Planning a Day Trip

A day trip is the perfect way to spend quality time with family and friends, relax in the fresh air, learn something new and get inspired about your surroundings. Get the most out of your next day off with our step-by-step guide.

Start thinking about what you and your family may be interested in, perhaps you have children who love ghost stories, a teenager that would like to visit film locations, or an aunt who is passionate about gardening. Take a look on our interactive map to see what places of interest there are close to you. You may also find our guide on historic styles useful to help you decide which era of history you are most curious about. Once you have decided on your destination there are a few things to consider when planning your day out, so don't leave home without checking the following!

Map it Out
Plan your journey with our interactive map which as well as showing you what's in a specific area has a journey planner to help you find your way there whether you're travelling by car or public transport. It'll also give you a rough idea of journey time. You'll also be able to find out if there are any scenic spots en route to stop for a break or a picnic.

Stock Up
If you're going in the car, make sure it's in tip-top condition with a full tank of petrol to avoid breaking down. Even if you're planning to treat yourselves to a pub lunch or cream tea, pack plenty of soft drinks to keep hydrated and fruit and snack bars to keep you and your hungry children going between stops. If you're taking the dog, then do the same - they get dehydrated too!

Be Prepared
The British weather is temperamental - you can check the weather forecast before heading off on the BBC website to avoid disappointment. Depending on what time of year it is, remember to pack wellies, raincoats, umbrellas, warm jumpers, hats, sun screen, and make sure you always have a first aid kit in your car.

Get Online
Check your destination's website out. You can do this by using the Advanced Search page and searching for the place you're going to visit. As well as finding out a bit more about the history of the place and maybe seeing a video, you'll be able to find the website link. This will give you up-to-date info opening times, parking, events, special offers and services for the elderly and disabled. Plus, they may have fact sheets, quizzes and treasure hunts for you to print out. Click here for suggestions on how to make the trip more exciting for children.

To make the trip as interesting as possible, do lots of research. The more facts you know about the place you are visiting the more your party will get interested in it. Think of gruesome tales and weird facts to tell your children on the car journey - they'll be raring to go by the time you get there!

Don't forget your camera, batteries and film - treasure those family days out with lots of great photos to remember it by. You can upload your photos and films to our website for others to share. For tips on how to make the perfect home movie, click here.

Enter your comment on Planning a Day Trip