PLAZA ANTHENEE NEW YORK
This grand hotel is only one block from Central Park, where children can run, row on a lake and marvel at the roller bladers. Bedrooms have recently had a multimillion pound refurbishment, and are large for New York. A Pillows & Penguins Package includes a children's gift bag with goodies including a mini taxi and a Yankees' baseball cap. From £373 a night. plaza-athenee.com, lhw.com
MARRIOTT HOTEL COUNTY HALL LONDON
This hotel sits right on the Thames, overlooking the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. Other thrills nearby include the London Eye, river cruises and a playground a few steps away from the lobby. The hotel is home to a large pool, plus dodgems, a bowling alley and the Sea Life London Aquarium in the County Hall building. From £250. marriott.co.uk
HOTEL LE BRISTOL PARIS
This is the City of Light's closest hotel to the Elysée Palace so expect to find politicos in the three Michelin-starred restaurant. Early lessons in dining aside, children's activities focus on the hotel's mascot, a bunny called Hippolyte. A soft toy version is given to children on check in, along with details of places to visit near the hotel and games within it, such as the ever-popular 'ring the concierge's bell'. De luxe rooms from £1,200 a night. lebristolparis.com
SHANGRI-LA RASA SENTOSA ISLAND
Beach paradise Sentosa Island is a short stroll from mainland Singapore, via a garden-themed travellator boardwalk planted with indigenous tropical plants. Following a '40m makeover, the new family-friendly rooms offer easy access to the pool, and the Cool Zone is Singapore's largest kids' club. From £185. shangri-la.com
ROME CAVALIERI ROME
You're just minutes from Rome's most impressive monuments, and the view from the hotel takes in most of them. But it's running around the Cavalieri's 15 acres of parkland, and splashing in the children- only pool, that little ones will love. Guests aged seven plus can join Gladiator School (and wear a traditional toga) to learn combat skills of warriors of old. From £240 a night. waldorfastoria.com
