
The appeal of theme parks might be lost on grown-ups and swanky hotels rarely get kids excited, but family treehouses unite adventurers of all ages. Hidden in a magical, secret hideaway, adults and kids are on a level playing field – unanimously high on the childlike wonder of life among the branches.
Unplug, unwind, and escape into leafy luxury. Just get ready for repeated demands to build a smaller version in the back garden when you get home. These are our best family-friendly treehouses in the UK, where kids can roam free and parents can truly relax.
Fairytale family treehouse stay
Bramling Treehouse is straight out of a fairytale. It’s easy to spend time together here, with a communal games barn to chill out in, or of course compete at table tennis with all the family vying for top spot.
There’s room for everyone, with two king-size beds, and two bunks for kids. Step outside amongst the trees for a rainfall shower that will lift your spirits or soak in the outdoor copper bath, perfect for those lazy afternoons, and evenings under the stars. There are lots of foodie spots to find nearby, from incredible restaurants to farm shops and delis. Stock up whilst you’re out, and return to base and make something out of this world in the pizza oven or on the BBQ with the little ones.
Off-grid treehouse family holiday
Walk up a dramatic spiral staircase, over a rope bridge and onto the deck of a futuristic curved pod, a whopping 30-feet off the ground. The owners have let their imaginations run wild at Living-Room and the design blends so flawlessly with the landscape, it’s like inhabiting the tree canopy itself.
The kids will feel like they’ve stepped into a story book, especially as Bryn Meurig Bach is fully off-grid with the only light coming from lanterns and the glowing wood burner at the heart of the space. It might be rustic but all practicalities are catered for, with a piping hot spring water shower and a clever Swedish compost loo. In an idyllic spot in the Welsh mountains, you can set out on fantastic hill walks from the front door, splash in streams, explore the woods and arrive at a lovely pub within 20 minutes' walk.
Magical treehouse break for families
A fairytale turreted treehouse on the edge of the North York moors, Rufus’s Roost is full of surprises. Keep up with the kids as they explore and you’ll soon discover the mezzanine sleep deck in the attic and the secret tunnel that whizzes you down to a reading nook underneath.
Such a magical space deserves your most gripping and atmospheric bedtime stories. Once you’ve taken it all in, gravitate to the fairy lit hot tub among the trees surrounded to stargaze and spot birds, badgers and deer. When the gang starts clamouring for food, you’ve got several options for whipping up a delicious family dinner – the outdoor fire pit, wood-fired pizza oven or Rangemaster oven. For extra goodies, head to Malton, a local hub for local artisans and producers.
Treehouse stay for kids and grown-ups alike
Tucked into a clearing in the woods, Fuggle Treehouse looks as though it grew straight out of the forest itself. Its curving wooden frame and wonky lines set the scene for proper family escapism, while inside you’ll find space for six with king-size beds, a children’s bunk and creative cosy nooks that any child will love.
Days disappear exploring 17 acres of meadows and trails, building dens, grass sledging or challenging each other to table tennis in the communal barn. As night falls, parents can sink into the double copper bath on the deck under fairy lights while the kids stream Disney Plus on the Smart TV, then gather round the campfire to toast marshmallows on the firepit before bed. A stay here is equal parts adventure and indulgence.
Family glamping with hot tub
Bundle into the spacious hot tub each night and watch the sunset over the Malvern Hills. Once little fingertips start to get wrinkly, tuck the kids up in their cosy cabin beds and head back outside to stargaze with a more romantic – less splashy – vibe. After so much fresh air and relaxation the junior division will sleep like baby birds in a nest.
Orchard Treehouse is a tranquil paradise in the grounds of a manor house providing the perfect backdrop for unhurried family time. You've got an easy schedule of board games in front of the wood burner and laid back meals on the deck. On the doorstep there’s plenty to keep grown-ups and kids entertained with a babbling stream, fruit trees, walks over Bredon Hill, cycle paths and Aztec adventure park nearby.
Family-friendly glamping in Sussex
Like a glamping version of Russian dolls, The Oakey Koakey has a kids’ room that looks like another mini treehouse with a branch ladder for the bunk beds and bird box hangers. The owners know that easy bedtimes make for happy glampers.
Dinner will run equally smoothly when you use the BBQ and fire pit to toast marshmallows and cook up campfire favourites. Memories are made in this secluded Sussex meadow with views of gently waving trees from every window and wildlife as far as the eye can see. Nearby, Bedgebury Pinetum has miles of fantastic bike trails, riding and a Go Ape treetop adventure playground.
Luxury treehouse stay with children
Inside The Buzzardry, with its modern kitchen and chic bathrooms, you could easily be in the luxury penthouse suite of a hotel. It’s only when you glance out of the huge doors that you remember it’s so much better than that.
Standing on the wrap-around deck, beautiful Sussex countryside stretches into the distance, punctuated by wildflower meadows and a rushing stream. The surroundings are an explorer’s paradise. Take family picnics to the lakes, visit the friendly miniature donkeys, try your hand at a game of tennis or spend hours getting lost in the vast woodland and gardens. After all that excitement, tuck the kids into bed and reward yourself with a soak in the copper tub at the foot of the king-size bed.
Treehouse holiday near the coast
Under a Holm oak in a small copse, Bagthorpe Treehouse is blissfully tranquil and luxurious with two single bunk beds for kids who want to join in on a family-friendly glamping trip. The huge veranda acts like a second living space with sweeping views over the grounds and ample room for hearty breakfasts, delicious dinners and playing in the fresh air.
Visit the Norfolk coast, or the gardens at Sandringham, watch the fishing boats land at enchanting Wells-Next-The-Sea or head to one of the many fantastic local country pubs for a slap up family meal.