Where to go for a short break with 2 boys in the South Coast

[GoodSouls]

Hi, we've not had a great start to the year, our car blew up and then I slipped a disc which kept me in bed for 3 months so holidays have been the last thing in our minds!

Now I'm finally back up and back at work we've been thinking that we can probably have a 4 day holiday somewhere within 4 hours of London.

Has anyone got any suggestions please! We have 2 DS 10 & 7 both love swimming so a pool would be a massive bonus!

Thanks so much.

Bournemouth has amazing beaches and some lovely hotels with pools

Lyme Regis.

That's in the list! We went a couple of years ago and loved it but I suppose we just thought of going somewhere else, is there anywhere else near by that's lovely?!

Dorset. In 4 days you can do Bournemouth, Lyme Regis and depending on how old your boys are Tank museum, monkey world etc. Walk some of the coast line, coffee castle, take the steam train to Swanage. Lovely!

Had a little 🙂 at coffee castle

Another vote for Dorset (or East Devon). Loads to see and do, and generally quieter than the more obvious tourist attractions such as the New Forest.

In Dorset (near Swanage - or Lyme Regis) there is much excellent fossil hunting territory for children (and adults). Charmouth is good for that + Kimmeridge is also good and nearer to Swanage. Lulworth is very beautiful and has caves close by. We liked Durlstone -pretty walks and tree climbs and at the right time of year gloworms. - there are the Tillywhim caves (closed but you can watch bats fly out at dusk )

We go Weymouth every year, my kids prefer there to our abroad holiday

I actually quite like Hastings.

Posted too soon, and there’s a fair bit to do round there. (Hastings).

I’ve not been, but Camber gets mentioned a fair bit.

Not south coast, and pushing your four hour journey time, but North Devon is lovely. Saunton Sands for example.

Love seeing all the love for Dorset! :)

Another idea, for perhaps an activity based holiday, is Manor House Hotel in Devon. Like Centerparcs except cheaper and all the activities and food is included, so archery, rock climbing, loads of sports, walks, crafts, swimming, evening entertainment- too much to list! Check the site out, I've been twice and love it.

But yes Dorset is great, we have loads to do. If you've stayed in Bournemouth then yes Weymouth is another idea or the New Forest especially if you have a car and can drive around to the different attractions. The New Forest Wildlife Park is a great day out!

Ooh also could pop over to the Isle of Wight, getting the ferry from Southampton. Lots of small zoos, seaside attractions, a retro theme park Blackgang Chine.

Thank you so much for the suggestions, I'm going to look into them!