The best holiday camps are not glorified holding pens, nor are they joyless exercises in self-improvement. Rather, they offer children the chance to follow an interest a little further than term time allows: to code, to perform, to make, to think, to move, to immerse themselves in something that feels stretching but fun. For parents, that means a few precious hours to work uninterrupted; for children, it can mean a week or two that feels genuinely memorable.
For Budding Coders: Tech Camp
Locations: London (Fulham), Oxford, Winchester
Ages: 9–17
Format: Day camps (London, Oxford) and residential options (Winchester)
A proper tech-first option, with courses spanning AI, Python, game design, robotics, drone racing and 3D printing. Teaching is project-led rather than theoretical, so children leave having built something tangible. Well established and rigorous, it strikes a good balance between structure and creativity. The mix of London day camps and more immersive residential weeks in Hampshire makes it a flexible choice for different families.
techcamp.org.uk
For Young Performers: Ultimate Performance Academy
Locations: Multiple UK venues (often independent schools)
Ages: 7–12
Format: Day camps (full working day coverage)
Part of the well-run Ultimate Activity stable, these performance-focused camps centre on drama, dance and musical theatre, with days structured around workshops in acting, movement and voice. There's a light emphasis on building towards informal performances, but the tone remains refreshingly low-pressure – more about confidence, collaboration and trying things out than polished end results. A good middle ground for children who enjoy performing but don't necessarily want the intensity of a dedicated stage school. Look for early bird deals, and note that they accept Childcare Vouchers.
ultimateactivity.co.uk
For Sporty Types: Activate Camps
Locations: Nationwide
Ages: 5–16
Format: Day camps (full days, week-long blocks)
More structured than your average holiday club, with sport-specific camps in cricket, netball, hockey, football and athletics. Coaching is progressive and skills-focused, making this a strong choice for children who want to improve rather than simply burn off energy. Reliable, well organised, and widely available.
activatecamps.co.uk
For All-Rounders: Ultimate Activity Camps
Locations: 40+ UK venues (including Oxford and the Home Counties)
Ages: 4–14
Format: Full-day camps, week-long bookings
Another from the polished Ultimate Activity group, this one is a useful default when you need something that simply works. Days are varied – sport, crafts, outdoor play, occasional specialist sessions – and run to a timetable that mirrors the working day. Particularly helpful for younger children or siblings with mixed interests, where a more focused camp might not suit. Childcare Vouchers accepted.
ultimateactivity.co.uk
For Big Thinkers: Oxford Royale Summer School
Locations: Oxford, Cambridge, London
Ages: 12–18
Format: Residential (with some day options in London)
For older children ready for something more academic, Oxford Royale offers subject-led summer schools in areas such as engineering, medicine, business, law and creative writing. Days combine seminars, group work and guest speakers, with a strong emphasis on independence and discussion. It feels closer to a first taste of university life than a traditional camp, and suits teenagers who enjoy being stretched intellectually.
oxford-royale.com
For Watersports & Outdoors: Wickedly Wonderful Camps
Location: Chichester, West Sussex
Ages: 6–14
Format: Day camps (coastal, activity-led)
A coastal take on the classic summer camp model, Wickedly Wonderful centres its programme around the water, with kayaking, paddleboarding, crabbing and boogie boarding all part of the mix. Meanwhile, back on dry land, there's horse riding, team games and the inevitable end-of-day marshmallow roasting. Just the ticket for energetic children who would rather be outside than anywhere else. Dates for this year are still TBC, so watch this space.
wickedlywonderful.com
For Nature Immersion: Camp Kernow
Location: Truro, Cornwall
Ages: 8–15
Format: Residential
Set across 200 acres of woodland and farmland, Camp Kernow takes a purposeful approach to off-grid outdoor life. The emphasis here is as much on understanding the environment as enjoying it, with activities that include foraging, tree climbing and learning how to live lightly off-grid. Composting systems, rainwater harvesting and low-impact living are all part of the experience – practical, grounding and, for the right child, transformative.
campkernow.org.uk
For Proper Adventurers: Outward Bound
Locations: Lake District, Scotland, Wales
Ages: 10–22
Format: Residential expeditions (5–19 days)
Outward Bound programmes are built around wilderness journeys – hiking, climbing, canoeing – with varying levels of challenge depending on age and experience. There's a strong focus on resilience, independence and teamwork, but it's delivered through experience rather than instruction. Best for older children and teenagers ready to be pushed a little beyond their comfort zone.
outwardbound.org.uk
For Creative All-Rounders: Hurtwood House Summer School
Location: Surrey Hills
Ages: 11–17 (courses vary)
Format: Residential
Set in the Surrey Hills, Hurtwood House's summer school has a reputation as one of the UK's most creatively focused sixth-form colleges for a reason. The programme is broad – from musical theatre and filmmaking to sport and excursions – but what sets it apart is the level of creative immersion. Courses are led by industry professionals, with opportunities to produce a short film, stage a performance or work in on-site studios. It's a fuller, more polished experience than most camps, with an all-inclusive structure and a strong sense of pastoral care. A good fit for teenagers with defined interests – particularly in the creative arts.
hurtwoodhouse.com
FAQs: Summer Camps
What age is best for summer camps in the UK?
Most camps start from age four or five, with more specialised or residential options typically beginning around eight or nine. Teen-focused programmes (particularly academic or adventure-based) tend to suit ages 12+.
Are day camps or residential camps better?
It depends on the child. Day camps offer structure while keeping routines familiar, whereas residential camps can build independence and confidence more quickly, particularly for older children.
How far in advance should you book summer camps?
Popular camps often fill up by late spring, especially in London and the South East. Booking by April or May is advisable, with earlier for residential or specialist programmes.
Are summer camps worth the cost?
When well chosen, yes. The best camps offer a balance of enjoyment and development, giving children a focused experience while providing parents with reliable childcare during working hours.
What should you look for in a good summer camp?
Clear structure, experienced staff, a strong safeguarding policy and a programme that aligns with your child's interests. The best camps feel purposeful without being overly rigid, and fun without being chaotic.
