Wall of Love
Read heartfelt stories from unpaid carers who found comfort and support following their break.
Lynne
The hotel was amazing, the facilities were lovely, the hotel was lovely, and the following day we were relaxed and walked around a wildlife park in beautiful sunshine. I really feel like we had some me time, which was so overdue we didn’t really realise we needed it. Thank you so much.
Oct 20, 2026
Sally
Hotel was very welcoming and ready with suggestions on what was in the area. It was very well situated, easy to travel to and with lots of options onsite and in the area. I'd certainly go again, either on a Carefree break or as a destination for a minibreak. I felt at ease on my own and a bit special
Oct 13, 2026
Alison
I would like to thank everyone at Carefree and at Cheltenham Chase Hotel for my lovely break from caring for my mother. She is 86 with Parkinson's, so she has some mobility problems. At 67, caring for and lifting her can be painful at times. The pool and sauna helped me exercise my aching joints. The hotel was close to Bourton-on-the-Water which was beautiful. We also visited Cheltenham and drove to Oxford for a wonderful day looking around the college. I actually had a few carefree days not worrying about my mother, which left me relaxed and happy. The staff in the hotel are wonderful and so helpful and friendly, making me feel at home immediately on arrival. Thanks again to everyone, it was wonderful to live a little😁😘💖
Mar 22, 2026
Heather
I haven’t had a night away in 5 years. It was an absolutely gorgeous hotel with a beautiful swimming pool. My room was spotless and comfortable. All the staff were so friendly and polite, going above and beyond to welcome me and my 3-year-old daughter. Thank you.
Mar 17, 2026
Nicola Catley
I had never been away just before Christmas before, and I felt excited that I could relax before the “big day.” I had a lot more patience and enjoyed the Christmas break enormously. It was so lovely to recharge my batteries and be ready for family visiting.
Jan 5, 2026
Soni
Thank you so much for the break. I went to london, saw the Christmas lights, gifts etc which were uplifting. It was lovely to have a total break and just concentrate on what I wanted to do. It was a very much needed break for me. The hotel was fantastic, friendly and helpful staff. Thank you to all.
Dec 1, 2025
Veronica
The break was really important to me; I felt able to be myself again and not just be classed as a carer. It gave me the freedom to relax and enjoy the moment and the things I like to do. The hotel was situated in an excellent location, right next to town and all the facilities it had to offer. The breakfast was excellent with lots of choice. The hotel staff were very friendly, helpful, and polite. A thoroughly enjoyable break all around.
Nov 11, 2025
Laura
A lovely opportunity to spend some time away with my husband and know that our little boy is cared for. It helped us immensely financially as we would be unable to do this in regular circumstances. Due to our son’s complex needs, I have been unable to return to my career or work full-time, so going away is always a financial stretch. We do really appreciate this opportunity just to have a bit of a break. Thank you
Sep 24, 2025
Suad
The break was really needed after a 6-week summer holiday and preparing the kids for school. I was overwhelmed and this break came just in the right time for relaxing and my mental health as well. The hotel and staff were so nice and friendly. The breakfast was amazing.
Sep 18, 2025
Julia
It was so important to maintain my personal relationship with my husband, to have time for each other and spend time with limited interruptions. Although I have to do a lot of preparations to leave microwaveable home cooked food etc it is worth it. We stayed at the Royal George in Birdlip, and it was so relaxing and the bed was super comfy. I would definitely recommend this hotel (they also cope with Gluten free diets with no fuss). There are spectacular views to be found at the nearby Crickley Hill, and a lovely example of a cotswold village not far at Painswick. I hope more hotels join the scheme, its brilliant.
Aug 20, 2025
Julia
This break gave me and my husband a chance to concentrate on ourselves and our personal relationship, which usually comes second.
Jun 16, 2025
Nicola Catley
This break was SO important to me. I have looked forward to having time away just for me to treat myself since booking Carefree. Hotel staff were wonderful. Always around and happy to help with anything I needed. I spent some lovely quality time with my daughter that would not have happened without you! Thank you so much. It is a lifesaver having a couple of nights away.
Jun 11, 2025
Colleen
The fact that hotels are willing to donate bookings for carers made me feel that our role is valued and appreciated. The entire process was super easy. I was really at breaking point and feeling quite resentful and trapped. Going away for a change of scenery has really boosted my energy and mental health. I returned to another crisis situation but was able to 'hit the ground running' and pick up my responsibilities with cheerfulness.
I was given a refurbished room and treated to breakfast. On my pillow, I received a handwritten note welcoming me and recognising the importance of my role. There was also a little goody bag with some treats. What a wonderful experience. The staff were all so cheerful, helpful, and hardworking. I would not hesitate to recommend the St. Giles to family and friends. Great location and friendly staff. A great experience which is not always the case for central London. Many, many thanks :)
Aug 14, 2024
Simone
Amazing stay, staff were friendly, the Carefree break was good—I felt relaxed, less stressed, and a little more confident. Would definitely use these services again. I have never smiled so much since being away.
Jul 30, 2024
Katherine
My break at Stratford Manor was wonderful.The spa area within the hotel was lovely it gave me time to relax and I love to swim so that was a bonus. The room was very nice and the staff were lovely. I feel so much better for my 2 day break. Much appreciated.
Apr 16, 2024
Katherine
The Spa break was wonderful made me feel very relaxed in just a small space of time. Thank you so much, I really appreciated the time away.
Feb 5, 2024
Sakina
Just could relax and not worry. Just think about me and my son only. No time limits to stick by. I wish I did this last year but was scared to book then. Thank you. I would recommend trying it, if you have the option.
Aug 31, 2023
Soni
I thoroughly enjoyed my stay. Thank you very much for this break.
Aug 24, 2023
Phil
The room upgrade to 2 double beds. Really restful. Great spa. Wife booked a facial. Very friendly staff. Great breakfast.
Mar 3, 2023
Rachel
This was what we needed. We could be a couple, and not just mum and dad.
Sep 26, 2022
