Family Holidays for February Half Term 2026

February 10, 2026

February half term 2026 runs from Monday 16th to 20th February. Falling just after Valentine’s weekend, it’s a good opportunity to spend time together before spring arrives, without the pressures that come with peak summer travel.

Whether you are working around school schedules, annual leave, or different age groups, February half term suits families looking for a manageable trip that still feels like a proper break. With fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and good availability across many destinations, it is especially appealing for parents travelling with children or teenagers.

Below, we explore top February half term destinations, plus practical planning tips to help you make the most of your break.

Why February Half Term Is Ideal for Family Holidays

February half term is often overlooked, but it offers several advantages:

• Travel periods are shorter and easier to manage
• Fewer crowds compared with Easter and summer school holidays
• Cooler temperatures make sightseeing and activity days more comfortable
• Accommodation options are often more flexible for families

For families with younger children, fewer crowds can make days out less tiring. For those travelling with teens, it is a chance to explore cities or activity-led destinations without long queues or busy transport.

UK February Half Term Breaks

Centre Parcs and Lodge-Style Holidays

For those who prefer to stay in the UK, Centre Parcs February half term breaks remain a popular choice. Locations such as Sherwood Forest, Woburn Forest, and Longleat Forest offer:

• Indoor swimming complexes
• Organised activities for all age groups
• Self-catering lodges designed around family routines.

February works well here because many activities are indoors and available year-round. Children can enjoy Subtropical Swimming Paradise, while teens may prefer activities such as cycling trails, indoor climbing, or sports courts. Parents benefit from having everything on site, which helps reduce travel and planning stress.

You can find out more about Centre Parcs villages and facilities here.

Forest Holidays and Similar Lodge Breaks

Families looking for similar lodge-style breaks may also consider Forest Holidays, with locations including Cropton Forest, Glentress Forest, and the Brecon Beacons. These cabin-style breaks offer:

• Woodland settings close to walking routes
• Outdoor play areas
• Space for families to unwind at their own pace

Darwin Forest Country Park in Derbyshire is another great option, featuring an indoor pool, woodland walks, and child-friendly facilities that work well during cooler February weather.

Short Trips Abroad in February Half Term

Disneyland Paris February Half Term Holidays

Disneyland Paris remains a popular choice for UK travellers during February half term, especially those with younger children and teenagers.

While mid-February is busier due to UK and French school holidays, it is generally less crowded than peak summer or Easter breaks. The parks operate fully in February, with rides, shows, and seasonal entertainment running as normal.

Staying in an on-site Disney hotel allows visitors to remain close to the parks, helping reduce daily travel and making busy days easier for younger children.

With direct Eurostar services from London and short flights from several UK airports, Disneyland Paris works well for a one-week February half-term break.

Explore more about visiting Disneyland Paris here.

Barcelona City Breaks

Barcelona is a strong option for those looking for a February half term city break with variety. Cooler temperatures, which suits sightseeing days and walking routes without the heat of summer.

Family-friendly attractions include:

• Barcelona Aquarium
• CosmoCaixa Science Museum
• And open spaces such as Park Güell.

Older children and teens often enjoy exploring neighbourhoods, food markets such as La Boqueria, and using the city’s straightforward public transport.

More information for travellers with children here.

Amsterdam February Half Term with Kids

Amsterdam works well for short February half-term breaks thanks to its compact layout, flat streets, and reliable public transport.

Visitors can enjoy interactive attractions such as:

• NEMO Science Museum
• Canal boat tours that reduce walking time
• Indoor museums designed to engage both younger children and teenagers.

February is generally quieter than spring and summer, helping travellers visit popular attractions without heavy crowds.

Self-catering apartments and child-friendly hotels are widely available, allowing a balance of sightseeing with downtime during a short break. With a short flight time from the UK and plenty of indoor activities, Amsterdam is well suited to February half-term travel with kids.

More details are available here.

Ghent Family Breaks

Ghent offers canals, castles, and museums within a walkable city centre that’s easy to explore with children. February is a quieter time to visit attractions such as Gravensteen Castle and STAM City Museum.

Families with teens may enjoy the café culture and interactive exhibits, while younger children benefit from shorter walking distances and clear transport links.

For more information, visit here.

Active and Unique February Half Term Holidays

Zell am See, Austria

Zell am See is a strong choice for those who want a winter break with options beyond skiing. Alongside beginner-friendly slopes, visitors can enjoy:

• Lakeside walks
• Sledging areas
• Indoor swimming pools

February conditions are reliable for winter activities, and the resort layout makes it easier to balance active mornings with quieter afternoons, especially when travelling with children of different ages. More information is available here.

South Tyrol Family Winter Holidays

South Tyrol combines winter activities with well-organised villages. Cable cars, snow parks and gentle walking routes suit younger children, while teens may enjoy ski schools and mountain facilities. Good transport links and family-friendly accommodation make planning days straightforward, even during a short February half-term stay.

Discover more here.

Andorra la Vella Family Ski Holidays

For something a little different, Andorra la Vella is a compact mountain destination well suited to travellers with children and teenagers.

Resorts such as Grandvalira offer ski schools, gondola access, and snow parks, while indoor leisure centres and shopping areas give teens more independence.

February is a strong month for snow conditions, and the destination’s size helps keep travel between activities straightforward.

You can find out more about visiting Andorra as a family here.

Planning Tips for February Half Term Holidays

• Book accommodation early to secure the best options.
• Mix indoor and outdoor activities to suit cooler weather.
• Plan one main activity per day and allow downtime.
• Choose destinations with simple layouts or reliable public transport links to ease movement around towns or resorts.

Travel Insurance for February Half Term Holidays

Before confirming your February half term holidays it’s important to make sure you have suitable travel insurance in place. Cover can help protect against unexpected medical costs, cancellations, or lost belongings.

Always check policy limits, exclusions, and activity cover to ensure it suits your destination and plans. Find out more about Family Travel Insurance and what is covered.

Ready to go? Click here to get a free quote today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: When is February half term 2026?
A: February half term 2026 runs from Monday 16th to Friday 20th February.

Q: Which UK destinations are best for families in February?
A: Centre Parcs and Forest Holidays offer indoor activities and family-friendly lodges, making them ideal for February breaks.

Q: Are European city breaks suitable for children in February?
A: Yes, cities like Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Ghent are quieter during February, with indoor attractions and easy public transport for families.

Q: What kind of activities can teens enjoy on February family holidays?
A: Teens can enjoy adventure activities, ski schools, cultural sites, and exploring city neighbourhoods or winter resorts.

Q: Do I need travel insurance for a short February half term trip?
A: Yes. Travel insurance can protect against cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost belongings. Always check the policy covers your activities. Find out more about Family Travel Insurance.