It's fun that we can break all the rules!

Broadcaster and grandfather-of-seven Gyles Brandreth says he loves going on ‘Gran-ual Leave’ with his grandkids, creating magical memories with them on holiday. By LISA SALMON

- By LISA SALMON

Gyles is the quintessential doting grandad with family

GYLES BRANDRETH says spending time with his seven grandchildren, and particularly going on multi-generational holidays, has huge benefits.

“I’m an experienced grandfather - I don't claim to be the best, but I do claim to be one of the most enthusiastic,” the broadcaster and author says. “Being with your grandchildren on holiday makes you feel younger and more alive.

“There's a spring in your step, and also, you feel more hopeful - you feel optimistic about the future, because you see these young people. But the great joy of being a grandparent is that you can break the rules, because then the children can say ‘Oh, Grandpa's allowed to do that because he’s Grandpa’ I think it's fun that we're allowed to break the rules.”

Indeed, a new study of grandparents and multi-generational travel by Hilton found more than three-quarters (77%) bend the rules and make allowances for their grandchildren that would never have been allowed when their own kids were young - although 30% of grandparents say rule-breaking can cause tension with their adult children.

Yet 69% still admit they spoil their grandchildren more on holiday, with 40% saying it’s their favourite time to do so.

“Around two-thirds of grandparents admit they dial up the spoiling on holiday,” observes Gyles. “I don’t know why it is, but on holiday, the rules get broken.

“You can keep them up - around two-thirds of grandparents let grandchildren stay up later than bedtime, plus extra treats, playing more games, relaxing rules around meal times.