Multi-generational holidays are emerging as the ultimate mindful and ‘slow travel’ experience, with a third feeling more relaxed after these holidays, and 39% feeling joy.
You don’t need to jet off either, to enjoy a holiday with the whole family. The survey has found that the purpose of multi-generational holidays, for many, is about enjoying life’s simple pleasures together and enjoying each other’s company – from countryside walks to seaside picnics, there are plenty of perfect spots in the UK to do just that.
Best destinations for multi-generational holidays in the UK
Based on internal booking data, holidaycottages.co.uk has revealed the top destinations chosen by families in 2025 for multi-generational breaks, offering a blend of natural beauty and activities that appeal to every age group.
Here are the top five most popular destinations for a multi-gen escape:
- Peak District
- Cotswolds
- Suffolk
- Yorkshire
- Norfolk
The most popular activities on multi-gen family holidays
According to holidaycottages.co.uk’s survey, 50% favour walks together – whether in the countryside or by the coast. Closely behind, many enjoy exploring local villages and towns together, while more than 40% say sharing a meal at a restaurant is a highlight of their trip – proving the importance that mealtime still holds in strengthening family bonds.
Regional experts share the best Christmas activities for the family in each location
Peak District – Julie Smith, regional expert for the Peak District and Yorkshire shares, “Chatsworth House and the town of Bakewell, which are just 10 minutes from each other, have lots of independent shops that are decorated for Christmas at this time of year, and both host Christmas markets with 100s of stalls. Bakewell’s opens on the 15th-16th November while the Chatsworth House market is open from the 8th November. The Monsal Trail is a walk that begins in Bakewell and is lovely during winter.”
Cotswolds – Digital PR Manager, Sarah Pring, said, “Broadway’s Christmas market and late-night shopping take place at the end of November, while nearby Stow-on-the-Wold and Chipping Campden host traditional fairs. Blenheim Palace transforms for the season with its illuminated light trail, Christmas market, and The Great Skate, a covered ice rink in the Great Court, perfect for families. A walk along the Cotswold Way or through Snowshill offers frosty views of rolling hills, and you can finish the day with a festive meal at a cosy inn like The Lygon Arms.”
Suffolk – Inday Harrison, regional expert for Suffolk and Norfolk shares, “Constable Country is one of the most picturesque places in Britain for a countryside walk and inspired many famous paintings, while the medieval village, Lavenham, with crooked buildings, was used on the set of Harry Potter, perfect to visit at Christmas. The Ship in Dunwich is perfect for a festive dinner with the family after a day of exploring.
Yorkshire – Julie advises to, “visit Haworth in the heart of Bronte Country in the run-up to Christmas – the cobbled market square is lit by fairy lights and there are various events on, including a torchlight procession on 6th and 7th December, and you can take a scenic walk through the nearby moors ahead of Wuthering Heights coming out in February. Harrogate similarly has lots going on for Christmas, including a Christmas market and Glow Winter Illuminations at Harlow Carr, while Harewood House is close by, hosting a Christmas extravaganza with the Regency theme: A Glittering Invitation. Nearby Knaresborough is the setting for a new Christmas film coming out soon, Tinsel Town, and hosts a winter wonderland experience at Mother Shipton’s Cave, as well as a Christmas market.”
Norfolk – Inday says, “Sandringham’s Luminate Winter Light Trail within the Royal Family’s Norfolk estate is a mile-long trail with a funfair, toasted marshmallows and mulled wine – a great Christmas activity for the family. Equally, the traditional Georgian town of Holt is beautifully lit up with Christmas lights, and is home to a Christmas market and an array of independent shops. The Ingham Swan serves an 8-course festive taster menu throughout December – ideal for foodie families.”
Commenting, Digital PR Manager at holidaycottages.co.uk, Sarah Pring, said, “We’ve seen a steady growth in multi-generational holidays over the last few years, so we wanted to understand what was driving this growing trend from the perspective of families across all generations.
“It’s heartening to see that the main motivation is simple: spending quality time together. These holidays are about slowing down, enjoying the little things, and reconnecting in a world that often feels too fast-paced. It’s also been fascinating to uncover how different age groups enjoy sharing experiences, and where they overlap.
“The data reveals that half of families prefer self-catering cottages for their multi-gen getaways. Our collection includes beautiful properties not only in the most popular destinations mentioned, but across the UK and Ireland, so you can make lasting memories, wherever you choose to stay.”
For more information about the survey, please visit: https://www.holidaycottages.co.uk/blog/multi-generational-holidays