Family Holidays

Second homes were among the casualties of the credit crunch, but as the economy recovers and the London market tops out, estate agents are noticing the return of a particular breed of second-homer: the weekender. Weekend homes are different from holiday homes. The latter are usually visited only a few times a year — Cornwall, say, in the school holidays — but in this time-poor, stress-rich age, and with pollution choking the capital, buyers crave a fast escape from London (two hours max), so they can wake up to fresh air and scenery on Saturday morning.

[Readm More]

From Cornwall and Cork to Corsica and Croatia, we pick 20 great stays from Mr & Mrs Smith’s new family collection

British Isles 1 No 5 Maddox Street London This quiet collection of self-catering apartments off Regent Street may have grown-up, understated decor but they are stocked with every child accoutrement from bibs to baby monitors. The two and three-bedroom suites are made for families. Food-stocked kitchens, restaurant delivery services, daily housekeeping, a library of DVDs for all ages, 24-hour concierge, babysitting services and membership to a local gym are part of the deal. Details From £234 room only (020-7647 0200,no5maddoxstreet.com). Cots can be added to the room free of charge.