VisitBritain say 32% UK trips include theme park and museums

If you’re already planning family holidays for 2026, theme parks are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and one of the UK’s most popular day-out choices. 

Increasingly, they’re also driving short breaks and weekends away, with families pairing theme park visits with stays at nearby campsites and holiday parks. 

Fresh figures from VisitBritain show that 32% of all UK domestic trips now include attractions such as theme parks and museums. That means millions of families are choosing to build their holidays around big-name attractions, from rollercoasters and water rides to immersive theme parks. This trend is expected to grow, as holidayers look for affordable, action-packed holidays closer to home. 

This is why booking ahead has never been more important. With some of the UK’s best theme parks attracting millions of visitors each year, local accommodation gets snapped up quickly – especially during school holidays. Campsites near major attractions often sell out months in advance, making early planning essential if you want the best locations and facilities. 

To help, we’ve pulled together a list of the top UK theme parks for 2026 alongside recommended campsites and holiday parks nearby. Whether you’re after thrill rides, family entertainment or a classic seaside funfair, these combinations make it easy to plan a short break everyone will love.

Interested in staying close to a theme park? Read our guide to the best theme park campsites.