Drop everything and head out on an epic family adventure this autumn

Ardent Harry Potter-philes will doubtless enjoy a jaunt around the city that birthed the blockbuster book series: you can tour the various venues JK Rowling wrote the novels in, visit the grave of the real Thomas Riddell in Greyfriars Churchyard, or splash some cash at the various Potter-themed shops. For something a little more overtly magical, head over to the atmospheric Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, one of the oldest purpose-built tourist attractions in the country, which combines the titular camera obscura with over 100 illusions over six floors, plus spectacular views of Edinburgh.

Stay at: Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh - The Caledonian. With unparalleled views of Edinburgh Castle, this is the perfect spot to enjoy this charming city. Not only that, but there’s the luxurious spa for the parents, and an indoor pool for the kids. Choose between multiple excellent dining options, from a light lunch in stylish Peacock Alley to and seven-course tasting menu championing Scottish produce. 

There’s plenty to do in the Welsh capital, but for a splashy centrepiece to your trip why not escape into nearby countryside for a truly memorable day out? Castell Coch is a stunning castle a half-hour drive (or hour on public transport) out of the city. If your little ones are bit young to appreciate the wonders of the Red Castle – essentially an elaborate Victorian folly, a nineteenth century fantasy of what a mediaeval castle looked like – then don’t worry: the magnificent ancient beech trees of the surrounding Fforest Fawr are perfect for a family yomp, especially at this time of year with the dazzling autumn foliage

Stay at: Hilton Cardiff. If you’re bringing your four-legged friend with you as well as the kids, then good news: this hotel welcomes dogs! It also has a fab on-site restaurant, Graze.

Surely the only UK river journey to have a transatlantic top ten hit written about it, the ferry across the Mersey has been running for the best part of the millennium, having received its Royal Charter way back in 1330. Today the 50-minute River Explorer Cruise is sightseer heaven, a witty, factoid-heavy 50-minute trip past the iconic waterfronts of Liverpool and Wirral. Elsewhere and the city is particularly well-suited to older children, who’ll enjoy a visit to the Tate or any of the city’s sundry Beatles-themed attractions. 

Stay at: Hilton Liverpool City Centre. Stay in the heart of the action at this elegant spot with dockside views. 

Taking in a play or musical in the West End is a classic weekend trip, and there’s something for all ages in London’s glittering Theatreland. Plus, if you show up even the day before or the day of a showing, there'll often be free seats and great deals to be snapped up. Obviously there are the shows that have been there forever and show no sign of moving: younger kids will lap up ‘Frozen’, ‘The Lion King’ and ‘Matilda’, bigger ones will enjoy ‘Wicked’, ‘Hamilton’ or ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’. But don’t forget London is the most vibrant theatre city in the world and there’s lots of great work on for limited runs – this autumn catch the National Theatre’s hugely anticipated musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s ‘The Witches’ or for fantasy-loving teens the return of smash Neil Gaiman adaptation ‘The Ocean at the End of the Lane’ is a must.

Stay at: DoubleTree by Hilton London - Tower of London. You’re surrounded by loads of fun activities here, just minutes from the Tower of London but also lots of great family-friendly pubs and of course, the River Thames. 

For a gentle, scenic weekend, try the ancient university town of Cambridge, where the numero uno activity is punting: that is to say a self-propelled barge journey along the River Cam, where you can use a big stick to push yourself of tour the backs of some of the most stunning colleges in the world. It’s perfect for kids of all ages, whether or not they’re physically big enough to take a punt themselves. As a bonus, school age children will no doubt find something that grabs their attention in one of the town’s many, many museums; everyone will enjoy seeing the autumn colours in the Botanic Garden.

Stay at: Hilton Cambridge City Centre. You’re walking distance to all the classic sights here, including King’s College Chapel, the Fitzwilliam Museum and of course, punting tours.