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2023 has only just begun, but with the dawning of a new year comes the excitement of making new plans with the family. It may only be early days, but you’ll be surprised at how quickly February half term, Easter holidays, and even the summer rolls around. Start making those all-important plans now so you can get booked up, save the money, and give the kids something to look forward to.
Here are three ideas for family days out in 2023.
#1: Warwick Castle, Warwickshire
Warwick Castle’s roots date back all the way to 1068, having been originally built by William the Conqueror as a wooden fort.
There’s truly something for everyone at this impressive structure. Adults can explore its luxurious gardens and riverside location, while children can enjoy its latest addition: the Zog playland, where little ones can fly like a dragon on a zip rope and explore the turrets of Princess Pearl’s tower.
Older children might prefer to live and breathe Warwick’s dark history in the Castle Dungeon, where the resident Jester will take you through a gruesome journey through 300 years of spooky events. The Castle Dungeon is an immersive experience, designed to delight and spook anyone over the age of 10.
An attraction that is sure to delight all the family is the Falconer’s Quest, the UK’s largest birds of prey show. The Castle’s expert falconer will lead the birds in an impressive display, introduce you to their personalities, and give an informative demonstration.
Warwick Castle’s location is pretty ideal for lots of people, just 40 minutes from Birmingham and one hour 40 minutes from London, easily accessible via car or public transport. Book in advance to save money, and remember under 3s go free.
#2: Legoland, Windsor
It’s been a staple in family days out since 1996, and there’s a reason for its enduring success. A day out at Legoland Windsor is a delight for all involved, often considered the UK’s favourite theme park.
In terms of rides and attractions, there are over 55 – the most exhilarating being the Flight of the Sky Lion (the UK’s first ever flying theatre ride), The Brick in Miniland being perfect for little ones, and the most unusual being the LEGO City Driving School where kids aged 6-13 get to take the wheel of their very own electric LEGO car.
If you’re not the ride type, don’t miss Legoland’s daily live shows, character meet and greets, and 4D movie experiences.
For the trip of a lifetime, why not stay in Legoland’s two fully LEGO themed hotels right on the site? You can spend all day exploring the theme park before settling down for the ultimate LEGO sleepover experience.
In terms of prices, day tickets start from just £34 if you buy online (compared to the £66 you can expect to pay in person). Children under 90cm go free, which is fantastic value given how much the park offers them.
Sleepover packages are fully customisable, but prices depend on when you book: Legoland offers discounts if you stay on selected winter dates. Overall, the most cost-effective way to ensure lots of family fun is to opt for an annual pass, which start at just £49. No matter the ticket you’re opting for, be quick – they sell out very fast.
#3: Newbury Racecourse, Berkshire
For a family day out with a bit of a twist, try some horse racing at Newbury Racecourse – one of the UK’s most popular racecourses offering year-round racing and exciting family events.
Entry for under 18s is free, so why not introduce the children to something they may not have experienced before?
2023 fixtures include Sunday afternoon jump racing as early as February (the perfect way to get your social calendar back up and running after the lull of post-festivities January), the BetVictor Jumps season finale, and the Starlight Charity Raceday (a charity event which raises funds to make the experience of illness and treatment better for children and families). There’s also the must-not-miss Hungerford Day 2023 (starring popstar Olly Murs!).
As well as enabling you to watch exciting horseracing, Newbury Racecourse boasts two onsite restaurants and lounges offering an exceptional level of food and service. For stunning panoramic views overlooking the final furlong, treat the kids to the Racegoers Restaurant package, which includes a whopping choice of race ticket, official racecard, reserved table for the full day, a three-course chef’s buffet, tea and coffee, and even a raceday tipster talk from the course’s resident expert.
Get booking for 2023 now, ready to make those all-important memories with the family.