Travelling as a family requires thoughtful planning, especially when it comes to choosing the right accommodation. Whether you prefer the comforts of a hotel, the flexibility of an Airbnb, or the adventure of camping, it’s crucial to find options that cater to both children and adults. This guide will walk you through the best family-friendly accommodations and provide tips for making your stay enjoyable and stress-free.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Family-Friendly Accommodations
Before diving into specific types of accommodation, it’s essential to understand the key factors that make a place truly family-friendly:
Location: Proximity to local attractions, parks, or essential services such as hospitals and supermarkets is vital. Central locations make transport easier, while rural spots offer tranquillity and space.
Safety: Look for baby-proofed spaces, safety gates, and child-friendly room layouts.
Amenities: Child-friendly extras like high chairs, cribs, or play areas. Check for laundry facilities, kitchenettes, and parking.
Room Size and Layout: Family suites or interconnected rooms are often more comfortable for families with children.
Budget: Balancing affordability with comfort. It’s important to find an option that offers value for money without sacrificing safety or enjoyment.
Hotels are usually central in cities
Family-Friendly Hotels
Benefits of Hotels for Families
Hotels can offer a wealth of amenities that make travelling with children easier. These include housekeeping, concierge services, room service, and family-focused activities.
Top Hotel Chains for Families
Premier Inn: Known for its spacious family rooms and child-friendly breakfast options.
Holiday Inn: Offers family packages, including meals for children and spacious suites.
Marriott Hotels: Many Marriott locations cater to families with pools, kids’ clubs, and baby-friendly amenities.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Popular Destinations
London: The ZSL London Zoo Family Rooms at Holiday Inn Regents Park offer fun family packages including zoo tickets.
Paris: Stay at Novotel Paris Centre Tour Eiffel, which has family rooms, indoor pools, and play areas.
Edinburgh: Radisson Blu Edinburgh offers family rooms and easy access to key attractions like the Edinburgh Zoo.
Air BnB’s are good for city breaks as you can come and go as you please
Family-Friendly Airbnb and Holiday Rentals
Advantages of Airbnb
Staying in an Airbnb allows for more space, privacy, and the ability to prepare your meals. This is particularly beneficial for families with toddlers or babies who require a quieter environment or special food preparation.
Key Features to Look for
Host Reviews: Look for properties highly rated by families.
Kid-Friendly Amenities: Properties with cribs, high chairs, toys, and enclosed gardens.
Kitchen Facilities: Access to a fully equipped kitchen makes meal planning easier, especially for picky eaters.
Best Family-Friendly Airbnb Locations
Lake District: Spacious cabins or lakeside homes are ideal for families who enjoy outdoor activities.
Cornwall: Many holiday homes near beaches come with BBQs and play areas.
London: Choose properties in neighbourhoods like Greenwich or Hampstead, where parks and museums are nearby.
Camping is a great way to connect to the outdoors
Family Camping Spots: Nature and Comfort Combined
Camping offers families an opportunity to connect with nature while teaching children valuable life skills. From pitching a tent to roasting marshmallows, the experience is enriching and memorable.
Types of Family-Friendly Camping
Traditional Campgrounds: These often include facilities such as showers, toilets, and playgrounds. Ideal for first-time campers.
Glamping: Luxury tents, cabins, or yurts with beds, proper kitchens, and sometimes even hot tubs. Perfect for families who want the outdoor experience with a little extra comfort.
RV Parks: Bring your own caravan or rent one on-site. These parks usually offer more structured environments, making them safer for toddlers.
Top Family Camping Destinations
New Forest National Park: Known for its child-friendly camping sites with access to forest trails and wildlife.
Cornwall Coastal Campsites: Many campsites are located near beaches, making them ideal for families who love seaside adventures.
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs: Offering safe camping grounds with the bonus of water sports for older children.
Tips for Choosing the Right Accommodation
Book Early: Especially during school holidays, family-friendly accommodations can fill up fast.
Check Reviews: Always read reviews from other families to gauge whether a place is truly child-friendly.
Communicate with Hosts: If you’re booking a holiday rental or Airbnb, ask about child safety, available amenities, and any extra services.
Consider Cancellation Policies: Flexibility is key when travelling with children, so make sure you choose an option that allows cancellations or changes.
Packing Tips: Bring familiar items like toys, baby monitors, or travel cots to help your child settle in quickly.
Reviews and Testimonials: What Other Families Say
Hotels: Families often recommend Premier Inn for its budget-friendly family rooms and central locations. Marriott Hotels also receive high praise for their family-oriented services, including access to swimming pools and kids’ menus.
Airbnb: Parents appreciate hosts who offer thoughtful extras like children’s books, playpens, or even babysitting recommendations. Areas like the Lake District and Cornwall are top-rated for family stays.
Camping: Camping reviews frequently highlight the importance of facilities like clean bathrooms, kid-friendly spaces, and easy access to activities like hiking or canoeing.
Conclusion: Finding the Best Accommodation for Your Family
When choosing family-friendly accommodation, balance the needs of both parents and children. Whether you opt for the convenience of a hotel, the flexibility of an Airbnb, or the adventure of camping, thoughtful planning will ensure a memorable and stress-free holiday. Remember to book early, check reviews, and prioritise safety and convenience to guarantee a fantastic family getaway.
By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to find the perfect family-friendly accommodation, no matter your destination. Whether it’s a bustling city, a serene countryside retreat, or a thrilling outdoor adventure, the right accommodation will make your family holiday enjoyable for everyone.
Heather is a passionate travel blogger who shares her love for adventure and discovery through engaging stories and practical travel tips. Whether exploring new cities or finding family-friendly destinations, Heather inspires her readers to embrace the joys of travel.
