Family Vacations in Poole: Kid-Friendly Hotels and Resorts
Poole, located on the stunning southern coast of England, is an idyllic destination for a family vacation. With its golden beaches, vibrant harbour, and rich history, it offers a plethora of activities that cater to both adults and children. Choosing the right accommodation is crucial for ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for your family. In this blog, I will share my personal experiences and insights into the best kid-friendly hotels and resorts in Poole. I’ll also provide practical tips on booking platforms, travel routes, and essential tips to make your family vacation seamless and memorable.
Why Choose Poole for a Family Vacation?
Before diving into the specifics of accommodation, let’s briefly discuss why Poole is a fantastic choice for a family holiday:
- Beaches: Poole boasts some of the best beaches in the UK, such as Sandbanks Beach, known for its golden sands and shallow waters perfect for children.
- Attractions: From the natural beauty of Brownsea Island to the educational experiences at Poole Museum, there’s something for every family member.
- Outdoor Activities: Whether it’s sailing, cycling, or exploring parks, Poole offers a wide range of outdoor activities that families can enjoy together.
Choosing the Right Accommodation
When traveling with children, the right accommodation can make a huge difference. It’s essential to look for hotels and resorts that offer family-friendly amenities, spacious rooms, and activities to keep the kids entertained.
1. Sandbanks Hotel
Location: 15 Banks Road, Sandbanks, Poole, BH13 7PS
Overview:
Sandbanks Hotel is a top choice for families due to its prime beachfront location. The hotel offers direct access to Sandbanks Beach, making it incredibly convenient for families who want to spend most of their time by the sea.
Amenities:
- Family Rooms: Spacious rooms with extra beds or cribs available upon request.
- Children’s Play Area: An indoor play area for younger children.
- Outdoor Pool: A heated outdoor pool that’s safe and fun for kids.
- Dining: The Seaview Restaurant offers a kid’s menu with a variety of options.
My Experience:
Staying at the Sandbanks Hotel was a delight for my family. The beachfront access was a major plus, allowing us to spend hours playing in the sand and sea without the hassle of packing and traveling back and forth. The children’s play area provided a nice break for us adults to relax while the kids entertained themselves safely.
Booking Platform:
Available on most major booking platforms such as Booking.com, Expedia, and directly through the hotel’s website for potential discounts and package deals.
2. Haven Rockley Park
Location: Napier Road, Hamworthy, Poole, BH15 4LZ
Overview:
Haven Rockley Park is a family-oriented resort offering a variety of accommodation options, from caravans to luxury lodges. It’s located near Poole Harbour, providing beautiful views and plenty of activities.
Amenities:
- Entertainment Complex: Features live shows, kids’ clubs, and arcade games.
- Swimming Pools: Indoor and outdoor pools with slides and splash zones.
- Sports and Activities: Tennis courts, mini-golf, and watersports available.
- Nature Trails: Scenic walking and cycling paths around the park.
My Experience:
Rockley Park is perfect for active families. The wide range of activities kept everyone busy, and the kids particularly loved the swimming pools and the evening entertainment shows. The onsite dining options were convenient, and the variety of accommodation types suited our needs perfectly.
Booking Platform:
Best booked directly through Haven’s website, which often offers special deals and family packages.
3. Harbour Heights Hotel
Location: 73 Haven Road, Sandbanks, Poole, BH13 7LW
Overview:
Harbour Heights Hotel offers a luxurious yet family-friendly experience. Located on the Sandbanks peninsula, it provides stunning views over Poole Harbour and beyond.
Amenities:
- Family Suites: Elegant suites with separate sleeping areas for parents and children.
- Babysitting Services: Available upon request, allowing parents some private time.
- Dining: The Harbour Heights Restaurant offers a children’s menu and high chairs.
- Outdoor Terrace: A beautiful space where families can relax and enjoy the views.
My Experience:
Harbour Heights Hotel combines luxury with family-friendly touches. The staff was incredibly accommodating, and the views from our room were breathtaking. The family suite was spacious and well-appointed, ensuring everyone had their own space. We enjoyed several meals on the terrace, which was both relaxing and scenic.
Booking Platform:
Available on Booking.com, Hotels.com, and directly through the hotel’s website for the best rates and offers.
4. Hotel du Vin Poole
Location: Thames Street, Poole, BH15 1JN
Overview:
Hotel du Vin Poole is a boutique hotel located in the historic Old Town area, close to Poole Quay. It offers a blend of modern comfort and historical charm.
Amenities:
- Family Rooms: Cozy rooms with additional beds or interconnected rooms for families.
- Dining: Bistro du Vin serves a variety of dishes with a dedicated children’s menu.
- Proximity to Attractions: Walking distance to Poole Quay, Poole Museum, and local parks.
- Kid-Friendly Amenities: Board games, DVDs, and children’s books available.
My Experience:
Hotel du Vin Poole offers a unique blend of history and modern amenities. The proximity to Poole Quay and the museum was a big plus, making it easy to explore the area on foot. The family room was comfortable, and the staff went out of their way to ensure we had everything we needed for the kids.
Booking Platform:
Easily bookable through Booking.com, Expedia, and the hotel’s official website, which often has exclusive offers.
5. Thistle Poole
Location: The Quay, Poole, BH15 1HD
Overview:
Thistle Poole is perfectly situated on Poole Quay, providing easy access to the waterfront and numerous family-friendly attractions.
Amenities:
- Family Rooms: Rooms with extra beds and interconnecting options.
- Onsite Dining: The Harbour View Restaurant offers kid-friendly options and stunning views.
- Proximity to Attractions: Walking distance to Poole Quay, boat tours, and the town center.
- Kids’ Activities: Activity packs and games available to keep children entertained.
My Experience:
Thistle Poole’s location was unbeatable, right on the quay with easy access to boat tours and waterfront activities. The family room was spacious and comfortable, and the kids loved the activity packs provided at check-in. Dining with a view of the harbour was a highlight, making meal times special.
Booking Platform:
Book via Booking.com, Hotels.com, or directly through the Thistle Hotels website for potential discounts and family packages.
Practical Tips for Booking Family Accommodations
1. Use Reputable Booking Platforms
When booking family accommodations, it’s essential to use reputable platforms to ensure a smooth and secure process. Here are some recommended platforms:
- Booking.com: Offers a wide range of family-friendly options with detailed reviews and flexible booking policies.
- Expedia: Provides comprehensive listings, including package deals that can save money on flights and accommodations.
- Hotels.com: Known for its rewards program, which can be beneficial for families planning multiple trips.
- Direct Hotel Websites: Often provide exclusive deals, better cancellation policies, and special packages tailored for families.
2. Read Reviews and Ratings
Before finalizing your booking, take the time to read reviews and ratings from other families. Look for comments on room size, amenities, location, and the overall family-friendliness of the hotel.
3. Check for Special Offers
Many hotels offer special family packages, including discounted rates, complimentary meals for children, or free activities. It’s worth checking the hotel’s website or contacting them directly to inquire about any current offers.
4. Consider Location and Proximity to Attractions
Choose a hotel that is conveniently located near the attractions you plan to visit. Proximity to beaches, parks, and dining options can significantly enhance your family’s experience and reduce travel time.
5. Look for Kid-Friendly Amenities
Ensure the hotel provides essential amenities for children, such as cribs, high chairs, play areas, and kid-friendly menus. Some hotels also offer babysitting services, which can be a great option for parents wanting a night out.
Getting to Poole
By Car
Poole is easily accessible by car via major highways. If you’re traveling from London, the M3 and M27 motorways provide a direct route. Car travel allows flexibility and convenience, especially when traveling with young children and luggage.
By Train
Poole is well-connected by train, with regular services from London Waterloo. The journey takes approximately two hours, and Poole Railway Station is centrally located, making it easy to reach your hotel by taxi or on foot.
By Air
For international travelers or those coming from further afield, the nearest airports are Bournemouth Airport (a 20-minute drive) and Southampton Airport (approximately an hour’s drive). Both airports offer car rental services and public transport options to Poole.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Family Vacation
1. Plan Ahead
Plan your itinerary in advance to ensure you cover all the must-see attractions and activities. Having a rough schedule helps manage time efficiently and keeps the children engaged.
2. Pack Essentials
When traveling with children, packing the right essentials can make all the difference. Remember to pack:
- Sun protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
- Beach gear: Swimsuits, towels, and beach toys.
- Snacks and drinks: Keep the kids’ energy levels up during outings.
- Entertainment: Books, tablets, or toys for downtime.
3. Use Child-Friendly Navigation Apps
Apps like Google Maps and Waze are great for navigating unfamiliar areas. Additionally, apps like TripAdvisor and Yelp can help find kid-friendly restaurants and attractions nearby.
4. Stay Flexible
While planning is important, staying flexible and open to changes is equally crucial. Allow some downtime in your schedule for rest and unplanned activities that might catch your interest.
5. Prioritize Safety
Ensure the safety of your family by choosing accommodations with good security measures and child-safe amenities. Keep an eye on the children during activities, especially around water.
Poole is an excellent destination for a family vacation, offering a blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and plenty of kid-friendly activities. By choosing the right accommodation and planning ahead, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for your family. Whether you prefer beachfront hotels, luxury resorts, or charming boutique hotels, Poole has something to offer every family. Remember to use reputable booking platforms, read reviews, and take advantage of special offers to make the most of your stay. With a little preparation and flexibility, your family vacation in Poole will be filled with unforgettable memories and fun experiences.
