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DFDS Seaways suggests some top summer trips with the Kids

Looking for places to take the kids this summer holiday without breaking the bank? DFDS Seaways has some top picks for day trips and activities across the Channel.

Fares start from just £19 each way for a car and up to four passengers.

The low-cost ferry operator runs up to 12 crossings a day from Dover to Dunkirk, putting you in the perfect place to explore areas of France and beyond with just a short hop across the Channel.

Chris Newey, director of passenger services for the English Channel route at DFDS Seaways, said: “Travelling by ferry makes the perfect day out for families – offering a great sailing experience, coupled with a fantastic range of activities across the Channel. It is also a great way to explore France and the surrounding areas, especially with the freedom to pack as much luggage as you want in the car.”

There are plenty of offers onboard this summer, available until September 30.

For those early morning sailings on DFDS Seaways’ cross Channel ferry service, try the Breakfast Special – seven breakfast items for just £7.25 – in the self-service restaurant, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Channel. Or take advantage of Food Express’ Family Meal Deal - just £22.95 for four pizza slices, four portions of chips and four soft drinks.

Dunkirk is a holiday resort in its own right, with fifteen miles of beautiful sandy beaches, it is also great for shopping and boasts a whole host of restaurants offering a range of delicious seafood and traditional Flemish dishes, making it perfect for a day trip or long weekend. Many of the restaurants, shops and hotels are also part of Dunkirk’s “Famille Plus Mer” scheme and display the logo to show they are family-friendly.

Away from the beach there’s also plenty to explore including the old town and ancient fortifications, as well as the Zoo of Dunkirk, which has over 170 animals and 40 wild and domestic species of French and European wildlife. The port of Dunkirk is also well served by the main European main arterial roads, making onward travel to places such as Belgium, Holland, Germany and beyond very easy.

Here are a few other ideas

Plopsaland De Panne
Perfect for families with younger children, Plopsaland De Panne is a vast theme park, close to the Belgian coast. It is just a 20 minute drive from the port and has over 40 exciting rides and attractions. www.plopsa.be/en

Lille’s Gare Saint Sauveur
The ancient town of Lille is an hour’s drive from the Port of Dunkirk and this season, the Gare Saint Sauveur will again host a series of events every weekend for the whole family, including exhibitions, concerts, cabarets, shows, cinema for young audiences and more.
If staying for a long weekend, look out for the tango dancers who meet every Sunday evening until the September 25 in the Vieille Bourse on the Main Square. www.lille3000.eu

Parc Asterix
Parc Asterix is an excellent Gallic theme park, with a hotel and various restaurants. Inspired by the famous French comic books by Rene Goscinni and Albert Uderzo, the park has 27 rides in 7 adventure areas. Located just outside Paris, Parc Asterix is just over three hours drive from Dunkirk - perfect for a long weekend or short break. www.parcasterix.fr/en

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