Unusual UK Stays

Liz Penn on 07 May 2020
It’s fair to say there will be a significant demand for ‘staycations’ this summer as we all want to get away for a change of scenery, even if it’s not the beach paradise we had in mind. I’ve been hearing from people that they are looking forward to catching up with friends and family, enjoying the great outdoors and recharging their batteries. UK holiday cottages and rentals have a lot going for them as they can give you independence to do what you want and they will often allow the furry family members along as well.

I’ve been taking a look at some of the more unusual options that might float your boat – including boats, actually…

Shepherd’s Huts & Glamping

If you’re dreaming of a romantic getaway without the kids after all that home schooling and fancy something off the grid but without losing too many creature comforts then here are some fab ideas for you. Shepherds’ huts are becoming increasingly popular as they offer cute accommodation and can be located pretty much anywhere. I particularly love this one in Keswick for the views (I’m sure you’ll be able to guess which photo I mean!) although you will find them country-wide. And if you’re looking for something a little more luxurious why not book one with a hot tub – probably better suited to a UK summer than an outdoor swimming pool!

The newest line in this type of accommodation is the ‘pod’ – a larger alternative to the shepherds’ huts, these are generally built to very high specifications, often including added luxuries such as underfloor heating, so definitely no need to downgrade your holiday expectations.

There’s always something innovative in this range and the most unusual I’ve seen has to be the ‘Reflection’ – again, I’m sure you’ll be able to spot that in the photos – or maybe not…this particular micro home is in the Lake District, so the top-notch accommodation is matched by the sights and attractions on your doorstep.

So far, so normal…

OK, so they’re lovely but they’re not that out of ordinary, I hear you say. Right, how about a stay in a railway carriage then? Here’s a beautiful example situated in Horsebridge Station, on the original ‘Sprat and Winkle’ line in Hampshire that the carriages are named after. It’s even got two bedrooms, so you could take the kids with you if they’ve been well-behaved!

Still too obvious…? In that case let’s opt for a second mode of transport – the classic red double decker bus. This particular example sleeps six, has goats for neighbours, a children’s play area directly outside and is located in the Forest of Dean – a fantastic place to enjoy walks from your doorstep.

And I did mention a boat…of course, you might fancy a trip on the Norfolk Broads or perhaps taking a narrow boat down one of the UK’s numerous canal networks and I can certainly help with those, however, perhaps you fancy just staying put, so here’s a wonderful opportunity to stay in the heart of Liverpool and explore the home of the Fab Four for a few days – no navigation skills required!

Looking for something grander?

This is all well and good but you want to get the extended family together – it’s still possible to find some holiday cottages with their own private (indoor) pools sleeping larger groups, here’s one in Shropshire that sleeps up to 14 people and has limited availability (at time of writing!) in June, July and August.

Perhaps you don’t need the pool but want something memorable to help mark a special occasion – what about a castle? It can be surprising that there are a number of Scottish castles to rent – this particular one sleeps up to 13 and is new on the books so has decent availability – that won’t last though, so get in touch soon!

One final option…

I can fully appreciate that a lot of people will be wanting to know they are safe from harm, wherever they go and, once we’re able to travel again, holiday rentals will be pulling out the stops to ensure hygiene standards are especially high and holidays are as safe as possible. If you have any concerns, you might want to consider my final property – the Bunker….

So remember…

I’m here for you, whatever holiday you’re looking for – I can help you find something closer to home, something remote, something perfect for that postponed family get-together – you name it, I’m here to help. All of the accommodation featured is something you are able to book through me, however, some are very popular, so they may not be available for your dates. In that instance I would work with you to find the best alternative.