The English coast line is definitely not just for a summer break. With some autumn sunshine and sea water temperatures still (relatively) pleasant, Cornwall is a great half-term option. And the new place to stay is SeaSpace, an exciting hydbird of hotel and apartments that opens its doors this October. Aiming to create a coastal community vibe, it mixes an array of  facilities with cool studios, two and three-bedroom apartments, all kitted-out with stylish kitchens and lounge areas to kick back and relax in. Close to Porth’s scenic beach and a short drive to the wonderful surf at Watergate Bay, this place will suit families who are looking to self cater. There’s a pool, indoor and outdoor playgrounds (including a fun maze), padel courts and a state of the art gym complete with a schedule of classes including Pilates and yoga. Grab a coffee at the café or head for dinner at the onsite restaurant with daily live music. Or if you are cooking in, pop to the fantastic self-service larder that’s packed with all the essentials and open 24-7. Locals can also make use of the excellent classes and events by becoming SeaSpace members, making this clever resort a valuable and exciting addition to the Cornish, and indeed, UK holiday scene.

If you are looking to escape to the country side for a few days, but don’t want to travel too far from London, then The Grove in Hertfordshire is definitely one to consider. Packed with fun for all ages, it’s one of the best five-star family hotels in the UK. With large family suites complete with cots, and a selection of excellent restaurants that welcome children (kids menus and high chairs of course), the Grove ticks all the boxes for a easy weekend away. Little ones will just love popping into Pocket Town, the brand new portable wooden role-play area that has the cutest little café and supermarket where children aged 18 months to seven years old can let their imagination run wild. There is also a super Ofsted run kids’ club for kids aged two upwards and mini Landrover driving on the hotel grounds. Older kids can try their hand at falconry, archery or take a dip in the hotel’s pool. Another big plus point is the Grove’s close proximity to Warner Bros. Studio Tour, the Making of Harry Potter, with its magical behind the scenes tour of the making of the famous films. During October half term the studio theme is ‘The Dark Arts’ so let the hotel’s concierge organise a trip to see all the amazing props and costumes – what a fun day out with a Halloween twist. There’s plenty to keep adults happy too with a spa, golf and sprawling grounds to explore – all just an hour’s drive from the Capital.

EUROPE

One of the most exciting hotel openings of the year, the Four Seasons arrived in Mallorca at the end of the summer. Located on the stunning pine-covered peninsula of Formentor in the very north of the island, the property was previously the Hotel Formentor which opened in 1929 and has welcomed countless stars and royalty over the years. Now under the ownership of the Four Seasons, a complete renovation has made this much-loved Grande Dame one of the top child-friendly hotels in Mallorca. Families will love the fully-supervised, complimentary Kids For All Seasons programme, where younger guests can enjoy games, treasure hunts and beach activities, with a dedicated teen centre coming next year. The suites are incredibly well appointed, with glorious views over the 100 acre site that includes its own working vineyard. Wander down to the beautiful shallow beach which is perfect and safe for little ones to play. Then try out some water sports followed by a laid back lunch at Xiringuito, the hotel’s restaurant on the sand. The concierge can organise boat trips and experiences all over Mallorca but with a gorgeous pool, state-of-the-art spa and gym, you will probably want to hang out in and around the grounds of this glamourous five-star spot.

The Algarve has long been a popular destination for the October half-term due to its warm climate and short flight from the UK to Faro. The latest family-friendly hotel to arrive in this sunny part of Portugal, the Viceroy at Ombria, opens its doors on 1st October this year. Set in rolling hills, this tranquil resort is a great option for those wanting a relaxed break. Every detail has been thoughtfully designed to cater to families. Spacious suites and connecting rooms serve as the perfect home-away-from-home with kitchenettes, living areas, and private outdoor spaces. Working to their own timetable, parents can find all day dining at the Ombria Kitchen which offers classic Portuguese dishes and kids menu – just the thing when eating out with very young children. There are six other restaurants to choose from too. A shiny new kids’ club offers a range of fun activities such as arts and crafts, nature trails and movie nights, allowing parents some free time to check out the spa, the adults-only pool (there is a family one too) or try their hand at the likes of horse riding or pottery classes. Golfers will love the 18-hole course and the drinks in the Club House afterwards, while youngsters can join in with golf lessons at the junior academy. 

LONG HAUL

For a long haul destination that doesn’t feel like a mission to get to, check out Mauritius. A direct night flight from London, short transfers and a relatively small time difference (just three hours ahead at the October half-term) make it the ideal destination for parents looking for a tropical hideaway feel without the hassle of jetting off somewhere too remote. One of the best places to stay on the island has to be Shangri La Le Touessrok. Something of a Mauritian legend, for 45 years this hotel has been welcoming guests, but there has never been a better time to visit than now. Located on the west coast of a picture-perfect stretch of private beach, the five-star property reopens at the very start of half-term, following a six month major renovation. While hardly below par before the make-over, it’s now even more luxurious as every room and suite has been refreshed along with the spa. There are also two brand new restaurants, TSK (Touessrok Soul Kitchen) and Coco’s, that will join the other existing dining options. One thing that remains a constant is how well the hotel caters for families. For starters, there’s the phenomenal kids’ club that welcomes kids aged four to 11 and the Teen Club for those from 12 to 17. It’s bursting with activities and games and is open daily from 9am – 10pm. Very little ones can be looked after by a babysitter either in the kid’s club, on the beach or in your room where cots, bottle warmers and high chairs can all be supplied. Parents can feel free to relax by the pool, unless you opt for the endless choice of activities to do, from water sports and snorkelling trips to tennis and golf. There really is something for everyone here.

Tick off a bucket-list family trip and take the kids to Japan. Tokyo is a vibrant, exciting city and  packed with things to do with children. From museums such as National Museum of Emerging Science & Innovation (Miraikan) and The Ghibli Museum, to theme parks including the Tokyo Disney Resort and the LegoLand Discovery Centre, the city is a cultural treasure trove that’s also incredibly fun. Stay in the heart of the action at the Mandarin Oriental in a two-bedroom suite. Youngsters are made to feel welcome with kid’s menus and an indoor pool to swim in. The concierge can help you plan a whole host of family friendly experiences, such as a trip to take in the sensational views from the top of the Tokyo Skytree –  634m (2,080ft), it’s the second tallest free-standing tower on the planet. The Mandarin Oriental team can arrange all sorts of guided tours all over the city and across Japan so make the most of their local knowledge. Requiring a 14 hour flight from London (though it is direct) and with an eight hour time difference, a holiday to Tokyo is potentially better suited to families with older kids and teens, but if you can handle the journey, October half term is the ideal time to visit with pleasant temperatures that make sightseeing easier than in the humid summer months.

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