where can we meet up? (2 families of 4 plus 1 couple) reasonably priced, between midlands and south coast?

[jenthehen]

We have stayed close friends since university but last time they all stayed here and it was a bit too chaotic to be relaxing. We need to find somewhere where we can meet for weekend breaks to share evening meals and wine once the children are tucked up in bed. The children are all under six so it needs to be comfortable and clean but not so luxurious the we wouldn't be able to relax! Can anyone think of somewhere that would fit the bill?

Have considered renting a youth hostel, has anyone tried this?

I used to book out youth hostels with groups of kids to do drama weekends and it was fantastic - all the facilites to hand, often a great garden, good meeting room, lots of board games etc for evenings. It would need to be a small YH if there are just 10 of you . . . unless you are happy to share with other hostellers . . .

We also hired a large hostel for a University reunion with about 10 families attending - a fantastic weekend, as you say, with no worry about the kids wrecking the joint.

I've rented a youth hostel (5 plus years ago). You need to book well in advance and can only book for the closed season for the hostel (i.e. some time in the winter). For 10 people it might be no more expensive to rent a basic cottage. Also, the cooking facilities are often very basic - mini ovens and calor gas rings.

which hostel did you hire ntsm? A bigger group would be quite easy to organise.

Hi. We used three different hostels, though I've just realised that it was 10 years ago, or so - just looked them up and they have all been sold!!

Bellever in the middle of Dartmoor looks really nice, but might be too far over for you.

The Ridgeway is nicely central - just south of Oxford.

Lulworth Cove in Dorset is in a brilliant setting, but is a very simple little wooden hut - a smaller hostel, so likely to be available I guess.

kingfisher BArn in Abingdon, Oxford may be an option - have a google. its self-contained self catering with childrens playarea and swimming pool.