From sending children back while they’re still contagious, to using medication to mask a fever, these well-intentioned decisions can increase the risk of classmates, teachers, and other school staff becoming ill during one of the busiest times of the year. Here, registered nurse Miranda Belcher, explains the five biggest back-to-school mistakes parents make.

1 Sending children back before they’re no longer contagious

“I completely understand the pressure parents feel to get back into a routine, but sending a child back just one day too early can result in several more children becoming ill. Waiting until they’re genuinely ready often prevents much bigger disruptions later.”

2 Masking a fever with medication

“Fever-reducing medication should be used to help your child feel comfortable, not to help them get through a school day. If medication is the only reason they’re able to attend school, they probably need another day at home.”

3 Not informing the school

“Keeping the school informed about contagious illnesses allows staff to track outbreaks, monitor patterns and inform families if multiple children become ill. That communication plays an important role in preventing larger outbreaks.”

4 Forgetting medications and emergency information

“The beginning of the school year is a great time to double-check that inhalers, EpiPens, daily medications and emergency contacts are all up to date. It only takes a few minutes but makes a huge difference if your child becomes unwell at school.”

5 Expecting antibiotics for every cough

“Many of the illnesses children pick up after returning to school are caused by viruses, and antibiotics do not work against viral infections. Taking antibiotics when they aren’t needed won’t help your child’s recovery – and contributes to antibiotic resistance.”

Why illnesses spread so quickly when school starts

“The first few weeks of the school year are always incredibly busy because children are coming back together after spending the summer apart, bringing viruses from different households into one place. Classrooms, canteens, and school buses allow germs to spread quickly, particularly among younger children. Parents naturally don’t want their child to miss school, but sending them back before they’re fully recovered can lead to more children becoming ill, creating disruption for families and schools.”

The illnesses children should stay home with

Some illnesses are far more likely to spread through schools than others, making it important for children to stay home until they’re no longer contagious.

Vomiting and diarrhoea: stomach bugs spread rapidly through classrooms and shared bathrooms, with viruses able to linger on surfaces.

Fever: a fever is often a sign of the body fighting an infection, even if medication temporarily brings the temperature down. 

Strep throat: children should stay at home until they’ve been taking antibiotics for at least 24 hours.

Hand, foot and mouth disease: particularly common among younger children, this illness spreads easily through close contact and shared surfaces.

When children can still attend school

While some illnesses require children to stay home, while others can usually be managed without missing school, including: 

A mild cold without a fever
Seasonal allergies
A lingering post-viral cough
Non-contagious skin rashes 

“Parents sometimes keep children home because they don’t want to take any chances, but not every sniffle or skin condition is contagious. Knowing the difference helps reduce unnecessary absences while still protecting other students from genuine infectious illnesses.” www.nursa.com

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If you’re a dog owner you’ll no doubt be keen to plan some outdoor adventures with your fur baby. Searches for “dog-friendly beaches near me” are increasing, as we look for the perfect coastal spots to enjoy. After analysing Google ratings and reviews for 148 beaches with no dog restriction, we reveal some of the top dog-friendly beaches across the UK.

Durdle Door, Dorset

Taking the top spot is Durdle Door, scoring 8.85 out of 10. Famous for its striking limestone arch and sweeping coastal views, it provides a stunning setting for a scenic dog walk or a classic game of fetch along the shoreline, perfect for making the most of the warmer weather.

Man O’War Beach and Three Cliffs Bay

These share second place, both earning 8.30 out of 10. Man O’War Beach’s calm, sheltered waters make it ideal for a gentle paddle with your dog, while Three Cliffs Bay offers vast sands and rolling dunes, giving more energetic pups plenty of space to run and explore.

Marloes Sands and Cuckmere Haven Beach

Scoring 8.20, this breathtaking stretch of golden sand is framed by dramatic cliffs, perfect for long, peaceful walks with your pet. Completing the top five is Cuckmere Haven Beach, scoring 8.06 out of 10. Here, visitors can enjoy tranquil surroundings alongside views of the iconic Seven Sisters cliffs.

What about the most dog-friendly counties?

Devon

It’s no surprise that Devon, the county also known as ‘Mother Nature’s playground’, is home to the most highly-rated dog-friendly beaches. A whopping 22 beaches out of 148 made the rankings.

Pembrokeshire

In a close second, with a total of 20 beaches, is the county of Pembrokeshire. Bordered by the sea on three sides, it’s no wonder it has a plethora of beaches to offer.

Cornwall

Cornwall places third with a total of 14 highly rated dog-friendly beaches. Home to harbour villages and towering cliffs, you and your pet will never have a dull moment there.

Now grab your beloved pet and off you go. www.showerstoyou.co.uk

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Nursem Hand Care Heroes Set, £29.99

This limited-edition gift set – from the brand featured on Dragons’ Den – contains a Caring Hand Cream, Caring Hand Wash, and Caring Skin Fix, all designed to soothe, condition and protect hands throughout the day and night. Plus, for every product sold, Nursem donate a months’ worth of hand cream to a nurse or midwife.

Rhythm 108 Assorted Chocolate Bars, £11.90

Each of the eight bars inside this selection contains a praline centre and are coated in Swiss chocolate. Made with 41% less sugar than regular chocolate, they’re also vegan-friendly, and gluten-free. Each pack includes two Hazelnut Praline bars, two Almond & Sea Salt bars, two Creamy Coconut bars and two Chocolate Orange bars.

100 Banned Books They Don’t Want You To Read, £17.06

They tried to ban these books – but their teacher’s about to read them anyway. Every entry includes when the book was published, why it was banned or restricted, a plot summary, an author biography, and a dedicated book review page so they can record their own thoughts.

Melitta Optima Timer Filter Coffee Machine, £59.99

Why not club together with a few other school mums by gifting them this machine? All their teacher needs to do is set the required time, fill the water tank, and insert the coffee filter. The machine will then switch on at the programmed time for a jug of freshly-brewed filter coffee ready when needed.

Xigxag Audiobooks, from £8.99

This independent UK audiobook app – that does physical gift cards that they can unwrap – are easy to slip into a gift bag or bundle. The recipient downloads the app and chooses whatever they want to listen to. With no subscription, and no commitment; just a book to enjoy over the summer break.

Laughing Sisters Women Who Changed The World Mug, £12.50

Microwave and dishwasher-safe, this mug is a tribute to the spirit of women who have left an indelible mark on history. It’s a celebration of empowerment, resilience, and the extraordinary contributions of women who have shaped the course of our world.

The Locked Wine Puzzle, £15.60

This is sure to put a smile on their face! A challenge to release the bottle and quench their thirst, there’s hours of puzzling fun guaranteed… and a treat once solved, of course. It just depends how much they need to quench their thirst after looking after your offspring for the year!

Lyme Bay Gooseberry & Elderflower Wine, £12.79

Why not team the above puzzle with a bottle of this Devon-produced wine? With an 11% ABV, this stylish bottle is refreshing – perfect for the summer – and features an aromatic zest of elderflower that meets the crisp flavour of gooseberry.

Reflex Active Sea Venture Swim Smart Watch, £59.95

Teacher they know loves swimming? This ultra-high-definition smart watch boasts 50m water resistance; guaranteed for pool and sea. It also includes built-in GPS, and tracks exercise routines by satellite navigation, ensuring data and route are recorded for accurate training.

World Football Food 2026, £19.99

This brings together 288 recipes from all 48 competing nations, turning every match into a global feast. From spicy Latin American snacks and hearty European classics, all are designed to be quick and easy to cook, using ingredients you can find without hassle – and long after the final whistle.

Thermos Icon Series Mug, £28

This insulated mug keeps drinks hot whether at home or at school. With its secure screw-top lid with a sliding opening, it’s leak-proof, easy to transport, and keeps hot drinks at temperature for four hours, and seven for cold. Available in five colours.

Interflora Sweet Nostalgia Gift Bag, £32

Take them on a trip down memory lane with some classic sweet favourites! This gift bag is bursting with nostalgic treats such including Chomps, Curly Wurlys, Freddos, Milky Ways, Flumps, Black Jacks, Fruit Salads, Refreshers, Sherbert Fountain, Love Hearts, Smarties, Rainbow Drops, and more.

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Compiled by Claire Muffett-Reece and Lisa Burn

FOOD & DRINK

Le Faîte Rouge, £24.99
An iconic red wine from South-West France, expect layers of blackcurrant, blackberry and liquorice, with subtle toasted notes from barrel ageing. Perfect alongside a Father’s Day spread, paired with duck breast, cured meats or a classic steak tartare.

Char-Broil Patio Bistro E2Coal Electric/Charcoal Hybrid Barbecue, £349
Ready to cook those steaks? Use this, so you can go for that traditional smoky taste, or opt for less hassle and plug in. On electric, it heats up to a high of 370°C, so you’ll still get the grill lines and seared taste, while Char-Broil’s Tru-Infrared technology ensures a flavourful finish with moisture locked into the food.

Vocation Exploration Case, £50
This pack features a curated 12-can mixed case featuring everything from bold IPAs and juicy pales to rich stouts and more. From fan favourites like Life & Death and Hop, Skip & Juice to decadent brews including Naughty & Nice Chocolate and Death By Cherries, this collection is made for craft beer lovers who want to explore the full spectrum of flavour.

Lyme Bay Winery Traditional Mead, £13.49
Mead is the world’s oldest alcoholic drink, dating back thousands of years! This traditional version is a good starting point for anybody new to the drink. It’s crafted with fruits, spices and botanicals, as well as honey, to create a sweet, rich flavour that’s just perfect paired with roast meats or cheese.

Black Bee Honey The Large Honey Jar Gift Box, £32.95
Enjoy four wildly different but exceptional tasting ‘hive to jar’ seasonal honeys; from award-wining Spring, foraged from rapeseed, hawthorn and plum blossom; to Winter – sourced from Hampshire where the bees mainly forage on ivy during the cold months.

Clubhouse Roastery Fairway Fuel Coffee Beans, £10.99
Crafted for those who start their mornings on the green, Fairway Fuel is a big, bold espresso made from speciality Arabica beans. Expect smooth caramel sweetness, dark chocolate depth, and a full body that keeps you going through every round.

Vonhaus Vonshef Teppanyaki Grill, from £39.99
Another one for foodies, this is available in three sizes and promises feasting Japanese-style, as guests sit around the grill and help out with the cooking. It has five heat settings, is easy to clean, and features a removable oil drip tray. You can even use it outdoors – perfect for balmy summer evenings.

Driftwood Designs Beaufort Scale Mug, £16
With a stunning infographic of the Beauford scale, which classifies wind speeds on a 12-point scale, the images go from a serene paddle boarder on a calm day, through a jaunty sailing boat on a slightly wavy sea, a fishing boat negotiating bigger waves, right up to a sea devoid of life and filled with enormous waves in a hurricane.

Bloom & Wild The Italian Deli Box, £42
This bag of foodie treats is sure to whet his appetite. What’s inside? A jar of truffle salted roasted nuts, a bag of TartufLanghe pesto crisps, a jar of Viani pesto, a jar of Nocellara del Belice olives, and a bottle of basil olive oil. Good stuff indeed.

HOBBIES & TECHNOLOGY

Brumate Muv 250z Leakproof Insulated Mug, £34.95
This hefty mug is perfect for refreshing chilled water in hot weather, or for a morning coffee on the daily commute. It’s leakproof with an easy-to-use lockable spout, secure twist and lift-off lid, and fits into a standard car cup holder. Drinks stay hot for over six hours and cold for more than 24.

Casetify “Remove All Electronics Before Boarding” Laptop Case, from £43
This is sure to get the Dad who has to travel for work amused! Suitable for 13 inch (£43) or 16 inch (£47) devices, aside from its unique design it of course protects from bumps and scratches – a must regardless of whether it’s his own laptop or one from work. 

Luna Smart Ring Gen 2, £299
This measures activity, heart rate, stress levels, calorie, sleep and more, even working out what sort of activity fits best with the way he’s feeling each day, whether gentle movement or being rested enough for a full workout. And he can input his steps and how much he drinks to keep an eye on his hydration.

Gooloo F3 Electric Air Duster, £29.99
Just the thing for car-proud dads – no more dust in the air vents or struggling to get that last little lint piece with the vacuum. It has three speeds, delivering four hours run time on low, 30 minutes on medium, and 19 minutes on high. It comes with four interchangeable nozzles, and because it’s rechargeable it’s also a sustainable choice.

Daewoo Charging Station, £29.99
This is compatible with Apple, Samsung and Google devices, and can charge several items at once, from his phone to his earphones, and smart watch. Keep it next to the bed as it has an integrated night light, as well as a clock and alarm to get him up in the mornings. And because it’s a multi-use charging station, there’s no need for multiple chargers and messy cables everywhere. 

Oxo Rapid Brewer, £45
It takes just two minutes to conjure up a hot coffee, and five minutes for a rich cold brew, with all the flavour of a barista-prepared drink. Simply pop ground coffee in the basket, tamp down, add hot or cold water and leave – depending on the desired strength – before pressing down gently on the pump.

Rise Mix Bluetooth Speaker, Charger & Alarm, £42
This bedside companion offers wireless charging and high-quality Bluetooth audio. He’ll stay on track with its clear LED display, easily switching between 12- and 24-hour formats. Choose from three distinct alarm modes, adjust the screen brightness to match a preferred ambiance, and an optional date and room temperature display provides helpful details at a glance.

Sandisk Creator Phone SSD, from £201.99
This storage drive is available in 1TB and 2TB versions, so will stop him overloading his phone with content. Simply attach to the back and film in high-quality 4k at 60fps for professional results and editing on the go. Alternatively, it can be popped on a laptop to edit at home. It’s compatible with iOS, Android, Mac, and Windows, and features a silicone shell to protect it from drops up to three metres.

FASHION & GROOMING

Arran Sense of Scotland Bath & Shower Gel Duo, £34 
These fragrances have been inspired by Arran’s rugged landscape and beauty. They’re named after Lochranza at the north (vetiver, lemon and anise) and Sannox towards the east (leather, amber, oud, saffron and pink pepper), and both have been crafted with local mineral-rich water.

 PO.P Adult Striped Pyjamas, £45

Deck out Dad this Father’s Day in PO.P’s super-soft, classic stripe pyjamas! Made from 100% organic cotton, the PO.P stripes range is perfect for lounging. With coordinating children’s pyjamas in a range of colours, these are sure to be a firm family favourite.

Dad & Dolly Wise Guy T-Shirt, £55
A cool t-shirt with a cool slogan and a charity donation to boot? Sounds good to us. Made in Leicester, the tee’s 100% organic, with a 250 gsm cotton relaxed fit. Plus, for every one sold, they donate £2 to Alzheimer’s Research UK — to help find a cure and protect future generations from this disease.

Prices are subject to change. Please drink responsibly.

The post Daddy cool: what to get him for Father’s Day appeared first on Checklists.

Den and tent building

Children are naturally inclined to be active, so try to tempt them away from the screen with some challenging building projects. Test your coordination skills by gathering sticks and branches, and work together to build a stable and waterproof den. If you’re not going on a summer holiday, then set up a tent and camp in your back garden over the long weekend. With many people opting out of foreign travel due to the current climate, you can enjoy listening to the owls hooting, spot foxes and badgers, as well as gaze at the stars from the comfort of your back garden.

Wash the car

A great way to make the most of the sunshine (again, we hope!) is to have a sponge fight and wash the car at the same time. For a bit of excitement add water bombs and water pistols. You’ll be getting a job done as well as having fun with the kids and burning calories. When you all work your arms for the wash and polish, do squats to clean the bottom of the car and stretch to wash the roof.

Playing games

Playing games such as volleyball (you could use a balloon), ping pong, hopscotch and tag will get you off your seat, but if you try and add challenges to the mix, this makes things more fun. Try to learn a new skill or improve existing ones like skipping, roller skating, juggling, skateboarding, hula hooping or ball skills. How about target practice using a ball or nerf gun? Or to give your body a good stretch, play twister. You can make your own game by marking circles on the ground using coloured chalk.

Dancing

Why not have a disco?  It’s not important if you can tap, Zumba, salsa, ballroom or belly dance. You don’t need to be a good dancer. The only thing that matters is that you’re moving. Start with a five-minute dance session then gradually increase it by five minutes every few days. You could even play musical statues. Just 20 minutes of dancing will raise the heart rate and give your family a good cardio workout.  It’s also a fantastic stress buster.

Walking

A walk in the park is a great way of spending quality time together and getting active. To avoid getting bored, stop and safely climb trees or swing on a branch. Try and vary your route to ensure that you have a mix of up and downhill walks.  Always keep a bottle of water handy and try to breathe deeply to use the full capacity of your lungs. If you’re interested in an imaginative way to explore towns, cities and villages in the UK, then try a Treasure Trails self-guided themed tour which has walking routes that start from a two-hour trail, although you can do it at your own pace.

Life-skills

Summer can feel like an extra long length of unstructured time. Use the last couple of weeks to teach your children some useful life skills from cooking to gardening. Housework isn’t the most enjoyable of activities, but it needs to get done and is much more manageable if you do it as a family and to some music. Finally having a clear out will not only leave you with more room in the house but will also feel therapeutic.

The post Your May Bank Holiday survival guide (on a budget) appeared first on Checklists.

To celebrate their functionality, here are some amazing air fryer recipes that are sure to bring smiles to your dining table. Keep in mind that all air fryers are different, so some recipes may need to be slightly altered to work properly.

Air fryer mini banana pancake dippers

Pancakes are almost always a crowd pleaser for the whole family. While they probably aren’t the healthiest breakfast option, they are a nice treat every once in a while. What’s great about pancakes is that you can top them with anything you want.

This banana pancake recipe opts for a ‘stuffed pancake dipper’, which can be dipped in melted chocolate, Nutella or maple syrup. To make the recipe easier, you can use a pre-made pancake mix instead of making batter from scratch. Just make sure to mix yours to a thicker consistency than normal pancake batter.

Air fryer personal pizzas

If you’re in a pinch and need a definite crowd pleaser, you can’t go wrong with pizza. What’s great about this recipe is that it makes perfect, personal-sized pizzas. That means that every member of your family can top their pizza to their own liking.

While assembling your pizza in the air fryer can be a bit tricky, the reward of crispy dough and oozing cheese is incomparable to oven-baked pizza, which can be finnicky, unless you have a dedicated pizza oven. Just make sure to cook the dough on its own in the air fryer first, and you’ll be amazed by the final result.

Air fryer pork belly bites

Pork belly is one of the most delicious pieces of meat you can get your hands on. It’s made from the same part of the pig as bacon, but it’s thicker. It’s best served as crispy as you can get it, so air fryers are naturally one of the best ways to cook it. Also, because pork belly has so much natural fat, you arguably don’t have to use any oil.

While this pork belly bite recipe includes oil, I’ve seen other recipes that omit oil. With the calorie savings from less oil, you can afford to make yourself a sauce for the bites once they’re done. There are many sauces that would complement pork belly, but a few of the best options would be chipotle sauce, ponzu sauce and honey garlic sauce.

Air fryer tahini black bean fritters

Swinging the pendulum back over to the healthy side, why not try some vegan fritters that are packed with protein and veggie goodness? Not only are they healthy, they’re also delicious, with flavours like miso, garlic, tahini and white wine vinegar.

What’s great about these tahini black bean fritters is that they can be served in a bun like a burger, in a pita, or on their own with sauce drizzled overtop. Have these for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and enjoy the healthy invigoration.

Air fryer steak and chips

Getting your steak cooked just the way you like it every time can be a bit tricky, especially for less confident cooks. Air fryers can help you take the guesswork out of cooking steak. This recipe can help you with a good starting point, and with the rest of the steps along the way. Once you figure out which temperature and time works best for your air fryer, you can simply use the same setting every time.

If you have a dual-tray air fryer, you can also fry some chips to go with your steak. This recipe can take around 35 minutes. Start before you cook your steak, perhaps while your steak is warming up to room temperature. Just remember to check and shake the chips regularly to ensure that all of them get nice and crispy.

Air fryer potato kievs

While many people have tried chicken kievs before, don’t underestimate potato kievs. They pack delicate, buttery, and cheesy goodness into every bite, and your family will love you for it. However, because they’re packed with butter and cheese, you probably shouldn’t have them every night – though you will want to.

While this recipe calls for garlic butter as the stuffing, there are endless combinations you could try. One enticing option is stuffing your kiev with basil pesto.

Air fryer salmon

Salmon is packed with, protein, vitamins and minerals, as well as omega-3 fatty acids. Fatty fish, like salmon, are part of a balanced diet. But many people prefer the taste of chicken or red meat to salmon, so sadly most people don’t get enough of the nutrients that salmon provides.

However, this maple soy salmon recipe is here to change your mind about salmon. Get ready for a taste-bud adventure, and enjoy it in under 10 minutes of cooking time. With just four ingredients, it’s hard to imagine a meal that’s easier and healthier. You can also use any excess maple soy glaze as a sauce to cook your side vegetables in.

Air fryer beef and broccoli

Who said Chinese takeaway needs to come from a Chinese restaurant? With this recipe, you can emulate the perfect beef and broccoli in the comfort of your own home. The sauce is really the star of the show. Make sure you get all of the ingredients and follow the instructions carefully.

This recipe uses an air fryer, a pot (or instant pot), and a pan, so there is a bit of washing up to do afterwards. But don’t let the ingredient list or washing up stop you – this meal will be a hit with your family.

Air fryer doughnuts

After eating all of those amazing air fryer meals, you might be craving some dessert. But instead of reaching for store-bought sweets, you could try out this air fryer doughnut recipe!

What’s great about homemade doughnuts is that you know exactly what is in them. This means you can adjust the sweetness level to your liking. You can top your doughnuts with whatever you like, but this recipe uses a vanilla glaze – a certified classic.

The possibilities with air fryers are endless, and with these recipes, you can treat your friends and family to a number of flavourful feasts.

The post Best air fryer recipes you need to try today appeared first on Checklists.

Hay fever season is a blight for many, with one in four struck down with it every year. But hay fever can also target our beloved pets – but not in the way you might expect.

Working with pet insurance brand Petgevity, Dr Emma Chandley, a vet with over 13 years of experience, reveals the symptoms. “A dog’s hay fever is usually due to an allergic response to environmental triggers like pollen. Unlike people, they don’t tend to show csneezing and watery eyes as their main signs. Instead, symptoms are often skin-related, and can be subtle at first. Because the changes can be gradual and seasonal, it’s easy to miss patterns until the signs become more persistent.”

What are the symptoms?

Look out for increased licking of paws, mild redness between paws, rubbing their face along furniture, and recurrent ear irritation. “Complete prevention is rarely possible because pollen exposure can’t be eliminated entirely. Management usually involves reducing allergen contact and controlling the immune response. Practical steps include wiping paws and underbellies after walks, rinsing off visible pollen during peak seasons, and washing bedding frequently. Avoiding freshly-cut grass and walks during very high pollen counts may also help.”

“You should also focus on reducing the itchiness and protecting the skin barrier to keep your dog comfortable during a flare up. Regular bathing with a veterinary-recommended shampoo can help remove allergens from the coat and calm skin. Omega-3 supplementation may also help over time. For dogs prone to ear flare-ups, regular checks and early treatment at the first sign of redness can prevent more painful infections from developing.”

What medicine works?

“Antihistamines can be used in dogs, but their effectiveness is variable and generally mild,” continues Emma. “It’s not advised to use over-the-counter products without veterinary guidance, as dosing differs from humans and combination products can be unsafe. For dogs with moderate to severe symptoms, prescription medication may be required. In some cases, allergen-specific immunotherapy is considered, particularly when symptoms are long-standing.”

Then there’s the surprising long-term after-effects that can arise. “Ongoing allergic inflammation can lead to secondary complications, while repeated scratching and chewing damages skin and increases the risk of bacterial and yeast infections. These infections can then become recurrent and more difficult to control over time. Chronic ear inflammation may also lead to thickening of the ear canals and long-term structural changes, if not treated appropriately. And bear in mind that persistent discomfort also affects a dog’s behaviour and overall quality of life, with them possibly becoming restless or withdrawn.”

What else should be considered?

Think of the impact hay fever has on dogs with pre-existing conditions. “Those with chronic ear disease can suffer more because allergic inflammation often targets the ears. Usually, it is underlying immune sensitivity and skin health that influences how strongly a dog reacts. But don’t automatically think a dog’s change in behaviour or new ailment they develop is hay fever, as it could be a parasitic or infectious causes, which need to be ruled out by a vet.” 

So the next time you complain of itchy eyes or a runny, just remember your dog could be suffering, too.

The post Hay fever in dogs: spot the signs appeared first on Checklists.

May half-term is not far off and it’s a great week for getting away from the pressures of work and school. And, unlike Easter, when you can’t count on the weather, the end of May is a bet for warmth and sunshine. As it’s the perfect time for a trip so to get you in the mood, we’ve rounded up a few UK family attractions and suggestions of where to stay.

Northumberland

They know a thing or two about castles in Northumberland, and the castle at Bamburgh is out of this world. Explore the battlements and wander through the King’s Hall. Next, marvel at the craftsmanship that went into creating a building as beautiful and imposing as this.

Afterwards, head down to the beach and paddle in the rock pools. You may even be lucky enough to see dolphins cavorting along the coast.

Nearby places to visit include Holy Island, Seahouses (great for fish and chips) and the Farne Islands, where seals and puffins bask in the sun.

Where to stay: Kipper Cottage in Seahouses, a short walk from the harbour and less than a 10 minute drive from Bamburgh. Seven nights from 23 May for two adults and two children costs £999. You can even take your dog!

Staffordshire

If you’re after an action-packed break then head to Tamworth and Drayton Manor. The theme park is one of the biggest in the UK and caters for all ages of children. Or head to Drayton Manor Zoo to meet the animals and learn about conservation. Tickets cost from £27.50 for ages 4+.

Other places to visit include Tamworth Castle and Statfold Country Park. Or visit the SnowDome and try your hand at skiing or sliding in the snow.

Where to stay: For the ultimate experience stay at the resort hotel and choose from a range of themed and family rooms. Prices start from £178.20 per night over May half term for a family of four.

Newcastle

This is a city where ancient and modern exist side by side, from the Norman Keep to vibrant restaurants along the quayside. Shopping is world-class and there’s loads to keep the kids entertained.

Take a trip to Seven Stories – the national centre for children’s books – at Ouseburn, where kids can listen to tall tales and explore exhibitions of favourite characters, like Mog the Cat and The Tiger Who Came to Tea. Or head to the Life Science Centre and marvel at lifesize animatronic dinosaurs.

Don’t miss the Gateshead Millennium Bridge – the world’s first tilting bridge – over the River Tyne. And make sure to visit iconic art work The Angel of The North.

Where to stay: Maldron Hotel Newcastle, 319.40 for three nights from 25 May for two adults and two children.

Cornwall

St Ives is that perfect combination of relaxation and fun, with gorgeous sandy beaches, such as Porthmeor and Porthminster,. There’ also a bustling town to explore.

Walk along the South West Coast Path to Carbis Bay. Or save your legs and take a train along the coast on the St Ives Railway. Visit an exhibition at Tate St Ives or discover the work of celebrated sculptor Barbara Hepworth at her former home.

Enjoy a picnic on the sands, learn to surf or simply paddle in the sea. Use the town as a base to explore – the Eden Project is an hour’s drive away and St Michael’s Mount 20 minutes by car.

Where to stay: A comfort chalet to sleep two adults and two children at Away Resorts St Ives Bay costs £747 for seven days from Saturday 23 May.

Devon

For an active holiday with lots of sunshine, East Devon is a great choice. The towns of Sidmouth and Budleigh Salterton are both on the Jurassic Coast, a Unesco World Heritage Site. Look for fossils as you walk along the South West Coast Path or along the sandy, pebbly beaches. And don’t forget the rock pools.

The Donkey Sanctuary is a must for anyone who loves these gentle creatures. Over at Exmouth, award-winning attraction the World of Country Life  offers exhibitions, play areas and family activities.

Where to stay: Ladram Bay Holiday Park, with direct access to Ladram Bay beach. Four nights glamping in the Otterpod from Monday 25 May for two adults and two children is £780.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a county of contrasts, with sandy beaches and seaside, lakes and rivers, lush countryside and historic houses. Enjoy a day on the sands at Caister or Holkham, visit the seaside resorts of Cromer and Great Yarmouth, or discover the magic of Bewilderwood, an outdoor adventure park filled with tree houses, magical stories and characters to keep kids enthralled.

Head to the Broads National Park and hire a boat for the day to explore the waterways. Or let somebody else do the navigating and relax on a boat tour while you soak up the scenery.

Where to stay: The Old Bakehouse, Overstrand, just a five minute walk from the nearest beach. Seven nights from Saturday 23 May for two adults and two children costs £1,095.

Scotland

Around an hour’s ferry ride from the Scottish mainland, Arran is an exquisite blend of history, wildlife, rugged crags and beaches. Goat Fell is the highest peak on the island and popular with climbers, but for those wanting a more leisurely stroll there are many scenic walking trails, as well as the Arran Coastal Way to enjoy.

Paddle in the sea (warmed by the Gulf Stream), visit Brodick Castle, or take a trip back in time at the Heritage Museum. Foodies should make a point of trying the local cheese and visiting Lochranza Distillery, one of two whisky distilleries on the island.

Where to stay: Carraig Dhubh Cottage at Whiting Bay, next to the beach and under 10 miles from Brodick, is a great place from which to explore. Two nights from 27 May for two adults and two children costs £654.

London

After big family attractions, theatre, sightseeing and shopping? London has so much to offer. Start by visiting Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey. Take a boat trip on the Thames, see the Capital on the London Eye and chill in Hyde Park. The Science Museum and the Natural History Museum will keep everyone happy, while Tate Modern and The National Gallery are must-sees.

Take in a West End show, watch the street performers in Covent Garden, get up close with celebs at Madame Tussauds or meet everybody’s favourite marmalade-eating character at the Paddington Bear Experience (photo above).

Where to stay: The Park Plaza County Hall, just a short walk from Westminster Bridge. A studio double room to sleep two adults and two children starts from £195 per night during May half term.

Northern Ireland

This year is the 40th anniversary of Giant’s Causeway being designated a Unesco World Heritage Site, so what better time to visit? The unique natural landscape is formed from thousands of hexagonal stones dating back 60 million years. Not only do you get to see it, but you get to experience it, walking across the basalt columns next to the sea.

Afterwards, head down the Causeway Coastal Route to discover possibly the most famous ship in the world at Titanic Belfast and see the story of the doomed vessel brought to life through interactive exhibitions.

Where to stay: Ballygally Castle Hotel on the Causeway Coastal Route is ideally placed for visiting Giant’s Causeway and Belfast. Rooms start at £200 per night for a family of four over May half-term.

Lake District

Experience the water, the mountains and the lush green countryside of the Lake District National Park from your base at Bowness. Take a boat trip around Windermere – the largest natural lake in England – or try your hand at kayaking, paddleboarding and wild swimming. There’s hikes to suit all ages and abilities, not to mention the highest mountains in England, including Scafell Pike and Skiddaw.

Little ones will love The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, and you can even visit the author’s home and the inspiration for her books. Don’t miss a visit to Grasmere (around 25 minutes drive away) for its world-famous gingerbread and for Dove Cottage and museum, once home to poet William Wordsworth.

Where to stay: Gavel Cottage, a short walk from the centre of Bowness-on-Windermere and from the lake. Seven nights for two adults and two children from 22 May costs £1,024.

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Smart Games Grabbit, £14.99

Kids: don’t forget your veggies! Hungry rabbits are jumping around the vegetable garden, with the different vegetables becoming visible as the rabbits look under leaves. The race is on, will they be the first to collect all four vegetables?

Cuddlebunny Bamboo Soft Hooded Towel, £31.99

The gorgeous bunny design, complete with floppy ears and bunny tail, makes getting out of the bath as much fun as being in – and encourages imaginative play with lots of smiles. The bamboo cotton towelling won’t lose its softness after washing either, and you can even personalise it.

Etta Bunny Kids Chair, £89

The only chair little ones need this season (well we think so!). This super soft, super cute, gorgeously playful and perfectly sized, calming toddler chair blends comfort, character and modern style. It’s the ideal spot for little ones to sit, read and relax. 

Ewan Deluxe Baby Shushing Sleep Sheep, £44.99

The iconic sleep aid, which has helped millions of parents and babies get a peaceful night’s sleep, now features a new and improved removable control pod. This pod recharges fully, includes 10 sleep-inducing sounds, and offers continuous playback.

Infantino Lil Nibbles Carrot Teether, £7.80

This teether is easy to hold, perfect to nibble and textured for soothing tender gums. It’s also made from 100% food-grade silicone that’s BPA-free and safe to chew, bite, and explore.

Bling2o Party Pink – Funfetti Swim Goggles, £19

Adding the fun factor in the pool, these goggles are the must-have accessory for those aged 3+. The 100% silicone designs are latex and lead free, with anti-fog resistant lenses that also provide maximum UV protection.

WOW Toys Freddie’s Farm Truck, £26.99

Place the farmer Play Friend into Freddie Farm Truck’s front cab and Freddie’s powerful Push & Go motor sends him off to collect his cow, sheep, pig and donkey. The farmer can also be placed in the back of the lorry to feed and look after his farmyard friends.

CuddleCo Soft Play Small Arch 3 Piece Set, from £79.99

Get toddlers moving, exploring and having fun with the Small Play Arch 3 Piece Set, suitable for children aged 12 months and over. Designed for early climbers and crawlers, this compact soft play set supports coordination, balance and core strength through hands-on, energetic play.

The Little Green Sheep Teepee Play Tent, £85

Play the natural way with The Little Green Sheep’s range of stunning teepee play tents. Beautifully designed using a 5-pole solid wood structure and 100% cotton canvas, it gives your little one the creative space to make their own – and keeps them occupied for hours.

SmarTrike XTend Ride-On, £109

Designed to grow with your child from 12 months to 12 years, this begins as a parent-controlled ride-on, then becomes a foot-powered ride-on, a three-wheel scooter, and finally extends to fit kids up to 12 years old.

The post Toys, gifts and games for the little ones in your life appeared first on Checklists.

Dogstival

When? 30-31 May
Where? Burley Park, New Forest, Hampshire
What to expect: Beach resort vibes with palm trees, foam parties, paddling pools, DJs and 100-piece Rock Choir. There’s have-a-go activities such as flyball jumps, weaving through the agility arenas or tackling scurries sniffing out treats or toys. There’s also a Barkour adventure playground for dogs of all sizes, three swimming pools, and scent training. Plus the UK’s only dog cookery school. Need more? Grab a delicious ‘puptail’ or head to one of the selection of street food stalls available.
Can you camp? No
What’s the cost? £10 for children and £18 for adults

Woofstock

When? 12-14 June
Where? Powderham Castle, near Exeter
What to expect: This event has been hailed as ‘Glastonbury for dogs and their humans’ – an impressive statement if we say so at least. A gathering of canines and their companions, there will be live music in the evenings, along with action-packed days crammed with dog shows, speakers, agility, flyball and police dog displays. Don’t forget to let them sniff out the ‘Pawcasso’ tent and have a mooch around the tempting artisan market to feel suitably spoilt. 
Can you camp? Yes
What’s the cost? From £17.50

Barklove

When? 5 July
Where? SWG3 venue, Glasgow
What to expect: Following its debut last year, dogs big and small should love their day at Scotland’s most stylish fur-fest. Highlights include dog-friendly DJ sets and live dog art, plus a top-notch agility area. You can also enjoy chill out sessions and a range of workshops aimed to inspire and inform. Explore at canine pace, safe in the knowledge everything has been designed to thrill your favourite friend. And yes, two-legged visitors will be well catered for, too.
Can you camp? No
What’s the cost? £8.50 for children and £13.50 for adults

Dog Lovers Festival

When? 21-23 August
Where? Elvaston Castle, Derby
What to expect: The UK’s biggest dog-friendly tribute festival’s been voted by The Daily Telegraph as one of the top 10 dog events in the UK. There’s a Fun Dog Show running on both days, great for both competitors and spectators. You can also expect a scurry run, lure chasing, steeplechase, hide and seek, doggie dip, and tips from dog specialists. There’s stalls to buy pretty much everything they need, food and drink to enjoy, and some of the best tribute bands performing across the weekend.
Can you camp? Yes
What’s the cost? From £15

All About Dogs Show

When? 12-13 September
Where? Knebworth House, Knebworth Park, Stevenage
What to expect: There’s other locations to head to for the All About Dogs Shows (Suffolk, Berkshire, Essex, and Norfolk), but we’re heading to its Knebworth location – new for 2026. There’s shows and breed meet-ups, as well as fantastic arena displays and even. dog foam party. But that’s not all – added to the line-up are competitions, live music, and even a one-of-a-kind Canine Comedy Cinema. Just don’t forget your pupcorn.
Can you camp? No
What’s the cost? From £10 for children and £15 for adults, with family tickets £37

Dogfest

When? 3-4 October
Where? Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire
What to expect: If you’re not close to Sussex, Cheshire or Yorkshire (where else the show is on) it’s here to head. Explore the grounds with your four-legged friend, then check out the selection of food and stalls. Added to that are Royal-themed dog shows, breed meet-ups, and interactive activities. Why not head to the Palace Lawn for games, and daily quizzes? And don’t forget to visit the Photo Booth for a free commemorative photo. All you’ve got to do is get your pup to strike a pose.
Can you camp? No
What’s the cost? From £10 for children and £24.50 for adults

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