Scenic and historical towns named among the best 'meet in the middle' staycation spots for families

As loved ones start mapping out their 2026 getaways, holidaycottages.co.uk has put together a guide to the best "meet in the middle" destinations between major cities.

Its recent survey found that countryside walks top the list of favourite activities for half of families, while 42 per cent love nothing more than dining out together. With this in mind, regional experts have selected ideal halfway spots, complete with walking trails and restaurant recommendations, to suit every generation.

Richmond: Newcastle to Leeds

The northern town has lots to keep reconnected families entertained. Regional expert for the Peak District and Yorkshire, Julie Smith, explained: "With historic landmarks and plenty to do, Richmond is a great halfway point between Newcastle and Leeds. The Georgian Theatre Royal is a great choice for seeing a performance together as a family.

"Alternatively, the Catterick Racecourse offers an entertaining day out if you prefer to watch the horses, while the Green Howards Museum offers exhibitions that bring local history to life. Favourites for food include The Bay Horse Ravensworth, Number 29 Tapas Bar, and Royal India, which consistently deliver delicious meals.

"Popular nearby walks include the Richmond and Easby Abbey Circular or the Easby Abbey and Richmond Castle Circular, which combine stunning scenery with a manageable route for children."

Linlithgow: Edinburgh to Glasgow

This historic Scottish town sits perfectly between Scotland's two largest cities. Blackness Castle offers dramatic Firth of Forth views with plenty of space for little ones to explore, while Mary's Meanders delivers engaging walking tours. Adults can pop into Blackness Bay Distillery.

For walks, the Linlithgow Loch Circular and Beescraigs Countryside Park Circular are ideal for wildlife spotting. Delhi's Winter, The Lobster Pot, and Mason Belles Kitchen serve up family-friendly fare.

Hebden Bridge: Leeds to Manchester

Smith shared: "Situated in West Yorkshire, Hebden Bridge is the perfect stop between Manchester and Leeds. Families can visit the scenic Hardcastle Crags, where gentle woodland trails and the picturesque Hebden Water make for a perfect outdoor adventure, with National Trust site Gibson Mill nestled in the very midst of the Crags. The historic village of Heptonstall is also a must-see, with the local church being home to the resting place of Sylvia Plath.

"When it's time to eat, The Old Gate offers classic pub grub, while local brewery Vocation and Co have a large selection of tasty craft beers to choose from. If you're looking for an evening meal, then head to Fratelli's, which offers a range of tasty pasta and pizza dishes."

Ashbourne: Birmingham to Sheffield

This lesser-known Peak District market town makes an excellent meeting point for families travelling between the Midlands and South Yorkshire. Wild Park Derbyshire offers paintballing, quad biking and laser tag, while Carsington Water provides a more relaxed option with trails and picnic spots.

Walking enthusiasts will love routes like Dovedale to Milldale and the Dovedale Stepping Stones Circular, both manageable for young children. The Lighthouse Restaurant, Café Impromptu, and Friends Café are family favourites, while The Cow, The Bowling Green Inn, and The Okeover Arms offer classic pub atmospheres.

Oakham: London to Leeds

The expert said: "Oakham is a great and underrated halfway point between London and Leeds. Families can visit the historic Oakham Castle or take a scenic Rutland Water Cruise for stunning lakeside views. Foodies in the family will love Hitchen's Barn, Sarpech Wine Bar & Restaurant, and 10 Dining Street, while classic pub atmospheres can be found at The Wheatsheaf, The Fox and Hounds, and The Blue Ball at Braunston.

"For outdoor adventures, the Rutland Water Circular, Hambleton and Rutland Water, and Exton Park and Lower Lake Circular offer easy, family-friendly walks with plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities."

Digital PR manager at holidaycottages.co.uk, Sarah Pring, added: "Staycations are a great opportunity for families spread across the UK to catch up and spend some quality time together, which is why 47 per cent say they take at least one multi-generational holiday per year.

"Ahead of 2026, many families will be planning ahead for their trips, so with this in mind, we wanted to suggest some of the best destinations for them to meet halfway between major UK cities. We hope that our suggestions inspire families to explore new pockets of the UK together and experience the joy of family time in a beautiful setting."