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

BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

The Dairy Cottage, The Five Arrows, Waddesdon

Looking for somewhere that feels like you’re miles away from it all but close to amenities, that’s both child-friendly and luxe? Well, check, check, and check! The Dairy Cottage at The Five Arrows checks all the boxes. This bijou self-contained cottage sleeps up to 4 guests in the two generous (and gorgeously decorated) double rooms which have space enough for cots for children. The cottage is a short distance from the main hotel with Waddesdon Manor House and grounds a 20 minute walk away. Then there’s the Waddesdon Greenway cycle route to tire out the troops while other attractions like Aylesbury Waterside Theatre are also easily accessible.

Newbarn Farm, Seer Green

Fancy a wine tasting while the kids run around the fields? You’re in luck – Newbarn Farm has an impressive vineyard in their peaceful woodland setting near Beaconsfield. This self-catering stay is perfect for an authentic taste of farm life (think roaming chickens and bee hives) with an added luxe vibe – a glass of vino in the hot tub please, butler! For large families, the farmhouse sleeps up to 8 adults, plus z-beds and travel cots for little ones, and there’s plenty of fun nearby with Windsor Castle only a 30 minute drive away. 

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OXFORDSHIRE

Bruern Cottages, Cotswolds

These charming Bruern cottages are a great base for exploring the Oxfordshire Cotswolds in one getaway – with Charlbury only a couple kilometres away and gastropub haven Kingham Village almost within arm’s reach, you’re spoilt for choice. If you’re not up for travelling, the 12 cottages are jam-packed with getaway necessities, and sleep anywhere from two to ten people. For quality family time, there are three playgrounds and a two-storey wendy house and games room (with pool and table tennis for teens and older kids). To wind down, take a dip in the pool or melt into a massage in the spa with views of the massive Italianate garden.

Minster Mill, Witney

For a country escape, Minster Mill is an easy choice for the whole family – including four-legged family members. Sitting on the bank of River Windrush, the 65 acres of grounds are ideal for everything from marshmallow roasting at a cosy campfire, to fishing, playing a round of tennis or catching the sunset by the river. For animal lovers, Cotswold Wildlife Park is less than a 20-minute drive away, so you could squeeze it in before a massage in the hotel’s Garden Spa. Sound good? You’ll need to book a room, then – the Scandi-meets-modern style Garden rooms can be interconnected to fit the whole family (3 kids and 2 adults), or the three-bedroom Swan Cottage may be more to your tastes if you‘re after a little more privacy.

Heath Farm Cottages, Chipping Norton

Fancy reconnecting with nature? Heath Farm has five gorgeous cottages in the middle of 70 acres of glorious greenery – you might even spot a chicken or two roaming around. Located in Chipping Norton, each cottage sleeps two to four, plus a cot for babies. For bigger families (hey, the more the merrier), the cottages can be combined to sleep up to six people. There are plenty of activities on the grounds, from a spring-fed lake if you fancy a dip or fishing to a games lawn and yoga stage in the woods. You can also explore the nearby Cheltenham, and Oxford is only 45 minutes away.

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BEDFORDSHIRE

Observatory House, Bedford

Don’t let the super central location (minutes from Bedford’s picturesque Embankment) and neat townhouse façade fool you into thinking this is a bijou residence for small groups. In fact, this historic and characterful pad can sleep up to 20 guests, making it ideal for getting the whole family together in one place – the kids will love the dorm-style attic room where they can all bunk in for sleepover fun, plus there’s a home cinema and roaring fires for cosy nights in. Or, if you’re feeling brave, you can even take a dip in the outdoor pool – brrr! Dogs are welcome too, as long as they’re happy to befriend the lovable resident Great Dane.

The Meadows at Polehanger, Shefford

Love the idea of glamping with the fam but not the idea of sleeping under a drafty, damp canvas in Feb? The gorgeous cabins at Polehanger are the perfect solution, as they have solid roofs and heating, and sleep up to six people each. Plus, they have their own private decking and garden area with firepits, and two of the cabins even have hot tubs (now you’re talking!). If you don’t want the hassle of food shopping, you can even pre-order brekkie, BBQ or firepit packs (with logs and smores ingredients) to keep things easy. You’ll find tonnes of countryside to explore while you’re there too, including 7km of farmland with rivers and woods within the grounds.

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HERTFORDSHIRE

Harestreet Farm Barns, Ardeley

After a peaceful rural location and a self-contained pad for just your gang or an extended group? There are three beautifully converted barns at this family-run farm based in the pretty village of Ardeley, where you’ll also find a local pub, farm shop and café plus walking and cycling routes galore. The Dairy, The Parlour and The Creamery sleep four, seven and five people respectively and have all had modern makeovers with contemporary kitchens and open-plan living spaces combined with exposed beams, log burners and a shared courtyard, garden and terrace.

The Ugley Coachhouse, Bishop’s Stortford

For a little bit of luxe with a countryside vibe, this three-bed, three-ensuite converted coachhouse has all the mod cons, including some you didn’t know you needed – think bathroom mood lighting and electric vehicle charging point. As well as the master suite, the two further bedrooms can be set up as doubles or twins depending on your group, while you’ll have use of a patio and private walled garden all to yourself during your stay. If you’re coming from further afield, Stanstead airport is handily just minutes away. While there’s tonnes to see and do in Bishop’s Stortford, the villages of Stanstead and pretty Saffron Walden (just over the Essex border) are also super close for mooching and pub walks.

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BERKSHIRE

Coworth Park, Ascot

For a break 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 and activities as well as pony rides (giving you the chance to play at the spa). Even your grumbly teens get their own space to game, hang out and have their own movie marathon. The Barn is a relaxed, buzzy restaurant perfect for families and you can even enjoy a sophisticated afternoon tea together if your littlies are partial to a posh sarnie too. The Family Time package starts at £1,010 and you get 50% off a second room for the kids, breakfast, cookies and a film and access to the Kids’ Club.

Fairmont Windsor Park, Old Windsor

Looking for fun on tap for all the family? Fairmont Windsor Park is a country estate that ticks all the boxes. Its proximity to Legoland and Windsor Castle will create more excitement than a bag of Haribo for the kids, while you drape yourself in a towelling robe and head straight to the spa. There are special times for the kids to join you in the pool, but don’t spend all day in there and miss out on the fantastic facilities. There’s a kids’ club, 40 acres of free range fun and top tier dining to enjoy. There are 252 rooms available and you can get 50% a second room for your kids.

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CORNWALL

Rosevarlock, Polzeath

New to the Latitude 50 portfolio is Rosevarlock in Polzeath, perfect for larger family groups as it sleeps 10 in five bedrooms over four floors (got all that?) in one of North Cornwall’s family favourite beachside villages. Enjoy the panoramic sea view from the roof top terrace and enjoy your coffee in peace with a pre-dawn surf check, then head out with the kids for lessons on the waves from one of three surf schools that operate year round from the beach. Cooking al fresco in the outdoor kitchen might be one to save for the summer, but as February also has plenty of dark evenings, enjoy a movie marathon in your very own home cinema complete with state of the art sound system.

Watergate Bay Hotel, Watergate Bay

Watergate Bay is such a family winner that all the family suites are now booked for half term, but there’s still availability in large double rooms with room for an extra bed for a child. With a specialist Kids Zone with free supervision and family entertainment (from trained childcare providers, of course) as well as a surf school and hire on site – they’ll even deliver your wetsuit to your room – this is more akin to a ski holiday than a beach hotel. Also on site are four restaurants, two of which are dog-friendly, and direct access to the two-mile sandy beach of Watergate Bay, complete with hot showers to warm up after the cold surf. Add in the indoor swimming pool, sauna, cliffside hot hut, treatment rooms and ocean view lounge, you won’t need to leave all week. If you do though, there’s plenty to do in nearby Newquay.

The PIG at Harlyn Bay, Nr Padstow

A stay at THE PIG-at Harlyn Bay is like checking into your poshest friend’s really lovely house and perfect for a wild (but luxe) Cornish break. With far-reaching sea views (the white sands of Harlyn with its surf school and beachside sauna are perfect for wild swimming and just 10 mins walk away), oodles of quirks and character and stacks of original features woven into the Medieval, Jacobean, Georgian and newer stone buildings. 11 bedrooms can be found in the main house, fifteen more in the Stonehouse plus four garden wagons can be found as you potter up to the kitchen garden – which guides the seasonal cooking in the two restaurants. Whilst the kids are at the beach, check in for a treatment in the rustic looking but actually super luxe spa, The Potting Shed, or walk the coast path and have the PIG landrover come and pick you up at dark. Take advantage of the Winter Getaway Offer with a stay for two, breakfast and a bottle of wine to take home, from £195.

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SUSSEX

Little Orchard, West Wittering

If you’re looking for a luxury self-catering stay with plenty of space, Little Orchard – part of the Wellies and Windbreaks portfolio – is the place for you. Located in the heart of West Wittering village, just a short walk from the beach and its famous white sand dunes, this gorgeous property sleeps 12 people in five bedrooms, making it ideal for two families – or one extra large family. It’s well set-up for a cosy winter beach escape with a cosy log burner – just fire it up and snuggle up with a glass of something lovely. As well as the main open plan living space, there’s a separate telly room, and outdoors there’s a hot tub for the grown-ups and a trampoline for the kids.

Lubbers, West Wittering

Family friendly, pet friendly and just 100 metres from East Wittering beach – yes, this gorgeous five-bedder with do just nicely thank-you! Another option from Wellies and Windbreaks, Lubbers is a luxury seaside self-catering stay that sleeps up to 10 people. There is a bar area in the open plan living space, a wood burner for these cooler winter months, and a handy utility room to hide all the coats, boots and holiday paraphernalia that seems to materialise when you’re on vacay. Plus, there’s an outdoor shower for hosing off feet (and bodies, if you’re crazy enough to brave the February waters) after a trip to the beach.

Luxury holiday cottages, Cowdray Estate near Midhurst

Prepare for some serious luxury here, yes, even with the kids in tow! Hidden in the gorgeous Cowdray Estate (in the South Downs) – all 16,000-acres of it – are not one, not two but four stunning cottages with the look and feel of a luxury hotel but with all the privacy a self-catering family break demands. There are modern neutral interiors and all the mod cons – that means gorgeously fluffy towels, luxury toiletries and crisp linen for the adults and best of all a ‘Welcome Hamper’ full of gourmet goodies from the Farm Shop & Cafe – which won best farm shop in the Muddy Awards 2022. Ok, let not forget the kids, there’s a shared garden for running off steam, and if you wrap up you’ll want to take advantage of the countless footpaths on the doorstep (quite literally) there are bike tours and guided nature walks available too. You can set off exploring the Cowdray Ruins and the beautiful Cowdray House, and take a wander into the nearby pretty town of Midhurst. Check out Muddy’s review of the cottages.

Dorset Arms, Buckhurst Park, Withyham

There’s as much character, history and loveable quirks you’d expect from a 16th Century pub owned by Lord De La Warr, but The Dorset Arms, has all of that and more. While there is a family room above the pub, a little stroll across the garden takes you to a separate cottage with six beautiful ensuite bedrooms. The picturesque cottage was a former school and having been lovingly refurbished, has subtle touches that make a big difference to your stay – think Nespresso machines, fluffy robes and one room has an adjoining lounge. While they all have beautiful views, and breakfast included the real magic is the venue’s connection to Winnie the Pooh. Buckhurst Park on the edge of the Ashdown Forest is the inspiration for the 100 Acre Wood from the classic children’s story. There’s lots locally for kids to do – lots Pooh- themed from special walks and kid-friendly tearooms.

River House Rye, East Sussex

Dig out the platforms, flares and tie-dye it’s time to step back into the 70s in this 3-bed 70s insured designer home that sleeps 6. Groovy, baby! The decor may be from the past, but the facilities are very much in this century included a a Neff oven and hob in the kitchen, and dining and lounge area with a smart TV. Upstairs there are three bedrooms (two doubles and one king size), all with smart TVs, storage and hairdryers. It has parking for four cars, so you can arrive, unpack and kick back! Rye isn’t car friendly, so when you’re ready to set off exploring, you only need to walk 800 yards and you’re in the town centre. Want to go (a little but wild) in nature? The house has direct access to the river Rother tow-path, although if you the weather allowed you can take blankets and a bottle of red and enjoy in the garden or on the large corner sofa with a film. 

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SURREY

Polesden Garden Cottage, Bookham

When you picture ‘The Garden Cottage‘ at Bookham in Surrey, you’d be forgiven for imagining a modest little Hobbit-type affair tucked away amid the dog roses, but this is more like a petite manor house. The three-bedroom Regency style villa has two bathrooms, a kitchen/diner and sitting room with an open fire, and of course, its own private garden. You’re in the shadow of the main Edwardian house at Polesden Lacey, and guests have free access to Polesden’s house, gardens and grounds, which offer plenty of waymarked trails through woodland and over rolling hills.

Barnett Hill Hotel, near Guildford 

Fancy a half-term stay in the Surrey Hills where you can also sneak a bit of spa action? Of course you do. At Barnett Hill near Guildford in Surrey, your little cherubs are treated like the mini VIPs they are with their own fluffy robes, welcome rucksacks with crafty kits and – our favourite – the option of sleeping in a teepee bed. Aside from the 26 acres of garden and woodlands, there’s plenty for families to do locally including Painshill, Brooklands Museum and Polesden Lacey. And what about the spa, you cry? While the kids are colouring, head off to the Utopia Treatment Rooms for a dreamy massage, facial, mani or pedi. Don’t mind if I do!

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NORFOLK

Mill Farm Eco Barns, Winterton-On-Sea

Mini eco warriors are going to love this! This collection of environmentally-friendly barns, sleeping two, four and eight guests, certainly proves that going green doesn’t mean sacrificing style or comfort. The upside down Grain Barn will particularly appeal to the kids – the bedrooms are downstairs and living accommodation upstairs, taking advantage of the stunning views over Mill Farm’s 2.5 acres of countryside. While you’re enjoying a sundowner (5pm is acceptable!), the kids can get competitive in the on-site games barn. Did I mention it’s a short walk to sandy Winterton beach and the seal pups will still be in situ at Horsey Gap?

The Pilchard, Wells-next-the-Sea

Big Skies Holiday Cottages is a Muddy fave, with lots of lovely coastal self-catering properties to tempt you. Holidaying with another family? This charming three-floor home in Wells, with views over the marshes, sleeps eight very comfortably in two twin rooms and two doubles – and with a seven-night stay split between you, it’s a steal. The kids’ excitement (and sugar levels) will soar when they discover the abundance of ice cream parlours, candy floss and amusement arcades on the doorstep. And everyone will love the much more tranquil, beach hut-fringed Wells beach and pinewoods. Some excellent pubs for grub close by too.

The Grove, Cromer

Just a five-minute stroll from the beach, The Grove will earn you max parent points from the kids. There’s an indoor pool, play area, Cromer Zoo within walking distance, great cycling routes, nearby surf school (dry suit essential!) and adjoining woodlands to run riot in. Take your pick from six unique and individually furnished self-catering holiday cottages, 16 bedrooms in the Georgian guesthouse, or our favourite: the Shepherd’s Lodge which sleeps five. Lounging on the decking in a bubbly hot tub, fizz in hand? Yes, please! Then off to the on-site Massage Hut for a pummelling, before a walk on the pier or a nose around the indie shops and cafés. No time for cooking? No problem! The Grove’s two AA rosette restaurant (with kids’ menu) serves breakfast, afternoon tea and dinner.

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SUFFOLK

The Farmstead, Easton

If it’s an escape to the country to fill little lungs with fresh air that you desire for the half term holidays, then you can’t go wrong with The Farmstead in Easton, Suffolk. These eight new lodges are surrounded by miles of open Suffolk countryside leading down to a pretty river, and are all perfectly self-contained and private, so you don’t have to worry about the neighbours if the kids get a little rowdy. Each lodge is furnished in heavenly style with rustic chic kitchens, log burners and lots of inviting throw-covered chairs. There’s plenty to do in the surrounding area too, with beaches, castles, and farm parks all on the doorstep.

The Ickworth Hotel, near Bury St Edmunds

Delight the whole family with a trip to The Ickworth Hotel, which manages to combine luxury lodgings with kid-friendly activities and amenities perfectly. The hotel is set within the 1,800-acre National Trust Ickworth Estate, so there’s a lot of space to tire out the kids, plus there’s plenty on site to keep everyone happy – a fabulous swimming pool, a crèche, and fun dining experiences such as a Matilda-themed afternoon tea. And, you don’t have to pack everything but the kitchen sink. The hotel has every kid-friendly accessory you could dream of, right up to the rows of little wellies lining the front door!

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CAMBRIDGESHIRE

Clopton Courtyard, Tadlow

Combine the best of both worlds at Clopton Courtyard, a collection of six individually-designed barns that boasts an idyllic Cambs countryside location but is only 20 mins from Cambridge city centre. The space in these eco-friendly barns is ideal for families, with large communal tables, doors that open out onto lovely gardens and even space for the family dog to come (plus three have hot tubs for when the kids are in bed!). The surrounding area is brilliant for children, with the RSPB headquarters The Lodge at Sandy mere minutes away, as well as the National Trust’s Wimpole Hall.

The Fellows House, Cambridge

If you want a cultural city break with the kids, but find traditional hotel set-ups tricky with different bedtimes to consider and a lack of space, then you’ll love The Fellows House in Cambridge, which has apartment-style rooms with both bedrooms and lounge/kitchen areas that are just made for families. There’s also a swimming pool, chic restaurant The Folio Kitchen, and a cute café, The Sage of Cambridge, if you just want to grab a coffee and pastry in the morning before heading off en masse to discover the many historic sights that Cambridge has to offer.

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LEICESTERSHIRE

Dandelion Hideaway, Leicestershire

Deep in the rolling Leicestershire countryside, this pretty glamping spot on Osbaston Farm really pulls out all the stops. Stay in one of their six canvas cottages and curl up with a book on the Chesterfield sofa or relax in the rocking chair – there’s also a large wood burning fire, a farmhouse kitchen and more faded florals, checks and stripes than you can shake a stick at. Get up close and personal with the goats, ponies, chickens and ducks on the farm and when night falls, socialise with your neighbours in the outdoor area and rustle up dinner in the pizza oven. Each cottage sleeps six, so perfect for a large family. Seriously, when can we check in?

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RUTLAND

Exton Park, Rutland

Nestled in rural Rutland and set within the 500 hectares of Exton Park, this charming glamping site is a great choice for families. There are only six tents to choose from (so very discreet and private) and each one comes fully furnished with three bedrooms and a cosy log burning stove and shower – plus, they’re dog-friendly. The beautiful 18th-Century park comes complete with a five-acre walled garden and ornamental lake where you might even spot an osprey or two. Once checked in, light the fire and settle in for a truly relaxing break.

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ESSEX

Browning Bros Water Lily Lodge, Colchester

Hankering after a trip by the water? This stylish three-bed lakeside log cabin is located on an organic family farm. Outside you’ve a hot tub on the decking to sit in and hear the ducks a-quacking, while inside there’s a Scandi-style kitchen and open-plan lounge/diner, complete with log burner if the Feb weather is as chilly as it usually is (although there’s also air conditioned heating). There’s a supermarket close by for must-haves (ahem, wine – it’s half term, after all), plus you’re a short drive from the Barn Brasserie if you want to eat out, with more local pubs to cater for every appetite.

Roslin Beach Hotel, Southend

Don’t fancy cooking and clearing up after the fam this half term – and actually want a bit of luxe to your Essex stay? Welcome to the Roslin Beach Hotel. There’s a spa for you to chill out in (/hide from the family in), and there’s an AA rosette award-winning restaurant for you to dine in complete with kids’ menu. All this with super-comfy beds and impeccable attention to detail in every area you turn – and you’re bang on the seafront. It’s a done deal.

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DERBYSHIRE

Pingle Cottage, Chatsworth Estate

If it’s peace you’re after this half term, you can’t go wrong with this gem of a cottage set in a secluded spot in the Chatsworth Estate in the Peak District. With wow views across the Calton Lees valley and upside-down living that makes the most of the views and the private garden, Pingle Cottage sleeps four (and furry friends, so Fido can come along for the fun). You’ll be spoilt for choice for walks, and magnificent Chatsworth House with its amazing adventure playground and gardens are close by. Plus, cosy pub The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley is little over a mile away. How’s that for an end of walk bonus?

Treehouse at Callow Hall, Ashbourne

Who can resist a treehouse hidden in the woods? And the treehouses (which sleep five) that sit above Callow Hall are really something else. Relaxed and rustic but also surprisingly spacious and sophisticated, it’s no wonder Callow Hall has won accolades galore (including The Times’ Hotel of the Year). Set amid 35 acres of woodland and meadow, this back-to-nature escape has all the comforts of a contemporary country house hideaway, with plenty to do on your doorstep. Play in the woods, yomp along Peak District paths or hire one of the hotel’s bikes and take to the Tissington Trail which runs past the hotel and into the heart of the Peak District – perfect family cycling terrain.

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DORSET

The Chesil Lockout, Fortuneswell, Isle of Portland

A three-storey, six-bed terraced house, overlooking guess where? Sleeping 12 people (and one well-behaved dog), with open-plan sitting and dining room, kitchen, two bathrooms and gardens, the house is located in the village of Fortuneswell, where the iconic shingle Chesil Beach connects the ‘island’ to the mainland. When you’re paddling or skimming stones on Chesil Beach, there’s the pretty Church Ope Cove, 16th-century Portland Castle, Tout Quarry sculpture park and the Portland Bill lighthouse to explore.

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SOMERSET

Homewood, Freshford, near Bath

This stylish country house hotel just outside Bath makes a rather glam base for a Bath city break with the fam, especially as kids under 12 stay for free during school holidays. It’s eclectically decorated, with gorgeous rooms (some with hot tubs), the fab Olio restaurant (with children’s menu), a heated indoor pool and gardens. Google Chrome Cast, Nintendo Switch and larders full of goodies will keep your small people happy while you’re in the hotel’s spa.

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KENT

Park Farm Barn, Throwley

This beautiful converted barn set in an acre of grounds, in the middle of beautiful countryside makes the perfect destination for your holiday gathering for family and friends. Use it as a springboard to explore the local area – you’re perfectly placed for the gorgeous medieval market town of Faversham – or just a little further afield you’ll find the coastal cool of Whitstable or shopping and cultural destination, Canterbury. Alternatively, sit tight and soak up the surroundings and gorgeous walks on your doorstep. The property consists of two separate self-contained units linked via an internal door through each living room: The Barn and The Little Barn. The whole property is let together to create a multi-functional space for groups or families, sleeping 12 in total.​

Oldestairs House, Kingsdown

Oldestairs House is a beautiful detached family holiday home, with a wonderful sea-view and just seconds from the beach in Kingsdown. Ideally situated with the cool coastal town of Deal just to the north, the house sleeps eight guests comfortably in four large bedrooms. The spacious and stunning interiors and large garden make it ideal for families, couples and groups looking to escape to the coast. It’s just one of the 140 hand-picked holiday homes offered by Keepers Cottages. These local holiday letting experts have curated a selection of luxury self-catering cottages across Deal, Kingsdown, Whitstable, Folkestone and Broadstairs. 

West Bay House, Westgate-on-Sea

Be one of the first to stay in this newly-refurbished gem on the North Kent coastline, near hipster hangout Margate. Just a few minutes’ drive away from the bustling bars of the bigger seaside towns, this lesser-known coastal destination offers all the attractions a girl could want but is also blessed with a beautiful beach and fewer crowds – perhaps why it gained the nickname ‘Mayfair by the Sea’. Having very recently been given a total facelift, the property itself is now a luxurious 21^st Century version of its original grandeur. The vast and opulent house boasts unbeatable views – the sunsets are stunning – and sleeps 18 people across nine bedrooms and bathrooms, making it the perfect getaway for groups and large families. 

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GLOUCESTERSHIRE

ARC Painswick, Painswick

This elegant escape with the X-factor combines Cotswold charm with decadent 21st Century design touches – and it sleeps up to 24 people, so your friends and family will want to pack their bags too. Cosy up in nine beautifully-styled, ensuite bedrooms, all of which boast stunning views over the Painswick Valley with its rolling hills. Socialise in the dining room with its long, rustic table, two lounge areas (one for the kids, one for you), toast marshmallows around the courtyard fire pit, or whip up some Negronis in the fabulous bar. There’s even a Lobby app to curate your stay, from local croissants and OJ delivered to your door to a private bartender for cocktails night, in-house yoga or a personal photographer to document the getaway.

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WORCESTERSHIRE

The Lygon Arms, Broadway

With its crackling open fires, deep leather sofas, and individually styled rooms, Broadway’s famously glam 600-year-old coaching inn is the perfect place to put your feet up for a few days. There’s a spa and fabulous restaurant for you, and kids will love the Little Explorers Package where kids stay and dine free during school holidays. Fuel some healthy family competition with the puzzles and board games or burn off some energy splashing around in the indoor pool. It’s perfectly located for some bracing February walks too, with Broadway Tower just up the road. Prices for the package start from £285 per room per night.

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DEVON

Churchill Lodge, Kentisbury Grange, near Barnstaple

A rural defrazzler, this lakeside lodge is one of 11 in the swish grounds of Kentisbury Grange close to the North Devon coast. It’s modern, roomy, sleeps four and has a private terrace with a hot tub where you can enjoy your morning coffee with just the sound of the tweeting birds for company. It’s wonderfully peaceful and great for kids, and when you’ve had enough of self-catering there’s a plush restaurant up at the Grange to take the strain. We’ve tried it, it’s fab.

Saunton Sands Apartments, Saunton

Perfect for large families, Saunton Sands Hotel has seven standard self-catering apartments that sleep four to eight people, with all the perks of a luxurious 4-star hotel holiday at a fraction of the cost. As well as three miles of golden sands and sea outside your window, you’ve access to all the Source Spa and Wellness facilities, and their family entertainment, including two hours a day of free childcare (yep, free!) so a treat for you and fun for the kids all laid on.

The PIG at Combe, Gittisham, near Honiton

The PIG Hotels have carved a niche in being classy yet laidback, making this Elizabethan bolthole in the Otter Valley perfect for a family stay. You have all the joy of grown-up cocktails by the fire in an indulgent hotel environment without ever being made to feel guilty about having your young tearaways in tow. Kids will love the walk-in monsoon showers, wooden swing, spacious gardens, countryside walks and nearby beach (just 8 miles away) while you will love the choice of relaxing beauty treatments and the offer of a lift in their Landy when you fancy a break from being designated driver. Take advantage of the Winter Getaway Offer with a stay for two, breakfast and a bottle of wine to take home, from £195.

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NORTHAMPTONSHIRE

Kettering Park Hotel and Spa, Kettering

This modern boutique hotel is located at the heart of Northants and within easy reach of the gorgeous nearby countryside and attractions including Stanwick Lakes, Wicksteed Park, West Lodge Farm Park and Rushden Lakes shopping village. There’s a child-friendly AA Rosette restaurant and an indoor heated swimming pool with dedicated family swim times. You can book a family room or interconnecting rooms for older kids, plus there are even dog-friendly rooms in case you want to bring the pet pooch along. There’s also 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.

The Falcon, Castle Ashby

Fancy playing house in a 2-bedroom cottage set in the peaceful village of Castle Ashby, forming part of Castle Ashby Estate’s Muddy Award-winning Falcon Hotel? Situated in a converted agricultural building just moments from the main hotel and ideal for families, this luxe cottage is the perfect option if you’re looking for the authentic countryside feel, with the restaurant, wellness facilities, swimming lake and yoga studio close to hand. Castle Ashby Gardens are open all year round with a menagerie (hello meerkats and marmosets), children’s play area and arboretum to run wild in. You even get complimentary wellies to use during your stay.

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HAMPSHIRE

Chewton Glen, New Milton

From family-friendly suites to super-cool treehouses, you won’t forget a half-term stay at Chewton Glen in a hurry. Explore the New Forest or kick back in the spa while the nippers have an adventure at the Beehive kids’ club. There are junior and teen cooking courses in The Kitchen on Wed 15 Feb and relaxed dining in The Kitchen the whole family will love. Even better, kids stay free during the holidays.

The Cholderton Estate, Cholderton

Love board games and get-away-from-it-all family time? This secluded self-catering cottage and glamping site on the Hants/Wilts border is close to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Stonehenge and part of a fully-organic 2,500-acre working countryside estate. Great for families, the two-bedroom cottage has a log-fired hot tub, kitchen and comes with a welcome hamper of tasty essentials. And if you don’t fancy cooking the whole stay, there’s a cosy little boozer just five minutes’ drive away.

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ISLE OF WIGHT

Tapnell Farm, West Wight

A former dairy farm in West Wight, surrounded by glorious pastures, meadows and coastal woodlands, the eco-conscious Tapnell Farm has fun heated glamping stays and bricks-and-mortar cottages, great for a half term stay. Kids will love the critters, furry friends and fun things to do in the brilliant farm park.

Pinkmead Estate & Vineyard, Cowes

Opposite the island’s famous Folly Pub and the Isle of Wight Festival site on the River Medina, the Pinkmead Estate and Vineyard has twenty-four acres of absolutely stunning uninterrupted riverfront views and gorgeous wildlife – all exclusively yours for the half term. The main house sleeps six and outside, there’s a separate Kitchen Garden and Yoga Studio with its own cinema.

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WILTSHIRE

Woolley Grange Hotel, Woolley, Bradford on Avon

If ever a hotel was designed to stop you losing your mind when your little darling wants to play hide and seek again…and again…then Woolley Grange near Bradford on Avon is it. Its entire focus is on family breaks – which means luxuriously-designed bedrooms complete with baby and toddler equipment for littlies. The hotel offers a baby listening and sitting service, and packages where 90 minutes of childcare comes included while you escape for a spa treatment. Set just outside Bath in 14 acres of beautiful grounds, there’s also heated outdoor and indoor pools, plenty of daily activities for kids and a restaurant that accommodates all ages while using as much produce as possible grown on its own gardens. It’s perfect for trips out to Longleat, too.

The Farm at Avebury, Beckhampton near Marlborough

Seeing as this luxury accommodation is on a working farm, it’s no surprise to find out that there are two children’s mobile ‘petting zoo’ sessions for this February 2023 half-term (see website for details). Chloe’s Mobile Farm will be bringing a selection of small animals to this contemporary rural hideaway near Avebury for children to pet, stroke and feed in small groups. Then if you need to calm them down after all that excitement, book them into a family yoga session with you, held in the (warm) converted barn. On days when you’re not busy with activities, which are free of charge to guests that week, explore the surrounding area like the ancient site of Silbury HIll, right outside The Farm gates, and take advantage of the many walks you can download from the website, ideal for all sorts of leg lengths.

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WARWICKSHIRE

Coombe Abbey, Binley near Coventry

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

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 family-friendly matinee and then head back for some top-notch food. You’re right in the centre of town here and there’s always loads on – or if you venture a little further afield, you can check out the nearby Butterfly Farm or Warwick Castle. 

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WEST MIDLANDS

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, and the Grade-II listed building comes complete 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.

Norbury Hall, Ledbury

Go off-grid and spend a week at Norbury Hall at Walcot Hall in Shropshire, a converted former village hall. This relaxed venue is surrounded by swathes of countryside so kick back on the decking, enjoy a glass of fizz and let the kids run wild. There’s a pub just down the road too, or plenty of space for family barbecues.

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