In need of a short family break, we wanted to go somewhere the kids could have fun, but that would allow us some time to ourselves for a bit of pampering and relaxation. Oh yes, I nearly forgot, we also wanted luxury. And we wanted all of this somewhere in the UK. Yes I know, we wanted a lot. Expecting a cursory Google search for ‘luxury hotel in UK with kids club’ to result in the words ‘nice try’, we were quite shocked to discover the stressed-out parent oasis more commonly known as – The Four Seasons hotel, Hampshire.
First impressions…
Set on a 500 acre country estate, The Four Seasons hotel, Hampshire is an extremely elegant hotel within a Georgian mansion.
Driving straight up to the front door, we were greeted with a very warm welcome. Our luggage was swiftly removed from our car, as the complimentary valet service took it safely away. Upon walking into reception our children were delighted to be welcomed by name and offered a complimentary welcome gift from the hotel toy box. A few minutes later we were given a full tour of the hotel, helping us to know what was going on where and most importantly to feel settled.
Room to relax…
Our accommodation was two adjoining garden rooms, both spacious and grand. Complete with marble bathrooms and one of the comfiest beds I have ever slept in. The family friendly vibe continued here too. The children’s room provided the most adorable child size spa robes and slippers. Plus, you can imagine the kids delight upon discovering a welcome message written for them on their bathroom mirror. As starts to mini-breaks go, this was up there with the best.
Fun for the kids, peace and relaxation for the parents…
As I mentioned, we were there for some pampering and relaxation, so undoubtably our first stop was to the ‘Kids for all Seasons’ on-site complementary children’s programme, within the charming Reeds Cottage. Kids for all Seasons had a lot to offer – toys, movies, crafts, treasure hunts, stories and an outdoor play area. From the moment we stepped inside not only did the staff ensure that the children felt comfortable and excited about being there, they also spent time talking with us to give us complete confidence our kids would be safe and well looked after. With the children obviously happy and occupied, we headed for base camp – the spa.
The spa was fantastic. There are outdoor and indoor heated pools, plus plenty of freshly towelled sun loungers to wile away the hours. To make your life so much easier, you are only required to remember your swim suit – the hotel provides, robes, flip flops, water and sunscreen. Staff can bring food and beverages direct to your lounger, so minimal disruption to relaxation time is required. We had pre-booked treatments and after indulging in a perfectly relaxing one-hour full body massage, I spent some time becoming even more serene, lying on the beds in the spa’s relaxation area.
Family friendly activities for quality time together…
Once our optimum point of chilled had been reached, it was time to collect the kids. As a family we decided to make use of the hotel’s bikes, but there are also a number of other family friendly activities on offer too (see good to know below). It was great to explore the grounds with lots of fun hills to go soaring down. If you have more than the hour that we did, the hotel can provide food within back packs or even arrange to have your lunch ready for you at an agreed point along your route.
