Last-minute Easter days out in the UK

14 Apr 2014

If you still haven't made any plans for Easter, you're not alone. We've trawled the events calendars across the country in search of the best ways to enjoy a wonderful day out this Easter weekend, with no plane tickets needed. From great offerings in the British capital – think Somerset House and a one-off dining and theatre experience in Harvey Nichols – to some of the country's shiniest gems – beach day on Brighton pier, a walk around the Lake District or a trip to Stonehenge... From family fun to romance and relaxation, indoors and outdoors, we've got this weekend covered.

A day out, Brighton

Just a train ride from London, one of Britain's most famous beaches is perfect for a long weekend or even just the day. Stroll through the charming cobbled streets, sunbathe on the pebbly beach, enjoy a beer on the pier or tuck into a bag of fish and chips. Brighton is wonderful even on a cold, windswept day, but extra special on an Easter weekend when the sun is set to be shining.

A cultural day break in the city, Somerset House, London

Keep it in the capital with Somerset House, the 18th century neoclassical palace situated in the heart of London. Step into one of the many current exhibitions offering art and photography for a cultural day break, with a gorgeous picnic setting for afterwards.

An Easter Egg Trail, Cornwall

Immerse yourself and the little ones in history - and chocolate eggs - in the Easter egg trail in the iconic rocky island of St Michael's Mount in Cornwall. The hunt takes place on Good Friday and Easter Sunday with clues leading "eggsplorers" around the village and harbourside. There will also be facepainting, an egg-designing workshop and live music. Egg hunts cost £2 per child; stmichaelsmount.co.uk

Hit the slopes skiing, Hertfordshire

Save on the funds and flights to the Alps and head to the Snow Centre in Hemel Hempstead instead, when the slopes will be turned over to freestyle for all levels, and coaches will be on hand to give hints and tips. Over the rest of the weekend adults can enjoy an après-ski in the themed Lodge Bar while the kids ski their hearts out. A four-hour session costs: adults £39, juniors £32, Freestyle is Good Friday only; thesnowcentre.com

Baileys Feaster Egg Hunt, Knightsbridge, London

Baileys are reclaiming Easter for adults this year with a one-night-only, immersive dining experience held exclusively at Harvey Nichols Knightsbridge. The world-first immersive theatre performance and dinner will unfold across five floors of a live Harvey Nichols department store on Saturday 19 April, when the store is transformed into the graceful elegance and artistry of the 18th century Rococo movement. Harvey Nichols, 109-125 Knightsbridge, London. Tickets cost £25 and include the immersive theatre experience, a six-course feast and a Baileys Chocolat Luxe Easter Egg.

A lakeside walk, The Lake DistrictThe Lake District is jam-packed with amazing adventures for everyone from tots to teenagers. Walk your way around the beautiful lush countryside, take in the magnificent views of mountain scenery, secluded bays and the many wooded islands as you sail by in a Windermere Lake Cruise or ride the 40-mile cycling route around the Lake District - it was voted the best ride in Britain last year.

Alton Towers, StaffordshireWith the help of popular TV personality Denise Van Outen, the launch of CBeebies Land is set to take place in May, bringing some of the most-loved children's characters to the famous theme park resort. Until then, you and the kids will be kept busy with 50 rides and attractions and a tropical waterpark, plus a new live pirate themed interactive dining experience. Adults from £36, children from £30.60; altontowers.com

Visit Stonehenge, WiltshireMake the most of this Easter weekend by visiting one of the wonders of the world, the giant prehistoric stones of Stonehenge that have stood on Salisbury Plain for more than 4000 years. Services to Salisbury run from London Waterloo every 30 minutes Monday to Saturday. Approximate journey time from London Waterloo is around 1 and a half hours; english-heritage.org.uk