Spring break! 50+ getaways to book now for Easter and May half term
Winging it during the school hols? Easter’s coming in hot (May half term will be here before you know it), so we’ve put together a list of the best getaways to brighten your diary. You’re welcome.
BEDFORDSHIRE BERKSHIRE BUCKINGHAMSHIRE CAMBRIDGESHIRE CHESHIRE CORNWALL DERBYSHIRE DEVON DORSET ESSEX GLOUCESTERSHIRE HAMPSHIRE HERTFORDSHIRE KENT LEICESTERSHIRE LONDON NORFOLK NORTHAMPTONSHIRE NOTTINGHAMSHIRE OXFORDSHIRE RUTLAND SOMERSET SUFFOLK SURREY SUSSEX WILTSHIRE WORCESTERSHIRE YORKSHIRE
BEDFORDSHIRE
Lookout Lodge, Whipsnade Zoo
Stay overnight at Whipsnade Zoo and enjoy after-hours tours of the zoo at sunset, after-dark and in the morning. You’ll be looked after by the wildlife team – glass of fizz on arrival, two-course dinner and breakfast all provided – plus the cosy lookout lodge (it sleeps four) comes with your own private veranda so you can sit back, relax and listen to the animals during the day.
BERKSHIRE
Coworth Park, Sunningdale
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 7-room Kids’ Club with games and activities, as well as pony rides (giving you the chance to spa it up). Even your grumbly teens get their own space to game, hang out, and have a movie marathon. Over Easter, there’s plenty to keep the digital nanny at bay, from segwaying and treasure hunts to crafts and baking. 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 two room Family Time deal from £820.
LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, Windsor
There’s always stacks of fun to be had at Berkshire’s LEGOLAND hotel and resort. The UK’s first ever LEGO Woodland themed holiday village opened last year with 150 Lodges, sleeping 2-5 people with a separate sleeping nest for little adventurers. There’s 10 Premium Lodges which host up to 7 people too. Enjoy the Clubhouse Restaurant and Bar, plus play areas and an enchanting nature trail before hitting the theme park hard. This Easter, they can enjoy parades, a LEGO Easter Egg Hunt, seasonal brick building challenges, exclusive Pop Badges and more, on top of the usual fun. Overnight stays are from £115pp per person. About time to block out the diary.
BUCKINGHAMSHIRE
The Five Arrows, Waddesdon
The Five Arrows boutique hotel on the Rothschilds’ Waddesdon Estate makes an idyllic family getaway. All its refurbed 16 bedrooms (bar one) are set up for children and tiny tots bunking down for the night. But we reckon its most lovely family rooms are the two Junior Suites at the bottom of the courtyard, and the self-catering Dairy Cottage, which has two double rooms and sits in a peaceful spot away from the main hotel. Bring Fido too – five of the rooms are dog friendly and they’re welcome everywhere in the hotel except the restaurant. Once you’ve had your fill of the hotel’s 2AA Rosette-grade menus, stroll down to the grand grounds of Waddesdon Manor, which at Easter will be blooming with spring blossom. The manor house will be open to visitors too: check out its photography exhibition by Hélène Binet, hop along to the Easter Trail, or just take a picnic and enjoy the sunshine (here’s hoping!).
Horwood House, nr Milton Keynes
This independent hotel and spa near Milton Keynes has been titivated thanks to a £6m glow-up – and it’s now a gorgeously comfortable choice for families looking for a few nights’ break in the North Bucks countryside. We reckon the Insta-friendly Manor Suites are your best bet, each with a grand bay window with sweeping views, their own living room and dining room, and art-deco bathrooms. Sweet dreams are guaranteed in the super-soft kingsize beds, and if you’re staying en famille, the hotel can arrange beds for little ones on request. There’s plenty of family-friendly fun to be had locally too. Once the kids have finished splashing about in the hotel’s 15m pool (between either 4pm-6pm or 9am-10am), you’ve got Silverstone Museum, Bletchley Park and Woburn Safari Park on the doorstep. To make it super-easy, Horwood’s Wild at Heart family break includes tickets to the safari park, a £30 dinner allowance per adult and kids eat free.
CAMBRIDGESHIRE
The Lodge, Duxford
If your idea of a family break involves a little edge with your elegance, The Lodge in Duxford ticks all the boxes. Bold, stylish, and effortlessly cool, this boutique stay offers dark and moody interiors with a splash of eclectic charm. The feature super king room oozes personality, with plush furnishings and a freestanding tub that practically begs for a bubble-filled soak. Need more space? Interconnect with Loft 4 for a roomy family suite that sleeps five—perfect for post-museum downtime after a day exploring the Imperial War Museum or the picturesque villages nearby. Chic, cosy, and packed with character, this is a stay with serious style credentials.
University Arms, Cambridge
A city break with brains and beauty? University Arms in Cambridge delivers both in spades. This grand, history-soaked hotel is the perfect base for a cultured Easter escape, with the city’s cobbled streets, green spaces, and the iconic River Cam just a stroll away. Little explorers (and their grown-ups) can soak up centuries of knowledge at nearby museums before retreating to the hotel’s elegant, supremely comfy rooms. And with a generous 50% off a second room for the kids, there’s plenty of space for late-night giggles and a good night’s sleep.
CHESHIRE
Lakeside Cottage, Nantwich
April has landed, which should mean the great outdoors are yours to grasp. And this cottage sits in the formidable grounds of Dorfold Hall – the Grade I-listed Jacobean mansion that dishes out English charm in buckets – which means you and your brood have 19 acres of parkland to play with. Inside, interiors are cosy and characterful, with crooked exposed beams, a 400-year-old sandstone fireplace, and a standalone bath. There’s space for up to 4 people and a terrace for your morning coffees with lakeside views plus a winding trail takes you beneath the boughs of a thousand-year-old chestnut tree.
The West End, Hawarden Castle
Looking to lord it up? How about taking over your own castle for a few days? Something that’s on the cards at the eternally wholesome Hawarden Estate. Over in The West End – a vast 3-storey residence housed within an 18th-century castle – guests potter around its private woodland garden, simmer in its wood-fired hot tub and pull out hot, billowing pizzas from its outdoor pizza oven. And because this is the Hawarden Estate, beautifully-curated interiors are a dead cert, from carefully sourced antique furniture and Damien Hirst originals to gorgeous bedrooms which can sleep up to 10. All this, plus foraging walks, wild swimming, private dining and the walled garden sauna. Magic.
CORNWALL
SeaSpace, Porth, Cornwall
On the edge of Newquay and overlooking the Atlantic, SeaSpace is a lifestyle-led, coastal open-house aparthotel with a neighbourhood energy at its heart, and super family friendly. Surf at Porth beach, or Watergate Bay, eat in the newly opened west coast style eatery, Tallo, or swim in the Miami-inspired pool. Over Easter, get riddle-solving in their action-packed trail, and take on the outdoor maze, or just head to the beach. Studio stays are just £45pppn.
Duchy of Cornwall Holiday Cottages, Cornwall and Isles of Scilly
Stay in one of four luxury self-catering holiday cottages on St Mary’s, the largest island of the Isles of Scilly. With stunning views and comfortable surroundings, Duchy of Cornwall Holiday Cottages have everything you need to enjoy a magical break. Three of the Scilly cottages are still available Easter week, or, book a stay in late March into early April and save 20%. Other cottages are available back on the mainland, including near Restormel Castle.
POD St Ives, Cornwall
A new addition to the Carbis Bay Collection is glamping Carbis Bay style! POD St Ives has five glamping pods nestled amongst rolling hills on the outskirts of St Ives and Carbis Bay. Choose from 1-bed quirky mezzanine pods with outdoor bathtubs to large 2 bed ensuite pods with hot tubs. All the pods have gated enclosed gardens providing a secure area where pets are welcome. All PODS have access to the Nest Spa Garden, and also access to the facilities and restaurants at the hotel itself, where kids are welcome in the pool (set hours) and can access the blue flag sandy beach at Carbis Bay with watersports. It is also a short walk along the coast path into St Ives, or, catch the train.
Aspects Holidays, Cornwall
Depending which week your May half term is, Praahola at Praa Sands has availability in May via Aspects Holidays – and they also have lots of other gorgeous options at various locations across Cornwall. Check out their last minute offers for up to 20% off various weeks in April and May. Aspects Holidays are a family-owned Cornish agency business who have been renting holiday properties since 1989, so they know a thing or two about what works! Their team of holiday co-ordinators are all local and love Cornwall; always on hand to help with everything from finding the perfect property to places to eat, where to walk the dog and lots more! No matter what kind of Cornish holiday you’re after, from sea view apartments to rural boltholes, traditional Cornish cottages and modern houses, with or without dogs, children or even solo travelling, they have plenty of suggestions.
DERBYSHIRE
Bike & Boot, Hope Valley
If you’re after a Peak District adventure where no one minds about muddy boots, it doesn’t get more family (and four paw)-friendly than this place. The best of the great outdoors is on your doorstep (Stanage Edge is close by along with climbing, brilliant bike rides and bike hire options) and the rooms are fab for families , especially those with dogs in tow. It’s boutique, but on a budget, with playful design features and stacks of freebies like free cake, movies and doggy perks thrown in. Read Muddy’s review here.
Chatsworth Escapes, Peak District
A lovely collection of cottages and heritage properties with gorgeous Interiors and furnishings chosen from Chatsworth and local makers, and books and art from the Devonshire family’s personal collection. Park Farm House is a beauty and still has availability. The winding track passes through Stand Wood before opening up to reveal the cottage, framed by meadows and woodland. Family adventures from the doorstep on Beeley Moorland and the Chatsworth Estate, with Chatsworth House and Garden just a short drive away.
DEVON
Two Mill Cottage, Kenn
This stylish 3-bed cottage in a tranquil village close to Exeter is the latest stay from The Ley Arms, Kenn’s village pub. It joins their four beautiful dog-friendly boutique rooms and glamorous Cramwell Cottage down the lane. Like their other stay options, it exudes opulence and luxury (and a private hot tub) thanks to unique antique furnishings, plush drapes and zebra print rugs. It’s a splash of the cosmopolitan in the countryside, with rolling Devon field views from your bedroom’s balcony. Do drop in to the family-friendly pub for a cocktail – they’re very good – along with an excellent gastropub-style menu, from breakfast though to steak nights, and a slap-up Sunday lunch loved by locals.
The Barn, Praktyka, Buckland Brewer
Seeking a deeper de-frazzle than just a few days at a bucolic retreat? Praktyka is your place. Described by Wallpaper as ‘the glamping spot all creatives should know‘, this two-bedroom barn has woven the ethos of slowing down and mindful practice into its DNA. Combining hammocks to laze in and hedgerows to wander, a cosy wood-burner and wifi (but no TV), plus the chance for mums and daughters to spend the morning making jewellery together, it’s the ultimate in simple family bonding.
Lower Keats Glamping, Tytherleigh
For those who fancy the Great Outdoors without the camping, check out these 6 safari tents, designed with all the luxuries of a boutique hotel, including hot power showers on demand, your own toilet and new for 2025 – electricity! So no worries about your phone running out of charge. You can also book and off-grid wood-fired hot tub where you can relax in the ambience of woodsmoke and warm water. And they’re approved by Loose Women‘s Nadia Sawalha.
DORSET
Bear’s Den, nr Shaftesbury
Close to the Somerset/Dorset border near the hilltop town of Shaftesbury (independent shops, laid back foodie pub The Grosvenor Arms and the ‘Hovis’ Gold Hill), and surrounded by 40 acres of glorious countryside, Bear’s Den, a stone converted barn on a working livery farm is big enough for six, with a BBQ and enclosed gardens (safe and secure for kids and dogs). If this doesn’t suit, Dorset Coastal Cottages have over 500 other gorgeous self-catering holiday cottages, converted barns, houses, apartments and quirky places to stay, close to Dorset’s Jurassic Coast.
ESSEX
Lee Wick Farm, St Osyth
Glamping doesn’t come much better than St Osyth’s Lee Wick Farm. Each of the cabins and pods can accommodate up to two adults and two children and have en-suite facilities and kitchen areas, with private log fired hot tubs available to add to your booking (yes please). Got a bigger party? They’ve two cottages available, one sleeping seven and one up to 12. We say go for the latter, with its large open plan kitchen, dining and living area with log burner. There’s also a courtyard garden with seating and BBQ for sunny days. Oh, and of course there’s WiFi for kids (ahem, and you) who just can’t live without it.
Paper Mill Island Lodge, Little Baddow
Want to chill in a stylish lodge with its own private river access? Us too. Over in Little Baddow, Paper Mill Island Lodge is the perfect place for a relaxing stay for up to four. There’s a large double bedroom with ensuite shower room, open plan kitchen and living area (complete with sofa bed). Then there’s the double doors that lead to an enclosed decking area, looking out over the river. You can even bring your fur baby along. Picture yourself watching canal boats float by at the adjacent Paper Mill Lock Tearooms while tucking into breakfast, toasted sarnies, cake and more. Yup; sounds pretty damn good to us, too.
GLOUCESTERSHIRE
Calcot & Spa, Tetbury
Calcot & Spa has 5-star appeal for grown ups and littles alike. Make the most of one of the best spas in the UK, which includes a large, heated indoor pool. There’s a playground to explore and half of the 35 rooms are located in a dedicated family building, with a collection of large suites available. Dine at the Brasserie or laid-back Hive, which has a children’s nook for afternoon tea, and make the most of The Playbarn, Calcot’s Ofsted registered kids club. From £294pn.
Cotswold House Hotel & Spa, Chipping Campden
This beautiful Grade II-listed hotel is a peak Cotswolds-core getaway. Situated in the buzzing town of Chipping Campden, this award-winning luxe retreat has the comfiest rooms and a dreamy spa with heated pool. There’s free Wifi (the kids will be happy!) and 28 rooms to choose from. Book one of the suites with a separate lounge and patio, or a Hot Tub Room for a treat. Dine at the sophisticated Hidcote Brasserie & Grill and sip cocktails in the elegant bar. Nearby there’s plenty to do, from Cotswold Farm Park to Broadway Tower all within 15 minutes drive. From £125pn.
HAMPSHIRE
The Running Horse, Littleton, Winchester
Giddy up! Located in the cute country village of Littleton, near Winchester, The Running Horse is a charming, relaxed, family and dog-friendly inn with comfortable rooms and very decent pub food in the restaurant. A short drive from historic Winchester, there are beautiful walking trails right on the doorstep. If you’re planning a break with the kids, The Running Horse close to brilliant Hampshire family attractions including Marwell Zoo, The Watercress Line and Winchester Science Centre.
The Bell Inn, Bramshaw, New Forest
Just 10 minutes’ drive from Paulton’s Park (and Peppa Pig World!) with the whole National Park to explore, this character-packed 18th Century New Forest coaching inn has ponies clip-clopping along the road outside and always a warm welcome for families. Dining in the cosy restaurant is a real highlight. Traditional and contemporary British fare is well executed and makes the most of excellent local and seasonal ingredients.
HERTFORDSHIRE
St Michael’s Manor, St Albans
Located a stone’s throw from the centre of St Albans, St Michael’s Manor is a little oasis of calm and luxury and perfect for a family getaway. While the kids run free in the gardens (all 5 acres) and watch wildlife swooping over the picturesque lake you can kick-back with a cocktail or two from the elegant bar. There’s also a fab restaurant (with children’s menu) and z-beds and cots can be added to the larger rooms. All this, and it’s within easy reach of the Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour and Willows Activity Farm.
Tewinbury Farm Hotel, Tewin
After a peaceful, rural location with plenty on offer to keep the kids entertained? Tewinbury is the answer. This working farm has 700 acres of farmland with walking and cycling routes galore plus on-site restaurants, kids workshops and a spacious cinema/games room. Book a Family or Family Plus room and two kids (under 12) stay for free. Available 1-16 Apr.
KENT
Roseyard, Eastry
This rural retreat, which oozes understated luxury, offers a flexible space that’s perfect for big group bookings. There’s three buildings – The Brick Barn, The Cartlodge and The Stable – all within metres of one another but giving big groups much-needed private space. Across the three, there’s 11 bedrooms (9 ensuite, 1 family bathroom), 2 kitchens, multiple living areas, beautiful gardens, outside dining, a playroom and two dining areas, one of which can seat all 22 guests. Oh, and have we mentioned the swish pool house, plus gym? Surrounded by glorious countryside, yet close to the Kent coast for beach days, you’re also spoilt with world famous golf courses, beautiful walks and historic towns on the doorstep.
Bosun Cottage (from Coaste), Kingsdown
Tucked away at the foot of the cliffs on Kingsdown beach, Bosun Cottage is a super-stylish hideaway offering total escapism set in a dramatic seaside setting with uninterrupted views. There are breath-taking walks aplenty: take the Kingsdown coastal path across to St Margaret’s Bay (look out for Fleming’s 007 bus), towards the lighthouse and White Cliffs for a spot of nostalgia. Should you long for just a little taste of coastal cool, you’re just five minutes outside the lively fishing town of Deal. This property sleeps four, across two bedrooms – plus, if the weather allows there’s also a beautiful sunny back garden as well as seating at the front overlooking the beach and out to sea.
Sunray, from Bloom Stays, Dungeness
There is no beach house closer to both the sea and the dramatic backdrop that is the power station on Dungeness Beach than Sunray. But, best of all, this unassuming white cottage has a secret hidden within. Inside you’ll find cool, vintage styling which has been weaved around a magnificent original railway carriage, which on first impression appears to be passing through the middle of the building from the lounge into the master bedroom. As well as being a seriously quirky and original place to stay, it’s also a family-friendly home – with plenty of space across three bedrooms, bunks in the family room and a pool table in the lounge. It sleeps 8 in total and two dogs are allowed.
LEICESTERSHIRE
Marsh Mallow Cottage, Wymeswold
Fancy a family escape to the country? Marsh Mallow Cottage is a brand spankingly renovated period cottage in the pretty village of Wymeswold, nestled in the gently rolling landscape of the Leicestershire Wolds. This gorgeous self-catering pad offers 5 luxe bedrooms, sleeping up to 10 guests, so plenty of room for the whole family to rattle around. Inside, you can expect rustic, exposed beams and original features alongside snazzy, high-spec fixtures and fittings, vast patio windows looking out onto the enclosed garden and a spacious, open-plan kitchen/dining space with an Everhot cooker and the essential wine fridge, two living rooms and a games room (formerly a shop front) for keeping everyone entertained. It’s even dog-friendly. Don’t fancy slaving away over a hot stove? Book the bespoke private dining package.
LONDON
Pan Pacific London, City of London
Easter couldn’t be sweeter at the Pan Pacific London thanks to its Easter Egg-scape offer (until 21 April), which includes up to 25% off room and breakfast rates and an Easter-themed welcome, think cookies on arrival and towel animals awaiting in-room. And what amazing family rooms they are. Book a deluxe double double, which comes with two huge beds and space for an extra (and complimentary) roll out bed or cot too. There’s also a warm swimming pool (where kids are invited to swim between 7-9pm) which comes complete with with floats and noodles, and don’t miss dinner at Straits Kitchen, where kids under 6 eat free and under 12s half price. Throw in a spot of sightseeing – the hotel’s within walking distance of the Tower of London and Spitalfields’ Urban Farm – and it’s a total winner of a trip.
Park Plaza London Riverbank, Vauxhall
Book the Ultimate Family Suite at the Park Plaza, which is designed by families for families, and you’ll be blown away by all the extras – chalkboard walls, bunk beds, selection of games, treat trolley (for parents and kids), kids’ cabin and beanbags. There’s even a special concierge who can do things like help you book activities in the capital and get hold of the kids’ favourite snacks. Rooms sleep up to two adults and three children. And did we mention there’s a pool too?
NORFOLK
Scotgate Cottage, Great Hockham
Nestled within 5 acres of rolling Norfolk countryside, in the picture perfect village of Great Hockham, you’ll find Scotgate Cottage. A lovingly and thoughtfully restored 1950s cottage which packs a serious punch on the family staycay scale. With its adjoining annexe, Scotgate Barn, the entire space can accommodate up to 23 guests. And to keep you all entertained there’s oodles of private, enclosed space for kids (and dogs) to enjoy, an enviable garden, a well-stocked fishing lake, all-weather sports court, large patio area for wining, dining and barbecuing, and that’s not even the half of it! Inside you’ll find a heated pool, sauna, hot tub and games room with pool table, darts (and a bar). There’s seriously something to keep everyone happy here (we’re already picturing ourselves poolside with a glass of vino!).
The Kelling Estate, nr Holt
Sitting pretty within 2,000 acres of the most gorgeous countryside, a stay in any of the 10 strong, seriously chic self-catering properties on The Kelling Estate, is a staycay dream come true. Sleeping between 1 and 8, you can choose between classic, countrycore cottages, sleek barn conversions, cute studio, or the recently renovated Stable Galleries (all named after famous race horses which we love). If you can prise yourself away from your lodging, there’s no end of lovely things to do nearby, including a mooch around the gorgeous market town of Holt, a trip to the beach (Salthouse is just five minutes away), as well as all manner of countryside walks. There’s also two full-sized, all weather sports courts on site for a spot of tennis or pickle ball action and an all new, natural, kids play area, so you really don’t have to travel far for entertainment, or to tire those kids out! Winning.
NORTHAMPTONSHIRE
Morland Manor, Ashton Estate, Oundle
If you’re looking to go all to the manor born on your holidays, head straight for the utterly breathtaking Ashton Estate, where Morland Manor is one of the largest of a clutch of beautifully appointed self-catering stays. You’d be forgiven for thinking you’d landed in a Jane Austen novel, with a touch of Swallows and Amazons thrown in for the kids, of course. This gorgeous Grade II listed stone property sleeps 10, boasting 5 bedrooms and spectacular views over the Estate’s cricket field and beyond, housing a delightful collection of antiques furnishings and art. Families will love exploring the acres of private woodland on the Estate, as well as the nature shepherd’s hut, where you’ll find wildlife books and binoculars to help you get spotting. Oh and, bonus points, you can even land your helicopter here.
NOTTINGHAMSHIRE
Bell Tent Village, Nottingham
It may be land-locked, but this is the place to head for if you’ve got waterbabies. A collection of swanky safari and bell tents that sit right next door to the National Water Sports Centre, you won’t need to go far for water-fuelled fun. With an inflatable waterpark, rapids, swim lake and paddleboarding, you could try a different watersport every day. So-called ‘summer camp’ bookings (that’s family-friendly stays) are still available for Easter and half term, from £100pn, but filling up fast.
OXFORDSHIRE
The Randolph Hotel, Oxford
You’d be hard pushed to find a more iconic hotel in the city of Dreaming Spires. As the haunt of Oxford alumni like Lewis Carroll, JRR Tolkien and Oscar Wilde in days gone by (plus a starring role in Inspector Morse), The Randolph is groaning with history and its location is ace for city-centre exploration. The recently revamped hotel is also Instagram catnip, with wood panelling, kitsch prints, and chandeliers galore – and the 5-star rooms include connecting rooms to accommodate families up to 4. Can’t make it for a stay? Visit The Alice restaurant for lunch, dinner or its excellently quirky Mad Hatter-style afternoon tea or toast a day’s sightseeing over a cocktail at The Morse Bar.
RUTLAND
The Barnsdale, Oakham
Perched at the edge of Rutland Water, this modern country-casual yet chic hotel comes with 45 charming, individually-furnished rooms, 3 of which are adjoining family rooms, offering a master suite alongside thoughtfully designed adjoining children’s rooms. Kids staying in the bunk beds are treated to a cuddly lion and a storybook to take home and younger guests will love the hotel’s outdoor play areas and classic board games to enjoy in the Rod Room. If you’re venturing outdoors, the Wellie Wall has boots to borrow in all sizes, so the whole family can explore the gorgeous walks to be had around Rutland Water.
SOMERSET
Hadspen Glamping, Hadspen, nr Bruton and Castle Cary
Get back to nature – luxury nature, that is – in three gorgeous off grid (but with good 4G and USB phone charging) canvas safari lodges in a peaceful valley in the Somerset countryside. Named AA Glampsite of the Year 24/25 and the only AA5 star glamping in Somerset, the solar-powered lodges have fully equipped kitchens, ensuite showers, woodburners, BBQs and outdoor wood-fired hot tubs * sigh*. You’re right next door to The Newt in Somerset with its magnificent gardens, garden café, aerial walkway and Roman villa (both of which kids will love). Just up the road, the quirky indies of Castle Cary and the famous Hauser & Wirth art gallery, Roth Bar and Michelin restaurants in super cool Bruton, await. Lodges sleep from 4 to 7. Grab the last remaining Easter slots now or book for later in the year.
SUFFOLK
The Four Bells Glamping, Bury St. Edmunds
Camping, but make it luxe. At The Four Bells Glamping, you get all the fresh air and starry skies of the great outdoors — minus the faff. Big Ben, their spacious safari lodge, sleeps 6 (plus a cot for the tiniest adventurer) and comes with a private wood-fired hot tub for those blissful countryside soaks. Fancy a rinse under the open sky? The huge, private shower and outdoor bath bring a touch of spa-like indulgence to your stay. Whether you’re toasting marshmallows, exploring Suffolk’s rolling landscapes, or just stretching out with a glass of something chilled, this is glamping at its most glorious.
The Bell, Saxmundham
For a family Easter escape that’s as stylish as it is stress-free, The Bell in Saxmundham is a winner. Tucked away in Suffolk’s rolling countryside yet just a stone’s throw from the coast, this boutique bolthole blends period charm with contemporary comfort. Think deep Hypnos beds, freestanding tubs, and your own private lounge to unwind after a day of seaside adventures. Kids can crash on the squishy sofas while you soak in a long, candlelit bath (because holidays should be fun for everyone). With coastal beauty spots on your doorstep and a cosy, well-fed welcome back at base, it’s the ideal mix of adventure and indulgence.
SURREY
Foxhills Resort, Ottershaw
For an all-adventure action-packed family getaway, Foxhills Club & Resort near Chertsey in Surrey, has it nailed with something to suit every member of the family. There are more than 200 activities on offer at the resort each week, ranging from sporty activities to arts and crafts, plus adventure clubs. Add to that the three golf courses, 11 tennis courts and padel courts, 5 pools and wonderful adventure playgrounds and there won’t be a moment to be bored. Phew! Luckily, there’s also a luxury spa for some much needed R&R. Foxhills also has the The Pavilion, a dedicated family building, which is home to a soft play, role-play high street, a games room, 2 pools and a football net on the green.
Brooklands Hotel, Weybridge
If you fancy an Easter break that combines great days out with the kids, and a luxury spa, then Brooklands Hotel in Weybridge nails it. This glam Art Deco hotel is on the historic Brooklands motor racing circuit and has a luxury spa on site. The famous Mercedes Benz World is right next door and the Brooklands Museum is 5 mins walk away or a couple of minutes in the car. You’re also quite near Legoland Windsor (35 mins drive) and Painshill, the 18th century landscaped garden in Cobham (15 mins drive). When you’re ready for some pampering, head to the luxury BSpa on the third floor where you can book a treatment, or simply spend time in the saunas, steam room, sunlight therapy rooms or relaxation rooms.
Wotton House Hotel, Dorking
Enjoy the perfect getaway-from-it-all at Wotton House Hotel – there are 13 acres of grounds to amble around and the collection of Hunter wellies in the boot room means you can explore the Italian gardens, Roman temples and manicured lawns whatever the weather. Dogs are welcome and get the royal treatment with their own bed, bowls and treats. Guests can also unwind or workout at the leisure club (adults only) where there’s a range of facilities including an indoor heated swimming pool, jacuzzi, steam room and sauna, tennis court and a studio for classes (yoga, Pilates, spin, Tai Chi) and a fully equipped gym. Families are welcome to use the pool facilities during term time and the school holidays.
SUSSEX
Beachcroft Beach Hut Suites, Felpham, West Sussex
Imagine sipping a glass of rose on your own private beachfront terrace, directly overlooking the stunning Sussex coast. Oh wait, you’ve got to consider the children too. Sigh. But wait, you don’t have to as the adorable luxury beach hut suites that sleep up to 4 (2 adults, 2 children) have. You can swim in the heated pool or hire a bike from the hotel and explore the local area. The more adventurous can even try a paddleboard or wild swimming, or simply enjoy the selection of outdoor games and beachfront activities as a family. They’ll even provide the kids with buckets, spades and nets, to keep them busy while you snooze on a deck chair. Bliss.
Tillingham vineyard and farm, near Rye, East Sussex
Wine for the adults and endless space for kids to run free – what more could you need? This biodynamic farm has it all a Green Michelin Star restaurant, wine tastings, woodlands and impressive views. The farm’s former hop barn has been converted into 11 gorgeously cosy rooms including dog-friendly options. You’re close to Rye and Camber Sands beach so there’s plenty to keep kids entertained. From May you can opt to stay in one of the Bell Tents, and the rooms are in keeping with the farm’s ethos around a tranquil and immersive experience which means there are no TVs. Imagine all the family fun you can have away from screens.
WILTSHIRE
The Three Daggers, Edington
Perched up on Wiltshire’s rolling downs, The Three Daggers offers a mix of pretty pub rooms and three glorious self-catered cottages, Hillside, Orchard House and Brewhouse. Here, every little touch has been thought of, from waterproof coats to wellies, a croquet set and (at Hillside) a hot tub and plunge pool. You’ll also find fresh bread and jams from The Three Daggers farm shop, plus there’s the option to pre-order hampers brimming with everything from locally-sourced bacon, to a flagon of Three Daggers Ale. If you really can’t face cooking, you’ll find impeccable food at the pub itself, plus a cracking playground for the kids to let off steam. Need to work up an appetite? Stunning local walks include a 2-mile stomp up to Westbury White Horse. Alternatively, head to nearby Erlestoke Woods, which is carpeted with an incredible display of bluebells come late spring.
WORCESTERSHIRE
The Lygon Arms, Broadway
This crowd-pleasing hotel located in the Cotswold village of Broadway is the perfect sanctuary for a relaxing Easter break. Not only do kids under 16s stay free during holidays, but under 10s eat free when dining with an adult, making it a great getaway families. There’s a top class spa with a heated indoor pool and Grill by James Martin Grill is here too for stand-out dining. Just minutes away you’ll find boutiques, tea rooms, the idyllic Broadway Tower and endless rolling countryside to explore. From £285pn.
YORKSHIRE
Wenningdale Escapes, Bentham
Ideally located in Bentham, between the Yorkshire Dales, Lake District and Forest of Bowland, Wenningdale Escapes offers a unique location to explore the stunning regions. The spacious, luxury glamping pods and lodges not only provide beautiful views of the golf course below the Three Peaks, but the chance to play a round. There is fishing, too, and family-sized as well as pet-friendly, self-catering cottages at neighbouring sister site Riverside Caravan Park. It’s a chance to get back to nature with all the comforts of home, experiencing outdoor adventures in idyllic countryside and picture-postcard towns like Settle or Skipton with its medieval castle.
Swinton Bivouac, Masham
Swinton Park is renowned for its luxe hotel and spa, yet there is a more adventurous, family-friendly side to this countryside estate. Down in the woods, children will be thrilled to discover hobbit-like holiday homes in the shape of pet-friendly Tree Lodges, Yurts and The Loft. In 20,000 acres of space, there are almost as many activities (give or take a few), from cycling, play areas and birds of prey to breakfasting at the Bivouac Café. Families with children aged 9+ might like to visit the on-site E J Churchill clay pigeon shooting range where Have-A-Go lessons are a fun introduction to the sport. There is a Young Guns event on 16 April and although closed on Good Friday, it’s open Easter Monday.
