Family Ties: The Ultimate Guide to Multi-Generational Trips
31 October 2024
A heartwarming trend is reshaping UK family holidays: the rise of multi-generational travel. But what is multi-generational travel, and why has it captured the imagination of British families?
Picture a grand country house, decorated to perfection, where three generations gather around a crackling fire. Grandparents regale wide-eyed children with tales of Christmases past, while parents savour a rare moment of calm. This scene, once a rarity, is becoming the cornerstone of modern family getaways.
The appeal lies in its ability to bridge generational gaps, creating shared experiences that span from toddlers to grandparents. As busy lives and geographic distances often keep families apart, these holidays offer precious opportunities to reconnect and create lasting memories. From coastal retreats to countryside manors, UK family holidays are evolving to accommodate everyone, offering a tapestry of activities that cater to diverse interests and abilities.
Let's uncover how some of Britain's finest independently-owned hotels are reimagining family time, creating magical settings where every generation feels valued, entertained, and utterly at home.
Bovey Castle, Dartmoor
Nestled in the frosty beauty of Dartmoor National Park, Bovey Castle emerges as a winter wonderland for multi-generational trips. The estate's self-catering lodges offer a home-away-from-home, perfect for UK family holidays seeking both togetherness and privacy. Here, activities bridge generational gaps, with grandparents and grandchildren alike trying their hand at archery or marvelling at majestic birds during falconry sessions. As night falls, families can retreat to their lodges, where the warmth of a private space allows for intimate gatherings and the creation of new traditions. Bovey Castle exemplifies how luxury and family-friendliness can coexist, offering a magical setting for family holidays that create lasting memories across generations.
Calcot & Spa, Tetbury
When it comes to planning a family holiday that caters to all, Calcot & Spa stands out with its thoughtful approach to multi-generational comfort, and the 'kids stay free' policy makes it easier for extended clans to gather. While parents and grandparents indulge in spa treatments, younger guests can expend their endless energy in the Playbarn, and teenagers find their cool factor in The Mez. Calcot's dedication to accessibility is evident throughout, from ground-floor rooms to well-lit pathways and induction loops. The hotel's design, featuring quiet spaces and a range of dining options, demonstrates a deep understanding of diverse needs. With its blend of family-friendly amenities and luxury touches, Calcot & Spa proves that UK family holidays can be both inclusive and indulgent, catering to the desires of every generation.
Ellenborough Park, Cheltenham
Ellenborough Park transforms UK family holidays into storybook adventures. The Dubarry Boot Room, stocked with Le Chameau wellies for all sizes, invites families to embark on frosty walks together, while culinary experiences become family affairs with children's menus and mocktails adding a dash of sophistication to young palates. The Yoto Player in each room is a masterstroke, offering bedtime stories and educational content that spans generations. For children under five, the 'stay and dine for free' policy is a welcome gift for families planning a family holiday. Mornings at Ellenborough are a delight, with a kids' breakfast and milkshake bar that turns the first meal of the day into a celebration. These thoughtful touches make Ellenborough Park a frontrunner for families seeking the best family holidays that blend luxury with genuine warmth and intergenerational appeal.
Kilworth House Hotel & Theatre, Leicestershire
For families who believe that UK family holidays should nourish the soul as well as the senses, Kilworth House offers a unique cultural oasis. The hotel's adjoining rooms provide the perfect setting for multi-generational trips, allowing for both connection and retreat. The crown jewel of Kilworth's family offering is undoubtedly its on-site theatre. Here, grandparents can introduce younger generations to the magic of live performance, creating shared memories that resonate long after the final curtain call. The children's afternoon tea is a delightful twist on a British classic, offering little ones a taste of grown-up sophistication. With its blend of comfortable accommodations and enriching experiences, Kilworth House proves that family holidays can be both entertaining and culturally stimulating. It's an ideal destination for families seeking ideas for holidays that go beyond the ordinary, catering to the cultural appetites of all ages.
Thurlestone Hotel, Devon
Perched on the stunning South Devon coast, Thurlestone Hotel offers a breath of fresh sea air for UK family holidays. Its location is ideal for multi-generational trips that seek to balance relaxation with adventure. Families can start their day with a brisk walk along the coastal path, grandparents pointing out local flora and fauna to eager young naturalists. The hotel's family activities cater to all energy levels, from gentle rock pooling to more vigorous water sports. Thoughtfully designed interconnecting rooms ensure that families can maintain closeness while respecting everyone's need for personal space, and the hotel’s commitment to accessibility means that even those with mobility challenges can enjoy the coastal views and family gatherings. With its perfect blend of seaside charm and family-friendly amenities, Thurlestone Hotel embodies the inclusive spirit of modern family holidays, offering something special for every generation.
Homewood Hotel & Spa, Bath
Homewood Hotel redefines cosy UK family holidays with its blend of homely comfort and luxury touches. The interconnecting and family rooms are perfect for multi-generational trips, offering spaces where families can come together for board games or movie nights. The year-round heated outdoor pool is a particular highlight, providing a splash of summer fun even in the depths of winter. Extensive grounds offer a natural playground for hide-and-seek or snowman-building, depending on the weather's whims. Inside, a treasure trove of games and activities ensures that family fun continues regardless of the British weather. The children's menu at the Olio restaurant strikes a perfect balance, offering child-friendly fare that doesn't compromise on quality, allowing family mealtimes to become a gourmet adventure for all. Homewood Hotel proves that family holidays can be both sophisticated and fun, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a luxurious yet welcoming environment for all ages.
Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa, Lake District
Armathwaite Hall stands as a testament to how UK family holidays can seamlessly blend luxury with family-friendly charm. The spacious rooms with extra beds and interconnecting options cater perfectly to the needs of multi-generational trips, and the hotel's unique activities, such as alpaca walking, offer delightful bonding experiences that appeal across generations. While children splash about during designated pool times, adults can indulge in the serenity of the spa, knowing that every family member is catered for. As evening falls, families can gather in the grand lounges, sharing stories of the day's adventures over hot chocolate or mulled wine. With its thoughtful balance of adult indulgence and family-friendly features, Armathwaite Hall encapsulates the essence of the best family holidays – where every generation feels at home in the heart of the Lake District.
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