Spa retreats, fancy hotels and sumptuous food needn’t be the exclusive domain of adults without kids.
Parents deserve a little luxury too; arguably even more so than our childfree friends. Away with the Kids has a whole host of luxury hotels that offer adults the chance to relax and indulge, safe in the knowledge that their little ones are just as blissfully happy as they are. We've handpicked our favourite family-friendly hotels that offer experienced and approved childcare, leaving you time to indulge in those spa treatments, peaceful walks or a fancy dinner...
Moments from the gorgeous Climping Beach in West Sussex, Bailifscourt Hotel and Spa is perfect for exploring the coast, countryside, seaside resorts and picturesque villages. There are 39 charming bedrooms to stay in, located in an assortment of characterful cottages and houses. Escape as a family and book connecting rooms, or visit with friends and book a host of rooms and whole houses.
The award-winning spa, complete with treatment rooms and swimming pools with allocated family swim times is not to be missed. After a lively morning swim, indulgent spa treatment or an afternoon amble, head to the hotel restaurant where children are very welcome and will love the specially designed kids menu.
Adventurers get ready. The Belfry was made for active families looking for a fun filled hotel break. The welcoming family rooms have views of the extensive grounds, tea and coffee making facilities and baby equipment included. But the real fun starts outside – a woodland adventure park boasts a zip wire, tree house, puzzlewood, timber climber and net, group swing, balance beams and more! There’s an indoor pool, mini-golf, spa and fitness centre. Renowned for its internationally acclaimed golf course, if you’re an experienced golfer, or just keen to try it out, this is the place to do so.
Kids’ camps are held throughout the year for children aged six to 13, giving you parents a chance to relax in the spa or tee off without the kids in convoy. For those really little ones (seven and under), there’s also a crèche, complete with soft play. After a satisfyingly busy day, the family can tuck into delicious food at one of the three restaurants on-site, serving everything from hearty Italian grub at Rocco’s Pasta Pizza, to sophisticated steak and lobster at the Ryder Grill.
Enveloped in rolling Sussex hills, the Ickworth Hotel gracefully blends hotel splendour with a warm, welcoming family feel. Child-friendly facilities include an indoor pool, a tennis court, play areas and a games room full to the brim with books, crafts and toys. There’s also a whole host of childcare options available, that give you hard working parents a moment, hour or evening to yourself. For every day of their stay, guests are offered a free 90 minute crèche session (sign us up!). Babysitting and baby listening devices are also available, so you can wine and dine without a worry. And enjoy the most basic of luxuries – a lie in(!) when The Sunday Breakfast Club pick up the kids and entertain them whilst you get in those extra winks.
In keeping with the grandeur of Ickworth, the 27 bedrooms are plush and unique, decked out to accommodate kids, dogs and parents comfortably. There are family suites and interconnecting bedrooms, as well as private apartments in The Lodge. Just moments from the hotel, the Butler’s Quarters is a fabulous option for groups of eight with it’s own private walled garden. Whatever your party size, there’s an excellent room awaiting you.
Tucked in a rural corner of the Cotswolds, find a beautiful 4-star hotel situated in a Grade 2 Listed gardens. You’ll also find the C-Side Spa with two spectacular heated pools – one outdoor and one indoor. There are 31 rooms all as gorgeous as the last, but ranging in size and features available. No matter the room type, you’ll find Green & Spring toiletries, delightfully fluffy robes and well-stocked minbars. Most rooms also benefit from ensuite bathrooms with huge baths that you absolutely have to have a soak in. Then spend a night cosied up, playing games, watching films and eating a room service dinner. Kids will love the family sleepover experience.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner is served at the hotel’s great restaurant where you’ll find scrumptious classic British dining served alongside an equally as impressive children’s menu. They will LOVE the pudding menu. The dining experience isn’t limited to your usual meal times – afternoon tea is a tasty treat, as is a simple coffee and cake combi. Best enjoyed after a family walk around the 55 acres of exquisitely designed and kept gardens. If you’re visiting in the rainier, muddier seasons, you can borrow Hunter wellies of all sizes from the reception. An outstanding hotel in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
