Explore The UK

Welcome to our UK travel blog, here you can find inspiration and discover amazing, fun packed days out across the country.  We’re passionate about exploring the best of the UK, from hidden gems to iconic attractions and we’re even more passionate about doing it all on a budget!  

Our blog is dedicated to sharing our personal experiences, honest reviews, and insider tips to help you create lasting memories without breaking the bank.  We’re always on the lookout for great deals, special offers, and discount codes, and we’ll even highlight fantastic free activities we stumble upon.  So whether you're a family looking for a weekend escape or a couple seeking a unique adventure, you’ve come to the right place.

Ready to explore?  We've split our recommendations into regional sections to help you easily plan your next trip.  Let's start the adventure!

England

We've explored the very best of England right on our doorstep. From the historic landmarks of London to the breathtaking countryside, we're sharing our favourite UK family days out, weekend breaks, and travel tips.  Discover how to explore your own backyard and uncover England's hidden wonders.

East Midlands

East Midlands

The Cookes at Buckingham Palace in London

London

London is a city of incredible history and culture, offering an experience for every type of visitor. We'll guide you through some of the most exciting activities, attractions and hidden gems in and around London.

North East

North East

The Cookes in Cumbria, North West

North West

From the dramatic landscapes of the Lake District to the vibrant cities of Manchester and Liverpool, the North West is a treasure trove of activities.  Our blog covers everything from adrenaline fuelled fun to serene nature walks.

View across the lake at Dimmmingsdale, Staffordshire, West Midlands

West Midlands

The West Midlands is a hub of family-friendly attractions, rich with industrial history and natural beauty.  Our blog helps you navigate the best of the region.

Yorkminster, York, Yorkshire

Yorkshire

Yorkshire is known for it's stunning landscapes and historic cities. In our blog we show you how to experience it's famous hospitality and incredible sights.

Exploring the UK Beyond England

While many tourists stick to London, some of the best UK travel destinations lie further afield.  To experience the true soul of the British Isles, venture into the Scottish Highlands where mist shrouded glens offer a rugged escape, or explore the dramatic Welsh coastline and its hidden bays.  From the ancient basalt columns of Northern Ireland’s Giant’s Causeway to the wild peaks of Snowdonia, exploring beyond England reveals a landscape rich in Celtic history and diverse cultures.  Discover why a UK road trip should always include the untamed beauty of Scotland, Wales, and beyond.

Barafundle Beach, PembrokeshireWales

Wales

Wales is a land of myth, magic, and breathtaking landscapes.  From majestic castles to rugged coastlines, there's a day out for everyone.  We've been exploring the beauty of Wales for years.  Come with us as we explore this beautiful country and share our journey.

Nothern Ireland

Northern Ireland

Note from the Cookes: We are constantly adding new adventures to this page as we explore more of our backyard.  If there’s a specific town or trail you want us to check out, let us know!

Travel News and Top Tips 

If you're a parent who loves to explore the world with your kids without breaking the bank or losing your sanity, you're in the right place.  Planning a family holiday can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be.   We're a family of 4 who love to travel and explore, and we've learned a thing or two about making our adventures as smooth and budget-friendly as possible.  From packing hacks to finding the best deals, we're here to share our top tips so you can spend less time stressing and more time making memories.

The Ultimate Survival Guide to Long-Haul Travel with Kids

Getting ready to go on a long-haul flight with children can feel like a military operation, but with the right preparation, it can be a manageable, and even an enjoyable part of your family adventure.  Whether you are flying with a curious toddler or an energetic school-aged child, a little strategic planning goes a long way.

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Twice the Fun: How to Get a Free Family Day Out with Merlin in 2026

If you’re looking to squeeze every drop of excitement out of your spring, Merlin Entertainments has just dropped a deal that’s hard to ignore. The Twice the Fun offer is back for 2026, essentially giving you a 2-for-1 pass to some of the UK’s most iconic theme parks.  Whether you're a family of four or a group of dedicated thrill-seekers, here is the full breakdown of how to snag this deal, where you can go, and the fine print you need to know.

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Stay for a Night, Play for a Year: The Ultimate Merlin 2026 Deal

If you are a fan of adrenaline-pumping rollercoasters, Lego builds, or historic castle walls, Merlin Entertainments has just launched what might be the best value travel deal of 2026.  Their Stay for a Night, Play for a Year promotion is back, offering a free Merlin Essential Annual Pass for every guest included in a short break booking.  Essentially, by booking one night at a Merlin hotel, you unlock entry to over 20 of the UK’s top attractions for the whole family for the next 12 months.

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Top European Christmas Markets 2025: Your Ultimate Guide

There's nothing quite like the experience of visiting a Christmas market in Europe.  The crisp winter air, the scent of cinnamon and mulled wine, and the twinkling lights that transform a town or city into magical wonderlands.  As you plan your festive escape for 2025, you will  be spoilt for choice.  From historic traditions to modern marvels, here is our guide to the top European cities to visit for Christmas markets in 2025.

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The Ultimate Guide to Go City: How to Save Money, Skip Stress & See More on Your Next Family Trip

Family days out can get expensive fast, especially when you’re trying to squeeze in iconic landmarks, fun tours, and hands on attractions that keep everyone entertained.  That’s where Go City comes in, it is one of the most flexible, money saving ways for families to explore major cities around the world.  It bundles top attractions, tours, and experiences into a digital sightseeing pass, letting you skip ticket queues and save up to 50% compared with buying individual tickets.

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Fly Stress-Free: Your Ultimate Guide to Stay & Park at Hilton Heathrow T5

Planning a trip from London Heathrow Airport? The thought of navigating airport traffic, finding parking, and rushing to your flight can often add a dose of stress into your travel plans.  But what if you could eliminate all that hassle and start your holiday feeling refreshed and relaxed?  Enter the Hilton London Heathrow Airport Terminal 5's Stay & Park packages, your secret weapon for a seamless and serene pre-flight experience.

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The Ultimate Travel Companion: How to Get a Monzo Card and Grab a Free £10!

Planning your next adventure?  Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time backpacker, having the right bank card can make or break your trip.  Say goodbye to sneaky foreign transaction fees and hello to smart, fee-free spending with Monzo.  And the best part?  When you sign up using my link, you'll get a free £10 to kickstart your travel fund!

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Ready to start your next adventure?

Browse our blog for more detailed guides and reviews.  We update our content regularly with new experiences, so be sure to bookmark our page and follow us on social media!