Best recommendations for kids/activity self-catering but upmarket please. Oh yeah and north of Midlands and pref near a beach...

[WilfShelf]

Not much then!

I'm trying to find an alternative to Centerparcs, which we agreed we would go to with DS1, in return for dragging him to the middle of deepest Scotland.

But I don't want to go to Centerparcs cos it is a massive rip off.

So if you have any alternatives for places where there is swimming, play areas, bike trails, tennis, bowling or other activities that will keep an 11 yo happy, I'd be grateful (we also have some younger boys so need stuff they can do too...)

Would prefer NOT to stay in a caravan cos the idea brings me out in hives. But a lodge would be OK. Prefer more upmarket than cheap and cheerful.

And we live in Midlands-ish so Wales, Lake District would be ideal, but Yorkshire, Northumberland also possible?

How about Beaconhill in Northumberland?

\link{http://www.forestholidays.co.uk/cabins/our_locations/north_yorkshire/keldy.aspx\Forestry Commission holidays}. The only downside is a lack of swimming pool.

Ribby Hall? Never been myself but close to beaches and not far from Lakes.

Thank you - they all look like great options!

Bluestone in Pembrokeshire?

OK, not exactly north of Midlands but...

I was going to say Bluestone too... and Pembrokeshire is beautiful. I am biased as I grew up there :o

And still fairly new so hasn't got that tired look yet! My friends have stayed there and said it was very good.

Took Kids to Ribby Hall and they loved it. Stayed 3 nights, accomodation was good,clean,warm. Kids loved the pool, outside/inside play area and pony trek- family restaurant good and lots of trips you can do. Lytham st Annes very near, which has lovely beach and lots to entertain kids with.

They want to go again..

watching with interest - i've been looking to find somewhere a bit like bosinver, but i cannot face the drive to cornwall from manchester.

charlotte Ribby is ideal for you then, it only takes 50 minuts to get there....

clydey cottages in Wales are very nice. Similar to price to center parcs but it's all included and not huge.

As its been mentioned above, what about Bluestone? Its in Pembrokeshire, West Wales but is fantastic.

any more ideas?

Holiday Park in the Lakes ?
Don't worry, its upmarket.

Have a look at Limefitt Park, its a small park consisting of pine lodges, various sizes, park is in a beautiful location with many options.

see www.lakedistrictlodge.net for an example of a lodge, Site facilities, things to do in the area.

Hope it helps