Thursday 14 July 2011

Forget camping: go 'gramping'…

We’ve noticed a new trend this year. It seems that many more holidaymakers are making multigenerational bookings for their summer holidays.

Research (for www.mumsnet.com) has shown that 75% of families with young children are going 'gramping' in 2011. As families pull together to support each other, practically and financially, grandchildren can benefit tremendously - sharing meals with the extended family, spending quiet time with Granny, or going fishing with Gramps. Meanwhile, Mum and Dad gain some much needed 'time out' and the chance to spend some quality time with their parents. Holidaying in larger groups can also bring down the cost per person too.

Sound appealing? If so, Helpful Holidays has 65 holiday homes, sleeping eight or more, currently available to book this August, all suitable for some top class ‘gramping’! Here are a couple of examples…

A mile from Raddington, just south of Exmoor National Park, is The Granary, a handsome, south-facing, detached house with lovely long views over peaceful countryside. It has been created from an 18th century granary with flair, style and an eye to detail. Inside there’s a large living room, with plenty of space for everyone to sit – and there’s even a piano for family sing-alongs. Outside, you’ll find 60 acres of countryside with unrestricted walking. There’s also a 70 foot long games barn with table tennis and darts – perfect for family tournaments. You can save 25% during August, so it’s just £137 per person per week when eight share.

Or how about spoiling yourselves with a 5 star retreat? About a mile inland from Branscombe, one of the prettiest villages on the south coast, is fabulous Edge House, a beautifully built, detached, New England-style property. Everything in this house is on a grand scale with spacious interiors and expansive views. It also has that all important games room with pool table and table tennis for some competitive play. There are five bedrooms, all with their own TV, so everyone can disappear for their own private time if needed! Nearby, the Donkey Sanctuary makes for a fun and worthwhile visit, as does Pecorama with its famous modern railway exhibition – great for kids and just as interesting for Dad and Grandad! During August, it’s £238 per person per week based on nine sharing.

We’ve lots of larger holiday cottages suitable for ‘gramping’ so email us on help@helpfulholidays.com or call on 01647 433593 if you need help finding just the right place for a memorable family holiday.
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