Somewhere lovely (but child friendly) to go for my 40th

[Bonfire2010]

My 40th is approaching *passes out briefly* and I would like to go away for a couple of days with my husband and boys, the eldest being 3 and the youngest will be 8 months. We want to stay in the UK as we have a long haul trip planned for this year and money/annual leave will not allow for two holidays.

Does anyone have any ideas or recommendations? We will probably want to be away for 4 days (Thursday-Sunday) and I would like it to be somewhere special. A spa would be nice, as would a good restaurant and babysitting service so me and my OH can go out for dinner on the night. If would need to be baby/child friendly as well.

Am I asking too much or does this sort of thing exist?!

[sj]

Have a look at 'luxury family hotels'

. We've stayed in few and all have been just the ticket. Baby listening for dinner, cr?che if you want it

during the day, spa, pool. Not cheap but a good escape with kids.

[Lochie]

I second Luxury Family Hotels. We went a few years ago to Ickworth House and it is amazing: http://www.ickworthhotel.co.uk/

The only holiday we've been on which I think was relaxing for both parents and children! It is expensive - probably cost about ?1k including food for 3 nights....But that included 2 massive interconnecting rooms. Think you can do it cheaper as there are self catering options at these hotels?

[vch]

We went to The Grove for 4 days last year. Seeing that we don't own a car, it was handy to just take a cab there. There's an on-site cr?che, library, swimming pool, golf course, and spa. There are 3 different restaurants and the kids eat free at the buffet. We had a lovely time and would definitely go again.

Here's the website address: thegrove.co.uk

[ladywotlunches]

Sands Resort in Cornwall is also great, if only it wasn't so far away for a weekend!

Bedruthan Steps is similar but about 1/3 more expensive for just along the road.

Both have spas, and baby listening in the evening for grown up dinners in their restaurants (both of which serve great food).

Happy birthday!

[Bonfire2010]

Thanks all - there are some really nice places recommended and I look forward to booking one of them! Xxx

[sbain]

Check out http://smithandfamily.co.uk/ - they can be a little bit pricey but for a special occasion their hotels are fab.