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Aware of the wealth of knowledge our editors and contributing writers have about travel gems, we asked our globetrotters to share their favourite UK staycations.
From the wild shores of the Isle of Arran to the dainty beach huts and dramatic cliffs in Thanet, the indulgent air of Somerset’s flagship hotel, The Newt, to the wonders of our very own capital city – there is so much to be explored without the need for a flight. UK staycations eliminate all the stress of travel – simply plan your route, hop in the car or get to the nearest train station, and embark on an adventure to discover what could be much closer to home than you first thought.
The best UK staycations to take in 2024
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Alamy 2. Falmouth, Cornwall
Falmouth. This corner of Cornwall has everything, from excellent restaurants to beautiful sandy beaches. The town itself is friendly and injected with creative energy from the university – making it the perfect destination for a UK staycation. My ideal day would start at Max Bagels for a delicious hand-rolled lox bagel. I’d then meander down the high street, visiting independent shops like Sam Marks Ceramics, Ondine Ash and Ludgate House Antiques. I’d recommend taking a boat out to catch some fresh Mackerel in the early afternoon, but if that’s not your thing, then take a walk through meandering streets to Gyllvngvase Beach. This stretch of sand makes for perfect swims, and Gylly Beach Cafe is perfect for watching the sunset. I’d have a pre-dinner drink at The Oddfellows Arms, followed by a delicious meal at Restaurant MINE. There’s no going wrong when visiting Falmouth, so whether you’re an adventure seeker, beach lover or foodie, this is the UK staycation for you.
Where to stay: Packet House is the perfect home to rent for a staycation with family or friends. The house boasts three beautiful rooms, each with a unique style and a beautiful ocean or garden view. There are plenty of nooks for reading, relaxing, and watching boats on the harbour. Our favourite feature was the kitchen – the heart of the home and perfect for big meals spent with loved ones. Amber Port, audience development manager
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Emma Lewis 3. Three Horseshoes, Batcombe, Somerset
Somerset offers numerous advantages – beautiful countryside, proximity to some of the UK’s best cities, and abundant farm shops. It’s only recently that the county has put itself on the foodie map, with the likes of The Newt and Babington House opening up, alongside the Three Horseshoes in Batcombe. This restaurant with rooms reopened in 2023, driven by three creative masterminds – Margot Henderson of Rochelle Canteen, interior designer Frances Pen, and landscape designer Libby Russell. We pull into the Three Horseshoes nestled in the rolling hills of the Riber Alham Valley in the picturesque village of Batcombe. The limestone Church of St Mary the Virgin comes into view as we meander past immaculate lawns and vibrant September blooms leading up to the pub. The interiors reflect down-to-earth minimalism – candle-lit tables, handwritten specials, and various artworks peppering the walls. It’s the type of place ideal for spending all afternoon and evening enjoying food, drinks, and good company. We make our way to Room 4 (one of five) located under the eaves of the 17th-century pub, greeted by a chic yet cozy space. The room features a Noguchi Akari pendant light creating a warm glow, with Berber and jute rugs layered beautifully. The bathtub, encased in pearl white zellige tiles, is equipped with bath salts for that ultimate relaxation. We venture downstairs and settle at our table, starting with a negroni to set the tone for the evening. The menu offers wholesome, hearty dishes that bring locals and visitors back for more. Certain items are occasionally off the menu, emphasizing a local focus. We enjoy fried green tomatoes with zingy caper mayonnaise and grilled squid before turning to the mains – I enjoy an unbelievably tender roast sika haunch accompanied by earthy beetroot and a horseradish kick, while my friend savors a roast lamb leg that melts in the mouth. Dessert is an unforgettable apricot pavlova that I’ll dream about for months. After a final digestif, we retire to the comfort of our room for a peaceful sleep, waking up to enjoy a breakfast of thick yogurt, stewed apricot, and homemade granola, wishing we never had to leave this enchanting valley. Amber Port, senior audience development manager
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Getty Images 4. Deal
I grew up on the East Coast, so whenever I get the chance to visit a British beach, you can bet I’ll take it. Deal holds a special place in my heart; it was our first post-Covid trip back in July 2020. After four months of being enclosed in my East London flat, escaping to this charming seaside town for a fix of fish and chips, sea air, and sunshine was made even sweeter with a stay at The Rose – a lovely boutique hotel with excellent food and dreamy interiors.
Where to stay: The Rose is my top recommendation in Deal, offering a quintessential seaside experience with vibrant colors and unique rooms. The bar and restaurant, led by Rachel O’Sullivan of East London’s Towpath Café, guarantees a delicious experience. Additionally, if you’re happy to stay a little out of town, I would recommend Updown Farmhouse, a beautifully restored 17th-century farmhouse with lovely gardens and delicious meals. Sarah Allard, digital editor
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Getty Images 5. Dartmouth
Dartmouth is perfect for winding down from one chapter and starting anew. Back in November, the weekend before my first day at iBestTravel, my partner picked me up from my old office, arms full of Champagne and flowers, and drove us through the night to Dartmouth in Devon. Our arrival was greeted by myriad colors reflecting off the River Dart from the lit-up houses along the quay. The stillness would be borderline eerie if it wasn’t for echoes of laughter from families and friends enjoying the local restaurants and pubs. Waking up to a glittering winter sunshine is worth the visit, and with Aegean-esque water, colorful coastal houses, and cobbled streets, you could easily believe you’ve ventured as far as the Italian Riviera. Conclude your stay with dinner at the Rockfish for the catch of the day and a glass of prosecco; it’s definitely worth the journey from London, no matter the duration of your stay.
Where to stay: Ellesmera Mill is a stunning restoration project dating back 400 years. The old millhouse, nestled in a valley near Dartmouth and South Hams, shaded by trees and just a stroll away from Blackpool Sands, accommodates 10 guests and includes a wood-fired hot tub and sauna for ultimate relaxation after a day of exploration. Megan Wilkes, art production manager
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Getty Images 6. The New Forest
The best time for a staycation is undoubtedly in autumn when long walks amidst vibrant foliage make for a wonderfully cozy experience complemented by pub dinners. While there are plenty of locations across the UK to see autumn leaves, my favorite would have to be the New Forest, particularly the charming town of Burley. Numerous scenic walks through the forest offer opportunities to encounter friendly New Forest ponies touching nature and the outdoors.
Where to stay: For an excellent dining experience, Burley Manor serves a fabulous Sunday lunch, while its upstairs rooms overlook the neighboring deer sanctuary. If you happen to visit on Halloween, which I coincidentally did one year, the town boasts a unique history of witchcraft; a couple of witch shops line the main street, and a Halloween street parade encourages fancy dress. Lauren Burvill, commerce editor
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7. London
London is my home for four years, and it remains my favorite city globally. It’s such a rare joy to be here with no obligations. I’d start my day early at Hazlitt’s in Soho, which feels like a grand country house, followed by a stroll through the neighborhood’s windy streets, past those heading home from the night before. A bustling breakfast at Balthazar is a must. A visit to Somerset House for its latest exhibition comes next, and I would wander along the river afterwards. Lunch at Borough Market, including a doughnut from Bread Ahead, would then commence, followed by losing the afternoon at the George Inn. To wrap up the evening, I would enjoy supper at Bao for pillowy buns stuffed with pork or crispy chicken, and then meet friends for cocktails on the rooftop of The Hoxton, Southwark, which feels like summertime in a rooftop bar. Then, I would file for bankruptcy for the excellent experience.
Where to stay: London abounds with stunning hotels, whether you prefer a sumptuous stay at Claridge’s in Mayfair or a more eclectic option at Broadwick Soho, this city indeed has it all. Sarah James, deputy digital editor
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Getty Images 8. Whitstable to Ramsgate by bike
Since relocating to Margate, my happy moments have been spent cycling around the beautiful coastline. We frequently head west to Whitstable, taking an almost entirely coastal path via the intriguing Roman fort (and King Ethelbert pub) at Reculver and the quaint Herne Bay to Whitstable, where we often eat at the little pier at the Lobster Shack. Riding east along the coast is equally delightful, past the chalk stacks of Botany Bay, the Dickensian ambiance of Broadstairs, finally reaching the Ramsgate marina for refreshments at the Bellevue Tavern, overlooking Pegwell Bay. From London, bikes are allowed on off-peak trains, making access easy. The key is to check the wind’s direction and be prepared for a refreshing swim.
Where to stay: The Fort Road Hotel in Margate is a favorite, offering unmatched views of the stunning coastline. This hotel is revitalizing Margate, bringing refined elegance to a town otherwise filled with quirky hotels and B&Bs. It serves as the perfect starting point for a coastal cycling adventure. Toby Skinner, features director
