Finding a hotel when visiting Paultons Park in Hampshire can be a difficult decision, particularly as there is currently no on-site accommodation, although that will change with the launch of the park’s new holiday village next year.
However, this trip wasn’t solely about visiting Valgard, the brand-new themed land at Paultons Park, which was incredible, by the way. We also wanted to explore some of Hampshire’s other attractions. As a result, we were looking not only for a convenient location but also for an upmarket hotel that could meet the needs of a family with teenagers, where balancing space, independence and luxury within a reasonable budget can be challenging.
For our two-night family getaway, we chose the recently transformed voco Fareham – Solent by IHG as our base in Hampshire. Situated in Fareham, the hotel is ideally located for exploring Portsmouth, Southampton and the New Forest.
Location
For our family of four, two adults and two teenage daughters the main draw of this area of Hampshire was its proximity to Paultons Park, best known as the home of Peppa Pig World. However, while families with younger children are drawn to Peppa and friends, our teenagers had their eyes firmly fixed on a completely different kind of adrenaline rush, the park’s brand new Viking-themed land, Valgard, you can read our review here.
With a half-term itinerary packed with visits to Beaulieu and the National Motor Museum, the historic dockyards of Portsmouth and some retail therapy at Gunwharf Quays, we weren’t quite sure what to expect from a voco hotel. However, as IHG’s fastest growing premium brand, I can now see why it has become so popular. The voco Fareham – Solent proved to be an excellent base for our mini-break.
Here’s what we thought of our first stay at a voco property in the UK.
First Impressions & Check-In
They say you should never judge a book by its cover and that is certainly true here. From the outside, the property retains the geometric, low rise red brick architecture typical of a mid-2000s hotel. However, it has been completely transformed from its former Holiday Inn identity into a far more premium and contemporary voco hotel within the IHG portfolio.
There is a large on-site car park with plenty of spaces available just a short walk from the entrance.
Stepping into the lobby, the transformation is immediately apparent. The expansive open-plan space has an upmarket boutique feel while still retaining the laid-back charm associated with the voco brand.
It was a design scheme I particularly liked, combining bold canary yellow accents with deep charcoal tones, warm mid-century timber finishes and polished brass fixtures. Large geometric light installations hang from the ceiling, creating a striking focal point. The lobby is a genuinely stylish space, filled with comfortable seating areas that flow seamlessly into the bar and restaurant, creating a welcoming and impressive first impression.
As our visit coincided with the half-term holidays, the hotel had a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. The check-in desks were busy, but the front-of-house team were excellent and immediately made us feel at home after a long journey.
We received a particularly warm welcome, complete with individually wrapped sweet treats from reception, which we were told is a signature voco touch. It was a lovely surprise and set the tone for the rest of our stay.
The level of service was impressive from the moment we arrived until check-out. Every member of staff was warm, welcoming and professional, which is always a reflection of a well-run hotel.
The Rooms: Inteconnecting family rooms
There are 130 bedrooms spread across two floors, including interconnecting family rooms, which is what we booked.
Travelling with teenagers requires slightly more strategic hotel planning these days, as they naturally appreciate having their own space. We booked two interconnecting family rooms on the first floor. One room featured a king size bed, while the second room had two double beds for our daughters, with the rooms connected by an internal door.
The arrangement worked perfectly and provided everyone with the space and privacy they wanted. I wouldn’t normally place too much emphasis on air conditioning during a UK hotel stay, but during the heatwave we were incredibly grateful for it. The climate control kept both rooms cool and comfortable throughout our stay, providing welcome relief from the heat and humidity outside. Combined with the luxurious beds and highquality bedding, it ensured we all slept really well.
When we first opened the doors, we weren’t disappointed. The rooms were immaculately clean and had a premium feel, with modern retro-inspired décor throughout. In keeping with the contemporary design, traditional wardrobes have been replaced by open storage units featuring hanging rails and drawers. For a short break, I actually found this much more practical, providing easy access to both clothing and luggage.
As you would expect from a premium hotel brand, the in-room amenities were excellent and included:
- In-room safe
- Iron and ironing board
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Hairdryer
- Robes and slippers
- Espresso machine
- Mini fridge
- Individual climate control
Tea lovers will be particularly pleased to find Birchall tea, one of my personal favourites and a premium touch that stands out from many hotel offerings.
The décor has a subtle 1970s-inspired aesthetic, but it is executed beautifully. There is a clear nod to residential luxury, avoiding the often clinical feel of traditional hotel rooms. Funky geometric artwork, circular mirrors, deep padded headboards with integrated reading lights and vibrant ochre accent chairs combine to create a space that feels both stylish and comforting.
For our teenagers, the rooms contained all the technology they could want. The Wi-Fi was fast and reliable throughout the hotel, while large wall-mounted smart TVs with streaming capability allowed them to watch their own content with ease. An abundance of USB and USB-C charging points on both sides of the beds and throughout the room kept everyone’s devices powered without a single family disagreement over plug sockets.
Each room also included a small desk area, making it suitable for anyone needing to work during their stay.
The beds were every bit as comfortable as they looked. The soft duvets, crisp white linens and supportive mattresses ensured we all enjoyed an excellent night’s sleep after long days exploring Hampshire.
The bathrooms have also been fully modernised. One featured a spacious glass-enclosed walk-in shower with a rainfall showerhead, while the other had a shower over the bath. Both were stocked with plush towels and Apotheke toiletries, which smelled wonderful.
It is worth noting that the hotel’s original layout does not include a lift to the first floor. For our family, carrying luggage upstairs was straightforward, but anyone travelling with heavy bags, pushchairs or specific mobility requirements should request a ground-floor room when booking.
Dining
Before our trip, I had heard positive things about the dining here, and it didn’t disappoint. Both breakfast and dinner during our stay were excellent.
The hotel’s restaurant, BRICKWORKS Lounge & Grill, is located on the ground floor and, like the rest of the property, has been completely transformed. Named as a nod to Fareham’s heritage of industrial brick-making, the restaurant is visually impressive.
The large open-plan dining space successfully blends industrial-chic styling with warm textures, incorporating exposed brickwork, plush velvet seating and contemporary lighting.
On our first evening, after a long journey followed by an energetic afternoon exploring the waterfront and shops at Gunwharf Quays, we were exhausted. The thought of getting back in the car to find another restaurant held little appeal, so we were very pleased to have reserved a table at BRICKWORKS in advance.
We skipped starters and headed straight for the main courses. I chose the Brickworks Burger, while my husband and one daughter opted for the Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Burger, both served with chips. The girls also enjoyed Crispy Chicken Tenders and fries. The food was beautifully presented and every dish was thoroughly enjoyed.
After dinner, we spent some time relaxing on the outdoor terrace, which offers plenty of comfortable seating. It was the perfect place to enjoy a drink, play card games and unwind after a busy day.
Breakfast was served buffet style each morning and offered a comprehensive selection of juices, fresh fruit, yoghurts, cereals, pastries, breads and toast. A separate hot buffet featured all the traditional cooked breakfast favourites, while additional breakfast dishes could also be ordered from the menu, which was a nice touch as was the ability of dining outside on the terrace.
Facilities
Families will be pleased to know that the hotel features a heated 15-metre indoor swimming pool, alongside a traditional sauna and steam room.
As we were visiting during the peak of the half-term holidays, the leisure facilities were understandably popular with families. On our first afternoon, we headed down to the health club to explore everything on offer.
Given the hotel’s proximity to Paultons Park and Peppa Pig World, the pool was particularly busy during the late afternoon, with younger children happily splashing and playing. Finding a quiet lounger was challenging, and serious swimming wasn’t really possible at that time of day. That said, the entire pool area was well maintained and clean.
For families with younger children, the pool is likely to be a major highlight. However, if you prefer a quieter swim, an early morning visit is probably your best option. While the pool was busy with younger families, our teenage daughters made an immediate beeline for The Club Gym.
The gym is exceptionally well equipped, featuring the latest Matrix fitness equipment, an extensive range of cardio machines, resistance equipment, a dedicated functional fitness area and a comprehensive free-weights section.
Is voco Fareham Solent Good for Families?
Before this stay, voco wasn’t a brand I would naturally have associated with family travel. However, our experience at voco Fareham Solent completely changed that perception.
The hotel is particularly well suited to families visiting Paultons Park, especially those travelling with older children or teenagers who appreciate having additional space and independence.
The interconnecting rooms worked brilliantly for us, while the swimming pool, gym and excellent dining options added further appeal.
Overall
We had a fantastic stay at voco Fareham Solent and came away genuinely impressed and wouldn’t hesitate to stay here again.
The rooms are stylish and comfortable, the service is consistently excellent, and the location makes it an ideal base for exploring Hampshire’s many attractions, including Paultons Park, Portsmouth, the New Forest and Beaulieu.
Most importantly, the hotel manages to strike a balance between premium comfort and family-friendly practicality, something that is often difficult to achieve.
Ready to Book?
Stays at voco Fareham Solent start from around £105 per night when booking direct with IHG. If you collect IHG One Rewards points, reward nights can often be found
Fact Box
Room Setup: Two Interconnecting Rooms (First Floor)
Location: Rookery Avenue, Whiteley, Fareham, Hampshire, PO15 7FZ
Nearby Attractions:
- Paultons Park – approximately 25 minutes
- Gunwharf Quays – approximately 20 minutes
- Beaulieu and the New Forest – approximately 35 minutes
Key Amenities:
- BRICKWORKS Lounge & Grill
- 15-metre heated indoor swimming pool
- Matrix-equipped fitness centre
- Sauna and steam room
Website: voco Fareham Solent by IHG