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Family-owned and run, Red Carnation Hotels knows very well the importance of setting the scene for lasting memories. Our worldwide properties go above and beyond to accommodate all ages with a diverse range of family-friendly activities and services, from putting on prime entertainment for our younger guests to arranging memorable excursions en famille. Four-legged friends are also welcome. so you don't need to leave your pet at home. 

Here, we cherry-pick our most special stays for an unforgettable family vacation. 

Best for adventures in the great outdoors

Flanked by the rugged Connemara Mountains and blanketed in ancient woodland, the Ashford Castle estate is ripe for outdoor pursuits. Sporty types can hike, bike, or dive into a spectacular array of waterborne activities on the freshwater lough, while animal lovers can fly the estate’s sharp-eyed Harris’ Hawks or head out on horseback. From young children to older teenagers, there is a range of activities for all of the family to enjoy.

With the Twelve Apostles and Table Mountain a dramatic backdrop, The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa is an ideal destination for a family break in the great outdoors. Scale the heights of the mountain, marvel at the colourful residents of Butterfly World Zoo, and take a dip at Boulders Beach, home to a colony of very endearing penguins. The hotel has a cinema that screens child-friendly movies each afternoon for younger guests as well as other family activities for the perfect stay. 

Best for accommodating the whole family

The Milestone's interconnecting suites are ideal for accommodating a whole family—in fact, the hotel can host up to 10 guests in adjoining rooms. For even more privacy, a selection of two and three-bedroom Residences offer families an exclusive home away from home.

The Milestone also offers a fantastic Children's Afternoon Tea for all little prince and princesses. A smaller version of their Traditional Afternoon Tea, the offering is just as special with baked scones and Royal cakes as well as the choice of a hot drink, milkshake, or soft drink. There's also the opportunity for little ones to decorate their own cupcakes. Discover more family services at The Milestone.

Best for fabulous beach days

Smartly punctuating Umhlanga’s golden coastline, The Oyster Box is the ideal base for a beach break. Flanked by two swimming pools and subtropical gardens that teem with monkeys and birdlife, there’s plenty to do aside from lazing on the sand. Children under 12 are gifted with a backpack filled with holiday essentials—a fishing net, beach ball, and colouring books, as well as a wristband entitling them to complimentary soft drinks, milkshakes, and more. The Oyster Box also has a Holiday Club which is open daily for children aged between 4 and 12.

 

Best for exploring the prime English countryside

A family vacation at Summer Lodge in the chocolate-box village of Evershot offers easy access to the adjacent 600-acre Melbury Estate and Deer Park, with maps of the best walks for families. A little further afield is the UNESCO Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site - a coastline that includes some of England’s best beaches, snug coves, and sheltered bays, among them the world-renowned Chesil Beach.

Back at the hotel, children can cosy up with books and games in the den while the grown-ups unwind at the spa or enjoy an activity on the property.

Best for an exceptional city break

The team at The Rubens at the Palace has their finger firmly on the London pulse, and are on hand to recommend exciting activities for families. From the moment you arrive your little ones will enjoy their very own check-in. 

The hotel hosts a Pastry Chef Experience, which offers the chance for your little ones to get creative in the kitchen with a professional pastry chef. The workshop lasts for approximately 30 minutes and includes the opportunity for children to dress up in full chef uniforms, view the hotel kitchen chefs at work, and decorate their own biscuits and cupcakes. The Rubens have also adapted their Royal Afternoon Tea for younger guests, fitting for every prince and princess, so the whole family can enjoy the tradition together. 

Family tours with Evan Evans

If you're staying in one of our London hotels, you can take advantage of a range of experiences with our sister tour company, Evan Evans. 

Two of their most popular attractions are their Harry Potter tours, where you can embark on an adventure to Warner Bros. Studio to uncover the behind-the-scenes production of the films. The tours include return travel and entry, so you can relax at ease without needing to organise travel for the whole family. 

Alternatively, you can discover Harry Potter film locations in Central London on a guided walking tour. Ending at King's Cross Station, you'll have the opportunity to visit Platform 9 ¾ for the perfect photo opportunity and the gift shop for any souvenirs of the experience.