BEDFORDSHIRE BUCKINGHAMSHIRE BERKSHIRE CAMBRIDGESHIRE CORNWALL DERBYSHIRE DEVON DORSET ESSEX GLOUCESTERSHIRE HAMPSHIRE ISLE OF WIGHT HERTFORDSHIRE KENT LEICESTERSHIRE NORFOLK NORTHAMPTONSHIRE NOTTINGHAMSHIRE OXFORDSHIRE RUTLAND SOMERSET SUFFOLK SURREY SUSSEX WARWICKSHIRE WEST MIDLANDS WILTSHIRE WORCESTERSHIRE

OXFORDSHIRE

The Relais Henley, Henley-on-Thames

If you’re after exploring the Chilterns in style, The Relais Henley is happy to oblige. This boutique hotel sits on the bank of the River Thames so it’s no surprise the Riverside Twin room (sleeping up to 2 adults and 2 children under 12) is all marine style décor, with a stunning front row view of the Thames. You’re spoilt for choice with plenty of local gems nearby; Stonor Park, Oaken Grove Vineyard (and countless others in the area), and The National Trust gem Greys Court – that’s more than enough pretty walks, plus The Relais offers horse-riding in The Chilterns – check you out.

Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Great Milton

For an uber-luxe getaway, Le Manoir is a winning choice either for a family trip or one-on-one time with someone special. The iconic 15^th century manor house boasts stunning gardens including a veg patch to die for, which you can amble round to see your meal ingredients before you eat them. The restaurant has two Michelin stars, and with Chef Patron Raymond Blanc running the whole operation with the precision of an elite SAS squad, you’re in for a treat. There are 32 bespoke rooms to choose from all with a very different feel. We love the Garden Junior Suites with a private patio or terrace and lovely views of the courtyard. 

The Randolph Hotel, Oxford

After a little cultural romantic getaway? Oxford’s 5 star gem The Randolph Hotel embraces the creative history of its locale with rooms adorned with positively maximalist décor – everything from the sofas to the wallpaper to the lampshades has its own burst of character. You can choose between 10 styles of rooms – we’re coveting the Oxford Suite which sleeps up to 4 people and comes with a cool writing desk (very insta-worthy might we add). This boutique hotel sits in front of The Ashmolean Museum and amid plenty of foodie spots including its own in-house restaurant, The Alice, which serves an all-day brassiere menu and a popular afternoon tea (with live music on the weekends). 

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GLOUCESTERSHIRE

Ingleside House, Cirencester

If you’re after a Cotswolds escape that’s high on glamour and low on Hunters, the award-winning Ingleside House in Cirencester is a must-stay. This Gatsby-esque Grade II listed bolthole is bold, beautiful, and just minutes from the delights of this famous market town. Choose from 11 individually styled rooms, take afternoon tea in the stunning Garden Room, graze on the stand-out menu at the restaurant Teatro, or neck negronis in the alfresco bar with its twinkly fairy lights and glowing fire pits. And how many hotels have their own indie theatre next door? Head to The Barn for some top class entertainment.

The Old Candle Shop, Moreton-in-Marsh

This charmingly named period conversion in the centre of Moreton-in-Marsh is self-catering Cotswolds cool at its finest. Sleeping up to six people in two bedrooms, the stylish open plan living area with a wood burning stove, corner sofas and dining area looks like it has leapt straight out of a dreamy interiors mag! Bifold doors open out onto an enclosed courtyard, complete with an outdoor dining space, BBQ and the best bit – a giant Jacuzzi hot tub. The house is dog friendly too, and if you can tear yourself away from the steamy bubbles it’s perfectly placed too for Moreton’s bars, shops and artisan market.

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BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

Five Arrows Hotel, Waddesdon

Fancy a wind-down escape on the doorstep of Waddesdon Manor? The historic Five Arrows Hotel is equal parts a luxury stay and foodie haven – it holds 2AA Rosettes and offers 16 ensuite rooms with a cosy home away from home vibe. You can dabble in the extensive wine list, which features Rothschild wines from around the world, while the kids (it’s not ideal for fidgety toddlers) play around the huge grounds – or opt for a day out walking in the pretty village of Brill or some fun at the National Trust’s Waddesdon Manor. Not forgetting about your four-pawed friends, there are some dog-friendly rooms. 

Horwood House, near Milton Keynes

This stunning Grade II listed manor house is every bit a luxe getaway as family friendly. Horwood House sits in the rural village of Little Horwood, close to a clutch of Bucks nature reserves like Stony Stratford known for its birdlife, and you’re spoilt for choice for days out with the likes of Bletchley Park, Woburn Safari Park, and Willen Lake close by, or get your culture fix at MK Gallery. The executive suite is best for families, sleeping up to two adults and two kids aged 12 and below. There are 159 to choose from, safe to say you’ll find your goldilocks ‘just right’ room – plus some rooms are dog-friendly.

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DEVON

Sleepy Owl, Hartland

One of three luxury treehouses at Sleepy Owl, The Hideout has the only moving bath-tub in the UK and that’s just for starters – heated floors, wood-fired hot tub, pizza oven, cinema projector, popcorn maker! Immersed in 20 acres of UNESCO North Devon Biosphere, it’s truly one of a kind and bursting with together-time, whether you’re with the kids or just the two of you. The copper bath rolls out onto the deck so you could lather up in the sunshine or under the Milky Way. Tear yourself away from a bed so comfy it’s like sinking into thick whipped cream, and the incredible shattered cliffs of Hartland Quay are just 10 minutes away.

American Airstream, Dittisham Hideaway

There are caravan holidays and then there is this luxuriously restored 1956 Vintage American Airstream. Nestled amongst the wild garlic and bluebells of the South Hams, it’s a shining example of retro-chic, with an outdoor oak Japanese wood-fired spa bath, hammock and 1950s design to die for. Down the hill you have the River Dart, a fabulous pink pub and boat trips to Dartmouth on tap. Pull up to the bumper, baby, and go!

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BERKSHIRE

Coworth Park, Ascot

Take the scenic route and discover a place that’s both five star and family-friendly. Coworth Park is the ultimate staycation, offering kids freedom to roam, romp and rollick across the 240-acre estate. There’s an awesome seven-room Kids’ Club with games (boardgames and consoles) activities as well as pony rides (giving you the chance to play at the spa). The Barn is relaxed, buzzy restaurant perfect for families and you can even enjoy a sophisticated afternoon tea together with a kids version available if they’re partial to a posh sarnie too. 

Plum Cottages, Bray

Home from home, but with all the boutique vibes of a stylish hotel. Footloose and kid free? Grab your date or mates for luxe break at Plum Cottages in Bray. Yes it’s the foodie capital of the South East, but it’s also a stone’s throw from the river, Windsor Castle and Cliveden. It’s a two-bed cottage, within staggering distance of Heston Blumenthal’s The Hind’s Head gastropub and his three Michelin star thriller, The Fat Duck.

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KENT

Liberty Cottage, Keepers Cottages, Broadstairs

Time it right and you can enjoy this coastal gem during Broadstairs Food Festival on Easter weekend Fri 7- Sun 9 Apr. The beautiful Liberty Cottage (pictured) sleeps seven in four bedrooms and is just one of the selection of hand-picked self-catering properties on offer from Keepers Cottages. A family-run business founded by Camilla Shipton, it is so much more than a holiday letting company offering a totally bespoke service across all its luxury accommodation, guaranteeing you feel quite the VIP.

Sohot Stays, Westgate-on-Sea, Margate

You’ll love this collection of eight modern, stylish apartments in the fabulous seaside town of Margate on the Kent coast. All apartments sleep up to four guests, most are located directly opposite the beach and one even has its own hot tub. There’s availability this Easter break on this stunning three-bed apartment (pictured) – perfect for a family, sleeping up to six and sitting in the heart of Westgate-on-Sea. Here you’re just a few minutes down the road from the bustling bars of the bigger seaside towns of Margate meaning you’re blessed with a beautiful beach and less crowds.

West Cottage, Bloom Stays, Dungeness

West Cottage is one of two former lighthouse keepers cottages situated at the foot of the historic Roundhouse, which was once the base of the original 18th Century Dungeness lighthouse. This two-bed beauty accommodates up to four people and is available Easter week (7 – 14 April). Sit on the terrace and watch the world go by on a sunny spring day, or enjoy reading a book by the fabulous woodburning stove. Fully restored and renovated West Cottage has amazing views across the shingle and is a local landmark with its shiny red chimneys. Bloom Stays is a friendly holiday letting agency specialising in luxury holiday homes in Kent and this is just one example of the gorgeous properties it offers.

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SOMERSET

Court Farm, near Frome

If you’re looking to get away with another family, friends or rellies, this group of converted barns set around a central courtyard could be the answer. Sleeping 10 in five ensuite bedrooms (with extra beds for four more if you wish) and with two open plan living spaces and the vast Harvest Hall (above), there’s plenty of room for everyone. You can wine and dine, simmer in the hot tub, fire up the barbie or pizza oven, and watch the kids play on the lawn out in the grassy courtyard. Location is rural but super chill Frome and Bradford-on-Avon, and historic Bath are within easy reach.

Middle Stone Farm, Brompton Ralph, near Taunton

Get back to nature – luxury nature, that is – in canvas safari tents with king-sized beds, private bathrooms, wood stoves and Swedish hot tubs on a family-run working farm in West Somerset, close to the Exmoor National Park and The Quantock Hills. Kids will love the friendly alpacas, sheep, pigs and goats, climbing frames, swings, ride-on tractors, badminton and table tennis. You’ll love the peace and quiet, the delicious local produce and home made dishes in the farm shop – and those hot tubs. Each tent or ‘lodge’ sleeps six people. There’s a wooden cabin and a holiday cottage too.

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DORSET

Grasmere, Swanage

Lying just a few hundred metres from the sea in the archetypal seaside town of Swanage, with its long sandy beach, prom, old pier, shops, pubs, cafes, seafront fish ‘n’ chips and steam railway, this Victorian terrace sleeps eight in five bedrooms, with spacious open plan living spaces and a courtyard garden with BBQ. Durlston Country Park, Old Harry Rocks, Brownsea Island, Dancing Ledge and the rest of the Jurassic Coast, and famous Corfe Castle are all close by.

Greenwood Grange, Higher Bockhampton, near Dorchester

How about this for choice – 17 luxury self-catering stone holiday cottages sleeping from 2 to 12 in the idyllic Dorset countryside, not only close to Thomas Hardy’s birthplace but created out of farm buildings built by his father in 1849. Half of the cottages are dog-friendly, some come with hot tubs; all are unique and individually furnished/decorated to a high spec. The indoor pool, sauna, tennis courts, games room, croquet and badminton lawns, kids’ play area, play yurt, off-road bike trails in Thorncombe Woods, donkeys in the paddock and special Easter activities should keep everyone busy. Almost fully booked for Easter, you’ll need to step on it if you fancy a stay here.

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NORFOLK

Cartshed Cottages, Sharrington Hall

This is laidback luxury for grownups (and appreciative teens, if they exist!). All muted earthy colours, sea-grass rugs and reclaimed timber, these stylishly understated holiday cottages are designed to reflect the wild beauty of North Norfolk, with roll-top baths and log burners adding creature comforts. Set in a row in a converted cartshed in the grounds of a Jacobean manor house, the five chic yet cosy cottages sleep 2-4 and are a dreamy base from which to explore the coast, just 15 mins down the road. There’s fab gastropubs nearby for meals out and you can self-cater in style too, with deli farm shop, Back to the Garden, just minutes away.

Maids Head Hotel, Norwich

If you’re in the mood for a city break, Maids Head Hotel is the oldest hotel in the UK (dating back over 800 years) and bang in the centre of hip ‘n’ happening yet still medieval and pretty Norwich. Don’t pass up the opportunity to book a spin around the city in their vintage Bentley or explore under your own steam on one of their chic Bobbin Bikes. There’s a choice of 84 bedrooms, but the Filby Junior Suite (above) has caught our eye, with its high vaulted ceilings, roll-top bath and cathedral views.

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WORCESTERSHIRE

Eckington Manor, near Strensham

Set on a working farm, the family-run, child-friendly Eckington Manor is an enticing blend of mediaeval history and utterly up-to-the-minute luxe comforts. There are 16 beautifully styled rooms to choose from (make a beeline for Room 3 with its spectacular, designer, embroidered silk wall feature and enormous TV). This place is a getaway with benefits – just across a courtyard is an acclaimed cookery school, so you can brush up on some new skills whilst you sojourn. Pack your walking boots too – the surrounding countryside is too beautiful to resist.

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SUFFOLK

Hippersons Boatyard, Beccles

If waking up to the sound of lapping waves and boats gliding past is the stuff of your country escape dreams then it doesn’t get much better than a staycation at Hippersons Boatyard. With a collection of quirky, cool and unique houseboats and glamping pods, including the brand new Wild Cat pod, you’re not just by the water, but actually on the water, floating idyllically on the southern tip of the Broads National Park on the River Waveney. Spend your days messing about on the river in your own private rowing boat or taking part in fun water-based activities like SUP and canoe tours, or simply watch the world go by from the deck of your dreamy accommodation.

Hintlesham Hall Hotel, near Ipswich

Escape from reality this Easter and live the high life at this stunning 16th Century manor house in Suffolk that will give you major Bridgerton vibes. With 175 acres of gorgeous grounds there’s plenty of space for kids to run off some steam before settling down for an Easter Sunday roast or afternoon tea in the smart restaurant or cosy lounges. There’s plenty to keep adults entertained too, including the sumptuous spa as well as the neighbouring golf club.

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CAMBRIDGESHIRE

The University Arms Hotel, Cambridge

If you want to keep young minds active and cultured over the Easter hols head to Cambridge, where there’s fascinating history on every corner. Stay in style at The University Arms Hotel on Parker’s Piece thanks to a special Easter offer where kids under 16 stay free! Not only that but the hotel has created a calendar of complimentary activities like treasure hunts, walking tours, and egg decorating so you can sneak off guilt-free to the Aromatherapy Associates Spa or chill in bar with one of the unique cocktails all created around the city’s famous inventions.

Mad Hatters Glampsite, near Ely

Pray the April showers stay away this Easter because a family camping trip at Mad Hatters Campsite near Ely when the sun is shining is nothing short of idyllic. You can choose to pitch your own tent here, but why break your back when you can simply turn up and stay in one of the stunning timber tents decked out in colourful soft furnishings and proper double beds! Everything you need for an al fresco Easter adventure is on site here, including hot showers, fire pits, BBQ and log burners, and you’re within walking distance of Ely with its amazing cathedral and cool indie boutiques.

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LEICESTERSHIRE

Stapleford Park, Melton Mowbray

Looking for a countryside break with the family this Easter? This elegant 17th-century country pile with gorgeous gardens, a fantastic restaurant, splendid rooms and a luxe spa could be just the ticket. With 48 rooms to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice but, we suggest bagging one of the Grand Rooms which have been designed by iconic British names including Mulberry, Nina Campbell and Wedgewood. Hop on its Easter offer and book a two -night stay and children under 12 stay and eat for free. There’s also a falconry display, afternoon tea, easter egg hunts, plus, arts and craft activities. From £375 per night and includes breakfast and dinner.

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CORNWALL

St Michaels Resort, Falmouth

Sitting just above Falmouth’s sandy Blue Flag Gylly beach, you’ll find St Michaels Resort, an award winning family-friendly resort complex, with hotel style rooms, self-catering suites, sea view dining, spa and state of the art health club. New for April is the launch of the re-vamped outdoor spa gardens with a much larger outdoor hot tub, a cold plunge pool, new decking and seating areas as well as retaining the popular barrel sauna. St Michaels Resort is dog friendly, with a doggie welcome pack on arrival.

Boscundle Manor, St Austell

This 225-year-old Grade II listed Cornish manor house has 12 bedrooms set in two acres of gardens as well as an indoor heated pool and treatment room. Lovingly restored and renovated by Louise and Jason, who bought the property in 2020, Boscundle Manor is beautifully situated for exploring the south coast ‘Cornish Riviera’. The Eden Project and Lost Gardens of Heligan are within easy distance as are epic sandy beaches, historic harbours and the wild moorland of Bodmin. It’s adults only, so this is one for grown-up family groups – a bit like holidaying at your very own country pile near the coast. We can all dream.

Creekside Cottages, Falmouth

Nestled in the south coast of Cornwall between Truro and Falmouth lies the little village of Mylor Bridge. Hidden from the prevailing south-westerly winds, the landscape here gives way to the calm sheltered waters of the upper reaches of the river Fal, just the sort of peaceful Cornish countryside in which you could while away hours, messing around on boats, or walking along the paths on the banks of the creek. But where to stay? Try Lawithick Barn, just 200 yards from Mylor Yacht Harbour and a perfect base for exploring the waterways of the Fal Estuary. Sleeping four this barn conversion has parking and boat storage and overlooks the water.

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RUTLAND

Big Drift Barn & Fairchilds Barn, near Caldecott

Planning a large family get together? Just outside Caldecott in Rutland there’s not one but two holiday barn conversions to hire individually or together with room to sleep eight people. Located on a working farm, each light-filled barn comes with its own outdoor hot tub, individually decorated interiors, fully fitted kitchens, a stylish modern wood-burning stove and an outdoor area complete with furniture – the perfect spot to soak up the rolling countryside views and enjoy dinner al fresco in the warmer months. For active types, there’s plenty of footpaths and cycling trails nearby to take explore. From £280 per night.

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WEST MIDLANDS

Coombe Abbey, Binley, Coventry

Who said kids get to have all the fun? Head to Coombe Abbey where you can book a luxe family room and you can pack them off to the GoApe course with rellies while you kick back in the glass-covered Garden Room restaurant or one of the drawing rooms for afternoon tea. There’s more than 500 acres of landscaped gardens, grounds, lake and woodlands for little ones to scream around in, but just 15 minutes away from Coventry city centre which is perfect for culture, shopping and eating out.

The Moat House, Acton Trussell

Looking for somewhere for the kids and the dog? Look no further than gorgeous lakeside The Moat House in Acton Trussell, hidden in the rolling Staffordshire countryside. It’s a luxe, indie hotel steeped in history, based in a Grade-II listed building, with beautifully decorated rooms where you can kick back and unwind without a care in the world. It’s the perfect location to head on to Alton Towers too if your kids are thrill-seekers.

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WARWICKSHIRE

The Arden, Stratford-upon-Avon

If your little one is a culture vulture head to Stratford-upon-Avon’s The Arden – just a stone’s throw away from the RSC. There’s a AA Rosette restaurant so catch a matinee and then head back for some top-notch food. You’re right in the centre of town too and there’s always loads on – nearby there’s the Butterfly Farm too or if you venture a little further afield check out Warwick Castle. 

Hilltop Hideaways, Leamington

Uninterrupted views of Leamington, Warwick and Coventry from a luxury shepherds hut in its own private field? Don’t mind if we do. Hilltop Hideaways Shepherd Hut also comes with its own bathroom, underfloor heating plus all the little luxuries – we’re talking Le Creuset kettle, log burner, super soft king size bed and fresh flowers. It sleeps two but if there’s more of you then book into one of the glamping huts. There’s a cafe serving great food onsite too and cute rescue animals to fuss.

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ESSEX

Osea Island, Essex

This secret escape in the Blackwater Estuary is more Cape Cod than Chelmsford. Celebs like Rihanna (yes, really) have been known to check in to use the state-of-the-art recording studio (the island’s owned by a record producer), but there’s also a variety of accommodation to choose from including family-friendly cottages, a Manor House with pool and the Sweetshop, a tiny clapboard cottage ideal for couples with a huge four-poster bed. Hop on complimentary bikes and explore five miles of private beaches, dine on fresh seafood at the oyster shed and on rainy days watch classic movies in a shack. Delightfully bohemian, you can take over the entire island if you’re loaded (like, £20,000-plus per night loaded). From £250pn, minimum two-night stay.

Creeksea Place Barns, Essex

An in-the-know gem by the River Crouch on the outskirts of Burnham-on-Crouch – aka the Cowes of the East Coast. Whether you’re looking for a romantic break for two, a getaway with the fam, or to take over the whole place with up to 30 friends, its eight converted barns and buildings make a wonderful place to get away from it all. All the barns have access to the barbecue area, courtyard, Parlour Cafe, small gym and spa and even a golf course – Easter break heaven. From £100pn.  

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HAMPSHIRE

Daisybank Cottage, Brockenhurst, New Forest

A beautiful B&B with bags of character, this 1901-built house in the beautiful New Forest has eight comfortable rooms. Each one is kitted out with super-size beds, soft Egyptian cotton sheets, fluffy white towels and paintings by local artists. If you’re staying à deux, there’s a cosy, traditional shepherd’s hut with its own wood-burning stove. Breakfast is packed with local produce setting you up for New Forest walks and days out at Beaulieu, Paulton’s Park, Exbury Gardens and other popular local attractions.

The Hawk Inn, Amport, near Andover

Watch the birdie! Just around the corner from the Muddy Award-winning Hawk Conservancy Trust, The Hawk Inn is a comfortable, family-friendly pub with beautiful views, set in a quiet chocolate-box village of thatched cottages. If you’ve never been, it’s also a great place to base yourself for Stonehenge, a short 20 minute drive from here.

Hazlehurst Farm, Sway

Another pretty little New Forest Easter escape, Hazlehurst Farm is a converted dairy farm with cute, beautifully-decked out individual cottages sleeping between two and four. Set in 40 acres of pasture and woodland, there’s walks right on the doorstep. You’re also close to the coast here at Lymington and New Milton and just 20 minutes’ from the family-friendly Beaulieu.

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ISLE OF WIGHT

Luccombe Hall Hotel, Shanklin

Expect sea views aplenty at the award-winning, coastal Luccombe Hall Hotel in Shanklin. Great for families, there’s an indoor and outdoor pool, mini-golf putting and children’s play areas at the hotel, brilliant walks, cycle ways, nature and attractions all around the Isle of Wight. Go direct for special offers and discounted ferry travel to the Island.

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WILTSHIRE

Timbrell’s Yard, Bradford-on-Avon 

This boutique hotel is cosy, chic and has oodles of charm. Think sprawling beds, larch-clad walls and soft merino throws. Choose from the oak beamed heritage wing, with its freestanding cast iron tubs, or the light-filled mezzanine rooms, with views over the river. Try your luck and see if you can bag number 16, where you can soak in the window-side tub and admire the Avon swirling below. Kids and dogs are welcomed with open arms – there’s a crowd-pleasing menu for small people, and extra beds can be added to the larger rooms. Downstairs, you’ll find a fab restaurant, a cosy bar with a roaring fire and cocktails galore. Food is deliciously varied, locally sourced and totally unpretentious. Work up an appetite with a walk along the river (look out for the kingfishers) or head up to the canal to watch boats navigate the lock. On 7 and 8 April, get stuck into some family fun at The Hall Estate, where kids can try their luck at Hetty the Hen’s easter trail and there’s a dog show. You’ll find tons of alluring independent shops to explore too, or jump on a train for a 12-minute trip into Bath. Prices start at £98 a night for a small double, see here to book.  

The Farm at Avebury, Beckhampton, Marlborough  

Drift a few minutes from Marlborough and you’ll find this idyllic country escape. The Farm at Avebury has six scrumptious self-catered stables, all of which have been thoughtfully converted. Think bold prints, rich colours and carefully curated artwork (much of it local), all wrapped up in an exquisite attention to detail. Oh, and the bathrobes are fabulously fluffy too. The stables vary in size with the largest, Silbury Hill, sleeping six. Children and dogs are most definitely invited – it’s worth asking Rob if kids can feed the lambs, or head to nearby Roves Farm, where lambing season is in full swing. Children love exploring Avebury Manor too, which has period fancy dress costumes and a fun Easter trail in the gardens. After they’ve scoffed their prize egg, burn off energy with a climb up nearby Cherhill Down, where you’ll find breath-taking views and one of Wiltshire’s iconic white horses. For a grown-up treat, venture into nearby Marlborough, a beautiful market town with bucketloads of alluring boutiques and Rick Stein’s renowned seafood restaurant. Prices start at £104 a night for a two-bed stable, see here to book.  

The Old Bell Hotel, Malmesbury

It’s whispered to be England’s oldest hotel, and The Old Bell is certainly a pretty polished affair. From the velvety sofas to the splashy wallpapers and quirky accessories (spot the giant giraffe), the décor is anything but old-school. In fact, it’s extravagant, luxurious and guaranteed to make even the grumpiest guest break into a grin. Bedrooms are impeccably designed and come kitted out with treats, including Wiltshire roasted coffee, Teapig teas and fabulously-scented Bramley bathroom products. Get into the Easter vibe with a boozy hot chocolate at the al fresco Tyger Bar, or tuck into seared scallops and Dexter beef cheek at Abbey Row restaurant. For an Easter adventure, head to stunning Westonbirt Arboretum, which is holding a series of spring-themed family activity days. There’s also a fabulous treetop walkway, which takes you high up into the canopy on a long and winding adventure. Rooms cost from £220 for a cosy double, including breakfast. See here for info. 

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NOTTINGHAMSHIRE

Birdholme Glamping, Nottinghamshire

Easter too early to shiver in a tent? Light the log burner and enjoy underfloor heating in one of these luxury family safari lodges and go glamping in Robin Hood country instead. Set in 17 acres of woodland and meadows with a pond and stream, these five self-catering lodges, with hot tub on the deck, sleep up to four adults and two children (kids will love the cool mezzanine bedroom). Costs £811 for three nights in April.

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DERBYSHIRE

Boulder Field Cabin, Matlock, Peak District

Looking for a romantic Easter getaway? You’ll be hard-pressed to beat this timber and glass beauty. Nestled amongst the boulders at the top of Eagle Tor, this handsome hand-crafted cabin is surrounded by hiking, biking and climbing – perfect for working off those Easter eggs. If you’d rather kick-back, you won’t even have to leave your bed to drink in the 180 degree Peak District views. With a cedar wood-fired hot tub, Flintstones-style outdoor shower in the rocks, firepit and glass roof for stargazing, it sounds pretty darn perfect. From £135 a night, book via Coolstays.

The Skoolie, Melbourne

Heard the one about the comedian who set up a vintage vehicle glampsite? This iconic 1970’s American school bus is one of Johnny Vegas’ lovingly restored places to stay at The Field of Dreams in Melbourne. Super cool and seriously stylish inside, it has a large double bed and three single bunks. The front space includes a cool kitchen dining space and a mosaic-tiled shower with hand-made copper pipe fittings. Prices start at £585 for three nights.

Beaver’s Croft, Bamford

Locations don’t get much more dramatic than this 17^th century stone barn set within two acres of private gardens bang slap next to Howden Dam. Sleeping eight, there are three cosy bedrooms, a huge open plan lounge (with beamed ceilings and log burner), wonderful walks in every direction and, if the weather plays ball, a gorgeous al fresco dining area with pizza oven and fire pit . Costs from £325 a night.

Wharfe View Cottage, Yorkshire

A traditional stone-built country cottage for six on the Devonshire Arms estate, a stone’s throw from beautiful Bolton Abbey. This place is straight off the pages of Country Living. It’s beautifully decorated with rolling rural views, award-winning dining and a spa a short walk away at the hotel. Costs £2,002 (31 March to 7 April).

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HERTFORDSHIRE

The Wellington, Welwyn

The Welly as it’s fondly known is a multiple Rosette award winning pub and 5-star AA rated boutique hotel. The combination of three former buildings – two beer houses and a medieval hall, dating back as far as the 11th Century – it’s steeped in history. The six individually designed rooms feature the likes of timber beams, four-poster beds and roll-top baths. Depending on the weather – Easter can be hit an miss can’t it?! – you can cosy up by the log fire or enjoy a spot of sunbathing in the riverside garden with views over Welwyn village and churchyard.

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BEDFORDSHIRE

Observatory House, Bedford

If you’re looking for somewhere to gather the fam over the holidays, this characterful Georgian townhouse ticks all the boxes. With room for around 20 people (there’s a fun Famous Five-esque dormroom for the kids), cinema room, large dining room and rustic kitchen, lovely garden to explore and even a swimming pool if you’re feeling brave enough for a spring dip! While the owners live on site they are completely self-contained so won’t disturb your stay. Dogs are welcome (by prior arrangement) but they’ll have to befriend the resident Great Dane.

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NORTHAMPTONSHIRE

The Cottages, Cottesbrooke

Fancy escaping reality for a bit and cosying down in a luxurious, design-conscious country cottage? Of course. Wren Cottage (sleeps 4) and Figgy Cottage (sleeps 6) in beautiful Cottesbrooke village are two picturesque country retreats renovated by interior designers Stephanie and Caroline, who also happen to be sisters, so it’s all about attention to detail here. Think super king sized beds, luxury linens, brushed brass taps and vibrant tiling, with appliances from Smeg, Fisher and Paykel and Sky Glass TVs so you can veg out with a film in front of the wood burner in comfort. Aaand relax. Bonus points for the EV charging points too.

Kettering Park Hotel and Spa, Kettering

Right at the heart of England and within easy reach of the gorgeous Northants countryside, Kettering Park Hotel and Spa makes a perfect base from which to explore. Head to nearby attractions including Stanwick Lakes, Wicksteed Park, West Lodge Farm Park and Rushden Lakes shopping village. There’s also a family-friendly AA Rosette restaurant and outside dining at the brand new Lawn Club (highly recommend the afternoon teas), plus an indoor heated swimming pool with dedicated family swim times and a super indulgent range of Claudalie spa treatments. There are even dog-friendly rooms in case you want to bring the pooch along and a special “V I Little P” extras package for kids, which includes mini robes, kids menus, seasonal activity packs, bean bag cinema clubs and special events during school holidays.

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SURREY

Foxhills Club and Resort, near Chertsey

For an all-adventure action packed Easter break, Foxhills Club and Resort near Chertsey in Surrey, has it nailed with something to suit every member of the family. More than 200 activities are on offer at the resort each week – from sporty activities to arts and crafts, and adventure clubs – plus there are three golf courses, 11 tennis courts, five swimming pools and adventure playgrounds. Phew! Lucky there’s also a luxury spa for some much needed R&R! And then there’s The Pavilion, a dedicated family building, which is home to a soft play, role-play high street, a games room, two pools and a football net on the green. On Easter Sunday The Pavilion is hosting an Easter Sunday Funday (open to members, hotel guests, and those dining for Easter Sunday lunch) with activities like face painting, a petting zoo and an egg hunt.

Barnett Hill Hotel, near Guildford

Tucked away in the pretty Surrey countryside, Barnett Hill knows how to do Easter and everyone’s welcome. Your little cherubs are treated like the little VIPs they are with an extra special teepee bed, welcome rucksacks and craft kits, and there are comfy dog beds (plus treats) for the fur babies. There’s plenty do do in the area – walking, cycling, gin tasting, crafting – to work up an appetite and enjoy an afternoon tea or a classic Easter Sunday roast dinner with all the trimmings.

Great Fosters, Egham

If you’re craving a dash of Royal elegance this Easter, Great Fosters should do just nicely. This Tudor country house hotel is set in 50 acres of gorgeous gardens and grounds just outside Egham, and whether you’re looking for a getaway for two or a family stay, there’s a room (or suite) that’s perfect – and plenty to do for everyone, including those tricky teenagers. The hotel is also perfectly positioned for other local attractions including Thorpe Park, Legoland, Runnymede National Trust, Windsor Great Park and Virginia Water – all less than 20 minutes’ drive away. There are Easter afternoon teas at the hotel from Mon 27 Mar to Thurs 13 Apr, and on Easter Saturday and Sunday that includes an Easter Egg Hunt for the kiddos. Or perhaps you just fancy a getting the family for Easter Sunday lunch? The Estate Grill is hosting lunch with a special set menu.