Family holidays are most fun when children reach eight years old, according to research.

A poll of 2,000 mums and dads who've ever been on holiday with their child found this is the age when parents and little ones alike get the most out of getaways.

At this stage, 55 per cent believe they start to form lasting holiday memories, 64 per cent think they get genuinely excited about new places and can contribute to the planning (22 per cent).

They're better able to relax themselves (41 per cent), enjoy more shared hobbies and activities together with their kids (41 per cent) and have longer attention spans (40 per cent) then too.

Commissioned by Jet2holidays ahead of Mother's Day, the research found 76 per cent of mums who go on one or more getaways a year consider family holidays to be their calendar highlight.

A spokesperson for the tour operator said: “Family holidays are special at all ages. With the research highlighting just how meaningful family getaways are across the board. However, there appears to be something especially great once kids reach eight years old – with the findings suggesting many kids are more curious, more engaged and better able to take in new experiences at this age.”

The study also identified what parents look for in a family getaway – with value for money (29 per cent), a place that suits the whole family (28 per cent) and good weather (28 per cent) coming top.

Activities everyone can enjoy together are also key (17 per cent), as are a destination which is easy to get around (15 per cent) and genuinely family-friendly accommodation (14 per cent).

To ensure the kids in particular are content, 30 per cent ‘often’ or ‘always’ get them involved in the planning of a family break.

They do so because it makes their little ones feel included and valued (46 per cent), creates shared excitement (37 per cent) and ensures activities suit their interests (34 per cent).

And taking such steps to ensure family holidays are a success appear to be worth it – 86 per cent said memories spent with their kids on such getaways are among their most meaningful.

Holidaying as a family comes with a host of milestones and the research, carried out through OnePoll, identified which ones those polled consider to be the biggest.

Going abroad as a family for the first time (35 per cent), flying together for the first time (24 per cent) and the first theme park or major attraction visit as a family (15 per cent) came top.

With staying away from home overnight for the first time as a family (14 per cent) and the first holiday where the kids demonstrate independence (13 per cent) also significant.

A spokesperson for Jet2holidays added: “It’s clear involving children in the planning process plays a big part in making a holiday memorable. And this is just one of a host of memorable holiday milestones they’ll be part of – whether that’s flying together for the first time or going abroad as a family stay with parents for years. This is why considerations like the right destination and accommodation are so important.We’re proud to help families make those memories by offering great value, family-friendly holidays which cater to everyone, whatever stage of family life they’re in.”