We all know that there is a fair chance of rain when families visit the United Kingdom, so Novotel has introduced Rainy Day Toy Chests to its collection of UK-wide hotels to help keep kids entertained (and parents sane), regardless of the weather.

Developed with Hasbro to come to the rescue on drizzly days and wet weekends, when all too often eagerly anticipated family outings can fall by the wayside, the Toy Chest brings the entertainment indoors and helps banish boredom.
Bursting with the latest toys from leading toy-maker, Hasbro, the chests include an exciting range of playthings for all ages. With little girls’ favourites, such as My Little Pony, and well-known boys’ toys, such as Transformers, the chest also contains classic board games for all the family, including Monopoly, and Connect4, as well as interactive games like Bop It!

Already known for offering family-friendly accommodation, the Rainy Day Toy Chest is just the latest addition to the brand’s child-friendly Novotel&Family offering. This special package includes free accommodation and breakfast for up to two children (under 16) when sharing their parents’ room.

Each family room also comes complete with access to Cartoon Network and video games for added entertainment. Popular outdoor playgrounds and swimming pools are available at many Novotel hotels nationwide allowing kids to have fun and let off steam.

Commenting on the newly instated Rainy Day Toy Chests, Thomas Dubaere, Managing Director Accor UK & Ireland, said: “We’re excited to be able to add this engaging child-friendly concept to our already established family offering at Novotel. The addition of the Toy Chests brings another element of enjoyment to kids’ stays, while putting parents’ minds at ease that their children will be entertained, even if the weather has other ideas.”

Three great family destinations from Novotel:
Novotel London Blackfriars
Situated near many of the capital’s popular family attractions, the hotel offers 39 family rooms. The Microsoft touch screen table and gaming area feature some of the most popular games available, for hours of fun and entertainment. The restaurant also includes an added treat for tech-savvy kids - the popular iPad table, which houses eight iPads to keep kids engaged as adults enjoy an extended meal.

Travel tip: For a weatherproof day trip, try the London Ducks Tours. Guided tours on amphibious vehicles bring the history of the city’s famous landmarks to life before launching into the Thames, taking in Westminster and Big Ben from the river.

Novotel Cardiff Centre
The four star Novotel Cardiff Centre is located in the heart of the city in close proximity to Cardiff Bay and the Millennium Stadium, which hosts international rugby and football matches as well as live music events. The hotel boasts a sizeable indoor heated pool, which also features a Jacuzzi, providing the perfect excuse for a family splash about.

Travel tip: Discover the historic Cardiff Castle – with the extensive ground, guided tours and wartime tunnels to explore, this makes for an exciting and educational outing.

Novotel Ipswich
The Novotel Ipswich is a four star hotel, located centrally, close to the waterfront, as well as the shopping district of Ipswich. The hotel has a modern interactive play area, housed in the lobby, with popular video games to entertain children.

Travel tip: The Discovery Centre in Ipswich provides hands-on science fun for all the family with over 30 fascinating interactive exhibits to explore and an indoor adventure playground housed on site.

Novotel UK Winter Recharge – Up to 40% off
Visitors to the UK can save up to 40% with Novotel this Winter. Enjoy shopping, exploring and relaxing at over 31 Novotel hotels across the UK. The Novotel UK Winter Recharge offers up to 40% discount, and is available for stays on week days and weekends until 14 April 2013 (until the 24 February 2013 for London hotels only).

• No minimum stay
• Kids up to the age of 16 - eat and stay for free
• Enjoy all the special features Novotel has to offer