The Newcastle full-back and his three children Jacob, eight, Esme, six, and Isla, three, were instead joined by his mum Eleanor on the sunshine break in Turkey.
The Princess Royal's grandchildren enjoyed a family day out - as they gathered to show support for Zara Tindall at an equestrian trial in Gloucestershire this weekend.
The long-distance runner and three-time winner of the London Marathon, 51, was on the sidelines at this year's race, cheering on her 18-year-old daughter on Sunday as she crossed the finish line.
This year Paula will be watching the event from the sidelines and despite all the medals she has won during her glittering career it is set to be the most emotional of her life.