5 reasons to book The Four Seasons for a family break this half term
As any parent can attest, February half term can be one of the trickiest to navigate. It feels like the kids have barely been back at school, most of Europe is still too chilly for a getaway, and UK breaks jack up their prices, leaving you feeling like you’ve been hit with a hidden fee for just wanting a little peace. Enter the Four Seasons in Hampshire—your much-needed antidote. It’s family-friendly, perfect for frazzled parents in desperate need of a break, and, best of all, only an hour from London. So one wet, rainy weekend, we packed our cozzies and walking boots and went to see if see if it could live up to the hype.
Firstly, what is there for kids to do?
When it comes to activities, the real question is, what isn’t there for kids to do? The list is endless, from fly fishing to magic shows, and that’s just the beginning. From the moment you arrive, children are thoughtfully catered for. Upon check-in, they’re given a passport for the weekend, which they use to collect stamps from various stations, including the restaurant, pool, and stables. Collect all six, and they can pick a prize from the treasure chest—a fun, interactive way to keep them engaged as they explore every corner of the hotel.
The standout attraction, however, was Sharkie's Reef. Small enough for you to supervise confident swimmers, yet big enough to keep them entertained for hours, it’s packed with a slide, climbing frames, and water spouts they can dash in and out of. There is also a shallow section, which allowed my three year to paddle around at her leisure. There is also an separate adults only pool, complete with a large outdoor jacuzzi pool and comfy sun loungers, allowing you to laze idly by the pool with a good book.
On-site, there’s also a stable offering pony grooming sessions. My kids spent 45 minutes brushing, feeding, and manicuring the hooves of two adorable Shetland ponies. With 16 horses in total, horseback riding is also an option if you're looking for more adventure.
If you're craving a bit of alone time, the kids’ club is a lifesaver. Located in a charming cottage, the staff were more than happy to get hands-on, whether it was playing games or helping my six-year-old create an art masterpiece from piles of tissue paper, coloured cards and glue.
Whether you're in the mood to join in on every activity or prefer to take it slow, the grounds offer plenty of space for wandering and taking in the sprawling countryside. A large playground is also a great card to pull out your sleeve for when you need to tire them out a little more.
What's the accommodation like?
Our suite was heavenly. We had beautiful views of the rolling hills, a bed big enough for a small army and a marbled bathroom of Pinterest dreams. The separate living room meant the kids could sleep on sofa bed, allowing us to shut the doors and carry on our evening without disturbing them.
The hotel has also partnered with luxury family brand DockATot (formerly known as Sleepyhead of Sweden) to provide families with an extra touch of magic during their stay. In every one of Hotel’s 22 suites is a Tent of Dreams that offers a cosy set up and is complete with a window, door and interior pocket for stashing toys. Mine spent an age engrossed in hours of play in the tent, which meant I could actually get ready for dinner, without resorting to the TV.
What’s on the menu?
The food at Wild Carrot restaurant was nothing short of exceptional. We kicked off our meal with Cornish crab, delicately paired with Crème Fraîche and wildflowers, followed by beef fillet that was cooked to perfection and accompanied by indulgent truffle mash. The attentive staff went above and beyond, expertly pairing each course with the finest wines. Pescatarians will delight in the selection of seafood, all sourced from the British Isles, including freshly shucked Carlingford oysters and British lobster. For the little ones, there’s a thoughtfully curated kids' menu and a buffet designed to please even the fussiest of palates.
Afterwards, we took ourselves of to the decadent, beautifully lit bar next to the restaurant. Nestled by the fire, we enjoyed cocktails and dessert, before drifting back to our rooms, feeling full and content.
Did you say spa?
As well as 24 hour gym, you can book into the spa and choose from indulgent body treatments or skin reviving facials from big name brands such as 111skin and Ila. Stand out treatments include Kundalini healing that works to restore sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems as well as a couples treatment that includes a massage and a facial as well as use of the Couples’ Suite post-treatment.
Final thoughts: is the Four Season worth it for half term?
Absolutely—this is a place where both adults and children can equally enjoy themselves. No one is left out, as the hotel has carefully considered every aspect of your stay, from start to finish. I left feeling genuinely rested, which is no small feat when you’ve got little ones to entertain. In short, would I recommend it? It's a resounding yes from me.
Visit Four Seasons Hampshire in partnership with DockATot and enjoy one of their 22 family suites enhanced by DockATot. Prices start at £672 for a family per night.
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