The Hotel Guru
The 20 Best Family Friendly Hotels in the UK

The 20 Best Family Friendly Hotels in the UK

Anyone who’s been around children knows that the Family Holiday can easily become more stressful than it is relaxing. But our Gurus are here to help, having reviewed hundreds of hotels boasting their family friendly credentials and offering their candid recommendations on which of those hotels are genuinely set up with families in mind, beyond a big smiling welcome. And we think the secret to a successful family break can be found in our collection of the best family friendly hotels in the UK. This is a collection of easy-going hotels where your children will be made to feel an asset and not an intrusion. Some of our picks may run courses and activities specially geared to children; others may simply welcome them with open arms and cater to the needs of families. And we’ve found them all over; from the New Forest to the Cotswolds and Lake District.

For a coastal stay

Stay right on the beach in Mawgan Porth, Cornwall, at the Bedruthan Hotel, and look out over the Atlantic Ocean from 101 comfortable, modern rooms, of which there are numerous family friendly options. Or from the Herring Restaurant, which is known for its Cornish cuisine and locally sourced ingredients. There are two pools - indoor and outdoor - and a spa, plus you can arrange babysitting or complimentary baby listening.
Or for a proper island break getaway, try the Star Castle Hotel, converted from a star-shaped castle on St. Marys, off the Isles of Scilly. There are 38 newly refurbished rooms, which are quaint but extremely comfortable, and there are two excellent restaurants. Owner Robert Francis has two passions: lobster fishing and wine and you will enjoy the fruits of both.
For more watery views, in this case a stunning view of the Solent, consider the wonderful family time warp that is the Isle of Wight’s Northbank Hotel. This family-run property harks back to the family holidays of yesteryear — probably around the 1930s with a 60s twist! Don’t expect ensuite bathrooms, but it’s wonderfully cheap, wonderfully welcoming, colourful, eccentric and has direct beach access.

For Active Families

The Ffynnon Town House is a boutique, five bedroom B&B which welcomes families to the beauty of Snowdonia. Stylishly converted from a Victorian rectory, with individually designed rooms, the thing which sets this B&B apart is the way children are welcomed into the family. Read the papers over coffee in the lounge while the kids play out in the garden.

For great Value

Stay within striking distance of the beach, in a comfortable family room for under £100 per night at The Rose and Crown in Norfolk. This charmingly traditional pub has twisting passages, beamed ceilings and log fires, three dining rooms, three bars and a first-rate kitchen. There’s spectacular bird-watching from Snettisham beach and walks, golf and sailing on the doorstep.
Or, you might consider Matfen Hall Hotel, a grand Gothic Northumberland pile turned into a golf and spa resort hotel, with an indoor pool, two restaurants and 300 acres of parklands and formal gardens. Here you can choose to be as active or as lazy as you like. There’s golf, walking, a Go Ape tree-top adventure course and Hadrian’s Wall on-site or nearby. Or just laze in the pool and Jacuzzi, book a spa treatment and have afternoon tea in the drawing room.

Cotswolds family friendly hotels

Calcot Manor Hotel is a mid-sized hotel converted from a charming stately. This superb, all-round hotel has its own estate grounds, so they’ve had plenty of space to fill it with everything you need, including a great restaurant, a stunning pool and spa, and lots of activities for kids of all ages. And it’s all stunning to boot, starting with the charming, 14th century manor house itself and continuing into the chic, but family-friendly, rooms.

In the Lake District

The Ryebeck, is a handsome Edwardian family home turned comfortable county house hotel in a peaceful spot overlooking Lake Windermere and just five minutes from Bowness-on-Windermere. Relaxed and informal, with 24 light, comfortable, unfussy rooms, you’re less than two miles from Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top. And there’s an excellent, unfussy, restaurant.

In the New Forest

The wonderfully historic Master Builder’s is right on the Beaulieu River just outside Buckler’s Hard, above the river mouth. Its name refers to Henry Adams and his sons Balthazar and Edward, who built ships for Nelson’s navy, including three ships present at the battle of Trafalgar. There’s a list of the ships built here in the wonderfully atmospheric bar - where you can also get a top class meal. Or if you’re looking for something more formal there’s a restaurant facing the river. Standard rooms have a traditional, country house feel, but you can upgrade to rooms in the actual house and those are really something - expect plenty of historic features and wonderful details.

In Blackpool

The Big Blue Hotel

If you’re looking for great, family friendly value then the Big Blue Hotel is perfect. You’re also right next to the Pleasure Beach and there’s a wide range of modern rooms, starting from just £55 per night, in fact there are 157 rooms and suites – all modern and spotless – including family options with bunk beds for the children - and all decorated with Designer’s Guild fabrics.

For a relaxing stay

You might not think a Jacobean manor house would be the most relaxing place to bring your kids, but Woolley Grange in Bradford-upon-Avon has been turned into a luxury family retreat, with stunning grounds and gardens with pools. Its 26 comfortable, modern rooms are a great welcome after a day of activities, and the restaurant caters to even the pickiest eaters. Children clubs, games rooms, gardens and more gives parents a chance to relax at the spa.

For a Special Occasion

Or in buzzy, nearby Rock there’s the St Enodoc Hotel, a golf hotel right on the beach with all sorts of great family activities on offer, from sailing to waterskiing and a two Michelin starred restaurant.
Or, for more of a grand country house feel, try Lucknam Park near Bath, which is surrounded by 500 acres of parklands and gardens, and has its own equestrian centre and a Michelin starred restaurant.

Family Friendly Hotels to Escape to!

Fingals Hotel in Dittisham, Devon is a delightfully informal four room boutique B&B, which feels more like a house party than hotel, with lawn tennis, an indoor pool, some lovely art and an overflowing library. 'Quintessentially English' - this 17th Century house is full to the rafters with art and antiques and home to a fine lawn, an indoor pool, gym and grass tennis. Whether rooms or self-catering, the homely vibe is throughout. A magical spot!
And the Devonshire Fell Hotel on the Duke of Devonshire’s estate in Yorkshire has wonderful views over picturesque Wharfedale village, great family-sized suites and a laid back brasserie.

For an unusual stay

Augill Castle near Kirkby Stephen in Cumbria - midway between the Yorkshire Dales and a the Lake District, is a fabulous old family castle, brimming full of antiques and curios, and with a cookery school where kids are welcome.
Or you could stay in a windmill: Cley Windmill, a characterful windmill B&B overlooking the Cley mashes, by a pretty village and a shingle beach.

Still not sure which to book?

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- Bedruthan Hotel Newquay (Cornwall) 101 rooms from $192
  
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  Spa breaks  -  Pamper yourself at the top of the range luxury spa, using all natural products and treatments — heaven!
  Families  -  With family orientated rooms, great dining options and the beach close by it's ideal for families
  Eco break  -  A sustainable and environmentally minded hotel with an extensive responsible tourism pledge
  Restaurant  -  The Wild Cafe and The Herring serve seasonal dishes using the best of local produce
  Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide
  
  A family-friendly hotel with fabulous views of the Atlantic Ocean. Interiors are contemporary throughout. Rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, wooden floors, and minimalist furniture. With two Cornish restaurants, three pools, a spa, and plenty of activities - this is a real crowd-pleaser. See More
  
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- St Enodoc Hotel Rock (Cornwall) 20 rooms from $218
  
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  Families  -  Family suites, games room, special kiddies menus and a wealth of fun beachside activities make this an ideal family getaway
  Tennis  -  The Point in Polzeath offers free gym access to guests, as well as tennis courts and lessons at a small additional charge
  Surfing  -  The hotel will organise a private surf lessons with George Stoy, a perfect introduction to Cornwall's most popular sport!
  Great walks  -  Set along some of the most spendid coastline in Cornwall, there are endless paths and trails to navigate
  
  A boutique coastal hotel with views of the Camel Estuary. Smart rooms are beautifully styled with bright colours, oil paintings, and simple modern furniture. The popular restaurant serves healthy contemporary dishes. Vibrant and cosy, with top marks for the stunning location and warmth of service. See More
  
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- Calcot & Spa Tetbury, The Cotswolds 35 rooms from $255
  
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  Child friendly  -  The hotel is set up for children and families, and is very busy in the school holidays.
  Spa breaks
  Restaurant  -  Choose between the Conservatory's fine dining or the more relaxed Gumstool Inn.
  Tennis  -  On-site tennis courts and rackets for use by the whole family.
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Fodors, Frommers, Good Hotel Guide, Kiwi Collection
  
  A charming 14th century manor house in Tetbury, Gloucestershire. Chic rooms feature bold wallpaper prints, soft tones, deep soaking tubs and trendy artworks. The beautifully landscaped gardens feature a range of family activities as well as a pool and spa. An elegant country retreat. See More
  
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- Augill Castle Nr Kirkby Stephen, Cumbria 14 rooms from $205
  
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  Families  -  With fantastic facilities for kids, from cooking classes, to playgrounds, dressing up boxes and plenty of toys.
  Country Escape  -  Spectacular walking, wonderful views and whiskey in the drawing room old school weekend in the country vibes.
  Great walks  -  With national parks all around, this is the perfect spot to get on your walking boots.
  Cooking classes  -  The hotel has a wonderful cookery school for children.
  Recommended by  -  I Escape, Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays, Great Small Hotels
  
  Standing between the Lake District and the Dales rests this eccentric castle welcoming all the family into the countryside and the Eden Valley. Four poster beds and antique furnishings make up the comfortable rooms. Restaurant is open on weekends. Great hideaway and local exploring to be done. See More
  
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- The Rose and Crown Snettisham, Norfolk 16 rooms from $179
  
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  Birdwatching  -  At nearby Snettisham Beach
  Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
  Restaurant  -  Recommended.
  Great walks  -  Good for walkers.
  Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide
  
  Charming traditional pub with a stylish twist - well adapted for families, with log fires and within easy reach of the beach. See More
  
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- The Ryebeck Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria 24 rooms from $192
  
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  Great walks  -  Superb walking either low-level or higher fells such as Langdale Pikes.
  Sights nearby  -  Visit Beatrix Potter’s house less than two miles from the hotel.
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  Restaurant  -  Recommended.
  
  A comfortable country-house hotel in a peaceful setting, with beautiful views of Lake Windermere, yet still close to popular attractions. Relaxed and informal, with comfortable, unfussy bedrooms, it has an excellent restaurant turning out well-crafted Modern British dishes. See More
  
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- Master Builder's Beaulieu (Hants) 26 rooms from $160
  
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  Active Holiday  -  NFA, situated within the Beaulieu Estate, specialise in outdoor activities suitable both for team building and family fun.
  Country Escape  -  A stunning historic and cosy riverside property situated within the 9,000 acre Beaulieu Estate and the New Forest.
  Local markets  -  Make a trip to the quaint Lymington Saturday market and sample local foods and drink.
  Great walks  -  The very location, within the New Forest, makes this ideal walking terrain.
  Recommended by  -  I Escape, Sawdays
  
  Lovely historic property situated on the Beaulieu River. Maritime themed living rooms downstairs whilst bedrooms have a traditional country feel with the addition of colourful Indian fabrics. An award winning restaurant serves modern British cuisine. A host of activities. Ideal for families. See More
  
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- Big Blue Hotel Blackpool (Pleasure Beach) 157 rooms from $70
  
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  Child friendly
  Sights nearby  -  Right next to the Pleasure Beach
  Lively  -  Hip and happening.
  Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
  
  Big, blue and family-friendly modern luxury hotel situated next to Blackpool's pleasure beach. Designers Guild fabrics and thoughtful interior design give it a twist. Ideal for families who want a bit of contemporary comfort, in a good location. See More
  
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- Cley Windmill Cley-next-the-Sea, Norfolk 10 rooms from $229
  
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  Birdwatching  -  For keen ornithologist NWT Cley Marshes Nature Reserve is a wonderful area for spotting all manner of birds.
  Views  -  Panoramic views over the salt marshes
  Local markets  -  Just South of the mill are small shops, selling pottery, smoked fish and secondhand books.
  Restaurant  -  A no-choice, three-course menu at £32.50 per head is served at 7.30pm and changes daily.
  Recommended by  -  Sawdays, Good Hotel Guide
  
  Characterful windmill B&B overlooking marshes of Cley, a pretty village near shingle coast where locals swim. Quaint rooms with comfortable beds and wonderful views. Good birdwatching nearby. See More
  
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- Star Castle Hotel St Mary's, Isles of Scilly 38 rooms from $242
  
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  Exclusive offer  -  5 nights for 4
  Tennis  -  The tennis court is located a short stroll away and rackets and balls are available from reception.
  Views  -  Some of the best views on the island.
  Swimming Pool  -  Heated indoor pool
  Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
  Recommended by  -  I Escape, Frommers, Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays
  
  Delightful family-run hotel set in a star-shaped castle on St Marys Island. The newly refurbished rooms are extremely comfortable and well decorated, with quaint details. Fresh, local, seasonal produce sets the tone for the on site restaurant. Totally charming! See More
  
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- Northbank Hotel Seaview 18 rooms from $128
  
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  Families  -  A memorable experince for all the family, with eccentric hosts, communal bathrooms and plenty of beachlife.
  Great walks  -  With over thirty miles of Heritage coastline, there are many stunning walks to be had.
  Sailing  -  A prime sailing spot and a favourite past time for both locals and tourists.
  Sights nearby  -  Carisbrooke Castle - once a prison for Charles I.
  
  An eccentric family run hotel in a fabulous setting - the 1930s with a ‘60s twist. Forget en suite bathrooms, but for families wanting a very relaxed seaside atmosphere at reasonable rates, with lots of friends to make, it's an experience. The antithesis of boutique. See More
  
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- Lucknam Park Chippenham 42 rooms from $372
  
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  Active Holiday  -  Plenty of countryside persuits for the sporty types with clay pigeon shooting, riding, tennis, archery, and falconry.
  Foodies  -  Executive Chef Hywel Jones runs the Michelin starred The Park, as well as the award winning cookery school.
  Cooking classes  -  Learn to whip up your favourite dishes from The Parks' menu at the in house cookery school, a lovely way to pass a rainy day!
  Sights nearby  -  Bath is only six miles away- if you can tear yourself away from the endless entertainment at Lucknam Park.
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Kiwi Collection, Relais & Chateaux
  
  A luxury country home full of character. High ceilinged rooms are adorned with chandeliers and four poster beds. The surrounding parkland and gardens are painstakingly up kept. A spa, indoor pool and outdoor plunge pool aid relaxation. The fine dining restaurant is headed by a Michelin Star chef. See More
  
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- Woolley Grange Bradford on Avon 26 rooms from $205
  
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  Families  -  Ideal for families with babysitting, kids hang out zones, an Ofsted-registered playroom and plenty of activites on the grounds.
  Hideaway  -  With the spa, pool table, table football, extensive grounds, yummy food and homely rooms, you'll find it impossible to leave.
  Swimming Pool  -  Indoor and Outdoor Pool
  Restaurant  -  Recommended.
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  Jacobean Manor turned luxury family retreat in stunning gardens with pools. Comfortable, modern rooms are a great welcome after a day of activities. The restaurant caters to all dietary needs and occasions. Children clubs, games rooms, gardens and more gives parents a chance to relax at the spa. See More
  
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- Devonshire Fell Hotel Skipton (North Yorkshire) 16 rooms from $227
  
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  Foodies  -  Feast on the locally sourced 1AA Rosette cuisine in the stylish restaurant, followed by a drink in the cosy bar
  Country Escape  -  On the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, surrounded by rolling hills and scenic country
  Great walks  -  Bring your dog and head out rambling among rolling hills, country lanes and along the River Wharfe
  Sights nearby  -  The UNESCO heritage sights of Bolton Abbey Estate and Fountains Abbey are a short drive away
  Recommended by  -  Sawdays
  
  Colourful, contemporary-style hotel, on the Duke of Devonshire’s Yorkshire estate, with stunning views over a picturesque Wharfedale village. Ideally placed for walks, exploring local villages or picnicking by the river. See More
  
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- Matfen Hall Hotel Matfen, Northumberland 63 rooms from $306
  
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  Country Escape  -  Set in over 300 acres of unique parkland, this is a place for couples to relax, families to explore and friends to enjoy
  Local markets  -  Check out what local produce Hexham has to offer, as well as nearby Corbridge
  Great walks  -  With 300 acres to explore the park is full of walking and jogging trails
  Sights nearby  -  Just a 30 minute drive from Hadrian’s Wall, well worth the journey
  
  A stately mansion, wrapped in parkland, that has carefully added a spa, leisure centre and golf courses without losing its grandeur. Bedrooms are contemporary-classic or old-style grand, and there’s a choice of eating options from fine-dining to a la carte. A has-it-all country escape See More
  
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