Day trip ideas for your elderly parent 

As individuals get older, many will think they’ve been everywhere in the UK; but let’s be honest, it is very unlikely that they have. Typically, the elderly tend to want to visit somewhere interesting, where they can develop their knowledge on a particular subject and then pass their knowledge onto the grandchildren. It’s all about appearing wise with older age, right? Below is a list of interesting days out and things to do, which you might want to visit yourself, or suggest to your elderly loved one.

Chatsworth House, Derbyshire
Stately homes are always a good hit with the oldies. The large grounds contain a maze, sculptures, impressive ancient woodland and 1,000-acre Park. Also, at the stately home is The North Sketch Gallery, which contains contemporary art installation by Jacob van der Beugel, portraying the DNA of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire.

Kenilworth Castle, Warwickshire
Built over several centuries between Norman and Tudor times, Kenilworth Castle is one of the most haunting sites in Warkwickshire. The castle has beautiful gardens named The Elizabeth Garden which was re-opened in 2009, having been built for Elizabeth I by Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester and then lost for 400 years. There is a great amount to do here, including tower views, visiting the great hall, and having afternoon tea in the stables tearoom.

Bekonscot Model Village & Railway, Buckinghamshire
Known as the world’s oldest and original model village, Bekonscot Model Village & Railway started off as a hobby, before developing into more than an acre of miniature houses, farms, lakes and fields. The village is connected by a model railway that makes its way through the beautiful gardens. All the profits of Bekonscot Model Village & Railway go to charity.

Imperial War Museum North, Manchester
The Imperial War Museum is currently hosting a major exhibition titled ‘From Street to Trench: A War that shaped a region”. The exhibition explores the impact the First World War had on the North West of England. This exhibition is running until May 31^st, and there are six mini showcases within the main exhibitions; for example, the role of women and technology.

There are also workshops available so this would be a great day out for grandparents and their grandchildren.

Stonehenge, Wiltshire
Take a trip to Wiltshire, and walk in the footsteps of your Neolithic ancestors. Stonehenge is one of the wonders of the world. While you are there, you can explore the landscape and step inside the Neolithic Houses to discover the tools and objects of everyday Neolithic life.
In December 2013, we saw the opening of the new visitor which means a trip to this ancient prehistoric monument is now enhanced with audio-visual displays, hands-on exhibits and a brand new café.

If your elderly loved one lives in a care home or retirement home, you will be glad to know that some charities/ care home or retirement villages, such as Extra Care, arrange excursions for residents, friends and guests to attend. If they haven’t been/participated in one of the above before, you could suggest these ideas to the organisers. 

*Collaborative post