Choosing a UK Holiday for Teenage Children

At Lovat Parks, we know how challenging it can be to find the perfect family holiday – especially when you’re trying to keep teenagers happy. Teens often crave a mix of independence and adventure, so it’s about striking the right balance between quality family time and activities they’ll genuinely enjoy.

We believe the secret to a great holiday with teens is involving them in the planning and choosing destinations that offer a mix of fun, relaxation and time to explore on their own.

Our parks provide the ideal base for creating those unforgettable memories set amidst nature. Let us guide you through some of our favourite locations and activities near our holiday parks that are sure to keep your teens entertained and get everyone smiling.

Key takeaways:

• Give teenagers a say in the destination
• Choose places that supply a mix of freedom and family time
• Adventure activities keep teens engaged. Think of surfing in Cornwall, paddleboarding or cycling in the New Forest, sailing in Norfolk or tackling high ropes and water parks
• The UK offers plenty of teen-friendly getaways and holiday parks are a great way to satisfy everyone in groups of mixed ages

Norfolk family holidays

Norfolk is the ultimate holiday destination for families with teens, offering the perfect blend of natural beauty, exciting activities and relaxing spaces. Whether you’re spotting seals, exploring sand dunes, sailing on the Broads or enjoying peaceful beaches, Norfolk combines seaside fun with rural adventures – ideal for creating lasting memories. 

Our Norfolk holiday park is ideally located for exploring not just Norfolk, but also Suffolk, another stunning part of East Anglia that’s perfect for a family getaway. 

Alternatively, keep coming back with teens as they grow up by becoming a holiday home owner in Norfolk or Suffolk.

Park facilities

At Waxham Sands Holiday Park, families can enjoy:

• Spacious, family-friendly lodges, cosy holiday homes, S Pods and electric and non electric touring and camping pitches.
• A scenic stroll through sand dunes to a sandy beach where seals await.
• On park amenities like play areas, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

At high tide, Milford on Sea appears to be just another shingle beach, but as the waves recede, a stunning sandy shoreline emerges. With breathtaking views of the Isle of Wight, it’s a fantastic spot for saltwater swimming. At very low tide, a sandbar forms a shallow lagoon – perfect for wild paddling, making it a great choice for families.

Why Norfolk is perfect for teenage family adventure holidays in the UK 

• Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens (25 minute drive): Get up close with exotic animals and learn about conservation at this engaging wildlife park, ideal for teens who love nature and adventure.
• Horsey Windpump (10 minute drive): Climb to the top for panoramic field views and dive into the history of this unique National Trust site – an activity that blends learning with exploration.
• Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach (33 minute drive): Thrill seeking teens will love this iconic amusement park, featuring exciting rides and attractions for all ages.
• Outdoor Activities: Enjoy the stunning beaches near Waxham, with Waxham itself located directly behind our park. It’s the perfect starting point for seal spotting and offers plenty of opportunities for dog walks and skimming stones.

Read more: Fun things to do with teens in Norfolk.

The best time to visit with teens? Spring and summer are ideal for Norfolk’s outdoor adventures and beach days, while autumn offers quieter stays and scenic countryside walks.

New Forest family holidays

The New Forest is the perfect place for teens and families to explore. With direct access via the gate on our park, you can easily explore its unspoiled heathland, ancient woods, river valleys and charming villages together. 

Enjoy country pubs, sandy spots and native ponies, all waiting to be discovered. It’s a peaceful escape full of adventure and natural beauty, ideal for making memories.

Park facilities

At Green Hill Farm Holiday Village, families can enjoy:

• Spacious, modern holiday lodges, holiday homes and safari tents with hot tubs nestled in peaceful woodland.
• Beautiful walking and cycling trails starting right from the gate of our holiday park.
• What sets Green Hill Farm apart from our other parks is its Forest Ranger, who offers both kids and adults the chance to enjoy activities like segways, archery and target shooting.
• There’s a pizzeria open during peak season – because what teen can resist a slice?

Adventures to enjoy on holidays with teens

• New Forest Water Park (20 minute drive): Dive into wakeboarding and an inflatable water park designed for beginners – perfect for adventurous teens.
• National Motor Museum in Beaulieu (30 minute drive): Discover 280 historic vehicles and explore the Top Gear experience, showcasing famous cars and iconic challenges from the show.
• Blackwater Tall Tree Trail (25 minute drive): Learn fascinating facts about some of the world’s most incredible trees along this accessible sensory trail.
• Brockenhurst Riding Stables (25 minute drive): Experience the New Forest’s beauty on horseback with rides suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders.

Prefer to find your own swimming spot? Here’s where to go paddle boarding in the New Forest.

When to visit with teens? Late spring through early autumn provides ideal weather for outdoor activities for teens. Early spring and autumn are quieter, offering a serene atmosphere to enjoy the Forest’s beauty.

North Cornwall family holidays

From Newquay to Padstow and further, North Cornwall covers a stunning stretch of coastline filled with adventure, breathtaking views and activities perfect for teens. Whether you’re catching waves at Fistral Beach, hiking along dramatic cliffs or discovering secret beaches along Padstow’s Seven Bays, there’s something for everyone. 

The area also offers exciting water sports, scenic cycling routes and charming coastal towns with cool spots to shop, eat and relax. It’s a place where adventure meets relaxation, making it the ultimate destination for teens seeking fun and exploration.

Park facilities

At Padstow Holiday Village, you’ll find:

• Comfortable lodges and holiday homes in rural countryside a short trip from Padstow’s iconic harbour.
• Craftworks Kitchen, open during the peak season, located in a charming dining tent.

At Sun Haven Holiday Park near Newquay and Mawgan Porth, you’ll find:

• Enjoy spacious holiday homes and lodges just a 15 minute walk through woodland to the stunning sands of Mawgan Porth.
• A family friendly environment with plenty of space for teens to unwind.
• Easy access to local attractions and outdoor adventures.

What to do 

• Harlyn Bay & Surf School (10 minute drive): Teens can try surf lessons, stand up paddleboarding, coasteering or kayaking at this safe and beautiful beach. Advanced booking is recommended!
• Cornish Birds of Prey and Animal Sanctuary (10 minute drive): Learn about rescued animals, including birds of prey, pigs, ponies and emus. Watch captivating flying displays and explore the on-site café and play area.
• Marine Wildlife Boat Trips (10 minute drive): Set sail from Padstow for a thrilling adventure along the Atlantic Ocean, where you might spot dolphins, puffins, and even whales.
• The Camel Trail (5 minute drive): Hire bikes at Padstow Cycle Hire and enjoy a scenic 12-mile ride along this family-friendly trail, perfect for teens.
• Try surfing at Mawgan Porth (5 drive drive or 15 minute walk from the park): The closest beaches to Sun Haven are known for their great surf, why not pop down and visit Kingsurf and spend a few hours of fun on the waves whilst learning a new skill?
• Newquay Zoo (15 minute drive park): A great place to spend the day. It’s home to over 700 animals from all over the world, including red pandas, Brazilian tapirs, zebras and more.

When to go: Late spring to early autumn offers warm weather for surfing and outdoor adventures. The quieter months provide peaceful exploration.

South and West Cornwall family adventure holidays

South Cornwall, stretching from Hayle in the west to St Ives in the south and including Fowey to the east, is home to stunning coastlines, thrilling adventures and iconic attractions that teens will love. 

Fowey, located on the southern coast where the River Fowey meets the sea, offers beautiful views of the estuary and surrounding countryside. 

Whether you’re enjoying boat trips, exploring the town’s narrow streets, or hiking the coastal paths, South Cornwall has the perfect mix of activities and scenic spots for teens looking for both excitement and relaxation.

Park facilities

At Cornish Meadows Holiday Park in West Cornwall, you’ll enjoy:

• Spacious lodges, holiday homes, safari tents and S Pods tucked away under the trees. 
• A heated pool that’s perfect for teens.
• We also serve freshly cooked pizzas on Fridays in the peak season. Choose either pepperoni or margarita – both are 12 inches in size and priced at £11 each.

At Penmarlam Lodge Retreat in South Cornwall, expect:

• A choice of spacious lodges with or without hot tubs surrounded by stunning countryside.
• Teens will enjoy the feeling of having the park to themselves at our most intimate holiday park.

What to do during your visit?

• Coast 2 Coast Karting (10 minute drive): Pre-teens aged 8 and up will love racing around this exciting outdoor track with 12 corners, including hairpins.
• Via Ferrata Cornwall (30 minute drive): Experience the ultimate high-wire adventure with ziplining and climbing in historic Cornish quarries.
• Eden Project (40 minute drive): Explore Cornwall’s famous biomes, showcasing diverse ecosystems and stunning gardens.
• Blue Reef Aquarium Newquay (1 hour drive): Journey through Cornwall’s coast and vibrant tropical reefs, featuring sharks, rays, and colourful fish.
• Readymoney Cove (25 minute drive): A lovely sandy beach with clear waters, perfect for paddling, swimming, or just relaxing.

When is it great to visit? We may be biased but we love Cornwall year-round! Summer is ideal for South Cornwall’s outdoor activities and attractions, while early spring and autumn offer a quieter and equally beautiful experience.

Tips for holiday planning with teens

Involve teens in the holiday choice

Let them help choose the destinations and activities. That way, they’ll feel more engaged and excited about the trip.

Explore activities before booking

Research local activities and attractions with your teen to see what they are most interested in. What they say might surprise you. Then, make a booking you all like the look of.

Choose somewhere they can have freedom

Pick locations with safe environments, like beaches, where teens can explore independently.

Consider accommodation with privacy

Opt for lodges, holiday homes or safari tents with enough space for everyone to have their own area.

Find great food places

Teens love good food! Research restaurants, cafés or local takeaways that cater to their tastes – or consider our parks with seasonal restaurants.

Family stays with Lovat Parks

Lovat Parks offers the perfect base for unforgettable family holidays – with teens, young adults and all ages. With spacious lodges, beautiful locations and plenty of activities nearby, your family – including the teens – will have a holiday to remember. 

Book your stay today and create lifelong memories in the heart of some of Britain’s best scenery.

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FAQs: Choosing holidays with teenagers in the UK

What are the best family holidays with teenagers?

The UK’s coastline is often overlooked for surfing and watersports. Elsewhere countryside escapes with cycling and outdoor activities are great for families with active teens. 

Many opt for family adventure holidays inCornwall, Norfolk and the New Forest because they offer a mix of action and relaxation.

Where is the best place to vacation with teenagers?

The best place depends on your teenager’s interests. Make sure you involve them in the planning – and ask what they want to do while on holiday. You can make suggestions – from surfing lessons to horse riding – and see how they respond.

Where to go with teenagers in the UK?

ISome of the most popular UK destinations include Cornwall, the New Forest, Norfolk, the Lake District and North Wales. These areas offer outdoor adventures, watersports, walking trails and plenty of opportunities for family time.

Where can I go on holidays with 17 year olds in England?

When taking 17 year olds away, look for destinations that offer a little more independence and adventure. Cornwall is ideal for shopping in small charming villages, Norfolk is great for sailing and beach days and the New Forest offers cycling, watersports and outdoor fun.

How to plan a short break with a teenager?

Coastal resorts, national parks and activity-based holiday parks are popular for weekend breaks with teens. Start by researching what your family will enjoy doing the most – and try to pick somewhere that’s a good distance away so you can get the most out of your trip and not spend too long in the car.

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