Organising a getaway for the whole crew can feel like herding cats, juggling dates, budgets, and everyone's idea of fun. But the reward? Unforgettable memories made together on the open roads and scenic landscapes of the UK. Whether it's a multi-family road trip, a reunion with old friends, or a club outing, the right plan makes all the difference.
Forget generic package tours with rigid schedules. The real magic lies in finding the freedom to explore at your own pace, with destinations and stays that cater specifically to larger parties. This guide simplifies your search for the perfect holidays for groups UK, rounding up the best platforms for everything from customisable self-drive adventures to fantastic large-scale accommodations perfect for your basecamp. We've focused on companies that specialise in crafting seamless group experiences, ensuring your next adventure is less about logistical headaches and more about making brilliant memories.
When exploring the vast array of options for your group, don't forget to check some of the best short term rental websites which often feature accommodation perfect for larger parties. We will dive into each service, complete with screenshots and direct links, to help you find the ideal fit for your next UK trip.
1. BTOURS
BTOURS stands out as a premier choice for groups seeking expertly organised yet flexible road trips across the UK. Based in London, this specialist operator crafts customisable self-drive itineraries that perfectly balance guided expertise with the freedom of independent travel. They provide the route, the accommodation, and the local knowledge, leaving your group free to explore at a pace that suits everyone.
This approach makes it one of the best options for holidays for groups UK, especially for those who want to avoid the rigid schedules of traditional coach tours. It’s an ideal solution for families or groups of friends who value both structure and spontaneity.
Why It’s a Featured Choice for Group Holidays
What sets BTOURS apart is its commitment to a supported self-drive model. Your group benefits from a UK-based team that handles the logistical heavy lifting, from planning routes that hit both iconic landmarks and hidden gems to selecting quality, characterful accommodations. This behind-the-scenes support ensures a smooth, stress-free experience from start to finish.
The itineraries are thoughtfully curated for diverse interests, whether your group is filled with history buffs eager to explore ancient castles, nature lovers wanting to hike the Scottish Highlands, or cultural explorers keen to discover local traditions.
Key Features and How to Use Them
BTOURS provides a robust framework for planning your group’s adventure.
- Customisable Itineraries: Start with a signature route like the 'Taste of Scotland' or 'Royal Indulgence', then work with their team to tweak it. You can add extra nights, request specific types of accommodation, or build in time for activities that appeal to your group.
- Quality Accommodation: The platform partners with a curated selection of B&Bs, boutique hotels, and charming inns. This means your group stays in places that reflect the local flavour, not generic chain hotels.
- Local Expertise & Support: The UK-based team is available to assist throughout your journey. This peace of mind is invaluable, particularly if you encounter any unexpected issues on the road.
- Transparent Information: The website provides clear sample pricing, detailed destination guides, and active social proof through its blog and Trustpilot reviews, helping you research and book with confidence. Explore their dedicated group tour options to see how they tailor experiences for larger parties.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ultimate Flexibility: Control your own schedule, detours, and pace. | Requires a Confident Driver: Not ideal for groups who prefer not to drive or are new to UK roads. |
| Expert Curation: Itineraries and accommodations are hand-picked by local specialists. | Premium Pricing: Some flagship tours come with a higher price tag, reflecting the level of customisation. |
| UK-Based Support: Real people are available to assist with planning and during your trip. | Inclusions Vary: Car hire, fuel, and some meals are not always included; clarify details before booking. |
| Authentic Experiences: Focus on off-the-beaten-path discoveries alongside major attractions. |
Website: https://www.btours.com
2. Hoseasons
Hoseasons is a household name in the UK for a reason, and it truly shines when you're trying to organise holidays for groups UK. It’s particularly brilliant for multi-generational family get-togethers or big reunions with friends where you want the convenience of on-site facilities. Instead of just finding a big house, Hoseasons excels at offering large lodges and caravans situated within holiday parks, giving your group access to shared swimming pools, restaurants, kids’ clubs, and evening entertainment.
The platform makes the search process incredibly straightforward. Their dedicated "Group Holidays" collection allows you to filter by the number of people (from 8 up to a whopping 42), location, and specific park facilities. This means you can quickly find a park in Cornwall with an indoor pool that can sleep 12, or a collection of lodges in the Scottish Highlands perfect for a walking group.
Key Features and User Experience
The website is user-friendly, with clear pricing and availability calendars. One of its standout features is the detailed breakdown of booking and deposit information, which is crucial when you're coordinating payments from multiple people.
| Feature | Best For | Practical Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Dedicated Group Collection | Finding large-capacity lodges & park stays | Use the "Sleeps" filter first to narrow down options quickly. |
| On-Site Park Facilities | Multi-family trips with kids and teens | Check the park's entertainment schedule before booking if that's important. |
| Frequent Sales & Offers | Securing a good deal | Sign up for their newsletter to get alerts for flash sales and last-minute bargains. |
| Price Match Promise | Peace of mind on pricing | If you find the same holiday cheaper elsewhere, they promise to match it. |
Pro Tip: While you can’t guarantee adjacent lodges when booking online, it's always worth calling their customer service team after booking. They will add a request to your booking and do their best to place your group's units together.
The Verdict
Hoseasons is a top contender for groups seeking a resort-style holiday with everything in one place. Its huge inventory across the UK, from coastal parks to tranquil lakeside lodges, provides year-round options. The combination of self-catering freedom with shared amenities makes it a stress-free choice. While some payment-by-instalment options aren't available for the largest properties, the frequent promotions and reliable booking system make it a go-to for many. You can discover more about this and other travel styles on our related travel guide here.
Website: Hoseasons Group Holidays
3. Center Parcs UK
Center Parcs is practically a rite of passage for British families, and its all-in-one village concept makes it an exceptional choice for organising stress-free holidays for groups UK. It’s the perfect solution when your group includes a mix of ages and interests, as everything from tranquil spa treatments to high-adrenaline treetop adventures is available on-site. The focus is on providing high-quality lodges nestled in a forest setting, with a central hub of restaurants, shops, and the iconic Subtropical Swimming Paradise.
While you can book multiple lodges online, Center Parcs offers dedicated support for large group bookings of 12 or more people. By using their contact form, a dedicated advisor can help manage multiple lodge reservations under a single plan. This co-ordinated approach simplifies planning, ensuring your group can pre-book activities and restaurant tables together when the booking window opens, which is a massive advantage for popular slots.
Key Features and User Experience
The website clearly outlines the process for larger groups, directing you to a specific team for co-ordinated bookings. This human touch is invaluable for complex arrangements. Once booked, the online portal allows the lead booker to manage activities and dining reservations for everyone.
| Feature | Best For | Practical Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Large Group Booking Team | Groups of 12+ needing multiple lodges | Contact them well in advance as popular dates and lodge types get booked up quickly. |
| Pre-Bookable Activities | Keeping everyone entertained | Set a reminder for 12 weeks before your arrival date to book activities as soon as they go live. |
| Cashless Wristbands | Easy on-site payments and lodge access | Link a credit card to wristbands so individuals can pay for things without carrying wallets. |
| Optional Day Visitor Passes | Inviting local friends or family for the day | You must book these in advance online and link them to your specific lodge booking. |
Pro Tip: For the best chance of getting lodges close together, contact the large group booking team. While not guaranteed, they have the best ability to allocate neighbouring accommodation for co-ordinated bookings made through them.
The Verdict
Center Parcs excels at providing a consistent, high-quality experience where the destination itself is the main attraction. It’s ideal for groups who want to park the car and have a huge variety of activities, food, and relaxation options within walking distance. While the dynamic pricing means it can be a premium option during peak seasons, the sheer convenience and quality of the facilities offer great value. The ability to manage a large booking centrally makes it one of the most streamlined options for a multi-lodge group holiday.
Website: Center Parcs Large Group Bookings
4. GroupAccommodation.com
If your search for holidays for groups UK is specifically about finding one genuinely massive property, GroupAccommodation.com is your specialist. This platform cuts straight to the chase, listing large houses, converted barns, manors, and unique venues designed for big gatherings. It’s the ideal choice for landmark birthday parties, family reunions, hen/stag dos, or corporate retreats where you need everyone under one roof with fantastic shared amenities.
Unlike booking sites that just happen to have a few large properties, this is GroupAccommodation.com’s entire focus. You can easily filter for properties that sleep 10, 20, or even 50+ guests, and specify must-have features like a private swimming pool, hot tub, games room, or even a tennis court. The platform operates more like a directory, connecting you directly with property owners or managers to enquire and book.
Key Features and User Experience
The site’s strength lies in its curated inventory. The properties are often characterful and well-equipped for celebrations. The direct-to-owner model means you can ask specific questions and sometimes negotiate terms, but it also means booking processes and payment protections vary between listings.
| Feature | Best For | Practical Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Direct-to-Owner Contact | Bespoke requests and clarifications | Always get booking confirmations and payment terms in writing directly from the owner. |
| Focus on Large Properties | Milestone celebrations & special events | Use the "Collections" filter for specific needs like weddings, youth groups or corporate use. |
| Specialist Amenity Filters | Groups wanting specific on-site fun | Search for "Games Room" or "Hot Tub" to find properties built for entertainment. |
| Detailed Property Profiles | Understanding the layout and facilities | Scrutinise the floor plans and photo galleries to ensure the space works for your group. |
Pro Tip: Because pricing and availability aren't always live, it’s best to shortlist 3-4 properties and send enquiries to all of them at once to compare responses and find one that fits your dates and budget.
The Verdict
GroupAccommodation.com is an invaluable resource for finding that perfect, exclusive-use venue for a large group. Its deep inventory of unique and characterful properties across the UK is hard to beat. While the lack of a centralised booking system means you need to be more diligent in your communications with owners, the reward is often a more personal booking experience and access to incredible spaces that aren't listed elsewhere.
Website: GroupAccommodation.com
5. Big Cottages (Snaptrip Group)
Part of the well-regarded Snaptrip family, Big Cottages is a powerful search engine specifically designed for finding large-scale properties, making it an essential tool when planning holidays for groups UK. It aggregates over 30,000 large holiday homes, "party houses," and cottages from a huge network of partners, presenting them all in one place. This is your go-to if the primary goal is finding one massive, characterful house that can accommodate everyone under a single roof.
The platform streamlines the search for a needle in a haystack. Its powerful filters allow you to search by group size, must-have amenities like a hot tub or swimming pool, and specific locations across the UK. Because it pulls in live availability from its partners, you get an accurate, real-time view of what’s available, with many properties offering an instant-book option for ultimate convenience.
Key Features and User Experience
The user experience is fast and consumer-focused, much like a modern hotel booking site. Clear pricing, guest reviews, and a best-price guarantee provide confidence during the booking process. The free membership is a notable perk, unlocking extra discounts on certain properties.
| Feature | Best For | Practical Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Aggregated Inventory | Quickly comparing thousands of large cottages | Use the map view to find properties clustered in a specific area. |
| Amenity-Specific Filters | Groups wanting specific features like a hot tub or games room | Select your "must-have" amenities first to avoid disappointment later. |
| Best-Price Guarantee | Ensuring you get the most competitive rate | If you find the same property cheaper elsewhere, contact them to price match. |
| Free Membership | Accessing exclusive member-only discounts | Create an account and save your favourite properties to a list for easy comparison. |
Pro Tip: As Big Cottages is an aggregator, your final booking and customer service for the stay will often be with the partner property manager. Always read the specific terms and cancellation policy for the individual cottage before you book.
The Verdict
Big Cottages is an indispensable resource for groups who want the quintessential large holiday house experience. Its sheer scale of inventory and powerful search tools save hours of manual searching across different sites. While the fragmented customer service model means you need to pay attention to who manages the property, the platform's focus on late deals, visible reviews, and competitive pricing makes it a top choice for organising a memorable group getaway in a single, impressive home.
Website: Big Cottages
6. YHA (England & Wales)
For active groups seeking budget-friendly holidays for groups UK, the Youth Hostels Association (YHA) is an absolute gem. Forget outdated notions of spartan dorms; modern YHA properties offer a mix of private rooms and shared spaces in some of England and Wales' most stunning locations, from national parks to vibrant city centres. It’s an unbeatable option for walking clubs, school trips, or large families who prioritise location and communal spirit over luxury trimmings.
The real game-changer for groups is their "Exclusive Hire" scheme. This allows you to book an entire hostel or a significant wing of it just for your party, giving you private access to bedrooms, kitchens, dining areas, and lounges. It provides the perfect blend of self-catering freedom and ample space for socialising, all without the hefty price tag of a giant country house. The website clearly marks which locations offer this and makes it simple to enquire about availability for your group size.
Key Features and User Experience
The YHA website is straightforward, allowing you to search by location, group size, or specifically for "Exclusive Hire" properties. Each hostel has a detailed page outlining room configurations, facilities, and local activities, helping you choose the right base for your group's adventure.
| Feature | Best For | Practical Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Exclusive Hire | Large groups wanting private, self-catered space | Book well in advance, especially for popular locations during school holidays. |
| Prime Locations | Walking, cycling, and outdoor activity groups | Use the map view to find hostels located right on popular trails or in national parks. |
| Flexible Room Options | Mixed groups of families, couples, and individuals | You can often combine private family rooms with smaller dorms to suit everyone. |
| Budget-Friendly Pricing | Groups looking to keep costs down | Self-catering in the large communal kitchens is the most cost-effective way to manage meals. |
Pro Tip: Don't rule out their city locations. An Exclusive Hire of a city-centre YHA can be a surprisingly affordable and brilliant base for exploring places like York or Bristol, especially when splitting the cost between a large group.
The Verdict
YHA offers a practical and sociable alternative to traditional group accommodation. While it may lack the polished finish of a luxury cottage, it more than makes up for it with incredible value, unbeatable locations, and a fantastic communal atmosphere. The flexibility of Exclusive Hire is its standout feature, providing a private and secure base for groups to explore the great outdoors or a new city. For more ideas on urban adventures, you can explore our guide to the best UK city breaks.
Website: YHA Group Stays
7. Shearings
For groups who want to leave the planning and driving to someone else, Shearings is a fantastic solution. As a long-established coach-holiday specialist, it excels at creating all-in-one packages, making it one of the most hassle-free options for holidays for groups UK. It’s particularly well-suited for clubs, societies, or friendship groups who prefer the structure of an organised tour, with transport, accommodation, and key excursions all bundled into a single per-person price.
The Shearings model simplifies budgeting immensely. Groups can browse over 200 UK itineraries, from seaside breaks in Torquay to scenic tours of the Scottish Highlands, knowing the core costs are covered. This turn-key approach removes the stress of coordinating multiple bookings and transport logistics, letting everyone relax and enjoy the trip from a convenient local pickup point.
Key Features and User Experience
The website is straightforward, allowing you to search by destination, duration, or date to find a suitable tour. The pricing is transparent, clearly outlining what's included, and they frequently run low-deposit offers that make securing places for a large group incredibly affordable.
| Feature | Best For | Practical Tip |
|---|---|---|
| All-Inclusive Packages | Groups wanting a completely organised trip | Check the itinerary's "Included" section to see which meals and excursions are covered. |
| Per-Person Pricing | Simplified group budgeting and payments | Ideal for clubs where individuals pay for their own spot. |
| Low-Deposit Promotions | Securing a group booking with minimal upfront cost | Keep an eye on the "Offers" page – sometimes deposits are as low as £1 per person. |
| Nationwide Pickup Points | Convenient travel without the need to drive | Use the "Find your pickup point" tool to see where your group can join the tour. |
Pro Tip: While Shearings offers set itineraries, their dedicated Groups Department can often tailor aspects of a tour for larger private bookings, or help you block-book seats on an existing holiday. It's always worth a call to discuss your specific needs.
The Verdict
Shearings is the perfect choice for groups seeking a stress-free, sociable, and great-value holiday where the journey is part of the fun. The lack of flexibility in the fixed itineraries might not suit every group, but for those who appreciate having the logistics handled by experts, it’s an unbeatable option. The combination of travel, accommodation, and sightseeing in one package provides excellent value. For those who enjoy guided travel, you can learn more about UK travel options on our guide to exploring Britain by train.
Website: Shearings UK Coach Holidays
Top 7 UK Group Holiday Providers Compared
| Provider | Service model | Implementation complexity | Resource requirements | Expected outcomes | Ideal use cases |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BTOURS | Customizable self-drive multi-day itineraries with UK-based planning support | Medium — requires itinerary planning and car logistics | Driver(s), vehicle rental, variable budget (mid to premium) | Flexible, tailored road trips with local guidance and curated stays | Independent travellers, families, history/nature lovers seeking bespoke drives |
| Hoseasons | Self-catered cottages, lodges and holiday-park group bookings | Low — straightforward online booking with group filters | Group coordination, deposits/payment, travel to park | Consolidated group stays with shared on-site amenities and discounts | Multi-family or friends’ trips wanting shared facilities and value |
| Center Parcs UK | Resort villages with lodges plus on-site activities and group booking support | Low–Medium — book lodges and pre-book activities across lodges | Budget for resort rates, early activity/reservation planning | All-in-one resort experience with extensive activities and family focus | Families and groups wanting on-site entertainment and convenience |
| GroupAccommodation.com | Marketplace for large private houses, barns and event venues (owner-managed) | Medium–High — negotiation and bespoke terms common | Direct contact with owners, variable deposits and contract terms | Unique large-venue rentals suited to events and retreats | Reunions, weddings, corporate offsites needing distinctive spaces |
| Big Cottages (Snaptrip Group) | Aggregated large-cottage marketplace with live availability and instant-book | Low — consumer-style search and instant-book options | Booking funds, optional free membership for discounts | Fast access to many large cottages with visible reviews and deals | Groups needing quick booking and wide choice of large properties |
| YHA (England & Wales) | Network of budget hostels with dorms, private rooms and exclusive-hire options | Low–Medium — simple booking but exclusive hire needs coordination | Low budget, self-catering capability, group logistics | Cost-effective group accommodation near outdoor locations | Schools, clubs, walking parties and budget-conscious groups |
| Shearings | Packaged coach holidays bundling transport, hotels and excursions | Very low for travellers — operator handles logistics | Per-person fares, deposits, fixed schedules | Turn-key guided breaks with minimal planning required by group | Clubs and groups preferring escorted, value-driven packaged tours |
Start Planning Your Ultimate UK Group Adventure
From the windswept coast of Cornwall to the dramatic highlands of Scotland, the UK is a treasure trove of destinations just waiting to be explored with your favourite people. We've journeyed through a variety of fantastic tools and providers, each offering a unique approach to crafting unforgettable holidays for groups uk. The key takeaway is simple: the perfect group trip isn’t one-size-fits-all. It's about finding the platform that aligns perfectly with your group's unique personality and travel style.
For some, the ideal getaway involves settling into a single, activity-rich location. A forest lodge at Center Parcs or a sprawling country house from GroupAccommodation.com can act as the perfect hub for relaxation and shared activities, eliminating the stress of constant travel. Others might prefer the structure and social aspect of an organised coach trip with Shearings, where every detail is expertly handled. These options provide a brilliant framework for groups who want convenience and a central base for their adventures.
However, if your group thrives on independence, spontaneity, and the thrill of the open road, a customisable self-drive tour from a specialist like BTOURS offers an unparalleled blend of freedom and support. It's the ultimate solution for cultural explorers and nature lovers who want to set their own pace, linger at a newfound viewpoint, or take that intriguing detour, all while knowing the logistical heavy lifting of routes and accommodations is sorted.
Choosing the Right Tool for Your Crew
To make the best decision for your group, start by asking a few key questions:
- What's our travel style? Are we adventurers who want to see something new every day, or do we prefer to relax and settle in one spot?
- What's our budget? Does an all-in-one package from Hoseasons make more sense, or does the flexibility of YHA hostels better suit our finances?
- How much planning do we want to do? Are we happy to coordinate activities ourselves, or would we prefer the expert guidance and pre-planned itineraries offered by a tour specialist?
Beyond just accommodation and routes, ensuring smooth and comfortable travel between your destinations is vital for a successful group trip. For those seeking a more premium and stress-free transport option during their UK adventure, you might consider different ways to get around. You can find comprehensive guidance on hiring a chauffeur for your group's UK holiday, which can be an excellent way to add a touch of luxury and convenience, especially when navigating unfamiliar roads or city centres.
Ultimately, the best holidays for groups uk are born from great communication and a shared sense of excitement. Use the tools we've highlighted as a starting point to spark a conversation. Get everyone involved, vote on destinations, and start building the anticipation. The UK is ready for your group's next great story, one stunning landscape and shared laugh at a time.
Ready to embrace the freedom of the open road? Let BTOURS help you design a bespoke self-drive holiday that's perfectly tailored to your group's interests. Explore our customisable UK itineraries and start planning an adventure you'll talk about for years to come.
