After months of lockdown, lashings of fresh air and salty seas are the perfect tonic. We’ve compiled a list of our favourite staycations, from luxurious hideaways to Tolkien-esque boltholes. Get packing and ready to go, it’s time to explore the map.
Beaufort & Blake: The Perfect Staycation Hideaways
Elmley National Nature reserve
Isle of Sheppey
With over 3000 acres of wilderness, the Elmley nature reserve is sure to dust off the cobwebs. Hidden away on an island off the Kentish coast just an hours drive from London, the beautiful marsh landscape and huge skies are guaranteed to leave you feeling restored and rejuvenated. Take long walks through the countryside, hop on a bike and explore the woodland, and cool off with a dip in the swimming pool. As the only nature reserve in England that you can spend the night in, you can look forward to stargazing by the fire pit. Make sure to wake up early for sunrise - you won’t regret it.
The Woodcutters Cabin
Penzance, Cornwall
Nothing signals a staycation quite like the smell of flaky, golden pasties and the squawk of seagulls. Escape the dreaded crowds with this rural tranquillity, just a short drive from St Ives and the perfect base to explore the tumbling Cornwall coast. Built by local craftspeople, The Woodcutters Cabin is the ultimate seaside retreat. With the beach just on your doorstep, unwind in the silvery seas and Cornish sunshine. After a long day of exploring relax in the outdoor bath, set in 3 acres of glorious garden. Glass of rosé in hand, it’s doesn’t get much better than this.
Wilderness Reserve
Suffolk
Arcadian countryside meets luxury staycation with the picturesque Wilderness Reserve. Set on 5000 acres of private estate, the quintessentially English setting comprises a collection of country houses, farmhouses and cottages tucked away in secluded corners. While away languid afternoons in a row boat on the lake or practice your aim at clay-pigeon shooting with top shot Phillip Thorrold.
Craighead Howfs
Perthshire, Scotland
Rustic and quirky, a stay at Craighead Howf is one for the bucket list. From a treehouse with breathtaking 360 degree views to luxurious hobbit houses built right in to the hillside with grassy roofs and round doors, Craighead is truly special. Pad through the spectacular Scottish landscape and enjoy sundowners overlooking the rolling Ochil Hills.
Dimpsey
Blackdown Hills, Somerset
Combining idyllic Somerset with 5 star facilities, Dimpsey is the perfect place to experience the very best the south west has to offer. Stay in a luxury shepherds hut, set in its own private field and immerse yourself in nature…with all the creature comforts you could want (think deliciously soft bed, en-suite, woodturning stove). Soak in the hot tub under the stars and toast crisp, bubbling marshmallows on the bonfire. With a selection of local pubs and the rugged Jurassic Coast on the doorstep, where better to pitch up and explore.
