Planning the Perfect 3G Holiday
Multigenerational holidays, or 3G holidays, are on the rise. While there are many practical reasons that 3G holidays make sense, the main driver is most likely to be a chance for the whole family to be together outside of the stresses of everyday life.
Making memories to last a lifetime sounds ideal – but when it comes to the practicalities of planning, the devil in the detail can derail even the most enthusiastic organisers. The good news is that it is possible to pick a destination - and accommodation - with something for everyone, offering the flexibility to dip in and out of activities while balancing any need for downtime.
Whether you’re searching for budget-friendly or longing for a bit of luxury, here’s why West Sussex is the perfect destination for your next multi-gen holiday:
Discover the South Downs
This much-loved National Park offers activities for all ages. Outdoor options abound in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Chart out a walk along the beautiful rolling hills or choose one of the many other activities on offer: trekking, cycling, horse riding, paddleboarding and fishing are all popular choices.
Activities:
- Hiking and Walking Trails: Whether you fancy a ramble or something a bit more intense, the 100-mile path through the South Downs offers stunning scenery throughout.
- Wildlife Spotting: Otters, owls, 11 different types of orchids and 39 species of butterflies are all to be found on the Downs.
- Picnic or Pub: Pack a picnic and relax in one of the park’s many scenic spots or plan a stop at a local pub for fantastic food with a view.
Accommodation:
Pitch up at Woodfire Camping for outdoor cooking in your pre-erected tent/s or indulge in the elegant understated beauty of Ryde House or spacious Greenhouse at Luxury Boltholes.
For something truly special, try Cowdray Estate’s Ambersham House (open from June 2024) or if you’ve got a large family event coming up, with amenities including indoor and outdoor pools, a bowling alley, tennis court, cricket strip and croquet lawn, Cowdray House itself sleeps 44.
Smooth Sailing at Bosham Quay
One of the most picturesque places in the county, Bosham offers lots of family friendly fun. Explore Chichester Harbour, plan a day out at Thorney Island or book a taster session at one of the many water-based options at Cobnor Activities Centre.
Activities:
- Seal Spotting: A colony of over 45 grey and harbour seals call this harbour home
- Waterfowl Watching: Over 52,000 birds flock to Chichester Harbour annually.
- Solar Powered Sailing: Take a near-silent sail to get closer to nature in a solar powered catamaran.
Accommodation:
Pass the Keys have garden lodges, gorgeous cottages and large thatched barns make great 3G family getaways. Go large with a 5-bed historic waterfront property with its own private slipway and harbour views from every room in the house.
Explore Ancient Roman Roots of Chichester
Chichester is alive with history – in fact its Roman roots are still being revealed regularly. Walk the city walls and see the remains of the roman bath house at The Novium Museum. With parks aplenty, this compact city makes a perfect multi-gen destination.
Activities:
- Fishbourne Roman Palace: Gardens, guided tours, reenactments and trails specifically designed for children are all on offer at this historical highlight.
- Weald & Downland Museum: Explore over 50 historic buildings from different eras at this interactive experience.
- Chichester Cathedral: The heart of Chichester for over 900 years, the Cathedral hosts a variety of events throughout the year from the much-loved flower show to outdoor performances on the green.
Accommodation:
Browse the terraced townhouses and stylish city centre stays at Fresh Air Holidays or opt for something a bit out of the ordinary by booking the Teddy Bear’s Picnic, a timber cabin with a hot tub and rainfall shower. For the best of both worlds, Luxury Boltholes have a great selection of unique cottages in stunning locations. Grade II listed Fallow Grange is a short walk to the city centre and to Goodwood – ideal for access to summer racing events.
Be Beside the Sea with the Whole Family in East Wittering
One of the most-family friendly locations in West Sussex, perfect for swimming or hire a paddleboard or kayak for the day or week. Walk through the tranquil countryside to nearby West Wittering and the sandy dunes of East Head and grab an ice cream at the Beach Café while watching the sunset.
Activities:
- Water Sports – Surfboards, Bodyboards, Paddleboards, Kayaks and Wetsuits are all available just steps from the beach at Shore Watersports.
- Fossil Hunting – Low tide offers the opportunity for fossil hunting and shark tooth spotting.
- Crafting & Creativity – Adults and children alike love Inspirations, the local arts and crafts emporium for some hands-on, offline fun including pottery painting.
Accommodation:
Wellies and Windbreaks offer a great range of options in the Witterings. Search by size, find a pet-friendly location or splash out for sea views. A six-bedroom, pet-friendly sea front property that sleeps 11 is a fabulous full family option at £268/night.
Discover more great places to stay here.