Where to go for a luxury, indulgent UK break…

[Upwherethebirdsfly]

… with two small children!! We haven’t been away since 2019, not even in the UK. I’ve been saving every month and we have enough to go somewhere in the UK before Christmas.

The problem is - we have lots of competing needs. My partner likes amenities, high end places (most British seaside spots won’t cut it for example), modern design hotel type places and sunshine (!!), I like beautiful views and having lots of fun with the kids, we both like luxury places and want something to indulge us all. Our kids are very active so swimming, playgrounds, activities etc are essential.

Has anyone been anywhere that really stands out as being super luxury for parents and fun for kids too? Thank you! X

Bovey Castle Hotel on Dartmoor
www.boveycastle.com

Gleneagles.

Celtic manor is far from luxury.

Tresco Island on the Scillies

Whenever you go check the reviews carefully . There has been a massive shortage in hospitality and a lot of hotels are struggling to offer the same level of service. I had a recent break which wasn’t luxury but the service was a bit dodgy (think lots of teenagers who don’t know what they’re doing). The 5 star hotels in the same area had similar feedback that the service levels were a bit sub-par so they’re not immune to the shortages.

I’ve got my eye on the four seasons in Hampshire once they re-instate the childcare

I’d also say If you’re used to luxury hotels you might not like centreparcs. I quite enjoyed it but my husband hated it. The restaurants aren’t brilliant and it does feel busy. It is quite a different holiday to a luxury hotel stay so you’re not really comparing apples with pears.

Not sure how luxury you'll consider this for a self catering option (or if your kids would be OK sharing a bed - I think the neighbouring Daisy cottage may have twin beds) but:

It had beautiful views - complete with pheasants and bunnies on the lawn!
Is really well equipped
Has a hot tub, huge TV with Sky for movie nights and a log burner
Despite the out there location its only 3.5miles from the nearest town and within an easy drive of many cities, activities, museums etc
You can get deliveries from every supermarket including Waitrose and M & S and takeaways
There's a lovely country pub just up the road.

Link
www.cottages.com/cottages/mia-cottage-uk2229

I haven't tried this one, but considered it a few times when looking for something similar. It does look good, and has loads of activities for the kids: www.thegrove.co.uk/rooms-suites-families/

Centerparcs is great but not luxury.

We always used to go to Calcot manor when they were little.

@PegasusReturns

Chewton Glenn and Pennyhill Park.

Neither are kid focussed but absolutely lovely and incredibly accommodating of children.

Dislike Pennyhill Park but Chewton Glen is ok but I think has a gone a little downhill from what I’ve heard.

A bit different, but one of the higher end accommodation options at Port Lympne.

It’s wildlife/safari park with some amazing accommodation. You get a little golf buggy as well and can zoom around the park after dusk or early morning. Food in restaurants is really nice, loads and loads to do and see. One of the best things we’ve done as a family.

Or this place lymorenewforest.co.uk/

centerparcs definitely not luxury!
Agree with what others say about giving it a few months to settle down everywhere, service everywhere is not great due to food/staff shortages etc

Hmmm not Bedruthan I didnt feel like that was "luxury". Watergate Bay is much better.

You could also look at The Headlands Hotel in Cornwall (used in the original Roald Dhal Witches film).

Bovey Castle, Devon.

Depends how high end you want to go, but the lakes by yoo is high end (also incredibly expensive). It's also self catering. But close to the Cotswolds for nice days out.

On the site, there's a swimming pool, a Children’s play area with zip wire etc

But obviously on the lakes, so not ideal for toddlers.

www.thelakesbyyoo.com/stay/huntsman-retreat/

This is a better link: www.holidaylettings.co.uk/rentals/lakes-by-yoo/567790?rSid=1ul

@Naaaaah

Gleneagles.

Celtic manor is far from luxury.

I'm not a big fan of the Celtic Manor but it's a 5* resort by definition so I'm not sure it's "far from luxury". It has a decent restaurants and golf courses, and plenty to do for children.

We’ve just come back from Auchrannie resort on the Isle of Arran. If your children aren’t under 3 the two bedroom retreats are fantastic and we’re new last year. Great facilities at the resort and plenty to explore on the island.