Half Term Fun For All The Family – PoB Hotels’ Top Tips

Its cultural hot spots, bustling shopping scene and rich history make Edinburgh an unquestionable half term holiday destination for all the family. Whether it be for kids, parents or grandparents, there is something for everyone in Scotland’s charming capital city.

The city’s rich and historic background means there are a trove of stories to be told. Kids (and adults!) will love visiting the Storytelling Centre on the Royal Mile, which hosts regular storytelling events that will take even the most distracted of kids on a journey through Scottish literature, music and dance. Think everything from Celtic tales to Scottish reeling and more…

The home of JK Rowling, and the inspiration for much of Harry Potter, children can discover the magic and try their hand at witchcraft and wizardry at Edinburgh’s iconic Harry Potter tour - complete with a quiz to test even the biggest Potter fans, its time to put your magic where your mouth is! Perfect for older kids and parents, why not embark on a chilling guided tour through the city’s most haunted locations with its regular Ghost Walks passing through the city’s ancient dungeons and hidden underground spots.

For something sweeter, and a must visit for all chocoholics, Edinburgh’s The Chocolatarium is the ideal place to take kids this half term. Follow the journey of chocolate with a fascinating 90-minute tour that dives deep into all things chocolate, from the jungles of South America to the finished product today, there are plenty of educational insights into the story behind everyone’s favourite treat.

Ideally located just five minutes from the city center, you will find Edinburgh's most exclusive luxury hotel; hidden away in 20 acres of pristine gardens, Prestonfield House is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. Dog owners will also be pleased to know that this tranquil country house estate is dog-friendly!

Moving away from the delights of Edinburgh, take to the water with a trip to the vibrant port district of Leith. Spend the day meandering down The Water of Leith Walkway, wandering along the 12 mile long path and stopping off at key landmarks such as Saughton Winter Gardens, Scottish Gallery of Modern Art and Royal Botanic Gardens. Foodies will not be disappointed with Leith Market and its vibrant farmer’s market stalls. Open every Saturday, sample tasty hot street food, fresh bakes, and local cheeses from independent local traders, or browse the quirky art stalls and thrift stores for some hidden gems!

Extend your waterside experience by stepping aboard Scotland’s only floating luxury hotel, Fingal. Moored at the beautiful Alexandra Dock, this glamorous hotel - sister of The Royal Yacht Britannia - offers a surreal classic yacht experience in Scotland. You’ll live like royalty, enjoying a serene sleep in one of Fingal’s 23 unique cabins, and indulge in fine dining and cocktails at The Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar.

It’s no secret that some of Britain’s best beaches can be found at the Cornish coastline. With blue waters, creamy white sands and colourful seaside towns, there is no need to look any further than Cornwall for a seaside family half term adventure.

As one of the most popular surfing destinations in the UK, Newquay is the perfect place for surfing, with plenty of beaches and surf schools. Back on land, enjoy a relaxing walk down one of the many coastal paths and beautiful beaches, including Watergate Bay and Towan Beach. Kids will love burning off energy playing in the sand dunes at Crantock Beach.

For parents in need of a relaxing spa retreat, head to the award-winning Headland Hotel & Spa, a Cornish sanctuary by the sea. Boasting timeless, age-old charm and world-class spa facilities, this five-star hotel is a perfect blend of age-old tradition and modern day luxury. Book one of the many seasonal experiences, including storm watching over the turbulent seas in the autumn and winter, as well as a wealth of watersports activities during the brighter spring and summer months, such as paddleboarding and coasteering.

Further south, The Nare Hotel is an idyllic countryside escape, boasting a rural setting with stunning sea views. This country house hotel offers an array of cultural and leisure experiences, whether it be a cruise on one of the hotel’s impressive fleet of boats, or an art class with The Nare’s very own artist-in-residence, Jeanni. A fun activity for all ages, Jeanni will share her top arty tips with bespoke tuition sessions to see guests channel their inner Leonardi da Vinci.

Home to the famous Snowdonia National Park, Wales is an ideal destination for an action-packed family half term holiday. Reconnect with nature exploring its 1,497 miles of walking paths, toast marshmallows on your very own barbeque overlooking sparkling lakes, and delve into the past with a visit to one of the many historic castles.

Secret tip - somewhere camouflaged in the hills of the National Park hides Snowdonia’s secret infinity pool, and trust us; the search is certainly worth it! Those lucky to find it can take in the breathtaking views of Snowdonia below whilst bathing in its tranquil waters. Meanwhile at the Watkin Path lies Watkin Pools & Waterfall. Waterbabies can splash about in the refreshing waters of the plunge pool or enjoy wild swimming.

If the hiking gets too much, just simply hop aboard Snowdonia’s Mountain Railway to the mountain peak, and recuperate with a cup of tea at Summit Cafe overlooking panoramic views.

Located just on the doorstep, Palé Hall Hotel is an ideal tranquil Welsh retreat in one of the destination’s most beautiful Victorian mansions. A hot spot for foodies, this country house property boasts an acclaimed three rosette and Michelin green star fine-dining restaurant headed up by head chef, Gareth Stevenson.

Nestled in the rolling green hills of Narberth, a market town in picturesque Pembrokeshire, lose yourself in nature at the elegant Grove of Narberth hotel. Enveloped by green meadows, gardens and woodland, this luxury hotel has an ambitious plan to become fully Net Zero by 2030. Offering a huge variety of sustainability initiatives - from food production, to waste management, to eclectic vehicles - guests will feel involved in its move towards a greener future. Kids can enjoy spotting an abundance of interesting species at its two wildlife ponds, including butterflies, birds, and wildflowers, and visit the buzzing residents at one of its four very own beehives.

Meanwhile, it’s a bug’s life at The Bug Farm; a unique and quirky nature reserve set on 100 acres of scenic Pembrokeshire countryside. Kids, parents, and grandparents will love meeting the residents at the Tropical Bug Zoo, Bug Museum and British Bug House, and learning more about the wildlife conservation and sustainable practices at the Farm. Stop for a bite at the UK’s first edible insect restaurant, Grub Kitchen. Delicious!