Ideas For a Family Day Out To Rival Ski Holidays

Skiing holiday

Skiing holidays are a popular choice for families, offering the chance to hit the slopes, enjoy some quality time together and make unforgettable memories. But what if you can’t make it to the mountains this year? Or what if the the weather is unseasonably warm and the snow just isn’t falling?

Fear not, because there are plenty of ideas for a family day out that can rival a ski holiday right here in the UK. That means no planes and no holiday hassle, just you, the family, and heaps of fun on your doorstep. Here are some of the activities you can enjoy that are the next best thing to going on a skiing holiday abroad. And they don’t cost half as much!

Skiing in France
Swap the mountains for something closer to home

Go Skiing at Chill Factore

For families who love skiing, one option is to head to an indoor skiing centre such as Chill Factore. Located in Manchester, Chill Factore offers guaranteed snow all year round, so you can hit the slopes regardless of the season. Yes, summer skiing here is a thing!

There are lessons available for beginners, and more advanced skiers can practice their skills on the challenging runs. Snowboarding is available too, and there’s an alpine lodge style cafe for refuelling after your excitement on the slopes. It’s a great way to keep the whole family active and entertained. Manchester is a great city with plenty to see and do so why not make a day of it and explore the historical centre whilst you’re there.

Try Cross Country Skiing

Another idea is to try out cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. You don’t need mountains for these activities, just some open space and a good pair of boots. They are great beginner activities and you’ll soon pick up the techniques with a bit of practice. 

Cross country skiing
Cross country skiing

There are plenty of locations across the UK where you can try cross-country skiing, such as the Cairngorms National Park in Scotland or the Lake District in England. Snowshoeing is a fun way to explore winter landscapes, and can be done in many of the UK’s national parks and forests when conditions allow.

Visit some Winter Resorts

If you’re a family that wants to go on a ski holiday but can’t travel abroad, there are still plenty of options for a fun winter getaway. Consider a trip to a winter resort such as Center Parcs or Butlins that offer a variety of activities beyond skiing.

Many resorts have activities like snow tubing, ice skating, sledding, and even indoor waterparks to keep the kids entertained. You can also explore the local area and take in winter festivals, markets, and other events.

snow tubing
Snow tubing

Go on a Winter Road Trip

Another option is to plan a winter road trip. There are plenty of scenic routes in the UK that offer beautiful winter landscapes, such as the Scottish Highlands or the Peak District. You can make stops along the way to explore small towns, go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, and sample local cuisine. It’s a great way to bond as a family while experiencing the beauty of winter in the UK.

No matter what you choose, there are plenty of ideas for a family day out that can rival a ski holiday in the UK. From indoor skiing to winter road trips, there are endless possibilities for winter fun. So grab your coats, hats, and gloves, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories with your family right here in the UK.

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