Choosing family holidays with elderly parents is a way to unite the generations and create wonderful memories for all to share. However, holidays for elderly parents need a little more thought and care to select a destination that will be both enjoyable and accessible.
Holidays give everyone a fabulous break from the norm, and we love sharing our residents’ excitement when they are looking forward to a break away with family and loved ones.
So, whether it’s a mum and daughter trip, or a whole extended family excursion, we’ve rounded up the most suitable potential destinations in the UK for holidays for elderly parents.
Your holiday planning
Before we dive in with destinations, a few quick words about the things you’ll need to bear in mind when organising a holiday with an elderly loved one.
Always consider your loved one’s unique needs. If they receive professional care – either in a care home or at home – you can speak to their carers about the most important factors to consider.
You will have two main choices: staying in self-catering accommodation or in a hotel. Hotels are usually highly accessible and may have accessible rooms with specialised bathrooms. Alternatively, self-catering accommodation can give more privacy and flexibility, especially for mixed age groups. B&Bs can also be good, but pick carefully around accessibility needs.
Also consider how you will get to your destination. Elderly parents may struggle with long journeys, or may find they cause anxiety. If this is the case, ensure you choose one of our destinations that are closer to home.
Before you go, make sure all prescription medications and aids are in order and that you know how to manage these.
Without further ado, where are the best places for UK holidays for elderly parents?
UK holiday destinations for the elderly
· Devon
One of our home counties, of course we will recommend Devon! Devon has a very high retirement population, and with good reason: this area is fantastic for those who may have accessibility needs but are looking for a beautiful place to unwind. The amenities and services here make travelling with elderly individuals easier.
From beaches and the English Riviera to beautiful rolling countryside, Devon is a county that ticks all the boxes. There’s a huge range of choice for accommodation, and lots to do. Don’t forget to plan your Cream Tea!
Check out the best accessible views in North Devon for some inspiration.
· Somerset
Our twin-home is Somerset and we also highly recommend this as a destination for very similar reasons to Devon. You may prefer Somerset if you want less distance to travel from the South East, or simply because you want to avoid the crowds if you are restricted to travelling in peak periods.
From the genteel sites of Bath to a relaxing drive in the Quantocks, Somerset sets you up for a relaxing and beautiful holiday.
Take a look at our day out suggestions for North Devon and Somerset which are suitable for the whole family from great-grandparents to toddlers!
· Whitby
Whitby has long been a low-key but popular holiday destination for Brits and it will bring back memories of childhood seaside holidays. With stunning seafood, coastal charm, and plenty of people watching to enjoy, Whitby allows everyone to unwind and relax.
· The Cotswolds
Easily accessible to much of the UK, The Cotswolds is nestled into stunning rolling countryside. Hopping from village to village, enjoying independent shops and cafes, as well as eating a picnic or two, makes for a wonderful UK holiday with elderly parents. Avoid the cobbled streets if necessary, but there’s plenty to see and enjoy in The Cotswolds.
· Perthshire
Perthshire is a truly stunning area of Scotland which is accessible to those with more limited mobility. Enjoy some happy hours watching birds at RSPB Loch Leven or partake in a wee dram at Blair Athol Distillery. This base for immersing yourselves in the Highlands may be the perfect balance that the whole family needs.
· Cambridge
Cambridge has long been a favoured holiday destination, and there’s no reason why it can’t be enjoyed now. Of course, the city is entwined with the university, and your elderly parent may enjoy exploring these buildings especially the iconic chapels. In addition, the Botanic Garden makes for a blissful place to relax and enjoy the resplendence of nature around you. There are lots of quirky and interesting museums to keep everyone interested. More active members of the family will love to go on a punt on the River Cam.
· Lake District
We recommend staying mostly to the eastern lakes, where generally there is greater accessibility to be expected, but the Lake District as England’s largest National Park is a stunning place for a family holiday. There are plenty of accessible lake side walks to enjoy, as well as boat trips and enjoyable gastronomic experiences.
· Holidays for Elderly Parents in London
Often we write-off London as a holiday destination, but us Brits are missing a trick as this cosmopolitan city on our own doorstep makes for one of the most accessible holiday destinations in the country. Many of the most infamous London sites, such as The London Eye, are suitable for those with mobility issues which makes life easier for everyone. There’s so much to see and do, and if you need a break, there are some of the world’s best parks to enjoy!
· Llandudno, North Wales and Snowdonia
An enjoyable amble on a pier, or a train ride up a mountain, are just two of the things that await you on holiday in North Wales. The landscape here is stunning and there are plenty of opportunities to stop and slow down, taking it all in.
· Suffolk
Explore Constable Country and a classic trip to the seaside, with a holiday to Suffolk. Enjoyable days out in Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds and Newmarket are waiting too. The Suffolk Coast is glorious and offers up blissful view after blissful view. A trip to see the seals is sure to be a winner with everyone too.
Where will you go? What takes your fancy? Wherever you choose for holidays for elderly parents we are sure that you’ll have an incredible time.
