As we arrived at Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire’s 300-acre estate near Fleet, my six and nine-year old sons received kids’ passports, and we promptly set off collecting stamps around the hotel. A short stroll through the pretty 18th-century walled garden led to the Kids For All Seasons club, which reopened in spring 2022 after a full refurbishment.
It’s colourful, inviting and packed with tempting toys and games. Although aimed at children aged four to 12 years old, families can stay and play with younger children, and teens often join in too. A packed school holidays’ programme means parents can slip away to the spa or try country pursuits such as archery and fly fishing.
Elsewhere, we learnt how to groom Milo and Dougal, the gorgeous resident Shetland ponies at the equestrian centre. Private rides and a two-hour Own a Pony Experience are also available. Another family must-try is the fun-filled Sharkie’s Reef pool, home to bubble fountains and a four-person slide.
Other child-friendly spaces across the estate include a large playground, a games room and tennis courts. The boys were warmly welcomed everywhere, including in the Wild Carrot Restaurant and Bar, which offers a superb main and kids’ menu.
The 134 rooms and suites, and many of the public spaces were refurbished during the pandemic, and our Executive Suite featured a spacious bedroom and sitting room. The boys were greeted by a welcome message written on the mirror, alongside warm cookies and milk. Other thoughtful elements included cosy child-size dressing gowns and slippers, a step stool in the marble-clad bathroom and Dadaumpa children’s amenities, nestled alongside Floris products for adults.
Proper blackout curtains and a huge cloud-like sofa bed meant the boys slept so well they had a rare lie-in – the ultimate proof of the perfect family break.
