Whilst jumping on a flight for a bit of escapism might not be quite as easy as it used to be, we’re excited about the prospect of exploring more of what the UK has to offer. From visiting London without the crowds and complimentary hotel upgrades, to spotting basking sharks and minke whales in Scotland, the year of the staycation is all about finding an adventure in the best of what the UK has to offer…
Cornwall
Why? To surf the waves at one of Cornwall’s most sought after beaches
Unsurprisingly, Cornwall, with its open spaces and beautiful beaches, tops the table for one of the most sought after destinations to visit post lockdown. Located by the iconic Tate St Ives building, Porthmeor is a safe and sandy beach, popular with surfers and swimmers and just a stone’s throw from the centre of St Ives where there are ancient pubs, charming cafes and lots of art galleries for which this town is famous for. Porthmeor beach is less crowded in late summer and autumn time and is the ideal location to hit the water with a surfboard.
Where to stay?
With direct access to this stunning beach, Coxswain’s Cottage is delightfully unassuming, whilst its interiors are unique, design-led and impeccably finished. The three bedrooms and three bathrooms (two of which are en-suite) are all wonderfully comfortable for a property of this size, with the large bathroom also converting into a decadent steam room, ideal for warming up after a plunge in the Cornish sea. What’s more, Coxswain’s Cottage has a secret tunnel leading straight onto Porthmeor beach and is right on the cobbled streets of St Ives – there are endless activities/restaurants/scenic sights in St Ives to explore.
- HOW: From £164 per night (3-night minimum stay) –www.sandandstoneescapes.com – 0208 740 3097
Bath
Why? With footfall down 40-50% (Visit Bath) now is the time to visit this beautiful World Heritage city
Built for pleasure and relaxation, Bath has been a wellbeing destination since Roman times, and there’s no better time than now to discover this beautiful city with World Heritage status. With footfall into the city currently down by between 40-50% and yet plenty of Baths’ sites and lovely independent shops and eateries still open, and the stunning, surrounding Somerset countryside in full summer glory, now is an excellent time to book a staycation to the city. Visitors can also enjoy a visit to the Roman Baths, which are currently operating at only 30% (Visit Bath) capacity owing to the lack of international tourists.
Where to stay?
Overlooking the peaceful Henrietta Park, famed for its beautiful blossom trees and minutes walk from the heart of Bath, Roseate Villa Bath is a boutique hotel encompassing two converted Victorian houses, brimming with characterful legacy. With just 21 rooms and suites, Roseate Villa Bath is a home away from home. A visit to the hotel’s new Henrietta Bar is not to be missed. Roseate Villa Bath’s Afternoon Tea On Us exclusive offer includes a complimentary afternoon tea experience when booking a Superior Garden View Room between Sunday – Friday.
- HOW: From £150 per night, Roseate House London’s Afternoon Tea On Us exclusive offer is available on bookings between Sunday – Friday and includes a delicious afternoon tea experience and overnight stay in a Superior Garden View Room – https://www.roseatehotels.com/bath/theroseatevilla/
Scotland
Why? For the chance to spot basking sharks, minke whales, seals, and puffins and to immerse in complete isolation
The south-west of Scotland, and indeed Ayrshire, is renowned for its majestic countryside and incredible wildlife. The famous volcanic outcrop of Ailsa Craig is not only one of the most beautiful wildlife sanctuaries; home to over 40,000 birds, including puffins, guillemots and razorbills, but the Ayrshire waters are also teeming with marine life with basking sharks, dolphins, minke whales, and seals. With a newfound appreciation for nature and a desire for complete isolation, it comes as no surprise that Scotland is high up on the agenda for travellers.
Where to stay?
Stay at Glenapp Castle, a 17-bedroom luxurious Relais & Chateaux hotel tucked away on the breath-taking Ayrshire coast, Scotland. Glenapp Castle offers a unique Hebridean Sea Safari experience giving nature lovers a four night adventure exploring the Scottish isles in true style. This exciting and unique offering means that you don’t have to travel the world in search of incredible wildlife and adventure but instead travel a matter of hours to the south-west coast of Scotland for the ultimate UK staycation.
- HOW: Stay in one of Glenapp Castle’s Garden View Suites from £415 and experience the Sea Safari from £2,950 per person, based on 7-8 people sharing on a full-board basis for 4 nights including 2 nights at Glenapp and 2 nights with the boat/Glenapp Camp. For further details, including information on bespoke trips, please see here. www.glenappcastle.com / 01465 831 212
London
Why? For complimentary room upgrades and to experience London’s restaurants, sights and parks without the crowds
Usually one of Europe’s most crowded cities, London is having a moment to breath. With a lack of international tourists and office workers confined to working from home, visitors can virtually enjoy having the city to themselves. Whilst London’s great cultural attractions are slowly coming back to life including the recent reopenings of The National Gallery and Tate Modern and many of Soho’s wonderful restaurants and drinking holes are also once again operating with all necessary precautions in place and the Royal Parks are at their summertime best, now is a perfect time to visit the city without the usual hordes.
Where to stay?
Roseate House London is a Grade-II listed townhouse featuring 48 luxurious rooms and suites, located on Westbourne Terrace, overlooking Hyde Park. The hotel is ideally located, minutes from Marble Arch, making London’s best cultural sites and entertainment in easy reach. Roseate House London is offering guests, 10% off published rates, complimentary room upgrades and additional benefits when booking a stay directly with the hotel.
- HOW: Roseate House London’s Book Direct exclusive offer gives guests 10% off published rates when booking directly. The rate includes a complimentary room upgrade, welcome drink, early check in and late check out and 15% off F&B and laundry. Rates start from £109 per night – https://www.roseatehotels.com/london/roseatehouse/