Spring half-term is always the most dismal break in the school calendar: it’s not actually spring yet, everything’s still cold and damp and there’s very little on the horizon to look forward to. Instead of another week spent trying to convince the kids that really they do want to help you clean the house, perhaps this year it’s time to up sticks and treat yourself to a stay in one of our luxury holiday houses for a week of uplifting outdoorsy fun – whatever the weather! Take a look at these three stunning locations to see how you could turn rainy days into lasting childhood memories.
The Lake District is Britain’s definitive adventure playground, and the mountains, lakes and parks are perfect for young Ray Mears’ and Bear Grylls’ to start training for the wilderness. Stock up on Arthur Ransome’s classic ‘Swallows and Amazons’ books for the journey, then let the kids relive the adventures on Coniston Water. Hire a dinghy, explore Peel ‘Wild Cat’ Island and take a hike up the Old Man of Coniston to enjoy the view with a well-deserved ginger beer. Spiffing!
You may think it’s too early for a seaside holiday, but there’s nothing like a sight of the beach to give hope of impending spring. Our villas and cottages in Wales are the ideal base for bracing coastal walks and sweeping sea views, where you can get the kids interested in wildlife by watching for Aberdyfi otters and ospreys together, Take a ride on the Talyllyn Railway, or head to Dolgellau for treetop adventuring at Go Ape!
Another perfect outdoor playground for families, Scotland is home to lakes, peaks, beaches, and national parks, offering up a myriad of ways to get back to nature with the little ones. For kids who dream of being knights and princesses, the castles dotted across the landscapes of Scotland will have them living out their fairytale dreams. The fresh air and activities will surely tire the kids out, so when it’s time to retreat back to your cottage, villa (or even… castle!) it’ll be all about cosying up and snuggling down.
Browse our full portfolio of beautiful luxury villas, castles and holiday homes to rent in the UK and Ireland.
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