Best family hotels with swimming pools UK: where to stay according to Mumsnet users

For many families, swimming is an essential part of a holiday, even on a UK escape. Of course, an outdoor pool is appealing, especially in the summer months, but thanks to the country's unpredictable weather conditions, indoor pools offer guaranteed fun come rain or shine.

Perfect for keeping kids active, a hotel with a pool is an exciting prospect for a family holiday and offers entertainment on site and on tap.

Rooftop pools, outdoor pools, indoor pools, heated pools, pools with water slides, you'll find all these options in the UK and it's highly likely that a Mumsnet user has checked in and swum a few lengths in most of them. To highlight the best hotels with swimming pools for families, we've taken to the UK travel forum to round up family favourites right here on this page.

Best hotels with swimming pools in the UK

• Best overall: Chewton Glen

• Best budget: TLH Derwent Hotel (TLH Leisure Resort)

• Best for luxury: Fowey Hall Hotel

• Best for young children: Merton Hotel 

• Best for older children: Park Plaza Westminster Bridge 

1. Best overall: Chewton Glen, Hampshire

Chewton Glen | Check availability 

What Mumsnet users say

"Chewton Glen is the best spa I've been to." whoisbruno

"Upmarket? Chewton Glen in the New Forest (New Milton station)" Needmoresleep

Our verdict

Set on the edge of the enchanting New Forest in Hampshire, the luxurious Chewton Glen has rooms to suit every taste, including the unique treehouses that come with a hot tub, terrace, mini kitchenette and more.

This family-friendly hotel offers a range of age-appropriate activities for children, from sheep walking, pony petting, to art and cooking classes, at an additional charge. Baby sitting can also be arranged, so you can relax at the fabulous spa or opt to play golf, tennis, or join a fitness class.

The spa features a 17-metre indoor swimming pool, and there is also a 10-metre heated outdoor pool with stunning views of the grounds, open to hotel residents only.

There are two restaurants, The Dining Room and The Kitchen. Many of the ingredients that end up on your plate come from Chewton Glen’s own kitchen garden.

Nearest train station: New Milton train station (1.5 miles)

Related: The best paddling pools for summer

2. Best budget: TLH Derwent Hotel, Torquay

TLH Derwent Hotel | Check availability 

What Mumsnet users say

"There's the TLH hotels in Torquay which have swimming pools, bowling, etc and could do something like 5 nights for 750 or so B&B plus some entertainment included. TLH Derwent has the pools in their building and bowling." Silkierabbit

"We also stayed at TLH Derwent hotel which has swimming pools, 3, beach nearby, bowling, onsite entertainment and does meals - its a bit tacky but good fun and lots in that area for that aged children." Silkiefloof

Our verdict

Looking for a relaxed budget family hotel with a pool in the heart of Torquay? TLH Derwent is for you! Central as it is, TLH Derwent Hotel is only a five-minute walk from Torquay’s seafront and a six-minute walk from the beach.

This family-friendly and budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable accommodation with leisure activities that include two heated outdoor swimming pools suitable for all ages, a spa, tennis court and a gym, as well as bowling, billiards and table tennis.

Children will enjoy spending time at the kids' club, in the outdoor playground and the indoor play area.

TLH Derwent has two restaurants, one serving American fare and the other British. Their bar hosts evening entertainment, with a mix of cabaret and live acts.

Nearest train station: Torre and Torquay train stations are both within a 10- to 15-minute walk (about half a mile away)

3. Best for luxury: Fowey Hall Hotel, Cornwall

Fowey Hall Hotel | Check availability

What Mumsnet users say

"All of the hotels in the Luxury Family Hotel chain are lovely. My personal favourite is Fowey Hall." Katrinawaves

Our verdict

Tested by Mumsnet Travel Editor, Rachel Erdos: Read our full review of Fowey Hall Hotel

Overlooking the cute coastal town of Fowey, this former manor house offers contemporary good looks, child-friendly facilities and a thoroughly warm welcome. Fabulous rooms and lounges are designed for luxurious lounging and there are fun family activities on offer every day.

There's a small indoor pool with floor-to-ceiling windows. But the heated outdoor pool is something of a showstopper. Set in the grounds at the front of the hotel with fantastic views of Fowey, the deck is lined with comfy loungers and on a warm sunny day, it's more Capri than Cornwall. Children are welcome to use both pools at all times.

Rates include 90 minutes of childcare each night at the Four Bears Den (for kids aged between three months and eight) where you can expect your little ones to join in with crafting, playing, singing and rabbit-feeding.

Start the day with pancakes in the elegant dining room and finish it with storytime served with milk and cookies in the lounge.

Nearest train station: Par (4.5 miles)

4. Best by the beach: The Saunton Sands Hotel, North Devon

The Saunton Sands Hotel | Check availability 

What Mumsnet users say

"Saunton sands has a fabulous view but I hear it's expensive..." finewelshcheese

"Saunton Sands is in a great position with incredible views but the rooms vary. Room 101 is fantastic, it has a balcony overlooking the beach and a big bathroom but the room next to it, whilst it also has a balcony, has a teeny bathroom and is tired looking. The food is decent enough." TheStroppyFeminist

Our verdict

Perched on a cliff top on the North Devon coast, The Saunton Sands Hotel guarantees lovely views of the dunes and the Atlantic Ocean.

The beach is a two minute walk away, but don’t rush there - as this hotel offers a beautiful outdoor swimming pool that offers views of the beach below. In case of inclement weather, head for the indoor pool, open year-round. Both pools are heated, too.

At The Saunton Sands Hotel you can treat yourself to a luxurious spa, or opt to play tennis, or join a fitness class. Your little ones will be kept entertained at the kids’ club and indoor and outdoor play areas. Kids under 11 get two hour fun every day in the supervised playroom, free of charge. Extra child or baby minding services are also available at a fee.

A buffet breakfast is included during your stay. Throughout the day, enjoy formal dining at the restaurant, relax in the casual terrace lounge, or have a snack at the beach bar. However, there is no evening entertainment, which some guests found disappointing.

Nearest train station: Barnstaple (9 miles)

5. Best spa hotel: Pennyhill Park Hotel and Spa, Bagshot

Pennyhill Park Hotel | Check availability 

What Mumsnet users say

"PennyHill park …it really is lovely." Jelodah

"Pennyhill Park is one amazing spa!!" Baroluleni

Our verdict

Do you want to feel like the lady of a manor? With your family in tow, rule over the elegant 19th Century manor house and the surrounding rolling Surrey parkland - at least for the duration of your stay in the Pennyhill Park Hotel and Spa in Bagshot!

Pennyhill has two heated pools, open all year. The outdoor one is all-ages; the indoor pool is adults-only. It also has one of the UK's best spas, plus a modern fitness centre and a tennis court. There is also a games room.

Their fine-dining restaurant Latymer restaurant is awarded with a Michelin Star, while the Hillfield restaurant offers a casual dining experience. Indulge in an afternoon tea, have a bite at the terrace, or enjoy a healthy and organic fare at the spa in your robe.

The rooms at Pennyhill are luxuriously furnished, and the bathrooms are spacious and beautiful. Babysitting services are available at an additional charge should you wish to use them.

Nearest train station: Camberley (2 miles)

6. Best country escape: Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire, Winchfield

Four Seasons Hotel | Check availability 

What Mumsnet users say

"Four Seasons in Hampshire is pretty lovely." curious79

"Four Seasons Hampshire is amazing with kids but it’s rural." InTheRainOnATrain

Our verdict

A river runs through the lovely grounds of this elegant Georgian manor house, so get ready for some canal boating fun!

The perfect countryside setting of Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire is made for outdoorsy families that enjoy horse riding, fishing and clay pigeon shooting. Situated only one hour from central London, the luxury Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire feels like a true country escape.

The hotel has a heated outdoor swimming pool, an indoor kids’ pool, a spa, fitness centre, and two floodlit tennis courts. Your children will also find a lot to do at the kids’ club, in the playground, and in the games room.

For your gourmet pleasures, there is a fine restaurant and a bar. Their library afternoon tea is not to be missed!

Nearest train station: Bentley train station (2 miles)

Read next: The best family hotels in the New Forest, as recommended by Mumsnetters

7. Best in central London: Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, London

Park Plaza Westminster Bridge | Check availability 

What Mumsnet users say

"Park Plaza Westminster Bridge is really well located, has a medium sized swimming pool and a separate sleeping area for children. They also gave our children activity packs and teddy bears when we checked in." Tellmeagain

Our verdict

Located in the heart of London on the South Bank of the Thames and overlooking the Houses of Parliament, Park Plaza Westminster Bridge is close to some of the most iconic sights in London. This makes it a good choice for families with older children looking for a hotel with a pool.

Besides a 50ft heated indoor swimming pool for all ages, the hotel has a fully equipped 24-hour gym and a spa. Two restaurants, one specialising in French cuisine, and the other in Japanese, will satisfy the most discerning palettes. Go to the lounge bar for traditional afternoon tea and all-day tapas, to the cafe for Italian coffee and pastries, and to the bar for some live evening entertainment. Plus, kids have their own play areas to enjoy!

Nearest train station: Waterloo train station (0.4 miles)

8. Best for views: Novotel London Canary Wharf, London

Novotel London Canary Wharf | Check availability 

What Mumsnet users say

"Have you thought about Novotel Canary Wharf? I’ve stayed there for work quite a lot, and the views are stunning, because it’s CW you see out across so much of London. It’s very reasonably priced, has a fantastic pool and a great breakfast with stunning views." lurker101

Our verdict

No need to watch a virtual 360 view of London on your computer. Just walk a full circle around the Novotel London Canary Wharf’s roof terrace and marvel at the sweeping vistas of the London skyline. The view is especially splendid at night!

That brilliant view is exactly what you get when you partake in the hotel’s rooftop dining experience. The Bokan Restaurant, Bar and Roof Terrace serve artisanal dishes inspired by European cultural cuisines. And on street level, indulge in a selection of locally roasted artisan coffee, pastries, snacks and stone-baked pizza at Canary Coffee.

This modern and comfortable hotel with great ambience is also amongst the UK hotels that boast a heated indoor swimming pool. The pool is suitable for all ages and has a variety of swimming pool toys. Novotel London Canary Wharf’ also has an on-site gym and a kids’ club for younger guests to enjoy.

Nearest train station: Heron Quay or South Quays DLR (0.3 miles)

Read next: The best cheap hotels in London for families, as rated by Mumsnetters

9. Best market town hotel: Feversham Arms Hotel & Verbena Spa, Helmsley

Feversham Arms Hotel & Verbena Spa | Check availability 

What Mumsnet users say

"Helmsley has a nice spa hotel (Feversham arms) and is pretty." fruitpastille

Our verdict

The only market town in the 554 square miles of the North York Moors National Park, Helmsley is full of history and character.

This picturesque market town is also the home of the fabulous Feversham Arms Hotel & Verbena Spa, which has more than 150 years of history of hospitality and seamlessly blends the traditional comforts of its Victorian heritage with sophisticated modern facilities. It has well appointed rooms, an outdoor all-year-round heated swimming pool for all ages, a spa, and a games room with board games and puzzles.

There is one restaurant on site. Breakfast is included in the price of a stay, and by all accounts it is very good.

Nearest train station: Thirsk (16 miles)

10. Best for young children: The Merton Hotel, Jersey

The Merton Hotel | Check availability

What Mumsnet users say

"We stayed in the Merton during Covid. Kids loved the pool and the weather was great too so we could use outdoor pool too. We found the food very good and the evening entertainment was quite traditional we loved the family quizzes etc. would definitely go back." Pootle40

Our verdict

This Jersey resort hotel offers lots of activities and entertainment for families with kids of all ages.

Tots under four get to draw, paint, build, create, make music, and play games for two hours every day under the watchful eyes of a qualified crèche team. A small fee applies, and additional babysitting can be arranged.

The Kids Zone club designed for 4 to 12 year olds operates for two hours nightly and is packed with supervised activities, arts, craft, and games. Teenagers will love the FlowRider, surfing down a water slide on a snowboard.

The whole family can enjoy the resort’s Aquadome. This subtropical paradise with slides,  a lazy river, fountains, sauna, steam room and a heated outdoor pool promises hours of fun. If you want more, The Merton Hotel also has a fitness centre and tennis court. Plus, the beach is only a six minute walk away.

Six restaurants, cafes and bars have something to suit every taste, and there is live entertainment in the evenings. Breakfast is included in the price of the accommodation.

Distance from the nearest airport: Jersey airport (5 miles)

UK hotel pet policies

Staycations have always been a popular choice for UK holidaymakers, for many good reasons. And one of them is the ability to take your pet along!

When looking for the best family hotels with swimming pools in the UK, we also included several that are pet-friendly too.

You can take your furry friend to these five establishments:

• Rudds of Lulworth

• Pennyhill Park Hotel and Spa

• Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire

• Feversham Arms Hotel & Verbena Spa

• Chewton Glen

Extra charges may apply, and there may be some additional restrictions too. For example, you can bring your well-behaved dog to Chewton Glen only if you stay in a treehouse room.

It goes without saying that by “pets” hotel management means “dog”, and in some cases perhaps “cats” too. If you have some other kind of pet, it’s better check in advance whether they will be welcome.

Parking spaces at UK hotels

Most of the hotels from our list of the best family hotels with a swimming pool in the UK provide free parking, except:

• Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London states that parking charges may apply.

• Novotel London Canary Wharf does not provide parking.

The following hotels have electric vehicle charging stations onsite:

• Saunton Sands Hotel Source Spa and Wellness

• Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire

• Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London

• Feversham Arms Hotel & Verbena Spa

Do hotels in the UK have pools?

In the UK, a hotel with a swimming pool is not the norm, but the exception. If you are looking for a hotel with a swimming pool, you always have to check that there is one available.

During colder weather, you can stay in hotels with heated indoor and outdoor swimming pools.

In summary, there are many hotels with nice swimming pools in the UK, but this is not a classic hotel with a pool destination, so finding a hotel with a spectacular pool may prove more difficult.

Where is the best family hotel with a pool in the UK?

The Merton Hotel in Jersey is amongst the best hotels with indoor and outdoor swimming pools suitable for the whole family. What makes this family friendly hotel particularly attractive is the fact that there are a number of activities that children can enjoy in the water.

How we chose our recommendations

Recommendations by real parents

Before choosing any destination for our roundups, we first consult the Mumsnet forums. With over 10 million users per month, there’s a lot of suggestions by real parents who have been there, done that when staying in a UK hotel with a swimming pool with the family.

Expert guidance and traveller reviews

After we’ve collated our hotel picks, we then turn to the experts and consult the likes of TripAdvisor, Booking.com, and Expedia to see what their recommendations include for family holidays here.

We also researched articles written by tourist industry experts, published on portals such as Journey Junket, Columbus Direct, Visit Helmsley, The Conversation and CBRE.

We'll also check what travellers are saying about family hotels with swimming pools in the UK on these sites, taking into consideration both the positive and negative points of their trip to bring you a well-rounded and honest guide.

Celebrated hotels

Finally, we cross-referenced all of the above information to find the best family hotels with a swimming pool in the UK that had won the most awards and recommendations across the board. We feel there’s something here for everyone, to suit every budget.

Why you should trust us

We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.