Need An Overnight Stopover In Dover For The Ferry? You can’t do better than Premier Inn.
A couple of months ago, thanks to P&O, I won a trip to Disney. No really I did. With my very own Photographic Prowess, no less.
*proud face*
Anyway, the date was set, the plans were made, the ferry was booked, the school was notified.
Then we realised. We were catching the ferry from Dover at 6.30 in the morning.
Dover is over 3 hours from our house.
*shudder*
Thankfully, I know people in the right places, and those lovely people at Premier Inn suggested that an overnight stop in Dover the night before might be the solution.
Well, it sounded like a good idea, so we said yes please. It’s not like we needed much for one night, is it?
And so it was that we packed a bundle of rather over-excited children into the car after school on the Thursday and headed off to Kent. Nine o’clock that night a tired and chilly family emerged blinking from the car to the welcome glowing lights of our destination…
Parking was easy, the welcome from the reception staff was very warm and friendly. The six of us couldn’t fit into one room, so we had to separate – and sadly the rooms weren’t adjoining, but in all honesty for the one night that didn’t matter. They were only one room apart, not in different parts of the hotel, and it was fine.
The rooms were standard – nothing fancy, but absolutely everything you need for a stopover; the beds were comfy with good quality linen, there was room for a double plus two temporary singles in each room, the bathroom was roomy enough, and everything was neat and clean.
Having got all the children settled I nipped back down to the bar for some orange juice (you can take drinks back to your rooms), and asked the oh-so-friendly man on reception about finding the port in the morning as we didn’t want to be map reading at 6a.m.
Afterwards I felt a bit foolish – we were so close I could probably have thrown the children from our hotel rooms and they’d have landed on the boat!
Our rooms were overlooking the water, and we realised the following morning what a great view we’d had – we’d been to eager for some sleep the night before to notice!
We all objected to the alarms going off but left the hotel at 5.50a.m. (creeping through the corridors so as not to wake other guests at such a disgusting hour). A cheery goodbye from the (different) receptionist, and we left on the next leg of the Disney Adventure – checking in at the dock at 5.54…
If you have an early ferry (or any ferry actually) from Dover I cannot tell you just how convenient the Dover Central Premier Inn is to break your journey. We also plan to use it in reverse – if we drive across France there’s nothing more depressing than the long journey, the ferry crossing… and then ANOTHER 3+hours driving before we get home. For us it’s worth booking an extra night to break that journey up.
(We have written about Premier Inn before. I’d just like to say that I’m sorry I didn’t get the 10yr old to do the review this time – I admit it. He’s much more entertaining then me…)
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Exclusive – £50 off last minute breaks at the FABULOUS Bluestone
Hurry!
Bluestone National Park Resort is offering Little Stuff readers an exclusive £50 discount on a four-night midweek break commencing on either Monday 24 April or Monday 30 April 2012. This offer is valid for a Caldey lodge, sleeping up to four people, and on a lodge-only basis.
To redeem the discount, quote LITTLE and call 01834 887 173 or visit www.bluestonewales.com.
OFFER: £50 discount on a 4 night midweek break in a Caldey Lodge
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The Dad & Son Road Trip
Anyone who follows us on twitter knows that last week was the Big Event. The Father Son Road Trip, from Dorset to Manchester. Well, Old Trafford, to be precise – the belated 10th birthday present for Boy, our footballing No.2 son.
Excited? NOT the word…
It’s a 216 mile journey. His first video blog was created… um…8 miles from home… (watch as he tries to figure out how far they’ve come in 15 minutes…)
There were numerous ‘motorway updates…’ which I won’t bore you with (numerous comments when he was actually allowed to eat his lunch, you’ll be pleased to know), and four hours later they arrived at the Premier Inn in Knutsford… Apologies in advance for the toilet detail and fascination. He’s 10. What can I say?
And then there was just time to nip into the attached Brewers Fayre for a quick meal ridiculously HUGE feast of mammoth proportions before the match…
You may spot that Boy was quite excited by the fact that a) he was reviewing for me and therefore they weren’t paying for the sheer lavish extravagance of a 3 course meal, b) he was getting chicken GOUJONS for a starter, no less and c) there was COKE involved. Big coke. Nay – GOOD coke…
Chicken GOUJONS!
Monster burger
All together now... "Good Coke!"
Yes the bottomless 10yr old was actually unable to finish (this NEVER happens). In his own words
“Well done Premier Inn. you’ve outdone yourselves”
(don’t worry though, he did manage to squeeze in the hot chocolate fudge cake with ice cream dessert… #justplaingreedy)
Then they were off to the match – be warned it took a good hour in the Match Day traffic to actually reach Old Trafford’s car park, but they made it in time for the obligatory visit to the shop before they found their seats for the game.
Getting back was easier, and they were back at the Premier Inn in under 40 minutes even though they were stuck in the immediate Old Trafford surroundings for a good 20 minutes.
After an exhausted nights sleep (despite the Inn being right on the main road, there was very little in the way of noise from the traffic to disturb them), breakfast was equally as popular as dinner the night before
“…oh, I’d eaten so much the night before I could only manage a bowl of coco pops. And some bacon and sausage. And a muffin…”
And two slow-moving boys started the long trek home.
They had a total blast, and the ease of booking, the positioning and the facilities gave them everything they needed. Would they use a Premier Inn as a stopover for a boys road trip again? In a heartbeat.
Read MoreTop UK destinations for a family holiday
Each year, millions of families across the United Kingdom are looking for unique and exciting holidays to enjoy. Whether you have young or old children, are looking for a coastal resort or walks through the countryside, small holiday cottages or properties big enough for extended family there will always be something to see across the UK.
The current economic situation means that many people are starting to have a look closer to home more frequently in order to find an affordable and unforgettable trip. Here are our five top destinations for families this year:
Photo Credit - http://www.flickr.com/photos/tejvan/
Lake District
Whether you want an isolated retreat for a dozen people or a small cottage in one of the many market towns and picturesque villages in the Lake District, you can find what you want. With places like Grasmere, Windermere and Ambleside to visit to take in some breath-taking walks or activities on one of the many lakes, there is something that children of all ages can enjoy. Whether it’s kayaking you want, trekking to waterfalls or a visit to the world of Beatrix Potter you can find it all here in the Lakes.
Cornwall
If you’re chasing English country cottages then a trip to this county on the south west tip of England is a great option. Coastal walks aplenty with woodlands to enjoy, it’s all about getting involved in the outdoors when you head here. At any time of year it is beautiful but in the summer, when the weather is at its best then there is so much history to view, your kids can learn a bit of surfing and with the Eden Project to visit you will never be short of something to do.
Berkshire
Somewhere that isn’t always considered, it doesn’t have as many country walks and there isn’t a coast line to enjoy but this historic and ceremonial county is worth a look in 2012. Windsor is pretty much the key reason for coming here, and it’s Windsor Castle, the best castle in the United Kingdom that makes it so special. If you’re looking for a bit of history with plenty of activities then a day here is what you need. That’s not all there is to see though, and a break here can also include Legoland and the ideal family picnic location of Wellington Country Park.
Isle of Mull
A spot in the UK which is becoming more and more popular with families, this is a brilliant spot for an adventure in wildlife adventure. It’s a spot that many people get to on a ferry from mainland Scotland; it is a brilliant adventure opportunity as you go on the hunt for sharks, dolphins, seals and sea eagles along the way. Tobermory is the capital of it, and with just 700 people living on the island it’s a great spot to discover some of the best wildlife that this country has to offer.
Pembrokeshire
It isn’t just Scotland and England that holds spots for great family holidays, but Wales is also a top place to go as a tourist. This being the most popular coastal destination in the country means that it has previous and with a national park alongside coastal paths there is so much to see and do. Grab your hiking boots or a bicycle and set off, take a boat trip to Cardigan Island or just relax on the beach – you can’t go wrong in this part of the world.
Family Holiday with a Twist – Seven Islands in Seven Days
The Canary Islands may seem like a fairly standard holiday destination, but have you ever thought about exploring all seven? The smaller islands of La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro all have airports, and you can fly between islands with Binter Canarias from just €14, but for more flexibility the inter islands ferry service offer regular crossings, allowing you to see all seven islands in seven days.
Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote offer volcanic parks, vineyards and tourist hubs, whilst Fuerteventura is a beach lover’s paradise.
In-between the islands you are likely to see pods of pilot whales and dolphins racing alongside the boats. The smaller islands offer a haven of forests and fishing villages that feel untouched by time. The longest ferry journey would be the five hour crossing from Tenerife to El Hierro, which has seen recent volcanic activity, turning the sea a vibrant green colour (the locals want to reassure you that it is still safe to visit!). By flying you will be able to fit in the seven islands in a week, but you can easily stretch it to a two week holiday and still not have fully explored all that the Canaries have to offer.
This island hopping adventure works best starting from Tenerife, which is a short four hour flight from the UK, from around £100pp from UK airports.
Children will love the feeling of being a true explorer and the chance to discover volcanoes, and play at pirates on the ferry crossing will have them talking about this holiday for years to come.
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Read MoreWriting Competition for Children – so who wants to be a Travel Writer?
Al Fresco Holidays are running a Young Travel Writer competition for budding travel writers in two categories – age 10 and under, and 11 and over. To enter, children are invited to write up to 300 words about their holiday – telling readers where they went, what they did, and why it was great (and maybe sending a picture or two along with the article).
The winning entry will win a holiday for the whole family to a fun-packed Al Fresco holiday park of your choice – it’s a great opportunity to win a family holiday with up to £500 in travel expenses (as well as helping the children to get creative and improve their writing skills – and a huge incentive for them to check their spelling!). 
Al Fresco aren’t your usual family camping holiday – this is outdoor living in style. With Al Fresco, you’ll find home-from-home comforts in luxury mobile homes, on 54 of Europe’s top ranked holiday parks in Spain, France, Italy, Holland, Croatia and Austria. There’s plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained, including on-site water parks, children’s entertainment clubs and even spas for Mum and Dad.
To enter the competition, simply visit the Al Fresco blog here and fill in your details and your story. Simples!
Family Holidays With A Twist – Puffins, Whales and Hot Springs. Oh Yes Please, Iceland.
Iceland. It’s not somewhere I’d ever thought much about visiting, if I’m honest. Not really.
How wrong was I?
And a driving holiday – dull, dull DULL for small people yes?
Wrong again.
I. Know. NOTHING. It’s official.
And I want to go to Iceland NOW, dammit. *stamps foot*
This package from Nordic Visitor is ideal for the whole family, taking you the whole circle around Iceland and to many of its biggest attractions. The package includes activities aimed at the whole family, such as bathing in the Blue Lagoon, whale watching, visiting a farm animal zoo, a tractor-tour to a puffin colony and sailing among icebergs.
Did you read that?
There’s PUFFINS!
Prices start at around £1100 per adult, with under 2′s free and children at just over £200 extra each, and includes B&B accommodation (you choose the level from budget, comfort or quality), Car Rental. and activities.
For more info and the full itinerary, go see the details of the Family Self drive Tour of Iceland for yourself on the Nordic Visitor Site
Read MoreFamily Holidays with a Twist – The Incredible Yangtze River Tour
Travelling aboard the luxury Sanctuary MS Yangzi Explorer, which sails down China’s iconic Yangtze River through the mighty Three Gorges – Xiling, Qutang and Wu, stopping at sights including Three Gorges Dam and the ancient ‘spirit town’ of Fengdu.
The Sanctuary Yangtze Explorer Cruises are a sumptuously stylish way to experience some of China’s most popular attractions, and for families the departures on July 15th and August 12th 2012 will include child-friendly activities such as Peking Opera Mask making, photography scavenger hunt, East meets West language and culture exchange, cooking lessons, pyjama party, music lesson, folk dancing, dumpling making classes and bingo! As well as enjoying the superb views from the ship, the whole family can enjoy a raft of activities including music and dance lessons, cooking classes, language exchanges and movie nights.
The Sanctuary M.S. Yangzi Explorer introduces a new standard of cruising in China – more intimate and luxurious than the usual Yangzi cruise ships, with the largest cabins and suites on the river, all with private balconies, as well as the highest crew to passenger ratio on the river of 1:1, this is a cruise unlike any other.
Price for a family of 4 in adjoining cabins (2 adults & 2 children under 14) is from £1925 from Regent Holidays.
Why We Like: Thoughtfully relevant and exciting family activities in the most stunning location – what a civilised adventure this would be…
Read MoreFamily Holidays with a Twist – The Child-Friendly African Safari
Of all the holidays I wish to take my children on – this would be it. An African Safari.
But they’re not really for the children are they?
Pffft.
Not according to Africa Exclusive, who run the brilliant Family Safari site, and have been arranging African Safari’s for families for twenty years. These are the best family safaris it is possible to buy – each one is specially designed to suit each family’s interests and preferences, and will include the following:
• It will be individually designed by an expert who has wide personal experience of Africa
• Your own private guide at each safari lodge or camp
• Small remote luxurious lodges and camps on private reserves
• Fly between safari lodges (no long dusty road journeys)
• A wide choice of superb beach stays to combine with your safari
• Kept away from crowds and minibuses
These safaris are for families with children aged 5 to teenage, just take a look at the Family safari’s page for Younger families and see what takes your fancy – we can’t imagine anything better than a stay at Tortilis Camp.
Family Holidays with a Twist – Explore the wildness of India
Explore the wilderness of Kerala on this packed 5-day tour designed with families in mind. Watch the rich wildlife of Periyar (one of the Project Tiger Reserves of India), go boating on the Periyar river, look out for the elusive Nilgiri Tahr in Eravikulam and explore Munnar, the centre of South India’s tea industry. All that PLUS an elephant ride through the forest looking out for tigers, native deer and goats, foxes, leopards, monkeys and flamingo.
- Rich wildlife of Periyar
- Boat ride on the Periyar river
- Elephant Safari in Periyar
- Munnar, the tea city
- Eravikulam National Park
PlanetWildlife’s Classic Explorer Kerala tour starts at just £515 per person.
Why we like: Planet Wildlife Family Tours are created exclusively for families with young children, and are family friendly holidays in every sense from accommodation to travel and activities. Each of PlanetWildlife’s tours is well-organised, competitively priced, environmentally responsible and fully customizable, and they are led by highly qualified and experienced tour leaders.
Read MoreFamily Holidays with a twist – A Guide to Marrakech
This week we’re looking at Family Friendly holidays – with a twist. For all of us who would rather do soemthing more interesting with our precious family time than hop on a plane to somewhere hot and sit by the pool for a couple of weeks, we’ve been hunting out the most interesting and different holiday suggestions, all of which are designed with a family in mind. Here’s our first tip – Guided Adventures in Marrakech:
Marrakech is the marketplace of Morocco, where southern tribesmen and villagers come to trade their goods and relax. For visitors of all ages, it’s the most colourful place imaginable. Here you’ll discover an electric atmosphere, friendly people and the most spectacular location at the foot of the magnificent Atlas Mountains. The culture here is fascinating. From snake charmers to storytellers, stallholders to musicians, each is jammed here together in the bustling Djemaa el Fna square. You’ll also find coolness and quiet in the Majorelle Gardens, a mix of French and Arabic spoken in cafes and restaurants, and a soothing escape to the Berber villages of the Ourika Valley. You’ll be left brimming with eclectic, vibrant memories of this flamboyant, good-natured city.
- Discover the souks, maze of streets, fortresses and colourful life within the ancient walls of Marrakech with a local Moroccan guide
- Fantasia horsemanship show and dinner with dancing, acrobats, horseback stunt riders and fire-works! Get up close to the action!
- Evening visit of the famous Djemaa el Fna square; the heart of Marrakech
- Ride on a camel
The holiday is on a half board basis throughout, and includes six nights’ accommodation at the Riad M’hiddou, in the residential area of La Palmeraie, Marrakech, plus an overnight desert camping adventure over the Atlas to Ouarzazate including a camel ride. Don’t forget you’ll have the full services of a fully trained and child-friendly ‘hiking leader’ throughout your stay, but we’re assured that it’s your holiday and you really can set your own agenda. Join in with the days’ walking and the afternoon activities if you want to, or take a day or two for time on your own with your family. Your leader will be full of ideas to inspire you or you can simply kick back and relax!
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Cottage escapes – how to tailor your family holiday
Traditionally, British families have tended to travel abroad for their holidays. However, on-going economic conditions and a growing awareness of domestic alternatives have prompted many families to stay at home this year. As domestic tourism continues to grow in popularity, families are searching for the best British holidays at the best prices. Based upon these simple criteria, many families are looking no further than the hundreds of Sykes Cottages dotted around the country.
A cottage not only offers warmth, shelter and comfort; it provides a sense of belonging to those visiting an area. The home-away-from-home nature of holiday cottages means that a family can feel safe and secure in unfamiliar surroundings that may otherwise seem wholly alien to everyday life.
The family visiting Cornwall from central London, for example, is unlikely to be accustomed to the region’s tranquillity and remoteness. While undoubtedly pleasant, it can at first seem a little overwhelming. A well-chosen holiday cottage can ensure a smooth transition from urban comfort to rural bliss.
Choosing cottage retreats over other traditional types of holiday affords families an additional level of privacy and relaxation. Unlike a hotel or bed and breakfast, a holiday cottage is essentially a place in which to live while on holiday. It becomes a second home that provides all the creature comforts of normal life. In a holiday cottage nobody will knock on the door to carry out room service. Breakfast, lunch and dinner schedules are not set in stone. People can more or less do whatever they please in holiday cottages, making them ideal for families.
Retaining the freedom to choose what to do and when to do it is essential for a truly relaxing holiday. Cottages provide this level of freedom. Guests staying at a holiday cottage can wake up when they like, leave whenever they want and return when they desire. Nobody is bound to an itinerary. Guests are free to explore the area surrounding a cottage, enabling them to savour the delights of a region in their own way and on their own time. This is absolutely essential for most families.
Holiday cottages are often situated near to outstanding areas of natural beauty, coastal towns or entertainment venues. It is usually the case that coastal cottages are located within walking distance of a beach, while inland retreats are invariably rural.
There are plenty of fun things for families to do and see while on holiday in the UK. Beaches in Cornwall, Devon and North Wales are among the finest in Europe, while national parks, quaint villages, historic towns and entertainment resorts are readily available throughout Britain. In a nutshell, the holiday cottage provides access to all of this but at a pace to suit your family rather than the management of a hotel.
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Read MoreCamp Bestival. Oh how we do love thee.
We couldn’t make Camp Bestival this year – so we sent our intrepid roving reporter WitWitWoo. Who quite frankly did a better job than we would have done. She camped and EVERYTHING. This is her account of her first ever festival – grab a coffee before you start, you may be here some time…
I have officially made it back from my first ever camping trip in one piece. Quite frankly, I surprised even myself because, let me tell you, if you’ve never been before, camping is not easy!
Camp Bestival is considered the most family-friendly festival out there and after going, I can understand why.
The plan was that I would drive our two boys (7 & 16,) down to Dorset on the Thursday morning and my Other Half would meet us at the campsite that evening. Of course, best laid plans and all ….
We had intended to leave at 9am and ended up eventually leaving at midday – par for the course when you have children. It took us four hours to get to Dorset from Kent, including the obligatory stop-off at the motorway services where I had to trade in a child just to afford a Starbucks latte. Twenty quid down already and I hadn’t even got to the festival.
We arrived at 4pm … complete with crampy ankles, an irritable teen and a hyper 7 year old. All quite normal really. The original plan was that we’d obviously be able to park really near our tent, it would take probably an hour to pitch the tent and before you could say, “Mine’s a double vodka & Diet Coke,” we’d be cooking the rapidly warming sausages before you knew it. As I said earlier, all good plans …
In reality, because the site was already so busy (it had taken us nearly two hours driving through the town of Wareham and onto the site before we managed to park up,) that we were directed to park at the top of a very big hill. Me and hills do not get along. We hadn’t really thought through the whole ‘transporting luggage’ issue and found ourselves miles away from the first area of spare land to camp on.
This is my main gripe about Camp Bestival. You end up parking so far away from your tent that the round trip to bring luggage down from the car ended up taking an hour. Times that by three and suffice to say, I was a little hacked off by Thursday evening.
My teen gallantly offered to do the last two trips on his own and Dexter, my youngest, and I, attempted to look like we knew what we were doing with the tent and airbeds back at Base Camp. We didn’t. For a start, we’d forgotten the foot pump and it wasn’t until after forty minutes of manually blowing up a double airbed that a fellow camper finally took pity on me and lent me their foot pump. Good job I’ve got a good pair of lungs on me.
The whole putting up the tent thing didn’t work either but thankfully, someone else offered to help.
Next problem was getting my Other Half into the campsite when I had his wrist band. Which brings me onto my second gripe of Camp Bestival.
I know I’m not the only one who felt this because believe me, when people are hacked off, they talk, but every steward I spoke to over the weekend did not have a clue whatsoever as to where anything was on the site. It really was a case of, “Errr … sorry, but if you ask Bob in the Magic Meadow, he might know.” You get the picture.
To cut a very long story short, I managed to finally find my Other Half by the castle. By fluke more than anything. We finished pitching the tent, we ate scrambled eggs by candlelight and we slept hard … on a rapidly deflating airbed.
The best thing about Camp Bestival is that there is so much to do. This can also be the worst thing because you can’t see/do everything. There were things I wanted to see but completely epic failed all over the place because I went to CB with the ethos of not getting too hung up on cramming everything in. However, if you have military precision like planning, you’ll fare better. But be warned. The site is massive. I mean … it took us over half an hour to walk from the first part of the main festival area back to our tent. And this is where the trailers come in handy again.
Now I obviously didn’t get the memo about a trailer being necessary not only for transporting too much luggage across mountainous terrain but for schlepping your kids around from one field to another to make sure you don’t miss out on anything. In fact, most canny parents not only decorated their trailers but padded them out with blankets and pillows and their kids slept in them whilst Mum and Dad partied all evening. (Some people just have too much time on their hands quite frankly.)
At the main ‘Hi-Di-Hi’ stage, children’s TV presenters, Dick and Dom, did a great job compering the children’s entertainment, introducing such live acts as The Gruffalo, Zingzillas and Mr Tumble (Mr Tuuuuuuuuuuuuuuumblllllllle!)
We had watched The Gruffalo live before, (it’s great, catch it if you can,) so we decided to have a lazy morning. I hadn’t slept well but the world always looks better after a fry-up – even one cooked over a single ring stove. Granted, it may have taken slightly longer to cook this way but when you consider that a bacon roll was more than £4, and there’s four of us, you’ll understand why we tried to cut corners where we could. Besides, cooking outside is what you’re meant to do when you camp, right? I’m sure it’s in the Camping Rulebook. So I sat on my camping chair, with my little stove, and cooked breakfast every day. I didn’t mind as my Other Half did the washing up. The kids? Well, they just ate the food, so nothing new there.
We’re a pretty laid back family and so there was no pressure on any of us to have to do anything. Our eldest had already made friends with the kids from the tent next door and so we barely saw him all weekend – apart from when he wanted money or feeding. Typical. But we were happy with that because we really didn’t want him cramping our style, (or is it the other way round?) Our youngest is seven and I had specifically not told him about any of the acts that were appearing because I didn’t want to feel beholden to be anywhere at a specific time. However, you could buy a programme, which came with handy lanyard, which outlined who was on and when. Would have helped if I’d bought myself one really.
Three things Dexter loved:
1. Jousting: In fact, he loved it so much that he not only watched it three times, but watched it on the Ferris Wheel to get the perfect view. Now that’s dedication.
2. Bubble Guns: They were everywhere. You couldn’t walk a metre without being smacked upside the head by a giant bubble or five. At £9 per gun (I say gun, more of a sword really,) they’re not cheap but the kids loved them.
3. Fancy Dress: Every year, Camp Bestival has a theme – this year was medieval. If your child is anything like me, they love dressing up. Most of Dexter’s costumes are so small now that the trousers are ¾ length and the tops are crop tops. He doesn’t care at all. Dressing up as a knight at Camp Bestival was a whole lotta fun for Dexter. If you’ve forgotten to bring an outfit, there’s even a fancy dress shop on site, Smiffy’s – but get there early because they soon run out of the most popular items.
Three things Teen loved:
1. Ed Sheeran: One of the many strings to my ever-expanding bow, is that I’m also a music reviewer (as is the teen now,) and so there were some acts appearing that we definitely had to see. Ed Sheeran was one of them. Not only was his main show amazing but I managed to find out about a secret gig that he was playing straight after the main show. After managing to blag our way past security (“You’re name’s not down ….”,) we were privy to a gig to no more than 100 people and Ed played us his new songs. A really mellow affair, in the middle of the woods, apparently at someone’s wedding (!) and we felt privileged to be there. The teen could barely speak when he came out (he was front row,) only to tell me that I was the best mum in the entire universe. Hey – tell me something I don’t know!
2. Girls: Nuff said. Lots of teens were at Camp Bestival and I know some people were a bit upset that they seem to have been able to allowed in on their own, without an accompanying family. But the certainly didn’t cause me any bother – but then I’d deliberately camped miles away from them!
3. Chilling: He felt safe enough to wander about on his own without any hassle. These days, just walking the streets at home, there’s some little runt that wants to have a go. There wasn’t that vibe at Camp Bestival at all. Everyone was there to listen to music and have fun and there was absolutely no trouble at all (that I saw.)
Three things Other Half and I loved:
1. Atmosphere: No, they’re not a folk band (although that’s a great name,) but my Other Half and I lead pretty hectic lives, we haven’t had a holiday for over four years and so Camp Bestival was the first chance we’d had in years just to ‘be.’ So, for us, just spending time together in a place that felt like a mini community full of like-minded people, was wonderful.
2. Dancing: My Other Half and I met dancing – in a salsa club to be specific, and it was what brought us together. Nine years on and … well, we don’t get to dance much these days. At Camp Bestival there are lots of dance classes put on and everywhere you look, there’s always music to dance to. We took full advantage and really let our hair down. Our eldest was grateful he wasn’t around to see us raving and after initially not knowing what to make of it, our youngest just joined in! It was good for him to see Mum and Dad letting their hair down. At least I think it was.
3. Happy Kids: When we’re at home, there’s always some squabble going on between our boys. It’s normal, right? (Please agree!) At Camp Bestival, admittedly because they weren’t in each other’s space all the time, they were just happier when they were with each other. Yes, there were a few disagreements, but overall, they rubbed along together nicely. Both got to do what they wanted to do (within reason,) and that led to a relaxed atmosphere. Most of the time. Happy kids = happy parents.
I missed out hearing any comedy, (ahem, bar my own of course,) Sara Cox speak, James Vincent McMorrow and Ms Dynamite. But we ate at River Cottage, loved Katy B and had a great time on the Helter Skelter. We didn’t see Shrek, the Insect Circus or Nero (they cancelled twice – the teen is still vex!), but we ate some great food, I had the best facial ever at the Khiels stand and we saw some amazing bike tricks at the Skate Park.
Camp Bestival is host to 30,000 people and if, for some reason (*cough* money *cough*) they make it bigger next year, I think that would adversely affect the whole experience. I’m hoping they don’t.
There are things that could be improved at Camp Bestival – it’s not perfect – but what is? Overall, I have to say, I’d recommend it to anyone.
Camp Bestival 2011 rocked – even though I barely slept, spent a fortune on food and felt like I’d walked a thousand miles.
Read MoreBrittany Ferries – would you?
Well, yes we would, actually.
When we booked our Keycamp holiday, the provided travel arrangements were a straightforward Dover-Calais crossing. Which is fine, of course. Except it’s a 3+ hour drive for us along the cost to Dover. Then the crossing. Then another 6 or so hours back down the length of France to where we wanted to be. We know from last year that this is bad enough going out – but at the end of the holiday, when all the bags are packed, the cheese is stinking out the car, and you just want to get ho-o-ome… that 3hr journey when you get off the ferry is a killer. It’s a nearly-there…but-not-quite-yet nightmare.
So when Brittany Ferries waved a hand in the air and asked if we’d rather travel the longer Poole-Cherbourg crossing courtesy of their Condor Express service (on the seacat) we considered it for about 2 nanoseconds, and then not-at-all-reluctantly said “yes please!”. Quite Loudly.
11 1/2 hrs or 6 1/2 hrs? Hmmm... Let us think...
So. The crossing only slightly longer than the standard Dover-Calais 90 minutes; 2 1/2 hrs on the Condor Express, and only 4 1/2 on the Barfleur ‘normal’ ferry) but not dreadfully so – and still saves time when you consider driving round. The price for six of us, plus car, in August is £340 return. When we factor in the time and petrol in driving all the way round, it’s a no-brainer. Poole is easy to access for most fo the southern half of the country, and landing half way down France is SUCH a bonus, really helping you start your holiday just that bit faster (we caught the 7 a.m. ferry from Poole, and were actually in the pool at the Parc de Fierbois by 4.30 that afternoon).
The ferry itself is bright and spacious, with good food facilities (breakfast was yum, and having Costa Coffee on board was a lifesaver), including a small children’s room with a tv playing (TopCat. Yay.) where no one minded if the small ones rampaged a little as it’s ticked away from the rest of the passengers. We had reserved reclining seats, which the children didn’t sit in much, but my husband as designated driver was VERY happy to make use of, and was really glad we had.
Hmmmm. The sea wasn't quite that calm on the way out. *gulp*
For us? Brittany Ferries were by far the easiest way to get to France, and a much nicer, quieter, calmer experience (yes, even with 4 over-excited children at 7 in the morning) than other crossings we may have tried…
Brittany Ferries Poole to Cherbourg prices start from just £89pp for return ferry sailings. This is based on two people travelling with a standard sized car when you holiday for five nights or less. Day trips cost from just £23pp.
Read MoreKeycamp – family friendly holidays in France? Yes, please.
I’ve said it before (in fact, last year when we had a Keycamp review trip…) – Keycamp is not our usual choice of family holiday – we’re far more likely to be found in an isolated cottage half way up a mountain, or camping in a field with only sheep for neighbours.
But we reviewed Keycamp last year (with some trepidation)… and had a blast. So when we were invited back this summer, I *might* have left teeth marks on their hand when I said yes.
After much deliberation, scouring of the Keycamp site, comparing of facilities and heated family meetings at the computer we finally came to a decision on which parc to visit. Eventually, the children won – we were headed back to the same parc in France as last year *sigh*. But actually? This was good. We knew we only had 7 nights, so we needed to go far enough south to get the sunshine, but not so far as to eat away our holiday with travelling. The Parc de Fierbois is only 4hrs from Cherbourg, which meant that catching the 7.30 ferry we were actually swimming in the pool by 4 in the afternoon. Perfect.
'Our Place'. Trees. Shade. Loungers. Barbecue. Perfect.
The thing is, the Parc de Fierbois is simply an ideal family-friendly holiday location. It really is. But – one word of warning if you are booking. Be sure to call the rather brilliant Keycamp booking line and speak to the very helpful customer services team, rather than booking online – and when you do, request a site in the forest. Because Parc de Fierbois is a medium sized set set around the central pool/bar complex; and half of it is nestled deep in a fabulous forest. Absolutely Nothing could beat leaving the heat of the pool, tired and hungry, and walking back to a shady spot on the Van’s decking to sit with a cold drink and listen to the birds. *blissful moment of remembering*
Sitting on the decking after lunch, just looking straight up. *happy*
On the other side of the parc the vans are not in the forest – and have no shade at all. While we were staying the temps topped 40 degrees (and we were there before the Big Heat of August), I simply can’t imagine what it was like over in the unshady part of the parc.
The site is immaculately clean and well kept, quiet, organised and simply a perfect getaway for families with young children. Once the school holidays start the kids clubs fire up, and there’s a brilliant range of activities to keep them busy every day.
The view from our deck after a long hard day at the pool. Not so bad, huh?
At the end of June, though, things hadn’t really got going (which suited us perfectly – we were there for some decent family time, not to lose the children all day). The entertainments in the bar were limited to karaoke and bingo at the weekends (we didn’t visit, this worried us not at all – we were far happier playing cards on the deck with a cold beer as we watch the sunset filter through the trees), and there was no lifeguard on the pool. Which *might* have meant small boys sliding down the slides in the rubber rings. And *might* have meant the 4yr old using the big age 8+ slide. I’m just saying it *might* have.
The really-not-very-shabby-at-all pool
Ah, the pool. The pool. The biggest reason to stay at the Parc de Fierbois. It really is pretty brilliant. One large pool, separated into different areas – a large deep part for ‘proper’ swimming (and *maybe* illegal diving/bombing for small boys on quiet days… *maybe*), middling areas for safer swimming, shallow areas for young children, and a splash pool for babies. plus there’s the slides of course – the bumpy so-fast-they-make-everyone-yelp yellow slides, and the curled tube too.
That's The Four hurtling towards me - I'm all set to catch (be drowned by) Pink, as you can see.
We spent most days at the pool – and it never got boring. Be warned though – operate a strict “at-least-TRY before we go” policy on the children. The only nearby toilets are in the bar, which doesn’t open till 1, and even then seemed unreliable. If it’s not open, there’s a bit of a walk back through the park to find a toilet block – I heard lots of parents muttering that the toilets should be open when the pool is, particularly with so many young children about.
*proud* two of those boys wouldn't put their faces into water when we arrived.
The site shop is great for emergencies, seemed to have everything you could actually need – though of course for a wider choice and better prices the supermarket is more practical. We used the Intermarche at Sainte Maure de Touraine, which was fab. Though we stuck to the site shop for the daily essentials of croissants and baguettes of course.
At night the parc is incredibly peaceful (though we know this depends on the guests) – one night was disrupted by a noisy party in one of the site-owned properties (nothing to do with Keycamp), and maybe we were too early in the season of the site security to be enforcing the quiet-after-11p.m. rule.
Simple pleasures - evenings on the decking, playing cards and being silly. And watching the 9yr old learn the rules a le-e-tle too well for our liking.
We stayed in the Villagrand mobile home, with 3 beds and a deck. If you’re wondering what level to book I would definitely insist on the deck; and upgrade to the Villagrand Deluxe if possible. We stayed in a Deluxe last year, and whilst the villagrand is ‘fine’ the space is limited – and it’s in the main double bedroom you lose it. The two of us couldn’t change simultaneously in the bedroom, as there was only one spot you didn’t need to teeter precariously in the narrow space around the bed. Like I said, it was fine – we spend most of our time outside anyway, but the deluxe was definitely worth the minimal extra spend to upgrade.
Boy and Pink, heading out to the Pool.
After a week of lazy days, and quiet evenings being beaten at cards by the 9yr old, we came back refreshed and recharged. An unexpectedly wonderful weeks family holiday; thank you Keycamp – once again, you did it.
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Feather Down Farms Days Review – Dolphinholme
Oh we were all so excited about Feather Down Farm. We do love the idea of an Enid Blyton-style family holiday and family glamping (albeit less than an hour away from home!) looked like it would hit the spot.
We arrived mid-afternoon and transferred everything to our tent via wheelbarrow. I’d been a bit worried that we’d look like total hicks with our cardboard boxes of food (I told David to just take everything we had that we might be likely to eat) and various carrier bags, but everyone else seemed to have done the same – there was no fancy luggage on show.
Joe helping with the luggage.
The farm was pretty much as expected, but I did think the tents would be slightly more isolated – from the main farm and from each other – but they’re actually lined up and out in the open, facing a large and very picturesque field full of hay bales.
David spent much of the afternoon wrestling with the fire while the boys investigated. We discovered the goats and the trampoline and then Joe fell off the picnic table and belted his head on the metal frame of the tent: the worst possible place he could have landed (children are brilliant at that, aren’t they?). After a trip to the farmhouse to clean his wound, he seemed fine and was back to bouncing on the trampoline in no time, while the other kids admired his bloody curls (we didn’t leave him like that – we wrestled him into the shower not long after).
Harry. Not liking his cupboard bed much at ALL.
Harry loved the cupboard bed and while both boys were disappointed we wouldn’t let Joe sleep in there too (too scared of any more injuries), they were both fast asleep in minutes. With wine and books, David and I sat out front on the deckchairs provided and felt… exhausted.
By ten that night we were freezing. The fire wasn’t working properly and I think we’d both underestimated how little protection from the elements a tent provides. I went to bed fully dressed and covered by two duvets, but when I woke at midnight and went to check on Joe, I was surprised the chattering of my teeth didn’t wake him. I honestly can’t remember ever being so cold in my life. And I’ve been in New York in December. I was cold to my bones! The rest of the week it wasn’t so bad, mainly because once I got into bed I didn’t get out of it again until morning.
Harry rather enjoyed 'Glamping', particularly with Happy Bunny for company.
On Tuesday morning John, the farmer, gave us a tour of the farm and it was wonderful – so brilliant for the children to learn about it as a working farm. I also highly recommend getting a rabbit to take care of – but only if you don’t mind all the children dropping by to play with it. It was a valuable exercise too – Harry had asked for a rabbit for his birthday, but his reluctance to hold poor Happy Bunny (and absolute refusal to help clean her out) ruled that out for at least another year.
We’d taken Laura’s warnings about the fire on board (you can see those in my Top Ten Tips For Glamping post here), but still couldn’t seem to get it to stay lit without filling the tent with smoke. David was too stubborn to ask for help and so we tolerated a couple of smoky mornings before I stormed off and got it fixed (there was a little switch thing at the back that closed the chimney). After that we had no trouble at all: hot tea, hot water for dishes, eggs for breakfast and pasta for dinner – ace.
Harry and the goats. Obviously.
I’d been slightly concerned about the shower block – I’m way too old for communal showers – but it was fine: clean with hot water and, one morning, a small boy (not mine) singing “I love rock and roll” in the next cubicle.
On the last night, we made our own pizza base from a mix bought in the honesty shop (which was brilliant), topped it and then joined most of the other campers to cook pizzas in the outdoor oven. Fantastic for socialising with the other guests (most of whom brought along many bottles of wine, as well as pizzas).
Mr Keris, Harry and Joe.
So was it the Enid Blyton holiday we wanted? Yes and no. It absolutely was for the boys, but the problem with a tent – however glam the glamping – is that you can’t lock it; so when Joe wanted to go out, he just went.
And he wanted to be outside ALL THE TIME!
So while the other parents were relaxing, secure in the knowledge that their kids were off playing happily somewhere, we were chasing Joe round or “supervising” him on the trampoline.
It was exhausting.
We’d love to go back – but in a couple of years when we can bid the boys a cheery goodbye first thing and then not see them again until mealtimes.
(we first reviewed this kind of glamping holiday a couple of years ago – and we get so many hits from people looking for for info that the lovely people at Feather Down Farm Days thought we might like to bring the review up to date with a new family on a different farm. There are loads of locations throughout the UK to choose from, just go browse their sumptuous site and see for your self)
Read MoreBest, Most Honest, Butlins Review You’ll Ever Read.
(Goddess Bec was sent off with the family to Butlins Shoreline Hotel in Bognor Regis – here’s what she had to say…)
I have to admit to giggling a bit when LittleStuff asked if I’d like to review a two night stay at Butlins.
Let me explain.
Growing up, in my teenage years I *may* have got tipsy on alcopops and *may* have climbed up a tree and over a fence and *may* have gone to the Butlins disco whilst dodging many a security guard. On a weekly basis.
I say may have. Not saying it definitely happened.
Anyway my first thought was will they even let me back in? I mean imagine the embarrassment of being carted out by security aged 28 and one quarter, in front of my children?
And my second thought was sod it, we haven’t had a holiday since having children and the kids will love it.
And they did.
They really really did.
Everything is so geared to their enjoyment from the moment you arrive that of course they had the time of their lives.
As soon as we got there we booked onto a character breakfast for the next morning where the likes of Bob the Builder, Billy the Butlins Bear and Daisy the cow come and greet the children while you are stuffing your faces with breakfast.
But before I go into the character breakfast I just want to talk a little bit about the staff and checking into the hotel.
So check in. The staff could not have been more helpful, thorough or courteous. This was proper customer service. Which I’m going to be a complete snob and admit it surprised me. I imagined Hi-De-Hi happy campers, cheap and cheerful. But was so surprised. Really attentive staff and the hotel (The Shoreline) was fantastic. It was impeccably clean. And the rooms were fabulous. Large and spacious. Modern and immaculate. Incredibly comfortable beds, a television at the foot of our bed, with a DVD player and the same in the kids bedroom. Which was fab as Monty snuggled down to a DVD while I unpacked our cases. We also had a fridge in the room which meant we could buy milk for the kids bedtimes and keep water and snacks etc cool during our stay. Stuff like this makes a big difference to parents. Sad as it is, it does!
Monty loved the novelty of sleeping in a bunk bed and Blossoms travel cot was pristine. We took our own bedding for her but we didn’t use it as the bedding supplied was spotless.
As you meander around the hotel disco music is played through speakers in the hallways. Some may have curled their lip at that. Not me! I strutted down every hall way, often forgetting that there were other people staying there. So I dread to think how many strangers witnessed my best disco moves but who cares? I was on holiday! (And remember- it’s been a LONG time!)
I have to admit to having fairly low expectations of the food. We had breakfast and dinner included in our stay and we had these in a buffet style restaurant at the hotel. It was so much better than I had expected. I honestly thought I would be eating chips with everything but the choice and quality of food was brilliant. Not greasy, convenience style food but carvery roasts, curries, noodle dishes, salads, plenty of fresh fruit and veg to choose from. And great puddings. I became a bit childlike about the puddings oh and the cookies! They were freshly baked and gooey! Yuuu-um!
Watch out Blossom! It's BEHIND you!
So, the character breakfast. Great idea but I have to admit that most children found the dressed up people a bit overwhelming and what started out as a good idea ended up being a dining room full of wailing kids. I came out in a stress rash.We went for breakfast at a different time the next day to avoid the characters and the wailing. And the rash.I scoffed a well cooked English breakfast both days, so did my husband and the kids feasted on cereal, yoghurt, fresh fruit, muffins and pastries.
Ah. Blossom saw the cow then.
Once in the actual resort itself Monty enjoyed all the rides and our pockets were haemorrhaged of change as we were surrounded by machines that took our pound coins and gave our three year old a sixty second ride. Sigh. My one complaint (other than having my pockets robbed of change) was that small people had to go on rides by themselves which meant that we couldn’t take Blossom on much as at one year old she needed to go on our laps. But she did have a nice soft play area to play in which was staffed, well equipped, clean and also calm! Yes really! In the main fairground outside there was a bit more we could take her on and she enjoyed the merry go round.
The swimming pool is excellent, plenty to enjoy. Although it hasn’t changed a huge amount in the 15 plus years since I’ve been there as a child. I was disgusted by the changing rooms though. For a family resort, far too few family cubicles to change in, and I’d describe the changing rooms as dirty. Nappies were dumped in changing rooms and the floors were really grubby. Could have been worse I suppose. At least there were no floating turds in the pool.
One thing the children really got the most out of was the entertainment crew. There was constantly a show on at the skyline complex and Blossom and Monty watched in awe. He was really chuffed he got to see the Thomas the Tank Engine show. And both of them adored watching the evening entertainment which was a Billy the Butlins Bear show. This included a dancing cow singing the Beyonce song but with the words ‘If you like me then you’d better put a ring through it’ complete with fosse dance moves. Surreal.
The real icing on the cake for us was after the show when we went back to the hotel. Billy the Butlins Bear came to the hotel foyer dressed in his pyjamas and dressing gown and the children were able to put him to bed in his bedroom. I kid you not the detail in this bears bedroom was fantastic and I cracked up at the pictures on the wall of Billy with Busted, and Billy with Prince Charles. Hee Hee!
When I grow up I quite fancy being on the entertainment crewat Butlins.The wigs, the high kicks, the headset mike like what that there Kylie Monog-uemousee uses? Where do I sign up?
One thing I wasn’t expecting to do at Butlins was use the spa. I got my eyebrows done while I was there and it was bliss. Half an hour child free while someone ripped off the top hairy part of my eyelids. Well the brow actually and It bloody hurt but did I mention the child free part? Yes. Ahhhh.
Now. I’m going to be honest here. It is like the elephant in the room so I am just going to come out and say it. One of the things that lets Butlins down is whispers the coughs people, you know, the clientèle, the target market, the guests. I’m sorry. I’m a snob. I thoroughly enjoyed the people watching. I felt like I was in a documentary on channel 4. A kind of hybrid between Louis Theroux and that gypsy wedding programme only without the grabbing. Well I dunno, they GRABBED a tenner off of me for two helium balloons. I stood there waiting for my change from a ten pound note after being handed my Thomas and my tweety pie balloon. I did not get any. I did do a lot of chuntering under my breath as the children took no notice whatsoever of these floating balloons. I may have been guilty of thumping said balloons many times as they seemed to be attracted to my hair and we had some kind of static electricity thing going on.
Anyway, I digress. I was telling you about the people. One fabulous moment was witnessing an unlocked arcade machine. The glass door had been left open and all the cuddly toys were ‘loose.’
I kid you not, families were sending their children to help themselves and load up the buggy with booty. That is some wholesome family fun right there that is. So. We told on them. Hah! Gutted though as we did not get given ‘we are Butlins prefects’ badges. Damn it.
Anyway I have divulged enough of my Hyacinth Bucket (pronounced Bouquet of course) tendencies. If I go into any more detail there is a good chance I may get hate mail.
In summary, Butlins, it is what it is. It exceeded my expectations in so many ways. And it showed me I have the elbow skillage to win a fight in an all you can eat pizza place. Actually I knew that already. What it really showed me was that my children really did enjoy having a holiday. So may be in future we’ll have to sacrifice elsewhere to make sure they get one. I vote the husband has to forgo new underwear and we just eat a lot more beans. Parp.
A two night mid week break at the Shoreline hotel in Bognor starts at just £34 per person.
Read MoreA Little Something Different for Mothers Day
No Flowers, Slippers or even Sold Out Telegrams. No.
How about just whizzing you away somewhere really rather special for the weekend instead? Get the whole family, take your Mum, your children, and all spend a couple of days remembering what it is that makes Mothering the tippy-top fabulousness that it truly is?
There’s the cottage in Cornwall that will allow you to sleep in a room like this…
“Lantau Cottage is a former 17th Century ship merchants’ cottage with wonky floors, a winding staircase that incorporates an original full size ship’s mast, and an Elizabethan panelled bedroom. Allegedly once the home of a famous pirate, every part of the (5 bedroomed) house has stunning original features, from Elizabethan panelled walls and original fireplaces to Oriel windows and antique furniture. The unusual reading room leading from the master bedroom is a particularly unique and enchanting feature, and the house is steeped in history and character. The location of the cottage is idyllic, hidden in a narrow street but just moments from the beach.”
A weekend of alleyways and back streets to explore, the banjo pier and sandy beach. Galleries and shops and of course restaurants, pubs and cafes too; Looe harbour is just the perfect place to watch the world go by.
Or maybe, if Cornwall isn’t your thing, you’d like to go the other way…
“A new stunning luxury waterfront holiday house on the remote Knoydart Peninsula on the West Coast of Scotland, with one of the best sealoch hot tub views in the UK. Boat access only, though fast water taxis run daily. Castaway to “Britain”s last wilderness” with floor to ceiling glass, vaulted ceilings, superking beds, bose, wifi, antiques, large open plan social area and feature stone fireplace.”
The house is in a stunning position – share the views with only the deer, golden eagle and abundant birdlife while you watch dolphin, porpoise, seal and otter in the loch. Climb one of the three munros, organise a days stalking on the Knoydart Estate. Look for sea-eagles, book a rangers guided walk, go crabbing on the shores of Loch Nevis, fungi foraging in the woods beside the house or just curl up with a book after a long soak in the hot tub under the stars.
Both properties have short break availability in the next month… Now tell me you’re not already mentally relaxing in one of them? What better way to celebrate Mothers Day than planning a stay in one of these…
Both properties are available via the rather wondrous One Off Places site – you might just want to have a look round while you’re there.
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We want to go HERE – It’s not really camping, now, is it?
That, in fact, is a Yurt. In the Lake District. Picture it – in front of you Lake Windermere – less than a minute’s walk away… Behind you a luxury yurt ; complete with a wood burning stove, and all you might need to live for a week (or two…or three…). Switch off from the pressures of life and enjoy nature at its finest.
Oh, yes please.
Read MoreHave Kids, Have TrayKit – Can Travel.
It’s always a problem, isn’t it? Keeping children occupied on long journeys. Sometimes you can’t avoid them (the journeys, that is – as far as I can tell, it actually IS impossible to avoid your children), and you just need them to be peaceful. We’ve done a fair number with ours over the years, and we’ve come to some basic conclusions – they need a bag packed with their own stuff. This needs to include a variety of (quiet) activities, but MUST involve pens and paper, and preferably some kind of MP3 player too.
But for small children, keeping said bag organised, within reach and holding it’s own contents (as opposed to randomly up-ending them) is a task in itself.
So I was a bit excited when I saw the TrayKit on Dragons Den – and even more when they wrote and asked if I’d like to see one for real. Have you seen them yet? They’re ace. no, really, they are.
These are not practical take-it-to-school bags, or suitable for Nursery trips either. No, these are simply fab at precisely what they were designed for – holding everything in the most practical way possible for journeys. A gazillion pockets are the first essential, which makes not only packing them exciting, but keeping them tidy when in use actually possible too. The fold-out flap is a genius idea, allowing a suitable desk for colouring working on no matter how short your reach, or how far away the seat in front is. The raised sides mean that those infuriating bloody oh-it’s-rolled-on-the-floor shouts are rarely heard, and the clever strapping mechanism means it can attach to any seat in front, whether it is car or plane.
The build quality is good (although I would have liked the velcro to be stronger and the ‘desk’ board to be more rigid, we had no issues with it doing its job so maybe that’s just me being picky), the fabric is wipe-able (THANK YOU!) and the colours are bright and appealing.
Best of all – the children LOVE it. Pink is nearly 4 and she nearly expired with joy at the sight of it, couldn’t wait to fill it, and has proved its worth on every car journey since!
The TrayKit can be bought here from Contented & Calm, currently priced at £24.99
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