Keep teens (and tweens) happy on a UK cottage holiday!

Keeping everyone entertained on a family holiday or short break can be a challenge, especially when it comes to teenagers and pre-teens. Here are some things to think about when it comes to keeping your teens and tweens happy on a UK cottage holiday.

This fabulous games room will keep everyone entertained!

Make sure there is Wi-Fi in the holiday cottage

OK, so it probably goes without saying that a teenager without Wi-Fi isn’t going to be a happy teenager. While it might be tempting to cut them off from the online world it is probably better to have some sort of compromise in place.

Making sure your holiday cottage has Wi-Fi will keep everyone happy!

Making sure there is W-iFi in the cottage will mean they can get their fill of Facebook, YouTube videos and Netflix – even if it is only for an allotted time each day.

Space for everyone

Teenagers can relax in this snug at Rowan House – there’s even a PlayStation to keep them entertained.

Another way to stop arguments is to ensure there is a second living room or snug where teenagers (or parents) can get away for a bit. If there is a television/music system/DVD or games console in here then even better. No arguments over what to watch on TV is always a winner!

Enjoy a soak in the hot tub at Green Barn near Richmond.

Outside space is also important. Look out for a holiday cottage with outside seating, BBQ facilities and best of all, a hot tub. Everyone can relax and enjoy their UK cottage holiday.

Anyone for a game?

Games can come in many different formats and are a great way for families to get together and keep everyone entertained. From a competitive board game to an Xbox challenge, who doesn’t love a family games night?

Some family-friendly holiday cottages even come with a dedicated games room, so you can set up a pool tournament or table tennis challenge. Perfect for keeping teenagers happy on your UK getaway.

Check what attractions are nearby

It’s always a good idea to try and plan some activities for the holiday and make sure everyone gets an input. There’s plenty of things to do throughout Yorkshire from Segway and Tree Top challenges at Go Ape to thrilling rides at Lightwater Valley and Flamingo Land.

Other favourites include Forbidden Corner near Middleham and York Dungeons. Plan ahead and everyone in the family will have a great time on their cottage holiday.

Explore the great outdoors

Some of the best days out are completely free of charge. Try exploring Brimham Rocks, Malham Cove or Aysgarth Falls in the Yorkshire Dales.

A bike ride is a great way for everyone to burn off some energy and see lots of the gorgeous Yorkshire countryside. You can’t beat the views from climbing up Roseberry Topping on the North York Moors.

Outdoor activities to try in Yorkshire range from Alpaca Trekking in the Yorkshire Dales to kayaking and canoeing.

Everybody loves a day at the seaside and Whitby is always a firm favourite, especially when a day trip comes with fish & chips and an ice cream.

Retail therapy

If your teen or tween prefers a day browsing the shops to climbing up Roseberry Topping, there are plenty of places in Yorkshire for a spot of retail therapy.

York and Harrogate both have a great mix of high street chains and independent boutiques and you can always stop at Bettys afterwards for a spot of afternoon tea – perfect for a special treat.

Get out and explore the North York Moors

There’s lots of culture and history to explore throughout Yorkshire with interesting stately homes, art galleries and historic remains.
Some places to try include Castle Howard in the Howardian Hills, Burton Agnes Hall in the Yorkshire Wolds and Bolton Castle in the Yorkshire Dales.

There’s also lots of artisan food producers and talented chefs in this region – it’s well worth visiting a food market or trying out one of the fabulous gastro pubs and restaurants. You never know, you could spark something in your teen or tween that could lead to a future career!

Take a look at our range of family-friendly holiday cottages in Yorkshire. If you need any help booking the ideal holiday cottage for your family, give our team a call.