Royal Berkshire, Fanhams Hall and Lainston House promise memorable summer experiences for all ages.
Royal Berkshire
Built as a residence for the Churchill family in 1705, Royal Berkshire offers a true home away from home, making it an ideal base for an unforgettable family getaway. The historic 18th-century country house hotel is set within 15-acres of landscaped grounds ideally located in close proximity to some of the UK’s major tourist hotspots and sporting attractions including Legoland, GO Ape, Virginia Water Lake and Windsor Castle.
During the school holidays, kids eat free at Royal Berkshire’s relaxed Fork restaurant when booking the Dine & Stay package. Royal Berkshire has also partnered with Legoland Windsor, located just 5 miles away, to offer guests an effortless family adventure. The Legoland Play and Stay package includes accommodation in a spacious Family room for four, daily breakfast, and tickets to Legoland for the whole family included. After a day of excitement, the revitalised Horse Box on the hotel’s terrace serves artisan ice cream with lawn games such as Giant Jenga and frisbee golf and tennis courts.
HOW: Legoland Play and Stay from £350 for family of four
Fanhams Hall, Hertfordshire
A breathtaking Jacobean mansion, Fanhams Hall offers a unique location for a family staycation in the heart of the Hertfordshire countryside. Set within manicured gardens, guests can explore the 27-acre grounds featuring ornamental lakes, a Japanese Tea House and gardens, an Austrian Tea House and woodlands. The Grade II listed hotel is just a 20-minue walk from the centre of Ware, and attractions such as Hertfordshire Zoo, Hatfield House and Knebworth House, Ventura Wildlife Park and Lee Valley White Water Centre are a short drive away. During the school holidays, kids eat free at Fanhams Hall with their Dine and Stay package.
This August, guests are invited to experience the enchantment of movies under the stars with a memorable night of entertainment. Whether film enthusiasts or simply seeking a fun evening for the family, the outdoor cinema encourages guests to bring a picnic blanket and enjoy drinks and nibbles on the lawn. With four cinema nights to choose from in August, featuring box office hits like Barbie and the timeless classic Top Gun, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste. Guests can continue the festivities at Fanhams Hall’s Karaoke Klub, where fun knows no bounds. Whether it’s a special birthday, anniversary, or simply a gathering of loved ones, the venue offers a unique experience for all ages.
HOW: Outdoor cinema is £20 per person
Lainston House, Hampshire
Nestled in the picturesque Hampshire countryside, Lainston House is a stunning 17th-century mansion that promises an unforgettable family staycation. Set amidst 63 acres of beautiful gardens and parkland, guests can wander through the charming walled kitchen garden, enjoy the tranquil surroundings of the woodland, or discover the historic dovecote. This Grade II* listed hotel is just a short drive from attractions such as Beaulieu Motor Museum, Paultons Park, and Marwell Zoo. For families seeking adventure, the South Downs National Park offers a multitude of outdoor activities within easy reach, and not to forget the Thruxton Circuit for car enthusiasts.
Season Cookery School at Lainston House hosts seasonal cooking classes for parents and children, making it the perfect destination for budding young chefs. The culinary adventure does not end there, The Wellhouse caters to young palates with a special children’s menu that includes a Wellhouse Woodfired Prime Beef Burger with garden celeriac and horseradish, a Build Your Own Pizza option, and delicious Jude’s Organic Ice Cream Pots.
The cosy family suites feature vast open-plan rooms with not one, but two queen-size beds, offering great flexibility. For a little extra fun, families can ask about the play tepees available for children. Understanding that parents may want a break while still enjoying quality time with their kids, Lainston House offers the option to arrange a certified babysitter, allowing parents to enjoy a proper date night.
HOW: Dine & Stay package from £529 per room
