Planning a family holiday requires careful consideration, particularly when it comes to choosing the right accommodation. The perfect family-friendly property can make the difference between a stress-filled break and a genuinely relaxing getaway. When travelling with children, your accommodation needs extend far beyond simply having enough beds. At 53 Degrees Property, we understand that families need spaces that cater to both parents and children, offering comfort, convenience, and safety.
Below, we explore the essential features to look for when booking family accommodation across the UK.
Why Is Location So Important for Family Holidays?
Location should be your primary consideration when booking family accommodation. Properties within walking distance of attractions or amenities can significantly reduce the stress of travelling with children. Look for accommodation near child-friendly beaches, parks, or family attractions to minimise time spent in transit with restless youngsters.
Consider the immediate surroundings too. A quiet residential area might be preferable to a bustling city centre location when travelling with small children. Properties with close access to supermarkets, pharmacies, and medical facilities provide peace of mind for parents, knowing essentials are within easy reach should you need them.
In rural locations like our Lake District property, Low Row Barn, proximity to nature walks and outdoor activities can provide endless entertainment for children. Meanwhile, our urban properties in cities like Manchester and Liverpool offer easy access to museums, parks and family-friendly restaurants.
What Safety Features Should You Look For?
Child safety should never be compromised. When assessing potential accommodation, look for properties with secure entrances, functioning smoke alarms, and childproof features. Stair gates, plug socket covers, and window locks are valuable safety additions that can prevent accidents and provide peace of mind.
If booking accommodation with outdoor space or near water, ensure appropriate safety measures are in place. Fenced gardens, secure pool areas with gates or covers, and childproof outdoor furniture will help keep curious youngsters safe while exploring.
Many of our 53 Degrees properties include family safety features as standard, but don’t hesitate to enquire about specific requirements before booking. Professional property managers should be able to provide detailed information about safety provisions or even arrange additional child-proofing measures for your stay.
Essential Amenities for Family Comfort
Self-catered accommodation offers significant advantages for families, and certain amenities can transform your holiday experience:
Full kitchen facilities
Having the ability to prepare familiar meals and snacks not only saves money but also helps maintain children’s routines. Look for accommodation with microwaves for quick heating of baby food and dishwashers to minimise cleanup time.
Laundry facilities
Children invariably create more laundry than expected. On-site washing machines and dryers allow you to pack lighter and handle inevitable spills and accidents.
Multiple bedrooms
Separate sleeping areas mean parents can enjoy evenings without tiptoeing around sleeping children. Many of our properties offer flexible sleeping arrangements to accommodate families of different sizes and configurations.
Wi-Fi and entertainment
While scenic locations and new experiences provide natural entertainment, having reliable internet access and entertainment options like smart TVs can be invaluable during downtime or rainy days.
How Much Space Does Your Family Really Need?
Cramped accommodation quickly leads to holiday tension. When travelling with children, prioritise properties that offer:
- Indoor living space – Look for open-plan areas where children can play while adults relax, or separate play areas that allow for different activities simultaneously.
- Outdoor access – Gardens, patios, or balconies provide valuable additional space for children to burn off energy. Our properties in areas like Chester offer secure outdoor spaces perfect for family games and outdoor meals.
- Storage solutions – Properties with adequate storage for pushchairs, travel cots, and other bulky child equipment prevent your living space becoming cluttered with essentials.
How Can You Tell If a Property Is Genuinely Family-Friendly?
Look beyond marketing claims by carefully reading property descriptions and reviews from other families. Photographs can reveal whether a property is truly suitable or merely claiming to be child-friendly. Pay particular attention to reviews mentioning the suitability for specific age groups similar to your children.
What Makes 53 Degrees Properties Perfect for Families?
Finding the perfect family accommodation takes careful consideration, but the effort pays dividends in holiday enjoyment. Our range of self-catered properties across the North, Midlands and South of England offers families comfortable, convenient and thoughtfully-equipped bases for memorable UK holidays. Each property provides the space, amenities and location to ensure both parents and children enjoy a truly relaxing break.
Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions before booking. At 53 Degrees, we will happily clarify any concerns about child-friendly features or potential hazards.