It’s hard to put into words what consists of a good ‘family holiday’ – is it the people you’re with, the place you are going, whether the kids are happy, the memories that you create, or all of the above?!
It’s probably different things to different people, and because of that reason it can be hard to capture…however if it does have to be all of the above then Potters comes close to ticking the box.
Potters Resort is a sprawling coastal hotel and accompanying bungalows surrounded by acres of land jam-packed with entertainment options that will leave you needing a break!
We first visited Potters three years ago and honestly my children haven’t stopped talking about it since. Located in Hopton-on-Sea on the Norfolk coast, the unique family-ran resort is your typical conference facility during term time, but during school holidays the resort rolls out the red carpet to families with a rare offering of an all-inclusive themed break to entertain the smallest to oldest guests.
All-inclusive breaks are something of a rarity in the UK. The all-in-one price concept is comforting to know that every available activity and all meals are included within the cost of a stay reducing the worry about forking out for extras or denying the children any of the fun on offer.
Upon check in we were handed timetables, maps and entertainment information, and the children were provided with a blank journal to write about their days and collect stamps. Armed to the hilt we quickly navigated the way to our bungalow to check out the digs.
Previously we stayed in the hotel, but during this stay we opted for a Bungalow Plus. The bungalow featured a super-comfortable double bed with second twin room, both with smart flat screen TVs, handy fridge and an all-important travel cot.
Activities take place throughout the days and you really are spoilt for choice with a ram-jam action packed line up. Babies will love the soft play, arts and crafts workshops, and randomly, the Pony Cycles (worth a look online!) My older children really enjoyed the outdoor, thrilling activities such as the Giant Swing, crazy golf and climbing, while I really liked the exercise classes, sports and leisure facilities.
I did wonder if we’d all be going off in separate directions but there was a lot we all enjoyed together, such as the bungee trampolines, racing each other through the bouncy assault course, post lunch walks down to the beach and lots of splash fun in the pool.
If you’re exhausted reading this then you can only imagine the fun and adventure we experiencing during our stay! Fortunately food to fuel our adventures was fulfilling and plentiful. Offering up four meals a day (midnight snack is the fourth in case you were wondering!) each meal is three-courses, buffet or a la carte. The menu changes at each mealtime so there’s always something new ranging from standard pub grub to more exotic flavourings, including a novel children’s menu.
Post dinner meal we got into our own ritual – kids entertainment followed by my personal highlight, the nightly evening shows held in the onsite theatre. The nightly performances give any West End show a fantastic run for its money. Investing in it’s own theatre company, sourcing fantastic talent and creating captivating shows has earned Potters well-deserved industry praise. ‘Hits of the Decades’, ‘Legends’ and ‘Around the World in 80 Minutes’ were each a montage of breath-taking musical, visual and dancing acts that had the audience singing and on their feet. Sleepy children vie to stay awake late enough not to miss the almighty spectacle, and it’s special to share such an experience together all on site without any travel faff. While we called it a night after the show came to a close, dancing and music continues on late into the night at the bar, not forgetting the midnight feast to soak up the alcohol!
The nightly performances give any West End show a fantastic run for its money.
Potters Resort has become something of an institution, incredibly popular with family groups looking for a staycation, whether that’s to celebrate a special occasion (and they’ll make a fuss!) or to have some quality time together. There are a high number of return guests that build up wonderful relationships with the caring staff that work there, and this is all the verification you need to know you’re on to a good thing.
Need to Know
Potters Resort inclusive family breaks coincide with children’s school holidays. Further information and prices can be found at www.pottersholidays.comor by calling 0333 3207 497.
