A and I decided that now O was a little bit older (almost 18 months by the time we went) we should give Center Parcs a go. We decided to go to Sherwood Forest as it was the closest to us and we'd heard they had a great splash pool for kids. You can arrive at any time from 10am on the day of check in but can't access the lodge until 4pm so we decided to drive over O's lunchtime nap and arrived around 2 and headed straight to the Sub Tropical Paradise as this is free for all guests to use everyday.

Beech Farm Cottages is a charming, family-friendly destination located on the edge of the North York Moors National Park. This award-winning complex offers eight unique, luxury self-catering cottages with modern comforts like high-speed Wi-Fi, smart TVs, and Nespresso coffee machines. Guests enjoy exclusive access to an indoor heated pool, spa, sauna, and a variety of children's play facilities, both indoors and outdoors. It's the perfect spot for a relaxing family getaway with plenty of activities for all ages.

For families seeking a unique escape to the countryside, a farm stay offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Across the UK, there are a variety of family-friendly farm accommodations that provide self-catering options paired with memorable farm experiences. These farm stays allow kids to interact with animals, participate in daily farm activities, and enjoy the freedom of open spaces, while parents can unwind amidst picturesque rural landscapes.

Looking for the perfect UK staycation that offers both relaxation and fun for the whole family? Explore our top picks for family-friendly destinations with free childcare, where kids can enjoy supervised activities while parents unwind. From countryside retreats to coastal escapes, these hotels and resorts offer the ideal balance of luxury, adventure, and family-friendly amenities without the added cost of childcare.