The Best Family-Friendly Places to Stay in the Cotswolds This May Half Term
Looking for the perfect May Half Term escape? The Cotswolds is the ideal destination for families wanting to relax, explore, and reconnect. From luxurious country hotels and charming inns to family-friendly cottages with room to roam, there's something for every kind of break this spring. Here’s our round-up of the best places to stay this May Half Term.
Ellenborough Park – Adventure Awaits with the Little Explorers Package
Treat your family to a magical escape at Ellenborough Park, a beautiful countryside hotel that truly knows how to make school holidays special. Their Little Explorers Package is packed with thoughtful extras to delight little ones — and kids stay and dine for free when sharing a room with parents.
Children will love their fairy-lit adventure teepee and Yoto player in-room, while parents can relax knowing the 90-acre estate is safe, spacious, and full of nature. There's even an Ellenborough Park activity book to guide your young adventurers as they roam. After a day of exploring, enjoy a delicious family dinner before heading to bed in ultra-comfy surroundings.
Mornings begin with a hearty breakfast including a Kiddie Buffet and Milkshake Bar — the perfect start to another day of fun.
Best for: Families with young children
Top perk: Kids stay and dine for free
The Greenway Hotel & Spa – A Rejuvenating Family Treat
For something a little more luxurious, The Greenway Hotel & Spa near Cheltenham offers a restful spring break that’s perfect for parents in need of pampering. The Spring Stay package includes a two-night stay with a full English breakfast, a 45-minute Outer Glow spa treatment per person, complimentary tickets to the Rococo Gardens, a half bottle of Gusbourne sparkling wine in your room, and late midday checkout. With beautiful gardens to explore, a tranquil spa, and delicious dining, this is an indulgent way to enjoy the spring break, and older children will love the peaceful surroundings too.
Best for: Families with older children or parents wanting a pamper break
Top perk: Spa treatment and Rococo Gardens tickets included
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Family-Friendly Getaway at The Lygon Arms: Kids Stay & Dine Free
Enjoy a classic Cotswold escape with a family-friendly twist at The Lygon Arms in Broadway, where kids stay and dine for free during the school holidays. This historic coaching inn blends timeless charm with modern comfort, making it the perfect base for family adventures.
Little ones are welcomed with special in-room amenities, and a dedicated children’s menu ensures they’re well fed after a day of exploring. With spacious family rooms, a beautiful indoor pool, and the countryside right on your doorstep, it’s an ideal retreat for creating lasting memories together. Parents can relax knowing the essentials are covered — and that mealtimes are stress-free and budget-friendly.
Best for: Families with young children looking for a relaxing getaway.
Top perk: Kids stay and dine for free.
The Slaughters Manor House – Stylish Spring Stay in a Picture-Perfect Village
Celebrate spring in style at The Slaughters Manor House, located in one of the most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds, Lower Slaughters. With its 17th-century charm, award-winning dining led by Head Chef Nik Chappell, and tranquil setting, this is an elegant choice for a refined family escape.
Their Ready, Set, Spring offer includes: 15% off Bed & Breakfast stays for 2 nights, 20% off for 3 nights or more, £50 culinary credit per night and freshly prepared breakfast each morning.
Spend your days exploring cobbled streets, rolling hills, and nearby attractions. In the evenings, relax in the billiards room or dine on locally sourced cuisine. This is a luxurious countryside retreat where time slows down and memories last.
Best for: Families with teens or older children
Top perk: £50 culinary credit per night
The Slaughters Country Inn – Cosy, Characterful, and Family-Friendly
If you’re after a warm, traditional inn atmosphere, The Slaughters Country Inn is a fantastic choice. With the same Ready, Set, Spring offer as the Manor House, this cosy inn offers: 15% off Bed & Breakfast stays for 2 nights, 20% off for 3+ nights, £25 culinary credit per night & Daily English and continental breakfast.
This is an ideal base for exploring the village on foot, enjoying hearty pub meals, and soaking up the Cotswolds' charm. It combines rustic appeal with comfort, perfect for a relaxed family break.
Best for: Families looking for a traditional Cotswold inn experience
Top perk: Excellent location in a quintessential Cotswold village
Bolthole Retreats – Your Home Away From Home
If you’re looking for flexibility, space, and privacy, a Bolthole Retreats cottage might be just the thing. May half term is a wonderful time to visit the Cotswolds: gardens are blooming, lambs are in the fields, and walking trails are alive with wildflowers.
Whether you're bringing the whole family, a group of friends, or even the dog, these cottages give you room to relax on your own terms. Cook together, dine outdoors, and enjoy slow mornings and long evenings with no agenda. Nearby farm parks, spring events, and local markets offer plenty of things to do, or simply stay put and enjoy the views.
Best for: Families, groups, and dog-friendly breaks
Top perk: Total freedom and flexibility
Outdoor Fun and Family Adventures at Cotswold Lakes Camping
For a more adventurous family break, Cotswold Lakes Camping offers a unique experience amidst the stunning Cotswold Lakes. This family-friendly campsite provides spacious pitches, hot showers and EHU, making it a great choice for families looking to combine nature with comfort. With a range of activities on your doorstep, from swimming and kayaking to cycling and fishing, there’s no shortage of fun for all ages.
Best for: Families seeking an active, nature-filled holiday with outdoor adventure.
Top perk: A wide range of outdoor activities, from water sports to cycling, right on your doorstep.
Start Planning Your Cotswolds Half Term Break. Whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or a little of both, the Cotswolds is a perfect place to press pause this May Half Term. From luxury hotels with extras for kids to self-catering cottages and countryside charm, you're sure to find your perfect family escape.