The return of the Great British staycation
In need of an idyllic break but unsure about boarding a flight? We can relate. Let’s stay closer to home.
Whilst we are big fans of far-flung holidays, there is also something truly appealing about getting in your car, or jumping on a train after work, for a staycation in the UK. And, best of all, staying British will help your carbon footprint and support local businesses too.
Limewood Hotel, Hampshire
Paradise in the glorious New Forest, this is the kind of place you go to feel pampered. A stunning setting, gorgeous interiors and delightfully decadent bedrooms. The devil is in the detail and they have got it just right.
We recommend staying in the Lake House, it's simply top notch. Make sure you book into the exceptional Herb House spa, we could lie in their hot tub and sauna for hours (oh to be there now). A lot of love is in the food and dinner did not disappoint (get the pasta, it’s all handmade).
And if you need to top up your Auree collection, head to the beautifully curated shop. The perfect getaway (especially if you arrive by helicopter).
The Newt, Somerset
Somerset's hottest new address, and it's easy to see why. The Newt (named after its resident colony of 2,000 protected newts) had been getting the thumbs up from friends, and we thought it was about time we checked it out. This isn’t a hotel, it’s a destination (just like it's sister hotel Babylonstoren, near Stellenbosch in South Africa).
The magnificent gardens (open to public for an entrance fee) are the showpiece - just WOW, we need to go out and do some gardening now, so inspiring. The Georgian stone mansion oozes effortless style, elegance and comfort and the food is impressive. Make sure you don't miss the swimming pool and spa.
Before you go home stock up at the farm shop - fantastic butcher and of course cider from their press. The Great British countryside just got greater.
Thyme, Cotswolds
From the moment we cruised up the drive we were bowled over by the beautiful surroundings. A feeling of Provence in the Cotswolds, intimate and welcoming. Revered among foodies - and it's easy to see why, there's an onsite farm, kitchen gardens and a superb cookery school (where you get to eat the results AND take the leftovers home).
We highly recommend the Rude Bob cocktail (you won't be able to stop at one) and the infamous Chicken Pie. Recuperate the morning after in the Meadow Spa, so relaxing the sound of snoring may have been heard once or twice.
Very comfortable beds, a fabulous shower and lots of charming extras. It was like staying at an old friends country estate, with the benefit of not having to lift a finger.
The Pig on the Beach, Dorset
This little piggy is an old favourite at Auree HQ and so it had to be on the list (we can even vouch that it's the perfect spot for a proposal).
The Pig has that quintessentially country-house-bolthole feel down to a T. The team are welcoming, friendly and obliging and the atmosphere is an eclectic mix of buzz and relaxation. All the food is sourced from within 25 miles and tastes absolutely delicious.
Great views are commonplace - but nothing beats the view of old Harry Rocks across Studland Bay, with a cocktail in hand. We thought the two dovecotes in the kitchen garden looked rather fun for next time. We'll be back soon.
The Gallivant, East Sussex
An absolute beachside gem, with a Hampton air. Friendly and warm (kind to dogs too) without being gushing, a tasteful decor without being overstated, five star treatment without any inkling of pretentiousness. We were blown away by our stay.
You don't visit for the architecture (read "motel" conversion turned sophisticated seaside stay) but the inside has been carefully thought out and is a welcoming sanctuary.
Rooms are on the cosy side, so opt for a garden room with a roll top bath big enough for two. Take a morning yoga class on the beach, before enjoying hand-baked cookies for elevenses and English wine tasting at 5pm.