Let’s be real – multi-generational holidays are exhausting. Rewarding, yes, but by the time you’ve wrangled the group chat back from the brink of a family fall out, you’re wanting a holiday from the holiday that hasn’t even happened yet!
Besides all that – when you get it right, extended family holidays create the most incredible memories for grandparents, parents and little ones. It’s clear to see that the benefits of spending time together in person make the planning always worth it. The question is, how exactly do you pull off a break that keeps everyone happy from the get-go – even the organiser? In this blog, we share some tips and tricks that will make your next holiday (almost) plan itself.
1. Space is your friend
A large group often means a bigger budget. While it’s tempting to put these extra spends aside for a ‘fun fund’, there’s a careful balance when booking accommodation that goes beyond making sure everyone has a bed. Although younger generations may be happy bunking up, elders often prefer somewhere to recharge at leisure, for example. At Wressle Grange, the Farmhouse (which sleeps 14) is often the ‘hub’ for groups, while our three cottages (each sleep 4) are booked alongside. Together, the spaces create a family-friendly retreat for up to 26 guests that never feels cramped.
2. Fun looks different to all
When everyone is on their own timeline, ideas for a great day can vary from Disneyland to a jigsaw. But remember, you’re already somewhere new – not every moment has to be planned to a T! Often, the most spontaneous memories are the best, which is why we recommend keeping entertainment low-key. A walk to Howden via one of our popular coffee shops is often full of surprises. When the sun’s out, Howden Park is the perfect spot for a game of frisbee (one of the few sports that’s equally fun to watch and play!). If the British weather does its thing, don’t scramble for a rainy-day contingency, as a simple board game or movie marathon can work wonders with the right crowd! For bigger adventures, head into York, Hull or Leeds – all easily accessible from Wressle Grange.
3. Don’t make a meal of dinner
When a restaurant reservation is too tying and a roast feels impossible, it’s time to go back to basics. Keep it simple with a few large, easy-to-make meals – there’s a reason everyone loves lasagne, after all. Importantly – get everyone in on the fun. While the little ones oversee dessert, let teens set the table and adults handle the oven – many hands make light work (and a good meal)! When weather permits, nothing beats a barbeque on the lawn followed by marshmallows on the firepit– all included when booking Wressle Grange Farmhouse! For the freshest ingredients, the Shire Hall in Howden plays host to the market every Friday, where fresh fish and homemade cakes can be found to add a local flair to your dishes.
4. The most important family member shouldn’t stay home…
If there’s a dog in the family, they’re coming – whether in body or spirit! Book a non-pet friendly place and you run the risk of hearing never-ending guilt from paw-rents. If the dog is happy, everyone else will be too – especially the kids, who will bounce off the energy. At Wressle Grange, both the farmhouse and Annabel’s Cottage welcome up to two furry friends – both have a patio with direct access to grassland. Pawfect!
Multi-generational holidays are all about making memories and keeping everyone happy, from toddlers to grandparents – simplicity is key to this! With spacious accommodation, local adventures and a family-friendly atmosphere, you’ll have everything you need to create the ultimate getaway here.
Did you know that Wressle Grange can now accommodate the ‘final boss’ of group holidays – a wedding! Take a look at our Wedding page for more information about transitioning your multi-generational holiday into memories for the history books.