Table of Contents
- Premier Inn Alternatives for Families: What You Need to Know
- Budget Hotel Booking Tips for Families
- Premier Inn vs Travelodge for Families
- Family-Friendly Hotel Amenities That Matter
- Top Alternatives to Premier Inn for Family Stays
- Room Configuration and Occupancy for Larger Families
- Value for Money: Comparing Nightly Rates and Total Trip Costs
- Location Accessibility and Proximity to Family Attractions
Last Updated: August 19, 2026
Premier Inn Alternatives for Families: What You Need to Know
Finding the right family accommodation is challenging. Premier Inn is familiar to many UK families, but several strong alternatives deserve consideration. Your best option depends on family size, children’s ages, length of stay, and what matters most: cost, space, meals, or activities.
This guide breaks down main Premier Inn alternatives, comparing room configurations, pricing, and what each delivers.
Budget Hotel Booking Tips for Families
Be crystal clear about your family’s needs before booking. How many children? What ages? Do they need separate space or can they share with parents? This shapes everything.
Check exact room configurations before booking. "Family room" means different things at different chains, some offer a double bed plus pull-out sofa, others provide a double bed plus two singles. Read detailed descriptions carefully and email the hotel if vague.
Consider total trip cost, not just nightly rates. A budget hotel with free breakfast and kids staying free might cost less overall than a cheaper hotel where you pay extra for meals and each child’s room. Factor in parking charges too.
Book directly with hotel chains when possible. You often get better cancellation terms, loyalty benefits, and the ability to request specific rooms or note your family’s needs.
Premier Inn vs Travelodge for Families
Both operate hundreds of UK locations, but differ significantly.
Travelodge positions itself as more affordable, starting from £40-£50 per night. Children aged 15 and under stay free with a paying adult, a genuine saving for families with multiple children. Family rooms typically include a king-size bed plus pull-out beds. The trade-off is basic accommodation: clean and functional, but fewer amenities than Premier Inn. Breakfast and faster Wi-Fi cost extra.
Premier Inn offers more comfort. Rooms are larger and better appointed. Many locations have better family room configurations and interconnecting rooms for larger families. However, nightly rates are typically higher.
The deciding factor is what you value most. If you’re budget-conscious and happy with basic comfort, Travelodge’s kids-stay-free policy is compelling. If you want more space and comfort, Premier Inn justifies the extra cost.
Family-Friendly Hotel Amenities That Matter
Free breakfast is genuinely valuable. It saves time each morning and money across a week. Holiday Inn Express includes complimentary breakfast in the room rate.
Kids’ clubs or supervised activities matter if you want adult downtime. Haven Holidays excels here with extensive on-site entertainment.
Room size and configuration matter far more than décor. A spacious room with separate sleeping areas beats cramped rooms with fancy furnishings. Staycity Aparthotels shine here with genuinely spacious apartments.
Self-catering facilities are underrated. A kitchenette or full kitchen removes real stress with young children or dietary requirements. Staycity’s fully equipped kitchens are a major advantage for longer stays.
Reliable Wi-Fi is essential for rainy days and parental downtime. Parking charges, often overlooked, can add £10-£15 per night. Check upfront.
Top Alternatives to Premier Inn for Family Stays
Travelodge: Budget Rooms and Kids Stay Free
Travelodge operates over 500 UK locations. Family rooms typically feature a king-size bed plus pull-out beds for children, accommodating two adults and up to two children comfortably. Rooms are clean and functional with modern furnishings and decent storage.
The kids-stay-free offer applies to children aged 15 and under staying with a paying adult. For a family of four, this is a real advantage. A week-long stay costs significantly less than Premier Inn.
On-site facilities include the Bar Café serving breakfast (charged separately) and evening meals. Free Wi-Fi is available, though faster speeds require payment. Rooms include a work desk, flat-screen TV, and modern bathroom.
Pros:
- Significantly cheaper than Premier Inn
- Kids stay free policy saves real money
- Widespread UK presence with convenient locations
- Clean, functional rooms with modern furnishings
- Pet-friendly rooms available at extra cost
Cons:
- Rooms are basic compared to Premier Inn
- Breakfast and upgraded Wi-Fi cost extra
- Fewer on-site amenities
- Limited activity options for children
Best for: Budget-conscious families prioritising cost savings, and those with children aged 15 and under.
Holiday Inn Express: Breakfast Included
Holiday Inn Express defines itself through complimentary Express Start breakfast included in every room rate, removing daily costs and simplifying mornings.
Family rooms typically offer a double bed plus sofa bed, accommodating two adults and two children. Many locations have interconnecting rooms available. Rooms are modern, well-maintained, and noticeably more spacious than budget chains.
The included breakfast includes cereals, pastries, fruit, yoghurt, hot drinks, and often hot items like bacon and eggs. For families, this saves both time and money. All rooms include free, reliable Wi-Fi. Many locations have a small fitness centre.
Pros:
- Free breakfast included, genuine daily saving
- Modern, comfortable rooms with good space
- Many locations offer interconnecting rooms for larger families
- Reliable free Wi-Fi throughout
- Often located near motorways for easy access
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than Travelodge
- No dedicated kids’ clubs or on-site activities
- Fewer amenities than full-service holiday hotels
- Breakfast not cooked to order
Best for: Families valuing comfort, convenience, and inclusive pricing. Free breakfast makes it cost-effective for multiple-night stays.
Staycity Aparthotels: Space and Self-Catering
Staycity Aparthotels offer serviced apartments with fully equipped kitchens, separate living and sleeping areas, and more space than any standard hotel room.
One-bedroom apartments accommodate a couple and one or two children. Two-bedroom apartments sleep a family of four to six. Three-bedroom options exist for larger groups. Every apartment includes a full kitchen with oven, hob, microwave, dishwasher, and washing machine.
Self-catering saves money on meals. You prepare breakfast, pack lunches, and cook dinner on your own schedule. For families with dietary requirements or young children, this is invaluable. The washing machine is underrated, on week-long stays, you can wash clothes rather than pack twice as many outfits.
Nightly rates start from around £100-£150 for a one-bedroom apartment depending on location and season. For a family of four, this is often cheaper than a hotel room plus meals when you factor in self-catering savings, particularly on longer stays.
Pros:
- Significantly more space than any hotel room
- Self-catering saves substantial money on meals
- Washing machine included, genuine advantage on longer stays
- Flexible meal times without restaurant constraints
- Cost-effective for week-long stays
- Ideal for families with dietary requirements
Cons:
- More expensive than budget hotels for short stays
- Self-catering requires planning and shopping
- Housekeeping typically weekly, not daily
- No on-site entertainment or kids’ clubs
Best for: Families staying a week or longer, those preferring self-catering, and larger families needing genuine space.
Haven Holidays: All-Inclusive Family Fun
Haven Holidays operates 38 coastal parks across the UK, offering a complete holiday experience with activities, entertainment, and facilities included.
Accommodation options include caravans, lodges, apartments, chalets, and glamping. Most families choose caravans or lodges. Accommodation is self-catering, but Haven provides entertainment and facilities.
Every park includes heated indoor pools with some offering outdoor pools, flumes, and water parks. Extensive indoor and outdoor activities include children’s clubs, entertainment shows, sports facilities, and family activities. This is the major differentiator, you get a complete activity-based holiday.
Short breaks start from around £49 for three nights, though prices vary significantly by park, accommodation type, season, and school holidays. Peak school holidays are substantially more expensive.
Pros:
- All-inclusive entertainment and activities on-site
- Heated pools and extensive facilities at every park
- Good value during off-peak periods
- Flexible booking with low deposits and payment plans
- Dog-friendly options available
Cons:
- Significantly more expensive during school holidays
- Self-catering requires meal planning
- Parks can feel crowded during peak seasons
- Quality varies between parks
Best for: Families with young children wanting activities included, those travelling during off-peak periods, and families preferring not to plan their own activities.
Room Configuration and Occupancy for Larger Families
Standard hotel rooms accommodate two adults and one or two children comfortably. With three children, you need a different approach.
Family rooms typically include a double bed plus a pull-out sofa bed or two singles. This works for two adults and two children. With three children, you’re squeezing a third into a single bed or using a travel cot, reducing space further.
Interconnecting rooms are the solution for larger families. Two adjoining rooms with a connecting door let you maintain separate sleeping areas. One room has a double bed for parents, the other has two or three singles for children. This requires booking two rooms, costing more, but it’s genuinely more comfortable for families with three or more children.
Some chains offer triple rooms, a single room with a double bed plus an additional single bed. These accommodate three people but feel cramped for a family.
Apartment-style accommodation (like Staycity) bypasses the problem entirely by offering multiple bedrooms with genuinely separate sleeping spaces.
Check occupancy limits carefully. A room marked "2 adults + 2 children maximum" won’t accommodate two adults and three children. This is a fire safety limit, not a guideline.
Cots and high chairs are usually available but not always included. Confirm availability and any charges before booking, particularly if you have a toddler.
Value for Money: Comparing Nightly Rates and Total Trip Costs
Nightly rates tell only part of the story. Total trip cost includes meals, activities, and parking.
| Accommodation Type | Starting Nightly Rate | Typical Family Meals Cost | Parking | Best for Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Travelodge | £40-£50 | £30-£50 per day | Free | Short stays, budget-focused families |
| Holiday Inn Express | £60-£80 | £15-£25 per day (breakfast free) | Free | Mid-length stays with breakfast savings |
| Staycity Apartments | £100-£150 | £20-£40 per day (self-catering) | Free | Week-long stays, larger families |
| Haven Holidays | £49-£200+ per break | £10-£30 per day (on-site options) | Free | Peak-season value, families wanting activities |
A family of four staying five nights at Travelodge might pay £45 per night (£225 total). Add £35 per day for meals (£175 total). Total: £400.
The same family at Holiday Inn Express pays £70 per night (£350 for five nights) but gets free breakfast, saving £25 per day on meals. Food costs drop to £100. Total: £450. The nightly rate is higher, but total cost is similar once breakfast is factored in.
At Staycity, a two-bedroom apartment costs £120 per night (£600 for five nights). Self-catering meals cost £25 per day (£125 total). Total: £725. For a family of five, this might be cheaper than booking two hotel rooms elsewhere.
Haven’s value depends entirely on season. Off-season, it’s excellent value with activities included. During school holidays, prices are premium.
Location Accessibility and Proximity to Family Attractions
Where your accommodation sits matters more than you’d think. A cheap hotel two hours from attractions costs more in fuel and time than a slightly pricier option nearby.
Check proximity to what your family wants to do. A 20-minute drive is acceptable. An hour-long drive each way eats into your day.
Public transport accessibility matters if you’re not driving. Is the hotel near a train station or bus route?
Parking charges vary. Some hotels include parking; others charge £5-£15 per night. Over a week, this adds £35-£105 to your total cost.
Many families overlook quieter locations slightly outside major towns. A hotel 15 minutes from the centre often costs significantly less, has free parking, and offers easier access to countryside attractions.
Research what’s genuinely near your chosen accommodation. Don’t assume a hotel is good for families just because it’s in a family-friendly town.
Choosing the right accommodation transforms a family holiday from stressful to enjoyable. Premier Inn alternatives range from budget chains like Travelodge to spacious apartments and activity-based holiday parks. Your best choice depends on family size, budget, length of stay, and what matters most: cost, space, included meals, or on-site activities.
What’s On In Hemel Hempstead helps families discover accommodation and the full range of attractions, activities, and dining options in the local area. Whether you’re planning a week-long holiday or a weekend break, our comprehensive guide ensures you make the most of your time. Explore our platform to discover what’s available in your chosen location and plan a holiday that genuinely suits your family’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which budget hotel chain is best for families in the UK?
The best choice depends on your priorities. Travelodge offers the lowest nightly rates and children aged 15 and under stay free, making it ideal for cost-conscious families. Holiday Inn Express includes complimentary breakfast, reducing meal costs. For families wanting space and self-catering options, Staycity Aparthotels provide fully equipped kitchens and separate living areas. Haven Holidays suits families seeking all-inclusive entertainment and activities at coastal locations. Compare your family's needs: budget, space requirements, and preferred amenities to select the best Premier Inn alternative.
Is Travelodge or Premier Inn better for family rooms?
Travelodge generally offers better value for families, with children aged 15 and under staying free and family rooms featuring king-size beds with pull-out beds for children. Premier Inn provides similar family room configurations but at slightly higher nightly rates. Travelodge's Bar Café offers on-site dining, though breakfast and Wi-Fi upgrades incur additional charges. Premier Inn typically includes breakfast in many room rates, potentially offsetting the higher nightly cost. For pure budget accommodation, Travelodge edges ahead; for convenience and included amenities, Premier Inn remains competitive.
What amenities should I look for in a family-friendly hotel?
Prioritise family-friendly hotel amenities including pull-out beds or sofa beds for children, interconnecting rooms for larger families, and complimentary breakfast to reduce meal costs. Check for free Wi-Fi, on-site dining options, and pet-friendly policies if needed. Consider whether the location offers proximity to family attractions and good transport links. Some budget hotels provide children's activity areas or entertainment. Verify room size and layout, larger rooms with separate living areas reduce cramped conditions during longer stays. Confirm occupancy limits and any charges for extra beds or roll-away cots.
How do I book budget accommodation for families at the best rates?
Book budget hotel accommodation directly through hotel websites rather than third-party platforms to access exclusive family deals and loyalty discounts. Compare nightly rates across several providers and check whether breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking are included, these hidden costs significantly affect total trip expenses. Book well in advance for peak season travel, as rates rise during school holidays. Use price comparison tools to identify the lowest available rates, but verify what's included in the quoted price. Consider longer stays, as many budget hotels offer weekly discounts. Sign up for loyalty programmes to earn points towards future bookings and room upgrades.
Are there independent hotel alternatives to major chains for families?
Yes, independent hotels and smaller regional chains often provide excellent value and personalised service for families. Staycity Aparthotels, whilst part of a chain, offer apartment-style accommodation with self-catering benefits. Haven Holidays provides caravan and lodge options at coastal parks with extensive family entertainment included. Local guesthouses and family-run hotels frequently offer competitive rates and flexible room configurations. Search accommodation review sites to find independent options with strong family ratings. Independent properties may offer better value during off-peak seasons and often provide more spacious, character-filled rooms than standardised chain hotels.
This article was written using GrandRanker