THROUGH THE KEYHOLE:

Whoever thought of putting a hot tub in the grounds of our on-site luxury cottage is simply a genius. We loved it.

Despite being just yards from the theme park gates, our idyllic cottage offered a tranquil haven and felt a world away from the rollercoasters we had been on 10 minutes prior.

Set in its own grounds, the beautiful stone Gate House features two bedrooms, a standalone jacuzzi bath, fully-equipped kitchen and cozy lounge.

The kids were even super excited about going to bed, thanks to the impressive bunk beds with built-in TVs, and the boys loved the ceiling speakers. It did feel a little bit special knowing we were in the crème de la crème of accommodation – we even got fluffy robes and slippers.

Despite there being plenty of places on site to eat and drink, we cut the cost at lunchtime by popping back to our cottage for a sandwich.

It gave the kids an hour’s downtime, and I don’t mind admitting that it allowed Jack and I the chance to enjoy a glass of wine (or two).

We also had the pleasure of a night in Fir Tree Lodge – which is the most cute lodge, made private by being fully surrounded by fir trees. This lodge also has its own hot tub and is so close to the entrance you can see the rides from the garden.

It’s split over two floors and sleeps six, and even has a balcony off the master bedroom. Flamingo Land has a range of accommodation options to enjoy. For home comforts, there are lodges, two or three-bedroom cottages and holiday homes available. Many have flatscreen TVs, DVD players and well-equipped kitchens.

There’s also plenty of space for campers to put up tents and park touring caravans.

Or you might decide that one of the static caravans gives you the best of both worlds. The choice is yours!

The beauty of staying over is having unlimited access to the resort village. It means the fun doesn’t have to stop when the theme park closes.