Arthur Seat Rises as Britain’s Top Family Adventure Destination as Parents Reveal Their Most Desired Global Travel Experiences From Times Square to the Great Barrier Reef

Families across the UK are dreaming big when it comes to travel experiences they want to share with their children. Edinburgh’s Arthur’s Seat, renowned for its sweeping views over Scotland’s capital, has emerged as the top family destination within the UK and holds a prominent spot among parents’ most desired adventures. Many British parents hope to take their kids on this iconic hike, enjoying the perfect mix of nature, history, and breathtaking scenery.

However, when looking at the global picture, British families have cast their sights on a diverse range of remarkable destinations and unforgettable experiences. Leading the list is New York City’s electric Times Square at night, capturing the imagination of countless parents eager to experience the bright lights and bustling energy of this world-famous landmark with their children. It’s a destination where the city’s vibrancy and endless entertainment options promise an unforgettable family trip.

Following closely behind, a rich Italian tradition of savoring authentic margherita pizza in Naples appeals to many parents. The prospect of tasting the birthplace of pizza while wandering through historic streets provides a perfect blend of culinary delight and cultural discovery. Meanwhile, a large number of families yearn for the timeless romance and adventure offered by the legendary Orient Express train journey, a travel experience steeped in history and elegance.

Nature also plays a starring role in family travel dreams. The ethereal Northern Lights, viewed from Reykjavik in Iceland, have enchanted parents who hope to witness the dancing colors of this natural wonder alongside their children. The magic of seeing such a spectacle creates lifelong memories and sparks a love for the planet’s natural beauty.

These findings stem from a detailed survey of British parents commissioned by Boundless, which aimed to uncover the travel experiences families most desire to enjoy together. The answers reveal a wide spectrum of interests, showcasing how modern family vacations blend thrills, education, and cultural enrichment.

For thrill-seekers, Disneyland Paris stands out, with many parents eager to visit the famous theme park known for its enchanting rides and beloved characters. History buffs find allure in exploring the ruins of Pompeii, Italy, where families want to step back in time to understand life in the ancient Roman world.

Adventure and wildlife also feature prominently. Parents want their children to swim alongside vibrant marine life at Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, an underwater paradise filled with colorful corals and exotic fish. Another popular choice is embarking on an African safari in South Africa, where close encounters with majestic wildlife inspire awe and respect for nature’s diversity.

Food remains a powerful draw, with parents planning to introduce their children to Chicago’s iconic deep dish pizza, offering a taste of American culinary culture. For those fascinated by history and landscapes, trekking Hadrian’s Wall in northern England appeals, providing a chance to explore Roman Britain’s ancient frontier. Similarly, many look forward to celebrating Mexico’s vibrant Day of the Dead festival, an event rich with tradition, color, and meaningful rituals that teach children about heritage and family.

The list of family travel ambitions continues to span continents and cultures. Visiting Petra, Jordan—the magnificent “rose-red city” carved into rock—appeals to parents who want to combine adventure with archaeological wonder. Art lovers are drawn to Amsterdam’s Van Gogh Museum, where children can learn about the life and works of one of history’s most famous painters. Surfing enthusiasts plan to take lessons on Cornwall’s beaches in Newquay, a popular destination for families wanting to embrace ocean sports together.

Beyond the destinations themselves, the research sheds light on the deep value parents place on travel as a tool for childhood development. A vast majority agree that exposing children to different cultures and environments broadens their horizons, encouraging empathy and global awareness. Similarly, many believe travel helps children appreciate cultural diversity and traditions outside their own. These experiences don’t just entertain—they educate and enrich young minds.

Building confidence and resilience is another key benefit parents see in travel. Exploring new places together helps children develop independence and self-assurance, skills that will serve them well throughout their lives. It’s no surprise, then, that many parents report traveling more frequently with their children now than they did several years ago, reflecting a growing commitment to family adventures despite modern challenges.

Indeed, the survey reveals that today’s children are experiencing more travel than previous generations. Many parents notice their kids are visiting more places at a young age than they themselves did, an encouraging sign of expanding horizons. On average, families expect to take several vacations in the year ahead, signaling a robust desire to create memories through travel.

However, the path to these experiences isn’t without obstacles. Some families admit they are traveling less due to financial constraints—rising costs of holidays being the main barrier. Other challenges include busy household schedules, difficulties securing time off work, or simply a preference for staying closer to home. Despite these hurdles, a strong majority of parents wish they could travel more with their children, while many are actively ticking off items from a family bucket list, determined to prioritize travel whenever possible.

When it comes to creating cherished family memories, travel holds a special place. More than half of parents believe that the best memories are forged through shared experiences on holiday. For many, their own happiest childhood recollections stem from family vacations, inspiring nearly all to hope their children will carry on the tradition of family travel with their own kids one day.

Cost does not have to be a limiting factor, according to the vast majority. Most parents believe that meaningful family holidays don’t have to be expensive, and an overwhelming number agree that staycations and local holidays can be just as fun and rewarding as international trips.

The Ultimate Family Travel Bucket List According to British Parents

• Soak in the bright lights of Times Square at night, New York City
• Taste authentic margherita pizza in Naples, Italy
• Take a journey aboard the Orient Express
• Witness the Northern Lights from Reykjavik, Iceland
• Climb to the top of the Empire State Building, New York
• Enjoy magical rides at Disneyland Paris
• Explore the ruins of Pompeii, Italy
• Swim in the crystal-clear lagoons of the Maldives
• Visit the ancient Valley of the Kings, Egypt
• Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, Australia
• Go on a wildlife safari in South Africa
• Marvel at Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
• Dig into Chicago’s deep dish pizza
• Go whale watching in Iceland
• Hike to the summit of Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh
• Walk through Rome’s Colosseum
• Trek along Hadrian’s Wall, England
• Celebrate Mexico’s Day of the Dead
• Island hop through Greece
• See the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City
• Take a memorable selfie beneath the Eiffel Tower, Paris
• Explore the Grand Canyon, Arizona
• Drive the legendary Route 66, USA
• Sample Pastel de Nata pastries in Lisbon, Portugal
• Visit Petra, the ancient city in Jordan
• Take a husky sled ride in Lapland
• Visit Amsterdam’s Van Gogh Museum
• See the Parthenon in Athens, Greece
• Admire the Mona Lisa at the Louvre, Paris
• Learn to surf in Newquay, Cornwall
• Pose next to the Leaning Tower of Pisa
• Sample street food in Bangkok, Thailand
• Walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Los Angeles
• Tour the Lord of the Rings filming locations in New Zealand
• Snorkel Egypt’s Red Sea
• Visit the White House, Washington DC
• Take surfing lessons in Hawaii
• Watch the Old Faithful geyser erupt in Yellowstone National Park
• Glide on a gondola through Venice, Italy
• Stand in awe at the Taj Mahal, India