Looking for the perfect family beach hotel in the UK this summer? Sean King of Family Traveller spent an idyllic few days at Beachcroft Hotel and Beach Hut Suites in West Sussex recently. Take a look at why he thinks an English seaside break still charms with the best of them.
The Beachcroft family beach hotel on the West Sussex coast
If there’s one thing the pandemic has taught us, it’s that we don’t actually have to jet off to foreign shores to enjoy a fabulous family break. And for those of us looking to escape the usual school holiday airport madness, like queues at security, delayed flights, covid certificates – not to mention cost – then it’s definitely worth checking out the Beachcroft Hotel and Beach Hut Suites in West Sussex.
The Beachcroft works the seaside magic for kids
A luxurious family beach hotel that’s just right for kids
The Beachcroft, which despite being owned by the world-famous hotelier Peter De Savary, still very much feels like a friendly family-run seaside hotel. Located on Felpham Beach, it boasts 37-bedrooms and four beach hut suites catering for families, couples and singles looking to enjoy all that this area of West Sussex has to offer.
We stayed at one of the Beach Hut Suites which, while compact, are well designed to maximise the use of the space. Each has a lounge area, with its own terrace overlooking the pebble beach, a mezzanine master bedroom. There’s also a small bunk bedroom at the back of the suite for those with young children.
Family beach picnics are a great seaside tradition at The Beachcroft
Indulge in the best English seaside holiday traditions
But the real joy of this dog-friendly hotel is that it’s a fantastic place to get out and about whether to enjoy seven-mile coastal footpath, the secluded beaches, Grade II listed pier and green-flag parks or nearby Bognor Regis itself. Other nearby family attractions include, Arundel Lido, Harbour Park with its classic seaside rides and attractions and even a local Butlins resort. For those looking to go further afield, there’s Goodwood Motor and Racing, the South Downs National Park, Arundel Castle and heaps more historic sites to visit.
Blakes Restaurant with dining pods, Beachcroft, West Sussex
The boutique family beach hotel with no fewer than three restaurants
There are three restaurants at the main hotel: the outdoor garden terrace, Blake’s featuring dining pods; the Monty’s Bistro Restaurant and Tamarisk Restaurant. We also explored along the nearby coast and came upon the The Lobster Pot serving freshly caught fish served in a cute takeaway box to eat in or to take down on to the beach. For those looking to venture into nearby Bognor Regis I can highly recommend Suga’Kane bar which brought a touch of the Caribbean to the English Seaside. The rum punch cocktails really hit the spot.
Dog-friendly Beachcroft even has Doggy Welcome Packs
Beachcroft loves your dog almost as much as you do
It says on the website that Beachcroft is ‘proud to be dog-friendly’ which is somewhat of an understatement. There’s even a doggy welcome pack complete with dog bed and bowls, treats and a toy, plus a special dog’s dinner and breakfast.
For us humans, the hotel can organise Champagne picnic hampers, along with freshly prepared and boxed-up fish and chips, to enjoy on their terrace or back in your room.
A stay at the Beachcroft truly felt like a wholesome family break complete with buckets, spades, fishing nets and even beachcombing. The hotel also offers a personally curated Walking Guide for guests, to encourage them to get out and about and explore the region further. You’ll find a guide in each room or beach hut.
Beachcroft Hotel and Beach Hut Suites
Beach Hut Suites from £275, based on two sharing B&B. Plus £25.00 per child B&B
Adult bicycles are included as part of your stay when staying in a Beach Hut Suite.
Rates include breakfast and room service is available.
Dog friendly Beachcroft also offers Doggy Getaways.