There’s no disputing that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on the way that we view many aspects of our lives. How we connect and socialise with others, where we travel, and how we relate to our beautiful planet have undoubtedly been the key topics for contemplation in 2020.
For a vast number of people, all over the world, having to adapt to a different way of living has caused a great deal of stress and anxiety. There’s never been a time when we’ve needed a holiday more!
With international and non-essential travel currently restricted, and social distancing rules ever-changing, it may still be some time before we can fully indulge our wanderlust without giving it a second thought.
The easing of lockdown (in some areas of the world) does, however, offer one travel experience that you may not have previously considered. You can pack a bag and escape…provided that you don’t need a passport to reach your destination.
UK staycations offer an excellent alternative holiday option for anyone who views travel as a life necessity. Getting away from it all and enjoying new experiences helps you to unwind, de-stress and rejuvenate, so that you’re in a better physical, mental and emotional state to keep on keeping on. Booking autumn UK staycations also gives you something to look forward to.
Whether you’re revisiting somewhere that you love or exploring a new location, travel within the boundaries of the UK provides you with the perfect temporary escape from lockdown life.
The City Break
For Brits who love spontaneous travel, the city break has long been a getaway that’s supplementary to the annual holiday. During times of travel restriction, spending downtime in luxurious surroundings closer to home can be as liberating as boarding a plane on route to one of the most iconic capital cities in the world.
A UK staycation at 11 Cadogan Gardens, London can be the perfect grand escape, but on a smaller scale. Situated within walking distance of upmarket Knightsbridge and Sloane Street, this chic boutique establishment offers exclusivity and luxury, and easy access to designer shops.
When you’re not shopping, relax as you peruse one of the antique books in a comfy chair in the library, or chill out in the conservatory with a cocktail. You’ll quickly feel relieved that you didn’t have to navigate your way through queues at the airport in order to enjoy a revitalising city break experience.
The Scenic Retreat
Sometimes we choose to holiday in a setting that will take our breath away, so that we can fully appreciate the joys of living. An autumn UK staycation gives you the freedom to explore one of the most outstanding natural beauty spots in the south-central and south-west region of England.
When visiting the charming villages and scenic locations that are dotted all over the sprawling 800 square miles that make up the beautiful Cotswolds, you’ll want to rest and recharge in surroundings that are wonderfully welcoming.
At the 14th century The Lygon Arms Hotel you can relax in the suite that was once occupied by Oliver Cromwell before going into battle, and indulge in a delicious seasonally themed Afternoon Tea. Treat your mind, body and spirit to a spa visit, and allow the tranquillity to melt away lockdown stress.
The Nature Haven
If autumn UK staycations usually involve keeping youngsters enthralled and entertained by visiting popular theme park attractions, making an inspired change in your travel plans will ensure that the whole family is happy.
For an entirely new experience, take your kids to the spectacular natural haven of the New Forest. Swap the theme park for an adventure in the magnificent woodlands, and go in search of wildlife. Provided that you follow social distancing guidelines and adhere to the New Forest Code, you can hike, bike and learn about the National Park’s important conservation work.
Staying at the child-friendly, privately owned 5-star Chewton Glen gives you easy access to Hampshire’s stunning countryside and coastline. Impress the kids by booking accommodation in one of the luxury Treehouses that are situated in a lush and leafy tree canopy.
The Rural Oasis
If you don’t have the travel needs of children to consider, UK staycations can be a decadent experience. If you’re craving opulence, the Crazy Bear Stadhampton can easily satisfy your lust. Situated within an 80-acre estate on the outskirts of Oxford, the adults-only retreat is a rural oasis of tranquillity and indulgent excess.
Soothe your body with a therapeutic aromatherapy massage, before awakening your taste buds with perfectly chilled champagne and tantalising Thai cuisine. The sumptuous bed in your individually designed gold, silver, velvet and marble lavishly decorated guest room or suite is the perfect place to rest your head.
The Coastal Holiday
There are some people who just don’t feel that a holiday is a holiday unless you’re near the sea. The 4-star beachside St Michaels Resort, in Falmouth, is undoubtedly one of the prime locations for UK staycations on Britain’s beautiful coastline. The pet-friendly hotel boasts a health club and spa, a 2 AA rosette restaurant, sub-tropical gardens and exceptional sea views. The spacious and comfy guest rooms are of course, nautically themed.
On nearby Gyllyngvase Beach, you can swim, sunbathe and relax like you don’t have a care in the world. Once you find your perfect piece of golden sandy paradise, on south Cornwall’s coast, you can spend some time reflecting on how the current global travel restrictions have opened up a new world of holiday possibilities.
Brits often forget that the UK is home to some of the most breathtaking places in Europe. Whether you want to holiday for a change of scenery or to broaden the mind, UK staycations have plenty to offer.
By escaping to the city, countryside or coast closer to home, in the autumn, it’s possible to renew appreciation for the country that you live in. There really is no need to cross time zones to explore the culture. Learning to see the beauty and charm of the quintessentially English attractions that have been popular with foreign travellers for decades may well shift your perspective in regards to must-visit destinations for future holidays.
Travelling with a family and looking for some last minute half-term inspiration, click here.
Afternoon tea, beautiful country houses, quirky crockery, stand alone baths, fantastic service and tasty traditional dishes… Browse the hotels that embody the very best parts of a boutique British stay. Discover your next Great British weekender by clicking here.