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Our top choices for Chelmsford family-friendly hotels

The Ferry Boat Inn

The Ferry Boat Inn
3.5 star property
Chelmsford
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (67 reviews)
The price is £136
includes taxes & fees
16 Apr - 17 Apr
The Ferry Boat Inn

Pontlands Park

Pontlands Park
3.5 star property
Chelmsford
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (424 reviews)
The price is £126
includes taxes & fees
20 Apr - 21 Apr
Pontlands Park

County Hotel Chelmsford

County Hotel Chelmsford
4.0 star property
Chelmsford
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (557 reviews)
The price is £118
includes taxes & fees
19 Apr - 20 Apr
County Hotel Chelmsford

Awarded 'Best Boutique Stay' w/hot tub, bar and karaoke room

Awarded 'Best Boutique Stay' w/hot tub, bar and karaoke room
Essex
The price is £2,149
includes taxes & fees
16 Apr - 17 Apr
Awarded 'Best Boutique Stay' w/hot tub, bar and karaoke room

Greyhound Cottage

Greyhound Cottage
3.5 star property
Sudbury
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (31 reviews)
The price is £135
includes taxes & fees
15 Apr - 16 Apr
Greyhound Cottage

Black Horse

Black Horse
2.0 star property
Buntingford
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (21 reviews)
The price is £90
includes taxes & fees
23 Apr - 24 Apr
Black Horse

The White Horse

The White Horse
2.5 star property
Haverhill
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (177 reviews)
The price is £71
includes taxes & fees
26 Apr - 27 Apr
The White Horse

Lighthouse Retreat - A stones throw from West Mersea beach

Lighthouse Retreat - A stones throw from West Mersea beach
Colchester
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (5 reviews)
The price is £142
includes taxes & fees
15 Apr - 16 Apr
Lighthouse Retreat - A stones throw from West Mersea beach

Modern apartment in London, 2 min walk to tube, near Stratford

Modern apartment in London, 2 min walk to tube, near Stratford
Waltham Forest
The price is £114
includes taxes & fees
15 Apr - 16 Apr
Modern apartment in London, 2 min walk to tube, near Stratford

Modern apartment 2 minute walk from tube station London,near Stratford

Modern apartment 2 minute walk from tube station London,near Stratford
Waltham Forest
The price is £144
includes taxes & fees
15 Apr - 16 Apr
Modern apartment 2 minute walk from tube station London,near Stratford
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Choose what matters most at family-friendly hotels in Chelmsford

Find out more about Chelmsford

Family friendly things to do in Chelmsford

Chelmsford, a vibrant city in Essex, offers a delightful mix of activities perfect for families. One of the highlights is Hylands House and Estate, where children can explore the expansive gardens, enjoy a picnic, or even enjoy seasonal events like outdoor theatre performances. For a hands-on experience, the Chelmsford Museum and Essex Regiment Museum provides engaging exhibits suitable for all ages, including the exciting opportunity to try on historical uniforms. If your family enjoys the outdoors, Central Park is an excellent spot with its playgrounds, boating lake, and beautiful walking paths, allowing for a relaxing day in nature. For a unique adventure, head to the RHS Garden Hyde Hall, where kids can discover themed gardens and participate in seasonal workshops. Finally, the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation offers the chance for family-friendly walks along the waterways, and you might even spot some wildlife. To make the most of your stay, consider booking hotels in the city centre, where you'll find a range of family-friendly hotels that cater to your needs, ensuring that your family enjoys comfort and convenience while exploring the city's attractions.

Find the best family friendly hotels in Chelmsford

For families visiting Chelmsford, England, there are several hotels that cater to the needs of guests with children, offering a range of family-friendly amenities and a welcoming atmosphere.

Channels Hotel

  • Why it's great for a family-friendly adventure: Families seeking a luxurious experience will find the Channels Hotel a splendid option, reflected in its stellar guest review rating of 9.6. This hotel caters well to families with amenities like connecting rooms and complimentary cribs, ensuring ample space and comfort. The well-maintained garden offers a serene environment for family outings and relaxation amidst nature.
  • Other amenities: Guests can indulge in a complimentary breakfast served daily, while additional amenities include self-parking and free toiletries for convenience. Families can also enjoy the onsite golf course, providing a fun activity for parents and older children alike. The hotel’s thoughtful features create a welcoming atmosphere for families to unwind and enjoy their stay.
  • Nearby attractions: Admirals Park LNR - 6.8 km, Admirals Park - 6.8 km, Bond Street - 6.8 km

The Compasses Inn

  • Why it's great for a family-friendly adventure: For families seeking a charming getaway, The Compasses Inn offers a delightful experience backed by a review rating of 9.6. This hotel is equipped with family-friendly amenities such as free rollaway beds and cribs, making it a great choice for families of various sizes. The garden area provides a safe space for children to play and explore, enhancing the family-friendly appeal of the hotel.
  • Other amenities: Additional amenities include daily housekeeping to keep rooms tidy, complimentary toiletries for convenience, and early check-in options to accommodate family travel schedules. The hotel also offers free self-parking, ensuring ease of access for families with vehicles. With its warm atmosphere, The Compasses Inn ensures families enjoy a relaxing and enjoyable stay.
  • Nearby attractions: Great Notley Country Park - 6.4 km, Leez Priory - 2.3 km, Chelmsford City Racecourse - 5.4 km

Pontlands Park

  • Why it's great for a family-friendly adventure: Pontlands Park is an exceptional choice for families, an impressive guest review rating of 9.4. This hotel ensures a comfortable stay with family-friendly amenities such as daily housekeeping, cribs, and a restaurant offering kids’ meals. The expansive garden provides a perfect space for children to play, while the indoor and outdoor pools invite guests to enjoy family swim time together.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include a sauna and steam room for relaxation, a fitness centre for active parents, and self-parking facilities for convenience. Guests can also enjoy a daily breakfast to fuel their adventures, along with free toiletries to enhance their stay. The hotel aims to provide a memorable experience for families, blending comfort with a delightful atmosphere.
  • Nearby attractions: Danbury Country Park - 4.1 km, Galleywood Common - 4.2 km, Chelmsford Golf Course - 4.9 km

County Hotel Chelmsford

  • Why it's great for a family-friendly adventure: With an excellent review rating of 8.0, the County Hotel Chelmsford is an ideal choice for families looking for comfort and convenience. The hotel features family-focused amenities such as kitchens, cribs, and a restaurant with kids’ meal options, ensuring that parents have all they need to cater to their little ones. The presence of a sofa bed adds flexibility for family arrangements.
  • Other amenities: Guests can also enjoy a daily breakfast to kickstart their day, alongside free toiletries and premium bedding for added comfort. The terrace provides a lovely spot for families to unwind together, while self-parking options make it easy for families to explore Chelmsford at their own pace.
  • Nearby attractions: Admirals Park LNR - 0.9 km, Admirals Park - 1.1 km, West Park - 1.2 km

Top Chelmsford Hotel Reviews

Frequently asked questions

What are the best family-friendly hotels in Chelmsford?
If you're looking for family-friendly hotels in Chelmsford, the County Hotel Chelmsford is a fantastic option. This 4-star hotel has earned a solid review rating of 8.0, and travellers rave about the brilliant and helpful staff. Families will appreciate the convenience of amenities such as free WiFi, kids' meals, and self-parking, making it a well-rounded choice for those seeking comfort and quality during their stay.

Another excellent choice is the charming Pontlands Park, rated an impressive 9.4 by guests. This 3.5-star hotel features both indoor and outdoor pools, ensuring that your kids have plenty of opportunities to splash around. With spacious and quiet rooms, along with free WiFi and a delightful dining experience, it's no wonder families find this hotel so appealing.

For those seeking a touch of luxury, Channels Hotel is a splendid 4-star option, boasting a top rating of 9.6. Families can benefit from connecting rooms and complimentary breakfast, superb for starting the day off right. The gorgeous rooms and lovely location make it a favourite among travellers looking for a peaceful retreat.

The Compasses Inn, also at 3.5 stars and with a glowing 9.6 rating, is another family-friendly spot. Guests have praised its spacious rooms and friendly service. With free self-parking and excellent food, it's a great base for exploring Chelmsford with the family, ensuring comfort and convenience.

Lastly, The Ferry Boat Inn shines with a stellar rating of 9.8, superb for families looking for a relaxed atmosphere. With child-friendly window designs, free breakfasts, and a welcoming vibe, this 3.5-star inn guarantees an enjoyable stay for all ages.
Which area of Chelmsford is best to stay in for families?
For families visiting Chelmsford, the best area to stay is the city centre due to its excellent walkability, proximity to parks, and convenient access to family-friendly amenities.

The city centre is wonderfully walkable, meaning you can easily stroll to many attractions without needing a car. Central Park is a fantastic green space right in the heart of the city, offering wide-open lawns for children to play, a delightful playground, and even a miniature railway that's a hit with younger ones. It's great for a picnic or simply letting the kids burn off some energy.

You'll find a wide selection of casual eateries in the city centre that cater to families, many offering children's menus and a relaxed atmosphere. There are also plenty of ice cream parlours for a sweet treat and several large supermarkets for stocking up on snacks and essentials, making self-catering options easy.
How much does a family hotel in Chelmsford cost?
Travellers can find great deals on family-friendly Chelmsford hotels from £46 with Expedia. You may find hotels in Chelmsford that let kids stay for free, which can help you save. There are plenty of factors that can impact the price of family hotels, including location, amenities and the time of year. Sort Chelmsford hotels on Expedia by price to see our cheapest prices first.
What are the best Chelmsford family-friendly hotels with a pool?
Pontlands Park is a delightful 3.5-star hotel that caters to families seeking a relaxing getaway in Chelmsford. With both indoor and outdoor pools, it provides plenty of options for kids to splash around while parents unwind. Guests rave about the spacious and quiet rooms, making it an ideal retreat after a day of adventures.

The hotel also offers convenient amenities such as connecting rooms and a children's meal service, ensuring that families can enjoy their stay without any hassle. You'll find free Wi-Fi throughout the property, so staying connected is a breeze. The inviting sun loungers by the pool create a great spot for parents to relax while keeping an eye on the children.

With a stellar review rating of 9.4, travellers frequently praise the friendly and excellent staff, the wonderful food, and the lovely facilities.
What are the top-rated luxury family hotels in Chelmsford?
For a luxurious family getaway in Chelmsford, the Channels Hotel stands out with its exceptional rating of 9.6 from travellers. This 4-star hotel offers a range of family-friendly amenities, including complimentary cribs and connecting rooms, great for families looking for convenience and comfort. Guests rave about the gorgeous rooms and the extremely helpful staff, ensuring that your stay is both enjoyable and stress-free. The hotel also provides a free breakfast, which is a lovely way to start your day before heading out to explore.

Another great option is the County Hotel Chelmsford, also rated 4 stars, with a review score of 8.0. This hotel features convenient amenities such as sofa beds and kids' meal options, making it ideal for families. Guests appreciate the clean, lovely rooms and the brilliant, helpful staff who go out of their way to ensure a pleasant stay. With accessible parking and free Wi-Fi, the County Hotel combines comfort and practicality, making it a popular choice among families looking for quality.

Both hotels are situated in lovely locations, making them great bases for your Chelmsford adventures.
Which cheap kid-friendly hotels in Chelmsford do travelers love?
The Oakland is a charming 3-star hotel that families adore for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent amenities. With a traveller review score of 8.2, guests often rave about the comfortable and clean rooms, making it a superb base for families exploring Chelmsford.

One of the standout features of The Oakland is its complimentary breakfast, which is frequently described as fantastic and plentiful—ideal for energising children before a day of adventure. Additionally, the hotel offers free cribs, ensuring that even the youngest guests are well accommodated. Families appreciate the friendly and attentive staff who go the extra mile to make their stay enjoyable.
Which Chelmsford family-friendly hotels welcome pets?
The Ferry Boat Inn is a charming 3.5-star hotel that stands out for its family-friendly atmosphere and pet-welcoming policies. With an impressive traveller rating of 9.8, guests rave about the clean, spacious rooms and the fantastic food on offer. This inn features child-friendly window designs, ensuring that little ones can safely enjoy the views, while amenities like free breakfast and Wi-Fi make for a convenient stay. Plus, pets stay free here, allowing families to bring their furry friends along for the adventure.

Channels Hotel, another excellent choice, comes with a 4.0-star rating and has received a glowing score of 9.6 from visitors. Families appreciate the gorgeous, lovely rooms and the extremely helpful staff. You'll find a variety of amenities, including free breakfast options on weekends and complimentary cribs for the littlest travellers. This hotel also welcomes pets, making it a great option for those looking to enjoy a family getaway with their pets in tow.

Lastly, The Compasses Inn, rated 9.6 by guests, is a delightful 3.5-star hotel that also allows pets. Known for its friendly service and clean accommodations, this venue offers free self-parking and wired internet in public areas, ensuring a straightforward visit. Families can enjoy spacious rooms, and the delicious food is often highlighted in reviews, making it a great stop for those looking to unwind with their loved ones, including their pets.
Which family-friendly hotels are in central Chelmsford?
Channels Hotel is a fantastic choice for families visiting Chelmsford, boasting a stellar review score of 9.6. This 4-star hotel offers a range of amenities that cater perfectly to families, including free cribs and connecting rooms, ensuring everyone has the space and comfort they need. Guests rave about the lovely rooms and the extremely helpful staff, making it a delightful place to stay. Plus, the complimentary breakfast is a hit, especially on weekends.

Another excellent option is The Compasses Inn, rated 9.6 as well. This 3.5-star hotel features spacious, clean rooms and a friendly service that families appreciate. With free rollaway beds and a friendly setting, it's superb for those who want a bit more room. Families will also enjoy the great food, which has received praise from many visitors.

For families looking for some leisure time, Pontlands Park offers both indoor and outdoor pools, making it ideal for a day of fun. This 3.5-star hotel has a review score of 9.4 and is known for its excellent staff and spacious, quiet rooms. With kids' meals available and a variety of amenities, it's a family-friendly haven.

The Ferry Boat Inn is another charming place to consider, with a great rating of 9.8. This 3.5-star hotel is designed with families in mind, featuring child-friendly window designs and free breakfast options. Guests love the clean, spacious rooms and the fantastic food, making it a delightful retreat after a day of exploring.

Lastly, The Oakland, a 3-star hotel with a rating of 8.2, provides a comfortable stay with free breakfast and cribs available for younger guests. Families love the friendly staff and the comfortable rooms that make it a pleasant base for exploring Chelmsford.
Is Chelmsford a family-friendly destination?
Yes, Chelmsford is a very family-friendly destination, offering a delightful mix of green spaces, activities, and convenient amenities for families with children.

One of the main appeals for families is Central Park, a sprawling green oasis in the heart of the city. It boasts several fantastic playgrounds, including a popular splash park during the warmer months, great for little ones to cool off. The park also offers plenty of open space for picnics, ball games, and leisurely strolls along the River Chelmer.

For a bit of exploration, the Chelmsford Museum in Oaklands Park provides a fascinating journey through local history with exhibits that are engaging for all ages. Oaklands Park itself is lovely for a walk, with formal gardens and more open areas for children to enjoy.

Chelmsford's city centre is quite walkable, making it easy to pop into casual eateries with kid-friendly menus or grab an ice cream. There are also several large supermarkets conveniently located for stocking up on essentials for your accommodation.
What family-friendly activities should we do in Chelmsford?
Some of the best family-friendly activities in Chelmsford include exploring Hylands Estate and enjoying the open spaces of Central Park.

Hylands Estate offers a wonderful day out for families, with its expansive parklands superb for picnics, games, and leisurely strolls. The adventure playground is a particular highlight, providing plenty of room for children to climb, swing, and explore. On certain weekends, there are often farmers' and craft markets with local produce and unique items to browse.

Central Park, located right in the heart of Chelmsford, is another excellent option. It features a fantastic play area for children of all ages, ample green space for running around, and a tranquil river where you can feed the ducks. The park is easily accessible and ideal for a relaxed afternoon, perhaps followed by an ice cream from a nearby parlour.
What are the best family hotels in Chelmsford that have a spa?
Pontlands Park is a delightful 3.5-star family-friendly hotel in Chelmsford that truly caters to the needs of families seeking relaxation and adventure. With a remarkable traveller rating of 9.4, guests rave about the excellent and friendly staff who go above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay.

This charming hotel features a lovely indoor pool and an outdoor pool, great for the little ones to splash around while parents unwind. Families will appreciate the spacious and quiet rooms, along with thoughtful amenities like connecting rooms and kids' meals.

For those looking to indulge, Pontlands Park also offers a sauna and steam room, allowing you to rejuvenate after busy days exploring Chelmsford.
Are there any great family hotels in Chelmsford with a gym?
Pontlands Park is an excellent choice for families visiting Chelmsford, boasting an excellent 3.5-star rating and a traveller score of 9.4. This family-friendly hotel features a well-equipped gym, great for parents looking to maintain their fitness routine while away.

Guests rave about the spacious and quiet rooms, ensuring everyone has a comfortable retreat after a day of adventures. The hotel also offers connecting rooms and a delightful indoor pool, making it easy for families to relax together. Plus, there are outdoor sun loungers by the pool area for those sunny days when you want to unwind.

Dining is another highlight at Pontlands Park, where children's meals are available, suiting even the pickiest of eaters.
How can I save on a family-friendly hotel in Chelmsford with Expedia?
One Key™ —Expedia's free travel rewards programme—gives you instant access to perks and Member Prices on family-friendly Chelmsford hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel booking. But, if you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
Can I cancel my family hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right family-friendly hotel in Chelmsford for you.

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