We are hoping to go on a few more weekends away/ mini breaks, this year as it is so easy to get stuck in our usual routine with time off at home.

Our family consists of 2 adults, kids aged 4 & 7 and two well behaved medium sized dogs (short coated).

We've stayed in self catering cottages in the past, but I'm happy to try holiday parks etc., etc. Happy to consider anywhere in the UK. Want to keep things economic, but pleasant.

Has anyone got any particular recommendations for places that are good for both kids and the mutts? We seem to always end up in Devon/ Cornwall left to our own devices, lol!

We had a lovely stay in Seahouses, Northumberland a couple of years ago. I was brought up around there so knew the area well. We stayed in a self catering cottage with two of the dogs. It was lovely -huge beaches which were paradise for the dogs and lots of country lanes to enjoy. The kids would have plenty to do there  -real bucket and spade territory plus off beach activities. We took a boat trip to the Farne Islands to see the wild life and the dogs were welcomed on board. We were lucky with the weather though. There can be dreadful sea fog and mist which can make for a few dreary damp days. The island of Lindisfarne( Holy Island ) is well worth a visit -lots of historical interest plus the amazing singing seals. The drive across the causeway is lovely but you have to watch the tides. I have wonderful memories of riding bareback across the causeway as a young girl . There were a couple of wildish ponies there and a friend and I had a fantastic time . There is safer riding to be done there these days.

Jan, you mention that your trip to the Farne Islands you were able to take dogs with you. Presumably not onto the islands? Did they just stay on board? We've always wanted to go to the Farnes especially during the nesting season! but having always had dogs I presumed that we couldn't take them so that was that.

Hi Jodi

Yes, the dogs were allowed on the islands but on lead of course. We took Meg and Zigi and they were very well behaved. We were there in June.

Forgot to mention that Meg and Zigi are medium sized Border Collies.

I'm amazed by that Jan, with all the nesting birds about, but really pleased as it appears we can go, yippee. Think we may give it a year or two though as the dog is a bit young and daft.