My husband and I would like a short break with our baby (9months) for the very first time. Can anybody recommend anywhere?

For Devon, we recommend The Langstone Cliff Hotel, Devon, which is brilliant for babies, with highchairs & cots provided, 24 hr bottle warming, a selection of baby foods, baby listening intercoms, & babysitting available, all in large grounds with a footpath to one of the best beaches in Devon. Seriously dedicated to families, and terrific service, so you cant really go wrong with this one! PLUS, there is a brilliant spa, (and other facilities), where either of both of you (if you arrange for babysitting), can indulge in some fabbo treatments, including aromatherapy, reflexology, full body massage, reiki & Indian Head Massage). (Also, slightly less interesting but nevertheless invaluable is the laundry service and on site laundrette.) http://www.takethefamily.com/stay/devon/langstone_cliff_hotel/ Hope this helps. Book early if poss, as it is popular with families, particularly during holidays.

Try the Sands hotel in Cornwall. Fab position overlooking sea, in a good few acres of grounds. They will even puree your adult meal for your baby if you ask!! Sterilisers, cots, highchairs, baby listening and Pirates Baby Club. Highly recommended.

Or for a surfy style beach break, go to Watergate Bay in Cornwall. Contemporary & stylish surroundings, excellent location, (Jamie Oliver 'Fifteen restaurant nearby...you may need to book), excellent babysitting service, Mothers' Kitchenette with microwave and fridge open 24 hrs. Fantastic food & location to die for. http://www.takethefamily.com/stay/cornwall/watergate_bay/

http://www.takethefamily.com/stay/cornwall/sands_hotel/

I'd definitely go somwhere with an indoor swimming pool (check it lets babies into it!). There's no point booking a posh hotel with a posh gourmet restaurnat, as you won't get a chance to enjoy it as your baby will inevitably wake the moment you take your table! Don't leave your baby in your hotel room unattended, even if the hotel has a baby monitoring service - just too risky. Beaches are great, but at nine months they'll be eating the sand like crazy!!!! A warm shallow sea will be great for the baby to play in. Have a lovely time- but don't expect too much of a rest!!! Janey (different Jane!)