Staycations rolled around when we needed them most and have fast become our favourite way to spend a weekend. From seaside towns to organic vineyards, we’ve looked back at last year's getaways and what made them so great.
This restaurant-with-rooms is already a well-known foodie spot in Somerset, opened back in 2021 by owner Nick Balfe, co-owner of Peckhams neighbourhood restaurant Levan. Their menu is inspired by seasonal and local produce, including bread and pastries from the bakery next door and meat from the butchers down the road, with low intervention wines stored in the former bank vault to complement. The seven bedrooms have only been open to book as of late 2023 and are perfectly curated and well thought out. The scandi inspired rooms are minimalist yet cosy with arched alcoves, half linen curtains, plaster washed walls and freestanding tubs to wind down in post country walk. The breakfast, only available to overnight guests, is one of the best hotel breakfast we’ve had. Starting with granola & yogurt, mains were a choice of pork belly, wild trout or mushrooms with greens, eggs and hash browns all finished off with a cinnamon bun and cup of coffee. Located in the small village of North Petherton, it's easy to village hop and explore local pubs and shops as well enjoy walks and hikes. Rooms start from £125 a night.
A refurbished Victorian townhouse located on the seafront with bold interiors, large bay windows and blush tone walls. Stepping into the hallway feels like you’ve entered your stylish friend's home with the large drawing room filled with eclectic furniture and perfumes lining the vintage chest of draws (free to spritz and sniff away and purchase on request) whilst local artists' work hangs throughout the property. Having opened early last year with only nine en-suite bedrooms, each are individually designed with scalloped touches, wavy headboards and panelled walls whilst keeping the same rouge colour tone consistent throughout. After a very comfortable night's sleep you can choose to have fresh pastries and OJ delivered to your room or if breakfast in bed isn’t your thing, head down to the dining room for a more formal brekkie. Owner Nick has big plans for the property, hoping to collaborate with local chefs and restaurants and organising pop up events throughout the year, another reason for us to head back. Rooms from £150 a night. For a more in depth guide the Margate click here.
The perfect romantic country bothole only a stones throw from Rye in East Sussex, Tillingham is a organic winery set in 70 acres of woodland and rolling hills. The main barn has been renovated into their restaurant and wine bar with a mismatch of vintage mid century modern furniture, dripping candles and hand picked flowers in glass jars with floor to ceiling windows flooding the rooms with light. The restaurant is centred around the garden menu using their own and other local farms produce as well as fresh fish from Rye Harbour to create a five course tasting menu. If you’re popping down for the day and fancy something less formal, head to their pizza barn for wood fire oven pizza, flatbread and of course a glass of wine or two. Rooms are modern and muted with cool blue tones and large windows framing the views of the vineyards beyond. You can also choose to stay in a luxury bell tent on site for a more glamping feel. Rooms start from £175 per night.
A grand manor house set within 400 acres of countryside and farm land, Heckfield Place is sure to put a dent in your wallet but is worth it for a special occasion stay. The property, owned by billionaire Gerald Chan, is adorned with vintage furniture and artwork from his own collection as well as grand bouquets of hand picked flowers in every room. Interiors are breathtaking, incorporating the original Georgian features with modern touches with the staff service just as impeccable. The property has two restaurants to choose from using fresh and seasonal ingredients from the estate's own gardens and farm whilst bedrooms are cosy and perfectly laid out with a neutral pallet and warm homely touches. Breakfast is included with the room and on a good weather day is served on the Heath patio overlooking the grounds. Rooms start at an eye watering £500 per night.
Comments