Yahoo Movies 40 Of The Best Staycations In The UK, From Converted Barns To Eco Cabins
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40 Of The Best Staycations In The UK, From Converted Barns To Eco Cabins
Travel is finally back on the cards, but we must admit that we've become quite partial to enjoying visiting the delights of the UK and exploring its best staycations.
That said, choosing a staycation in the UK is no small feat. After all, following more than a year of lockdown restrictions, which has seen many of us view a walk to the local park as a ‘mini holiday’ (poor souls), deciding on which holiday haven to stay in, from Devon to Edinburgh, is proving tricky. And there are plenty of tempting offers to make these decisions even harder when with some staycations in the UK offer spa treatments, fitness studios, cookery classes, outdoor baths and Michelin-star food.
Fear not though as we’ve done the hard work for you and whittled down our favourite 40 UK staycations for all travellers. With many staycations just a drive away, we think 2021 is the best year to make a conscious effort to travel sustainably and celebrate the best of British. If many of us are holidaying in the UK this year, we might as well do it with our eco caps on, right?
With that in mind, here is a list of the best UK staycations:
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1) The Pandy House, Wales
Accessed by way of a private bridge crossing the Afon Roe, you’d think this restored mill was something out of a fairytale given its eccentricity and beauty. Located near the hills and valleys of Snowdonia, this is the prefect house for a large group of mates to gather and enjoy its wonder, whether it’s as a result of the William Morris wallpaper, glass wall overlooking the Tay y Fan peak or animal-printed bedrooms walls. Outside, there’s a summerhouse, hot tub and a river you can bathe in during the summer and, if you dare, the winter months.
Unique Homestays; David Curran - 3/40
2) Fernden Lane, Surrey
A house of dreams, Fernden is a Grade II-listed, 16th century farmhouse which is half covered by flowers and greenery and is an interior lover’s dream if you’re all about solid oak floors, inglenook fireplaces, a cast iron, rolltop bathtub and soft furnishings. The spot itself is located close to Valewood Park and Black Dog Corpse where you can overlook Surrey’s beauty. Our favourite part of the house has to be the dining room with patio doors overlooking the luscious green lawn.
Unique Homestays; David Curran - 4/40
3) The Zen Garden, Kent
Modernity meets traditionalism here at this Garden of England, 15th century-located barn, wits its timber beams, high ceilings and contrasting grey and white-hued walls. While the bedrooms and open-plan spaces aren’t to be ignored, the pièce-de-résistance of this property has to be its outdoor kitchen and swimming pool. Oh, and there’s also an aquarium, Koi pond and Bonsai trees galore. Your stay will include a welcome hamper of local produce, a sports package in the cinema room, freshly cut flowers and more.
Unique Homestays; David Curran - 5/40
4) Clementine House, Essex
This is a delicious property, if we do say so ourselves. Clementine House is the kind of place you dream of owning as a child, with its bright blue front door, Victorian-style glass pool house, heated outdoor pool and chandelier. You’ll immediately feel the country vibes on stepping inside this property, thanks to its Aga, rolltop bathtubs and inviting bedrooms with plush cushions. Warning: You’ll love it so much, you might never want to leave.
Unique Homestays; David Curran - 6/40
5) Charlotte Street Hotel, London
A stone's throw away from the capital's bustling Oxford Circus lies one of our favourite hotels in Bloomsbury. Previously a dental warehouse, this hotel has 52 individually designed bedrooms and suites, two drawing rooms (featuring an 'honesty bar' for late night tipples), Oscar brasserie (serving exquisite cocktails, modern English food run by Head Chef Bradd Johns), a gym and private screening room. One of the defining features of Charlotte Street is its artwork, which is dotted throughout its corridors and inspired by the Bloomsbury set of 20th century artists. Better yet, the hotel is situated around the corner from Radiance London salon – offering facials, massages and nail art etc –, Saco Hair for a last-minute blow dry before a night out, and Michelin-star awarded restaurant Hakkasan Hanway Place which serves unparalleled Cantonese cuisine inside a dimly-lit and oh so romantic setting.
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6) Cottage In The Wood, Malvern
As if it’s from a fairy tale, the Cottage In The Wood is located high above Malvern in eight acres of woodland overlooking the Cotswolds. With 32 bedrooms and an award-winning restaurant, you won’t struggle to find something to quench your staycation thirst. On the subject of thirst, you might also want to take a tour of the Friday Beer Company Brewery based in Malvern, founded by three scientists, or the local vineyards.
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7) Home House, London
A private members’ club with 18th century inspired interiors is what you’ll find at the Marylebone hot spot. If the fact it was designed by George III’s architect, James Wyatt, isn’t enough to have you clicking ‘book’, wait until you find out that in addition to its restaurants, bars, garden and gym it boasts three Georgian townhouses and 23 super luxe bedrooms that will have you feeling like a queen in no time.
Better yet, each bathroom has its own uniquely designed interiors, from the Lady Islington (which has the same marble used in in the centre of the dome in St. Paul’s Cathedral) to the Duke of Atholl’s suite’s regal bath tub (made for His Highness Say Aji Rao III, Maharajah Gaekwad of Baroda in the 1800s). Luxury staycations don't get any better than this.
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8) Pentire Penthouse, Newquay
A circular penthouse with 360-degree views over the beaches and coastal cliffs in Newquay? Where do we sign? With its eight-person hot tub outside, four bedrooms with monsoon showers and Fistral Beach (one of the best in Cornwall, in our book) just a 15-minute walk away, we think this is a must-book, ASAP.
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9) At The Chapel, Bristol
A restored chapel in Bristol, this medieval spot has eight bedrooms, high ceilings, church candles, and is the ideal staycation for families, couples and groups of friends alike. With Tracey Emin and Turner Prize winner Martin Creed’s artwork lining the walls, as well as a wood-fired oven in the on-site bakery, we think this south of England spot is truly divine.
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Unique Homestays; David Curran - 12/40
11) Croft 103, Durness
Head to the very tip of Scotland, to the northwesterly town of Durness, and you’ll find this absolutely stunning site. A five to six-hour car drive from Edinburgh and Glasgow, this staycation has views over mountains and seas, and is completely secluded from the busy streets of the UK’s cities. Comprising of two cottages, Shore Cottage is the closest to the water while Hill Cottage offers incomparable views of the surrounding area.
With Caithness stone bathrooms, cool wood-burners, two clawfoot baths (one inside and one outside, offering the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights in winter), we wouldn’t be surprised that after a weekend here, you might never want to come home.
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12) The Sheep Station, Outer Hebrides
Do you fancy cosying up in a cottage where you can watch the Northern Lights in winter and the sun rise over the coastline in the summer?
Well, this is what's on offer at the Sheep Station, which sits on the edge of the Atlantic. On arrival, guests will be presented with a Welcome Hamper (Bollinger champagne, water bottles, tote bag) enjoy Egyptian bedding and Bamford bathroom products.
It's a luxury home for a luxury holiday.
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13) Thyme, Cotswolds
Described by its owners as a 'village inside a village', Thyme is a restored historic Cotswold manor and farm which is home to a dairy, cookery school, gardens galore, the Meadow spa and much more.
The hotel is made up of a collection of restored historic buildings with drawing rooms, restaurants and bars. There are also three cottages to choose from, from The Farmhouse (an eight-bed property), and The Tallet (for four people) to the Old Walls (for two).
thyme.england@Instagram - 15/40
14) The Berkeley, London
A five-star hotel in walking distance from Harrods, The Berkeley has long been a staple staycation haven for those in need of a break, with its afternoon tea delights, Grand Pavilion Penthouse and Bamford Wellness spa.
This summer the hotel is offer a ‘Hideout’ (£498 per night) which includes a Blue Bar cocktail mixed at your bedroom door, daily breakfasts, Berkley Bikes and £100 credit to spend at the restaurants and bars in Claridges, The Connaught or The Berkeley.
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15) Dun Aluinn, Scottish Highlands
A five-star venue located in Aberfeldy Perthshire, Scotland, Dun Aluinn is a truly stunning property which sleeps up to 18 guests in nine bedrooms, each with a private en-suite bathroom. Overlooking the town of Aberfeldy and the River Tay, the property has 5.5 acres of private grounds and a terrace overlooking the Valley to Schiehallion.
The ideal spot for hen dos, stag dos, 30th birthday parties and more, the property is available for hire with catering from Ballintaggart Farm, as well as housekeeping, a butler and concierge services. Dun Aluinn has taken staycations to the next level.
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16) Gidleigh Park, Devon
Located in 107 acres of woodland in Devon, the luxury manor looks over the serene Dartmoor National Park, and will have you relaxed in no time.
The dog-friendly hotel offers guests a staycation involving tasting menus (made with fresh produce), cocktails in front of the drawing room’s roaring fire and walks and trails in the nearby countryside (the team will give you a pair of of Dubarry wellington boots for muddy paths). You can also play a game of tennis on the court or try your had at the 18-hole putting course. If you’re planning a staycation with friends, the Pavilion is a thatched cottage that sleeps up to four with two bedrooms and bathrooms. We’ll see you on the terrace!
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17) NoMad London, London
Whether you live in London or simply can't get enough of the capital's offerings then you'll undoubtedly have already heard about the city's new staycation obsession - Nomad London.
Opened in May in the Grade II-listed building previously know as The Bow Street Magistrates’ Court and Police Station, the Covent Garden sight offers several room offerings, from Classic to Royal Opera Suite, with luxe and modern interiors. While guests might be in walking distance to the Royal Opera House and Oxford Street, we suggest dining in the hotel's restaurant and bar, Side Hustle (NoMad's take on the classic British pub) or drink cocktails in the Library.
This June, the hotel has partnered with the London Design Biennale to offer a special stay and visit package. Find out more here.
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18) The Cheval Old Town Chambers, Edinburgh
Step back in time to the 15th century at the Cheval Old Town Chambers, which sits behind a discreet doorway on Advocates Close in the heart of the Scottish capital, just a five-minute walk from Edinburgh Castle.
On the ground level of this apartment is the Master Bedroom with a Super King-size bed and a freestanding copper bathtub. On the second floor, there’s an open-plan bathroom (decorated with gothic-style candles) and an open-plan kitchen dining and living space. This is a next level home-from-home staycation.
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19) Glebe House, Devon
Opened in March, Glebe House is a go-to guesthouse in the centre of Devon. With Italian ‘agriturismo’ influences, the site includes five bedrooms, an annexe, a tennis court and swimming pool. Better yet, its co-founder Hugo is a trained chef and is ready to cook up a spread of Italian dishes, no matter if you’re a pasta or pizza lover.
Guests will also be treated to an on-site bakery and charcuterie room where they can take part in cookery classes. Located in the Colton Valley, this is a must-visit if you want to escape the city, grab a picnic blanket and drink cool Prosecco in the sunshine.
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20) Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Oxfordshire
‘Oxfordshire heritage meets French flair,’ according to this 15th-century manor’s website. World famous chef Raymond Blanc is the maître de maison at this countryside hotel, which has two Michelin-starred restaurants, gardens, a cookery school and Victorian tubs in the bathrooms, with bedrooms inspired by Raymond’s travels. Outdoor games are also on offer including boules and croquet (with bikes for children!).
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21) The Garden Shed, York
If you’ve ever struggled to find affordable accommodation in York given its popularity for the Moors and Bettys tea room then consider this the answer to your prayers. This dog friendly converted storehouse is one of two properties here (the other, Next Door, sleeps five guests) and located a short drive away from York centre (eight miles).
With two outdoor seating areas, bushcraft and forest craft sessions on offer, as well as optional afternoon tea, breakfast and homemade meals (some weekends the hosts even throw a Fire Chef Supper Club), we couldn’t think of a more perfect staycation this summer.
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22) The Keep at Cabilla Cornwall
Head to Bodmin Moor this summer and you’ll find this adorable straw-bale cottage (yes, really) which comes with its very own tennis courts, parking, firepit, BBQ and private garden. We love its neutral-hued interiors, Egyptian cotton bed linen, big, bright yellow door, window seat and vintage-inspired furniture.
A steal for £160 a night, The Keep is located in 80 acres of woodland and offers guests the possibility of forest bathing, wild swimming, stargazing as well as the chance of spotting resident animals: beavers Sigourney Beaver and Jean Claude Van Dam and Gloria the pig. Oh, and did we mention guests are treated to a welcome hamper and can also book woodland massages?
Watergate Bay, Padstow and The Pig at Harlyn Bay are just a short 30-minute drive away if you’re in need of a day trip and dinner elsewhere.
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23) Albion Nights, Norfolk
There’s nothing quite like sipping on a glass of prosecco while lying in an outdoor bath in the countryside. And that’s exactly what we’ll be doing with our S.O. this summer at Albion Nights.
A quaint eco-cabin in six acres of wildflower meadows, this property is self-catered and just 15 minutes away from the city of Norwich, with hiking and wild swimming on offer nearby. What's more, hosts have just introduced wellness treatments such as massages, reiki and reflexology.
With comfort at the heart of everything here, the open plan living space is rustic but warm and comes with a hob and fridge to store bubbly and ingredients for romantic home-cooked meals. Our favourite bit (other than the tub, of course) is the all-wooden interiors in the bedroom.
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24) Cuckoo's Hideaway, West Wales
Tucked away in West Wales sits this undeniably stunning treehouse property that is so beautiful, you’d think it was from your childhood fantasies.
A self-catered treehouse with a wood-fired pizza oven, WiFi (but digital detoxing is advised!) and an outdoor cedar clad hot tub, we wouldn’t blame you if you wanted to stay in this Scandi chic hideaway for the duration of your stay. We're big fans of the living area with views of the sea in the distance, as well as the soft furnishings and windows aplenty.
If you did want to venture out to the wilderness to stretch your legs and work up an appetite, eight miles down the road is Ceredigion coastline, the harbour town of Aberaeron and the Cambrian Mountains. The words ‘I’m bored’ are strictly a no-no.
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25) Salcombe Harbour Hotel, Devon
Enjoy a slice of heaven at the Salcombe Harbour Hotel, situated slap bang on the waterfront and a 15-minute drive from the popular market town of Kingsbridge.
The hotel has a spa, five treatment rooms, an indoor pool, a hot sun and fitness area, as well as stunning views overlooking Salcombe from every bedroom. Beaches in the local vicinity include Small's Cove Beach, East Portlemouth and Salcombe North Sands.
salcombeharbourhotel@Instagram - 27/40
26) Ovington Gardens, Knightsbridge
A four storey home in Knightsbridge might sound like the stuff of dreams for most people but it can be yours for a staycation.
Inside the house you’ll find a an eight-seater table beneath a vaulted glass ceiling, a TV hidden inside a dolls’ house, a share courtyard garden and mezzanine level terrace, three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Located in the centre between Knightsbridge, Sloane Square and South Kensington, you couldn’t be in a better spot for shopping and luxury.
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27) The Pig On The Beach, Dorset
A celebrity favourite in the UK, The Pig (it has several destinations) is a once in a lifetime staycation option for travellers.
This year, we can’t wait to visit The Pig On The Beach, located on Studland Bay with views across Dorset’s beautiful coastline. The hotel’s description online reads: ‘A walled kitchen garden, a sea view conservatory restaurant, a path down to the beach, our own beach hut, a herd of Dorset Horn sheep, roaring log fires and a fairy-tale gargoyle or two.’ Can you really get better than that?
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28) The Coniston Hotel Country Estate & Spa, Yorkshire
Escape to the Yorkshire Dales for your next staycation and book a couple of nights at the Coniston Hotel Country Estate, hidden within a 1,400 acre estate.
With hotel rooms or private country cottages, spa facilities and treatments, as well as one-site activities like fishing, e-biking, clay pigeon shooting and off-road driving experiences, you’ll struggle to be bored here. The hotel is located a 50-minute drive away from Harrogate, so we suggest popping into the world famous Bettys for a tea cake and cup of tea while you’re there.
theconistonhotel@Instagram - 30/40
29) Stow-Away, London
Described as am eco apart-hotel, Stow-Away is a staycation spot made out of shipping containers, located in the capital. For the sustainability conscious among you, you’ll be impressed as the site functions on 100% renewable energy and its owners plant a tree for every direct booking. With marble tiles, a pop-up wine bar and Molton Brown toiletries, Stow-Away boasts the perfect balance of luxury and eco-travelling at its finest.
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30) The Idle Rocks, Cornwall
Don’t let the name deceive you because the last thing you’ll want to do is be idle upon stepping foot at this hotel in Cornwall. Located in St Mawes, voted the UK’s best seaside town last year, this spot has four harbour view rooms in an adjoining cottage (two of which are dog-friendly, FYI) and is home to some of the finest food the Cornish coast has to offer, (Chef Dorian Janmaat - ex Le Manoir - is at the helm with new spring menu). Whether you love your surfing, swimming and kayaking or prefer to crawl up with a good book overlooking the sea with a glass of wine, The Idle Rocks has everything you could possible want from a staycation, and more.
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31) The Slaughter’s Manor House, Cotswolds
There’s a reason why everyone in the UK (and around the world) heads to the Cotswolds all year round for rest and relaxation. And where better to stay in the beautiful British countryside than at The Slaughters Manor House - a 17th century site decorated in a French château style with original features. On arrival, book yourself some afternoon tea overlooking its garden of rose beds or a night at the elegant cocktail bar before snuggling into bed. For ramblers, you can either walk around the hotel’s five acres of landscaped gardens or head out on several of the nearby paths to take in the fresh air, with a scrumptious picnic crafted by the expert kitchen team.
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32) The Lanesborough, London
With a dedicated British Staycation experience, The Lanesborough is one not to be missed. The offer includes a private historical tour of the hotel’s Regency Building, a choice of either a three-course dinner at Michelin-Starred Céleste or a wellness day at The Lanesborough Club & Spa including a 60 minute couples massage, English breakfast for two, as well as an upgrade and bottle of Moët & Chandon served with house made chocolate truffles on arrival.
the_lanesborough@Instagram - 34/40
33) Telegraph, Coventry
Opening on May 17, 2021, Coventry’s Telegraph mid-century building (previously home to the city’s newspaper) now comprises of 88 bedrooms and one (dubbed the Lord Iliffe Suite after the family who owned the newspaper) which has its own hot tub and terrace. With a rooftop bar and restaurant, Forme & Chase, floor-tiled lobby and 1950s-inspired interiors, we couldn’t think of a better place to stay in Coventry this year, especially as it’s celebrating its new title as the UK City of Culture for 2021.
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34) The Hari, London
Located in Knightsbridge, this five-star hotel is luxury at its finest. With its ‘Stay With Us’ package, you’ll be given £50 credit to use at il Pampero, The Hari Bar, Garden Terrace or use to enjoy in-room dining and a complimentary upgrade to the next available room category. With a 24-hour health and fitness centre featuring Peloton bikes and personal training on offer, as well as preferential rates at nearby Errol Douglas MBE’s hairdressing salon and Teresa Tarmey‘s world-class skincare clinic, you’re certainly in for a treat during this staycation.
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35) The Bath Priory, Bath
You haven’t known luxury until you’ve visited The Bath Priory. Home to the only L’Occitane spa in the UK, the Georgian building is a stone’s throw away from the Royal Victoria Park in Bath and offers guests the chance to enjoy treatments at the spa (think an aromachologie massage and almond detoxifying balance), afternoon tea on the wisteria-covered terrace, and a heated outdoor swimming pool. *Books staycation immediately*
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36) South Lodge near Horsham, Sussex
This hotel in Sussex boasts beautiful views of the South Downs, two restaurants (we hear the food at the Mediterranean-influenced Botanica is delicious) and private dining rooms, so those with an appetite for great cuisine and wine will be sure to have their fill here. Better yet, the hotel has a 44,000 sq. ft. luxury spa with its very own spin studio, indoor pool, outdoor hydrotherapy pool and wild swimming pool and a thermal suite. Whether you want to visit Petworth House, Wakehurst Place and Brighton Pavilion or sit with a glass of Malbec in the hotel’s cellar, South Lodge is a staycation that caters to all.
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37) Barford Beach House, Cornwall
Fancy staying at a beach house with six ensuite bedrooms and beds for up to 16 of your closest friends and family? Well, you’re in luck as Barford offers sea views, an outdoor woodfired hot tub, indoor sauna, cinema room (yes, really), a bunker club with a pool table and vintage pinball machine, as well as secret doorways…need we say more?
tregullandandco@Instagram - 39/40
38) Pennyhill Park in Bagshot, Surrey
A luxury hotel and spa in the middle of 120 acres of Surrey countryside, Pennyhill Park is the kind of hotel you want to visit when you need to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. With pools, Jacuzzis, two award-winning restaurants, a screening room and terrace where you can enjoy afternoon tea for two, we think this is a must-visit this summer.
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39) Watergate Bay, Cornwall
Whether you're a surfer who likes the cold sea water or a swimmer who enjoys a dip in the pool, then Watergate Bay is the place for you.
Located on the beach at Watergate Bay, this is the perfect hotel for those who enjoy modern interiors on the British coast. Activities on offer include kitesurfing, surfing (of course), stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), as well as a sea-view lounge, café and bar, a 25-metre pool, cardio suite and one of the best spa treatments we've ever had in the UK.
To discover more about the Volvo Smart XC60 Recharge and its sustainable credentials, visit volvocars.co.uk
watergatebay@Instagram
