A guide on how to plan a successful large family group holiday.

A staycation at a beautiful country house is the perfect setting for reuniting and creating memories with your extended family. The Wye Valley, with its rolling hills and lush countryside, provides an idyllic backdrop for such an occasion. Let's dive into some tips on organizing this grand get-together and ensure that everyone enjoys the experience to the fullest.

First, communication is key. Establish who will bring what to ensure there’s no duplication or missing essentials. A spreadsheet is a useful tool for this. List down everything from toiletries, board games to essential cooking ingredients. This process can also make packing for a large family holiday in the Wye Valley a breeze, as everyone knows what to bring.

With a large group, it's vital to have plenty of room for mingling and bonding. Choose a large country house that provides multiple common areas like living rooms, patios, or lawns. This allows everyone to have their space during downtime, yet offers common areas for joint activities. Luckily at BHHL we have 12 large house to select from - take a look at Wye Rapids House for example. Sitting in the stunning location of Symonds Yat it has 11 ensuite bedrooms allowing up to 26 of you to stay at once in absolute comfort. It has a huge dining room with views across the river and an additional games room. Within a very short walk there are three excellent pubs, 2 restaurants, and best of all a romantic river ferry for beautiful circular walks.

Speaking of activities, plan a mix of indoor and outdoor fun. The Wye Valley is renowned for its beautiful walking trails, canoeing opportunities, and historic landmarks. At the house, board games, movie nights, or even a family cooking competition can add variety to the holiday.

This brings us to our next point - cooking for a large group. One big family cooking tip in a holiday house is to plan meals in advance. Consider dishes that can be prepared in bulk, such as pasta, casseroles or BBQ. Additionally, cater to dietary restrictions by having alternative options available. A great idea is to have each family responsible for one meal, spreading out the responsibility and giving everyone a chance to show off their culinary skills.

It’s also important to consider downtime and individual preferences. Not everyone might want to participate in every activity. Having quiet spaces for reading or relaxation, and optional activities ensures everyone feels comfortable and included.

In conclusion, the secrets to a successful large family holiday are good communication, advance planning, and consideration for individual preferences. Keep these tips for large family holidays in mind, and your grand reunion in the Wye Valley will be remembered fondly for years to come. Happy holiday!