suggestions for hotel or similar 1 - 2 hours drive

[catgirl]

we're thinking of going away just for one night (either sat / sun or Sun / Mon over a bank holiday) with our 3 children in the next month or so.

Does anyone have any suggestions of anywhere within reasonable driving distance?

We generally prefer self catering but there is usually a minimum of 2 - 3 nights to pay for anything s-c so we may need a hotel instead.

Wuold like to be either in countryside or near the sea (rather than a town / city) and would need to be child friendly. Somewhere with a pool would be ideal.

We're not after childcare but somwhere with or near some child centred activities / playgrounds etc and we generally prefer a laid back vibe rather than anything too formal or fancy!

Much appreciated.

[Chief Jeff]

Dare I say it... how about Pontins at Camber Sands?

[Lochie]

we went here recently

http://www.camberbeachhouses.co.uk/

3 mins walk camber beach

The house is an eco house and is COMPLETELY AMAZING/luxurious!! It was snowing when we were there and the house managed to keep a 1 year old and 3 year old happily entertained. Lots of toys and games.

The do long weekends too so would suit your needs.

Camber itself is a bit of a dump but the beach is fab and you have lovely Rye a 10 min drive away

Sorry edited to add realise now you only want 1 night sorry!

[Magnima]

We stayed in a lovely hotel in Eastbourne last summer with our then 2 year old.

It's a hotel but rooms have a kitchen so you can prepare your own food.

Really child friendly.

No pool but very close to the beach and other attractions in the area.

http://www.theguesthouseeast.co.uk/

[catgirl]

Thanks - will check out the suggestions. We have been to butlins before (not Pontins) which the children loved but I was thinking of something a bit more classy this time...

The camber beach house and Eastbourne guest house both look fab - thanks

[alieh]

We just had a brilliant weekend in Broadstairs last weekend. So easy to get to on the train. The beach is amazing! We stayed in a lovely self-catering house for 3 nights, but there were a couple of decent looking hotels. Can't remember the names but am sure they will come up in Trip Adviser.