With Mother’s Day fast approaching, it’s time to start thinking about how you’re going to let your mum – or mum-figure in your life – know just how much she means to you (and if you still need to get your Mother’s Day card, we’ve got you covered!).
If you’re struggling to think of things to do with your mum on Mother’s Day, then why not do something different this year, and book a trip away? After all, not only is it a great way to spend some time together, but you’ll get to discover a new city, too!
Mother daughter weekend trips in the UK
Whether it’s a day or a weekend you want to take your mum away for, there are so many cute cities and towns in the UK that are just waiting to be discovered. Here’s our pick of the best.
1. Edinburgh
A thriving city surrounded by stunning scenery and breath-taking beaches, Edinburgh really does have it all. If you and your mum love nothing more than tucking into a coffee and slice of cake together, then you could spend the whole weekend working your way through all the cafes Edinburgh has to offer.
Cake and coffee not your thing? Luckily there’s more to Edinburgh than that! A trip to Edinburgh Castle is a must, as is climbing to the top of Arthur’s Seat. You could also spend a whole day indulging in retail therapy. From the Royal Mile, with its souvenir shops, to Multrees Walk, which is home to several designer boutiques, a trip to the Scottish capital suits all types of mum.
2. Bristol
Start your weekend away with mum the right way, with a relaxing boat trip down the River Avon, some of which include afternoon tea, if you’re looking for an extra special experience.
Alternatively, you could catch a show at one of the several theatres around the city, including the Bristol Hippodrome, or Bristol Old Vic -one of the oldest working theatres in the world.
If you time it right and visit Bristol in August, then for two nights you could see the annual Bristol Balloon Fiesta, where dozens of hot air balloons shine bright over the Clifton Suspension Bridge.
3. York
York’s compactness makes it perfect for a mother daughter day trip or weekend away, as you can see the entire city in a short space of time. Shop on the Shambles with its mediaeval cobblestone streets, walk the city walls, admire the impressive York Minster, and even go on a spooky ghost tour, if you and your mum are into the paranormal.
Alternatively, you could spend the day eating and drinking your way through York – with so many cafes, bars, and restaurants to try, whatever kind of food you’re after, you’re sure to find it.
4. Liverpool
Another great alternative for a mother daughter weekend away is Liverpool. A shopper’s paradise, you and your mum can shop ‘til you drop at Liverpool ONE, an open-air shopping district near the docks..
If your mum’s into art, then you could visit several galleries in the city. Tate Liverpool has some great modern art, and Walker Art Gallery’s home to several Rembrandt pieces.
5. Bath
If it’s a mother daughter spa day you’re searching for, then there really is no place better than Bath. The Roman Baths are obviously the most well-known in the city, and it’s a must-see if neither of you have been to Bath before, but there are loads of spa hotels around the city to try, too.
Once you’ve finished your massages, have a wander around the city to see top sights like Pulteney Bridge, Bath Abbey, and the Royal Crescent; and tuck into a delicious afternoon tea at one of the many quaint coffee shops.
Mother daughter weekend trips in Europe
If you fancy jetting off somewhere further afield, then why not try somewhere in Europe? Whether you’re planning a weekend trip, or want to add on a few extra days, these are some of the best cities to spend quality time with your mum.
1. Oslo, Norway
Perfect for a trip year-round, experience snowy Oslo in the winter, or if you visit in the summer, you can spend your days sunbathing in the many parks (including Vigeland Park, where you’ll get to see some… erm… “interesting” sculptures). Alternatively, sip on a coffee as you people watch at an outdoor cafe in Aker Brygge, where the ferries leave for trips to the fjords, and nearby islands.
If it’s rest and relaxation you’re after, then visit the district of Sørenga, which has its own man-made beach and loungers that are open year round (although you might not want to dip your toes in during winter!)
2. Seville, Spain
If you and your mum are sunseekers, then why not book a trip to Seville together? Located in the south of Spain, if it’s authentic Spanish culture you’re after, then it’s the perfect alternative to the islands that are, let’s face it, overrun with Brits.
Enjoy a long, lazy picnic by the Guadalquivir river, before wandering around the gorgeous Plaza de Espana, and visiting the Cathedral of Seville, where it’s claimed Christopher Columbus is buried. In the evening, tuck into some tapas, before heading to La Alameda, where all the best cocktail bars can be found. And, for a true Spanish experience, catch a fiery flamenco show while you’re staying in Seville.
3. Lisbon, Portugal
One of the prettiest cities in all of Europe, it’s also one of the best (in our opinion!), for a mother daughter weekend away.
Get lost wandering the winding cobblestone streets, sample the Portuguese delicacy, Pastel de nata (one bite of these custard tarts, and you’ll be begging for more), and grab a bargain at Feira da Ladra, a flea market which dates all the way back to the 13th century. In the evening, head to Market Lisboa, which houses 26 restaurants and eight bars, covering a whole range of cuisine.
Alternatively, if you and your mum want to escape the city for the day, then there are several beaches that can be reached by public transport. The golden sands and calm waters of Praia de Carcavelos, and Praia de Duquesa can both be reached by train from Lisbon in under 40 minutes.
4. Milan, Italy
If you and your mum love nothing more than some retail therapy, then Milan is the only answer! Home to many flagship Italian designer stores, including Prada, Moschino, and Versace, indulge in some window shopping, and visit Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, which is probably one of the most impressive shopping galleries you’ll ever see.
Milan’s cocktail scene is something worth exploring too – head to the Navigli area for a cute canalside drink, or Brera, if you’re looking for somewhere more upscale. It’s home to several fashion bars, including Bar Bulgari, and Armani Bar, which is located inside the Armani hotel.
5. Brussels, Belgium
Easily reachable by Eurostar or a short flight, Brussels is the ideal choice for a mother daughter weekend away. Highlights of the city include open-air dining at Grand Place, with its eclectic architecture, admiring the imposing Royal Palace, and, of course, trying some delicious Belgian waffles. For a true Belgian experience, top yours with speculoos.
If you want to extend your trip, then you could visit another Belgian city – Antwerp is just 40 minutes away by train, and Bruges is slightly further afield, at an hour.
So, now you’ve been hit with all of this inspiration, all that’s left to do is decide where to book your next mother daughter weekend away! And with Mother’s Day coming up, it’s the perfect time to do so – just don’t forget to pick up a card. From cheeky and rude, through to sweet and funny Mother’s Day cards, we’ve got them all.
Alternatively, if it’s more travel inspiration you’re after, then head on over to our blog, where you can discover the best Christmas market breaks, and so much more.
