SAUCE LOVES… THE RISE OF THE STAYCATION
With Autumn rapidly approaching, many of us are wishing that we had more time to dash off to idyllic white sand beaches or picturesque mountain cabins before school and work kick back into full swing. This weekend, The Independent observed that there has been a 23.8% rise in UK holiday makers favouring the dependable charms of home, giving rise to the staycation phenomenon. Record numbers of Britons have decided to forego expensive currencies and foreign climates this year by instead booking UK getaways. From a relaxing luxury getaway in the English countryside to a unique UK health retreat or a London city break, here are a few of our top picks for the hottest staycation destinations of 2017!
Luxury Getaway Goals: Longueville Manor, Jersey
Regarded as the most highly acclaimed hotel in Jersey, Longueville Manor offers 30 individually designed suites and bedrooms and stands on an 18-acre estate at the foot of one of the island’s most beautiful valleys. Longueville Manor is a proud member of Relais & Chateaux’s collection, boasting a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere and exceptional quality of hospitality and attention to detail. The Cottage Garden, the manor’s boutique spa, offers exclusive de Mamiel treatments, REN skincare products and a signature massage collection using unique oils from Jersey cosmetic brand Manomara. From a luxury yacht, swimming pool and woodland trails to all-weather tennis courts and its kitchen garden, you will fall in love with the range of activities, sights and culinary experiences that are available at this highly rated hotel. A tried and tested favourite of ours is the incredible cheese board on offer at Andrew Baird’s restaurant. The owners, Malcolm and Patricia, make you feel completely at home in their beautiful manor, and you will leave having made new lifelong friends. And with over 42,000 Facebook fans, don’t just take our word for it! Longueville Manor is absolutely a must-visit when planning a staycation to Jersey. www.longuevillemanor.com
UK’s Top Health Retreat: Yeotown
Needing a break from the hustle and bustle of city life? Look no further than Yeotown, the UK’s top wellbeing retreat based in Devon. There is no better way to rid yourself of the stresses of work and everyday life than disconnecting and recharging at this impeccable rural getaway nestled deep within the lush hills of North Devon. The retreat aims to expand your awareness and increase levels of health, vitality and spiritual awareness. Yeotown offers breathtaking hikes across the moors during their 5-day ‘Yeotox’ programme, plus locally sourced culinary offerings and luxurious accommodation that seamlessly blends the antique with the contemporary. Yeotown Health Retreat is our ideal stop for a peaceful, energising and ‘yeotoxifying’ UK getaway! www.yeotown.com
London City Break Inspiration: Great Northern Hotel
What better way is there to experience the heart and soul of London on your city break than to be based in the heart of King’s Cross? The Great Northern Hotel is situated a stone’s throw from King’s Cross Station, home of the famous Platform 9¾ and a thriving surrounding cultural scene. The hotel boasts a range of food and drink options, from their Plum + Split Milk restaurant to the GNH bar and Kiosk coffee stop. The GNH Bar recently launched a new cocktail list which features inspired mixes of unique ingredients that are a must-try! The Ahau Chamahez mixes guacamole with tequila, fresh chilli, olive bitters and more before being topped off with a chilli garnish and tortilla chips on the side. King’s Cross has long been a creative community, the inspiration of Victorian painters and backdrop to movie classics like the Ladykillers. A major arts destination, nearby King’s Place hosts numerous art, music, cultural and live comedy events throughout the year. The Great Northern Hotel is a short distance from other major London attractions and the perfect pick for a quick city break! www.gnhlondon.com
The Best of the British Countryside: Lympstone Manor, Devon
Who needs the South of France when we have Devon’s beautiful coast at our doorstep! A staycation at Michael Caines’ highly praised Lympstone Manor, a contemporary country house hotel overlooking the Exe Estuary in East Devon, is a guaranteed getaway full of tranquillity, picturesque countryside views and adventurous activities to suit everyone. If fine dining from the double-Michelin starred chef Michael Caines isn’t enough to entice you, the hotel has an impressive wine list that you can taste in their cellar. 28 acres of grounds, parkland and gardens surrounded by the green hills of Devon are available for gorgeous walks. Some of our favourite things to do at Lympstone Manor include strolling the South Devon coastal path, vineyard visits, watersports such as kitesurfing and cycling the Exe Estuary Trail. www.lympstonemanor.co.uk