Aspiga's Top 5 UK Staycations

Set in the South Cornish village of St Mawes, one of the prettiest fishing villages in Cornwall, this is a perfect UK staycation. The hotel Tresanton is a collection of whitewashed buildings, formerly a yacht club that creates a very relaxed, almost Mediterranean getaway.

Hotelier and designer Olga Polizzi spent two years redesigning the hotel in 1998 and it’s furnished with an eclectic collection of antique and contemporary furnishings as well local artwork and sculptures from many Cornish artists. The hotel encompasses 30 rooms spread across the hillside all with sea views, with each room elegantly designed and furnished.

From delicious cocktails to cold pressed juices, the bar caters for all. The hotel restaurant serves only locally sourced meat and fish and the interior is #Instafriendly with marine blue and white stripe and a stunning terrace with sea views. Plan a family day out to The Lost Gardens of Heligan which is nearby, or explore the Newlyn Art Gallery and The Exchange.

Close to both Kingsbridge and Salcombe, the Thurlestone Hotel is a hidden gem on the South Devon coast, boasting both breathtaking views and convenient location. This summer we hosted the Aspiga team weekend away here and can vouch for the incredible coastal walks and delicious fish & chips in Salcombe.

The area offers refreshing coastal walks and pretty seaside towns alongside other attractions: for the adventurous, there’s a famous golf course right at the hotel, ample tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pools; and if that doesn’t appeal then book in for a safe and socially distanced treatment at the Voyage Spa.

Head out of the hotel for some interesting days out and fun activities. Literary lovers will enjoy Greenway House, the former home of mystery writer Agatha Christie, whilst young families can work off their energy with the miles of coastline, woodland, riverside and countryside walks.  

We recommend choosing the Thurlestone if you’re looking for a relaxing, easy going holiday with something for everyone. Take in the beautiful gardens and coastal scenery on The Terrace Bar whilst enjoying a meal made from locally sourced ingredients, or find what suits you with their range of dining options; from their award-winning Trevilder Restaurant to the local pub, The Village Inn.

For a different kind of staycation we recommend staying in the heart of London in the recently refurbished Aragon Hotel in Fulham. A beautiful Grade II listed building on Parsons Green, it includes 15 beautiful boutique bedrooms with luxurious comforts and is perfect for a city break.

South West London promises an abundance of things to do: take a stroll through the vast Richmond Park; hunt for an antique treasure in Portobello Road Market; wash down a pub lunch with a beer or go one step further with a beer tour and tasting at Fuller’s Brewery in Chiswick. At night, start with the champagne bar downstairs before moving on to a variety of local restaurants or a socially distanced show at the West End whilst the crowds are gone.

Take the tube to the West End and visit one of the many galleries, restaurants and markets. It'll take you about 30 minutes and you can take in a socially-distanced show. One of our favourite places to enjoy a quiet meal is the beautiful Petersham Nurseries in Covent Garden.

4. The Hoste Arms, Norfolk

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If you’re looking for a quaint cottage stay in a place brimming with character and charm, look no further than The Hoste Arms in Norfolk. Situated in the beautiful, Georgian town of Burnham Market, the local area is surrounded by great independent shops for a bit of retail therapy before a long walk or a longer lunch by the fire! Aspiga recommends No. Twenty9 Bar & Restaurant, a short distance away, that offers something for everyone.

The hotel offers a range of sister properties to make sure everyone has their own perfect fit - The Vine House is idyllic for large families and groups, whilst the Railway Carriage is great for experiencing something a little different from normal. Be sure to stay in one of the cottages if you’re planning on bringing your dog. And if that wasn’t enough, they have a 20-seat cinema, restaurant and spa all in-house.

Norfolk includes some beautiful scenery ideal for long walks and drives, including The Broads National Park. There’s something for everyone with railways, boat experiences and even seal watching!

If hotels aren't your thing then how about heading north to Brunton House and Holiday Cottages situated between Alnwick and Bamburgh in Northumberland, one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the UK. The house and cottages are set in the middle of the 2,500 Fallodon Estate next to an old water mill and working farm with views towards the sea and Beadnell Bay. Amongst many attractions, it boasts five star service for the ultimate luxury staycation.

This is our ideal location for a home away from home: with the option to prepare your own food in the second kitchen; a games room and TV room perfect for entertaining the kids; a roaring fire to read beside; and multiple large spaces for family games and meals.

Northumberland is home to a number of castles fit for young and old explorers alike, as well as Harry Potter-inspired days out in Alnwick, a scenic market town.

Although it's disappointing not to be getting on a plane and jetting off towards a winter escape, there’s so many great places to stay and discover in the UK. Maybe you’ll be choosing to do a staycation next time!

I hope you've enjoyed our ideas, do have a look at what’s New In at Aspiga for holiday and everyday inspiration. If you've chosen somewhere dog friendly, browse our lovely range of dog collars.

Let us know your reviews and recommendations in the comments below!

Happy autumn!

Lots of love,

Aspiga