Loch Ness is the UK’s most voluminous lake, and there’s plenty to do here. Plus, we’re all familiar with the tales of the Loch Ness Monster, which have spread across the world since the first photograph appeared in 1933.
Whether you simply want to walk around and take in the Loch’s scenery, or prefer to take a canoe or fishing trip from the water itself, this list of 9 hidden gems you mustn’t miss around Loch Ness from VisitScotland should give you some ideas. You can also visit the Urquhart Castle website to learn more about this impressive location.
13. Longleat Safari Park, Somerset
More of a safari experience than a regular zoo, Longleat was the first place in the world to offer safaris outside of Africa. Many of the animals roam freely here, and there are plenty of exciting opportunities to get up close and personal with them.
One of Longleat’s most famous attractions is the drive-through safari where you can explore the park either in your own car or in one of the park’s vehicles, driving past deer, monkeys, wolves, lions, tigers, cheetahs, rhinos, and more.
Alternatively, there’s a jungle cruise where you can float along on a riverboat and spot everything from gorillas to hippos and sea lions. You can find out more about what’s on offer at Longleat Safari Park’s website.
If you fancy an animal-themed day out but Longleat is a bit far away, why not consider one of these 16 best zoos and wildlife parks in the UK from Travelness instead?
14. Prison Island, Belfast
Inspired by the British game show The Crystal Maze, Prison Island in Belfast is a fun day out for anyone seeking a bit of challenge and adventure.
With 31 different prison-themed challenge cells, you’ll need to work together in teams of two to four people to complete a mix of tactical, physical, and skill-based games to score as many points as possible. Each challenge lasts a maximum of five minutes, and you can repeat as many times as you wish.
Unique to Northern Ireland, Prison Island Belfast is a bit like an escape room, except players are free to leave cells at any point. Check out their website for more information.
Enter for your chance to win a 7-night stay at HPB Stigliano
Discover the beauty of Tuscany with an unforgettable break at Stigliano, our beautifully restored hilltop village surrounded by rolling vineyards, olive groves and spectacular countryside.
Your return is in holidays but like most investments your capital is at risk. Initial payment from £5,000 and quarterly fee (under £39) provide access to HPB holiday homes. Initial and ongoing charges. User charges of around £388 for a studio, £597 for a two-bedroom. Surrender possible after two years, you will receive less than you invested. Advertisement by HPB Management Limited, HPB House, Newmarket, CB8 8EH regulated by FCA, FSCS scheme does not apply.
15. Ironbridge Gorge Museums, Shropshire
Named the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, Ironbridge Gorge is now a National Trust World Heritage Site with award-winning attractions.
Running 10 museums and multiple historic sites, you won’t run out of things to do here. Visitors can experience Victorian life at the recreated Victorian Town in the Blists Hill open-air museum, or marvel at the Iron Bridge and Tollhouse – an iconic symbol of the Industrial Revolution.
There’s plenty to do here, so if you’re finding it tricky to decide where to spend your time, you might like this list of 10 fantastic museums in and around Ironbridge from Ironbridge Holidays, or you can learn more on the National Trust’s website.
16. Birdworld, Surrey
Birdworld in Farnham, Surrey, is home to over 2,000 birds, as well as many other animals from all over the world.
With parrots, penguins, flamingos, and threatened species, Birdworld is the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature and learn more about some of Earth’s most wonderful creatures. The centre hosts regular talks and feeding sessions, where you can understand more about the birds and watch them being fed. Check out their website to learn more.
Alternatively, Eagle Heights in Eynsford, one of the UK’s largest birds of prey centres, is another popular day out. If you’re not the biggest fan of birds, Eagle Heights has also become a wildlife sanctuary for a wide variety of animals, including meerkats, African servals, reptiles, and huskies. You can plan your visit on their website.
17. JORVIK Viking Centre, York
For something a bit different, why not take a trip to the world-famous Jorvik Viking Centre in York? Here, you’ll be standing on the site of one of the most famous discoveries of modern archaeology.
Between 1976–81, archaeologists revealed the workshops, houses, and backyards of the Viking-age city of Jorvik as it stood almost 1,000 years ago.
Since then, the Jorvik Viking Centre has been built to create a one-of-a-kind visitor experience. With everything from a new ride featuring the sights, sounds, and smells of the Viking age, and an artefact gallery of unique artefacts, guests can experience life as it would have been in York in the 10th century.
If you’re interested, you can plan your visit on this page of their website.
18. Titanic, Belfast
Titanic Belfast is a museum that opened in 2012 to share the famous ship’s ill-fated history with the public and has since become a world-leading visitor attraction.
If museums aren’t typically your thing, then Titanic Belfast might change your mind. Modern and chic even in its exterior, the museum features special effects, full-scale reconstructions, and nine interactive galleries.
Visitors also have the opportunity to climb aboard and explore the decks of SS Nomadic – Titanic’s tender and the world’s last remaining White Star Line vessel. You can find out more on the Titanic Belfast website.
19. National Showcaves Centre for Wales, Swansea
If you’re seeking adventure, why not take a trip to explore the three different caves – Dan-yr-Ogof, Cathedral Cave, and Bone Cave – that are open to visitors at the National Showcaves Centre for Wales?
Created over 300 million years ago, these caves offer a unique underground experience and were voted Britain’s Finest Natural Wonder. Visitors can walk through the beautifully decorated passageways carved out millions of years ago and, once you’ve completed the 1km cave trail, you’ll find yourself marvelling at the 40ft waterfalls which mark its end.
On site, there are also life-sized dinosaur models as well as an Iron Age village, museum, and stone circle. If you’re looking to find out more, why not check out their website?
Final thoughts…
With summer upon us, now’s the perfect time to start planning some fun trips to make the most of the warmer days. Whatever it is that you enjoy doing, as this article’s hopefully shown, the UK has so much to offer.
For more inspiration, you’ll find plenty of ideas in our art and culture and travel sections.
What are some of your favourite days out in the UK? Have you got any day trips planned in the near future? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
Join the discussion
Read our full commenting terms and guidelines