As we approach this time of year, a serene getaway at a hotel with the family could be just what we need to lift our spirits amidst the winter blues. Alternatively, your thoughts may already be drifting towards spring, a time when the family is eager for a retreat.
Venturing into nature to let the kids roam or swim freely while the adults unwind at a spa or savor fine dining can be a perfect way to shake off the chill of the colder months. The newly launched Good Hotel Guide is now available online, offering recommendations for five fantastic family-friendly hotels. These accommodations cater to all age groups, from star-gazing treehouses to seaside views perfect for dolphin-watching, and even a hotel featuring a lakeside ice rink.
One of the top picks is a resort located on the picturesque Farncombe Estate in the Cotswold countryside, offering a mix of rooms and suites within a Scandi-style lodge and various other buildings across the property. Children aged three and under stay free with their parents, and there are unique accommodation options such as shepherds’ huts and treehouses designed for kids up to 12 years old.
The resort provides outdoor play areas for young children and offers paid activities like archery and axe-throwing for older kids. Falconry experiences are available for children as young as four, while wine tastings are exclusively for adults. The rooms feature a charming country style with modern amenities like espresso machines, smart TVs, and luxury toiletries. Dining options range from a casual bar/lounge menu to a more upscale experience at Hook by Martin Burge, known for its seafood and steak dishes.
For those seeking a more relaxed experience, guests can explore the surroundings using provided maps or simply relax by the lake on sunny days. The resort offers a variety of room options, starting from £220 for bed and breakfast doubles, with family suites and rooms with terraces also available.
Situated near Salcombe in the National Trust countryside, a charming hotel owned by the Makepeace family offers a child-friendly and pet-friendly retreat. Guests can enjoy stunning sea views, access to a sheltered beach, and amenities like a spa, indoor saltwater swimming pool, and a lounge stocked with books and board games.
Activities in the area include sea safaris and seal-watching tours, along with opportunities for coastal walks and picnics. The hotel’s restaurant serves a range of dishes, from seafood to burgers, catering to various preferences. The hotel also provides a short kids’ menu and desserts that pay homage to past celebrity guests. Family rooms start from £211.50, including continental breakfast.
Nestled in 14-acre grounds in Wiltshire, a Jacobean manor house offers a luxurious family-friendly experience as part of the Luxury Family Hotels collection. The hotel features dedicated children’s facilities like the Four Bears Den for arts and crafts and outdoor play. Guests can enjoy a range of activities, from spa treatments to outdoor adventures, ensuring a relaxing stay for the whole family.
The hotel also offers special packages like Baby’s First Break, providing essential amenities for young children. Guests can enjoy various dining options, including casual meals in the Orangery or formal dining experiences with a diverse menu. Family rooms start from around £246, including breakfast.
In Lyme, a historic resort on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, a Georgian house turned hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere with stunning sea views. The hotel features informal yet stylish interiors, family-friendly accommodations, and self-catering apartments for larger groups. Guests can enjoy a range of activities, from fossil hunting to coastal walks, along with indulgent dining options and personalized services. Large doubles start from £330, with additional amenities like cots and extra beds available for children.
Transformed from a traditional hotel into a modern lifestyle resort, a dog-friendly destination boasts stylish accommodations, including treehouses and shepherds’ huts with unique features like outdoor baths and log burners. The resort offers various outdoor activities like swimming, paddleboarding, and hiking, along with a range of amenities such as indoor and outdoor pools and kids’ play areas.
Dining options include a fine-dining restaurant serving locally sourced dishes, casual eateries offering wood-fired pizzas and pub fare, and a children’s menu with diverse options. The resort caters to families with different room configurations, starting from £240 for bed and breakfast doubles and around £340 for family rooms. Additional beds for children over three years old are available at 25% of the double room price.