When you go on holiday with the kids, you will often have to put them to bed relatively early in the evening that is, if you want to avoid the inevitable tiredness tantrums the next day. That means you are often stuck in the hotel room for long periods of the evening too, and this can be pretty dull, but you know what? It doesn’t have to be that way! Here’s how to have fun in your hotel room once the kids have drifted off.

1. Master the Art of Silent Disco

Okay, so this one might sound a bit weird, but if you’re stuck in a hotel room and you don’t want to wake the kids but you do want to have some fun then a silent disco can really hit the spot. Get you and your partner to play your favorite songs, each with your own set of headphones, and dance like there’s no one watching. You’ll have to do your best to stifle your laughter though!

2. Host Your Very Own Wine Tasting

You’ve seen the minibar, now make it fancy. Grab a few local wines from a nearby store, or bring along some mini bottles. Lay out some cheese and crackers to really set the scene, and voila—you have a DIY wine tasting ready to go. Take notes, discuss the bouquets and flavours, and enjoy a tipple. Just remember, you’re in charge of breakfast in the morning, so maybe don’t sample everything.

3. Get Competitive with Card Games

Who said card games were just for rainy days? They're a fantastic way to have some fun and challenge each other once the kids are asleep. Whether it’s a strategic game of Rummy, a quick-fire round of Snap, or a cunning game of Cheat, cards are easy to pack and promise loads of laughter, and there’s always solitaire if you’re going solo. Plus, if you play your cards right (see what we did there?), you might end up with bragging rights for the rest of the holiday.

4. Unleash Your Inner Picasso

Grab those complimentary pens from the reception and a notepad, and challenge each other to a drawing contest. Pick a theme and set a timer. The results are often hilarious and sometimes surprisingly good. It’s a creative and completely quiet activity that’s perfect for a hotel room setting. Plus, you’ll have some unique souvenirs to bring home!

5. Binge-Watch a New Series

Sometimes, the best way to unwind is by getting lost in a new series. Most hotel TVs have streaming services now, so why not start that show you’ve been putting off watching because you just “don’t have the time”? Well, now you do, and you’ve got the perfect cosy setup to dive in. Just keep the volume at a considerate level, or even better, use those headphones from your silent disco.

6. Indulge in Room Service Dessert

Finally, why not treat yourself to a decadent dessert from room service? Ordering a delicious slice of cake or a fancy dessert to the room can feel wonderfully indulgent. It’s like having a mini-date night without needing to book a table or find a babysitter.

Hotel stays with the kids just got a whole lot better!