Where to go in April

Barbados

For sea, sand, and almost guaranteed sun, Barbados is a little slice of family-friendly paradise.

Weather

Temperature: min. 24°C, max. 29°C
Height of the dry season, warm and sunny with 27°C sea temperatures.

Season

Peak season.
Between June and August is hurricane season.

Good for

Kids of all ages, families looking for a luxurious beach escape.

What’s there

White sandy beaches trimmed with greenery, Caribbean cuisine and culture, watersports.

What’s on

Since it’s the tourism season, there are a variety of music, food and sports events taking place around the island.

Flight time from UK: 8h 40m

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

If you’re looking for a balance of sporting opportunities, crystal-clear waters and all-inclusive luxury, consider Punta Cana this April.

Weather

Temperature: min. 22°C, max 31°C
Average rainfall of 85mm, but showers are usually short-lived

Season

Peak seasons are July – August, and December – February

Good for

Kids of all ages and active families

What’s there

Sugar-white beaches – including 11 with Blue Flag status, waterparks, lush green landscapes, golf, forest zip-lines, swimming and a wide selection of family-friendly hotels.

What’s on

Easter celebrations will be in full swing, and there may be some restrictions on alcohol in the town. Resorts, however, are usually an exception.

Flight time from UK: 9h 5m direct from London with British Airways

Scotland

Background

Scotland has a host of fun and family friendly events, attractions and destinations making it perfect for a Spring break. Take a family road trip along the NE250 or one of Scotland’s many other exciting driving routes, explore Aberdeenshire, known as Scotland’s Castle Country, or visit the captivating Big Houses in the Scottish Borders. There’s endless options for a family break in Scotland.

Weather

Temperature: min. 7°C, max. 13°C
Sea temperatures reach 6°C

Season

Spring – a wonderful time of year to visit where you can witness the changing landscapes and experience the beauty of Scottish springtime.

Good for

Parents and children of all ages. There is a plethora of attractions for all to enjoy making it the perfect destination to create unforgettable family memories.

What’s there

Fun-filled family friendly destinations, events, attractions and outdoor activities.

What’s on

Edinburgh Science: 6th – 21st April / Edinburgh
Puppet Animation Festival: 13th April / Lochgelly, Fife
Celtic Spring at The Scottish Crannog Centre: 21 & 22nd April / Loch Tay, Perthshire

How to get there

It couldn’t be easier to get to Scotland from the rest of mainland Britain, with a great range of rail, air and road options available. It’s closer than you think!

Train

Journey times from London can be as little as 4½ hours to Edinburgh and 5 hours to Glasgow. They are easily reached from other main English towns and cities too.

Plane

Flying is generally the fastest option especially if you’re travelling beyond the major cities or on to any of the islands.

Car

Driving is another option, whether in your own or hired car. Plus you can take advantage of the many exciting driving routes on offer across Scotland.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, with its small and long waves, is a surfing destination that even beginners can enjoy. Lessons for both kids and adults are available, so everyone can shred the waves.

Weather

Temperature: min. 25°C, max. 32°C
Sea temperatures reach 30°C
Some bursts of rain are to be expected, but these are usually brief and clear to reveal the sunshine.

Season

Last month of the dry season, before the monsoons begin.

Good for

Older kids and teens who are comfortable swimming.

What’s there

Several beaches suitable for first-timers, rentable surfboards and kid-friendly surf camps, all within the reach of ancient Buddhist ruins and rainforest landscapes.

What’s on

Sinhalese New Year mid-month, which features traditional music, food, and special celebratory ceremonies.

Flight time from UK: 10h 45m

Antigua

Thanks to pleasantly warm seas, April is a great time to snorkel and dive around its brilliant coral reefs. Water sports are in abundance on this year-round sunny island.

Weather

Temperature: min. 23°C, max. 28°C
There may be some short showers, but mostly warm and sunny.

Season

Last month of peak season. Off-peak season is May to November.

Good for

All ages, those who want to avoid the intense mid-summer heat.

What’s there

Idyllic sandy beaches, coral reefs hosting colourful sea-life, blooming rainforest, and a wide variety of water sports.

What’s on

Antigua sailing week, Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, kite flying on Easter Monday.

Flight time from UK: 8h 35m

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Thailand has something for everyone; merging big, beautiful beaches with elephants, monkeys and rainforest that will leave you wide-eyed with wonder for your whole trip.

Weather

Temperature: min. 23°C, max. 37°C
April will see very high temperatures, and coupled with the high humidity it can make for a challenging climate. Hydration, breaks from the sun and sunscreen are vital to avoid exhaustion.

Season

April is the tail end of the peak season, with summer setting in from March.
It’s a great time to visit for deals on hotels and flights.

Good for

The perfect half-term break. Older kids and teens will love the sun and exotic landscape.

What’s there

Visit the ‘Sticky’ waterfalls, take a night safari or, get out into the countryside and discover northern Thailand’s Hilltribes for yourself.

What’s on

Elephant’s are one of Chiang Mai’s biggest attractions, so don’t miss the chance to get up close and personal with these beautiful creatures at one of the ethical sanctuaries.

Flight time from UK: 14h 45m

Japan

Explore the irresistible mix of new and ancient in Japan, and immerse yourself in a new culture against the picture-perfect cherry blossomed springtime backdrop. Try varied Japanese cuisine with fresh ingredients and explore the volcanic archipelago – we guarantee you’ve never had a holiday like it.

Weather

Temperature: min. 10°C, max. 17°C
The weather is pleasant in April, with a decreasing chance of rain. It may be a little cloudy in Tokyo, but the capital city still enjoys plenty of sunshine

Season

April is peak tourism month for Japan, but the cherry blossom is worth it!

Good for

Older kids and teenagers will love the bustling chaos of Tokyo and tours can provide a fantastic experience more tailored to kids.

What’s there

Enter the land of glorious Shinto temples, geishas, tea ceremonies, cherry blossom and zen gardens.

What’s on

Cherry Blossom season typically takes place in early April, so you’ll experience it in full against the stunning backdrop of Japan’s geography.

Flight time from UK: 11h 30m

Naxos, Greece

A beautiful and laid back Aegean island, Naxos has everything from sprawling white beaches to a lush and verdant interior. Added to that the delicious food, rich heritage and wide range of activities on offer, and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable holiday for the whole family.

Weather

Temperature: min. 13°C, max. 19°C
There’s a strong wind that blows through the Cyclades, making Naxos a perfect destination for windsurfers and sailors – but do your research beforehand to find a more sheltered beach if you’re wanting to relax on the shores.

Season

Quieter than the peak summer months, spring still has good weather and plenty of activities.

Good for

Energetic kids and teens who are after an active holiday. A great ‘all-in-one’ April half term break for a mix of beach and activities.

What’s there

Take a trip to any of the beaches along the 40km of coastline for sparkling clear water and golden sand. With mile upon mile of hiking tracks, you can hike the cooler climates of famed mountains if you’re needing a break from the heat of the sun on the paradisiacal beach.

What’s on

For the older and more adventurous, why not take a windsurfing or kitesurfing lesson. Explore the island on horseback, or the perimeters by one of the boats that are available for rental in the port. For the younger water lovers, the Aqua Fun park is a great day out.

Flight time from UK: 6 hours including a layover in Athens

Tuscany, Italy

Set amongst the rolling hills of Italy and housing the beautiful cities of Florence and Pisa, Tuscany may seem like a destination more suited to a mature traveller, but there are still many activities on offer for families both adventure- and culture-seeking.

Weather

Temperature: min. 9°C, max. 19°C
Generally nice whether although it often lightly rains.

Season

Beat the crowds whilst enjoying pleasant weather with an April stay.

Good for

Teens will appreciate Tuscany the most, just make sure to intersperse enough activities with the culture to keep boredom at bay.

What’s there

Take day trips to Florence, Siena, Pisa, Lucca and Arezzo or smaller hill towns like San Gimignano to soak up the Italian culture and countryside. Explore on Segways for a fun way to keep kids entertained whilst you enjoy the impressive architecture.

What’s on

Get your adrenaline rush white-water rafting or learn how to make Italian gelato at Castellina in Chianti.
Visit the caves and grottoes that hide underneath the mountains or take a boat out to see the village drowned in a lake.

Flight time from UK: 2 hours

Where to go in April