Imagine the scene. You arrive at an unfamiliar hotel after a long drive, with tired and hungry kids in tow; the website said "children welcome", but you don't feel welcome at all. It's awkward in the restaurant; sleeping arrangements are a headache; other guests give you dirty looks; and the staff are not as helpful as you'd hoped.
If this sounds familiar, then these accommodation ideas could be just what you're looking for when you want to spend time away as a family. Sure, cots, children's menus and outside space are all important, but a great stay is mainly about the attitude of an establishment. These hotels and B&Bs will make your family break feel special, whether you're in a five-star hotel or a tent.
Langdale, Lake District
Nestling in a leafy valley in the heart of the Lake District national park, Langdale Estate is a secluded 35-acre site built amid the ruins of an old quarry. From the rolling hills that surround it, you'd barely know it was there: the modern buildings are concealed by mature trees – it's like living in a forest. There are five family rooms in the five-star hotel (and a 20-metre indoor pool), but the self-catering lodges are the biggest draw, being superbly designed and kitted out with all mod cons. There are several charming pubs and cafes nearby, and little Elterwater is the perfect introduction to Lakeland walking for toddlers. More intrepid youngsters will adore the walk across the hills to Grasmere, where you can hire a rowing boat for a trip around the lake. langdale.co.uk
West Middlewick Farm, Devon
This is a delightful dairy farm near Tiverton, run by John and Joanna Gibson, and their three children. You can stay in the farmhouse on a bed-and-breakfast basis, in your own tent or caravan on the campsite, or self-catering in a fully equipped log cabin, with dishwasher and DVD player. For the best of both worlds, try one of the farm's purpose-built pods: it's like sleeping in a wooden wigwam. Kids are welcome to muck in on the farm, collecting eggs from the (free-range) hens and helping with the milking. The Gibson family has shared the farm with paying guests since the 1930s – Jo used to come here on family holidays and met John here when she was in her teens. westmiddlewick.co.uk
Marwell Hotel, Hampshire
Hidden in lush woodland less than 10 miles from Winchester, this smart, comfortable hotel is custom-built for families. The wooded grounds give children plenty of room to run around, there's a big indoor pool (plus a sauna and fitness room for mum and dad) and Marwell zoo is next door. Set in landscaped grounds, it's more of a safari park than a zoo, and tigers, giraffes and hippos all have space to roam. One night for two adults and two kids in a family room is £79. The Zoofari packages are also great value: one night's B&B for two adults and two children is £150, including entry to the zoo. marwellhotel.co.uk
City Hotel, Derry
This modern four-star hotel is an ideal family base for exploring Derry – UK City of Culture 2013 – and the stunning countryside beyond. Conveniently situated on Queen's Quay, beside the river Foyle, most of Derry's historic attractions (including the grand Guildhall and the excellent Tower Museum) are just a short walk away. Kids will relish the hike across the Foyle on the beautiful new Peace Bridge, or around the old town on the spectacular city walls. Meanwhile, the Giant's Causeway is less than an hour's drive away. The City Hotel has a 15-metre indoor pool, a steam room and Jacuzzi, and a well-equipped gym. cityhotelderry.com
The Balmoral, Edinburgh
If you plan to splash out on a weekend break, the Balmoral is the place to do it. Unlike a lot of luxury hotels, Rocco Forte's first deluxe hotel offers special deals for families. One night for a family of four costs £364 in two interconnecting rooms, including continental breakfast, bath-time treats and adult access to the gym. There are cots and changing facilities for babies, under-threes eat for free and four-to-12 year-olds eat for half price. A local landmark since 1902, this palatial building is right by Princes Street (Edinburgh's top shopping spot) and Princes Street Gardens, which is great for outdoor games. thebalmoralhotel.com
