Whilst you might have been lusting over an Italian beach holiday or French countryside escape after months of lockdown, this summer is the perfect opportunity to discover the beauty in our own backyard and explore the UK. Drive to the Lake district or Cornwall for some scenic walks and hikes or take the train to some of the countries most beautiful beach locations such as Cornwall and Dorset.
Make a day or a weekend of it and pack a picnic bag, dress up with something 'new' and have a friend join you. Here are a few of our favourite spots in the UK and what to wear to each destination.
Cotswolds
Best for: idyllic towns nestled in between rolling hills
Where to stay: The Daylesford organic farm is set in over 2,500 acres of countryside, where you can escape the city in classic stone cottages and join the farm's fun activities such as a cookery school or gardening workshop or head to the Bamford Wellness Spa for some TLC.
Where to eat: Thyme's Ox Barn under the direction of Head Chef Charlie Hibbert is the perfect farm to table dinner location.
Book your table here.
What to rent: Zimmermann UK8 from £50, Innika Choo UK10 from £17
Lake District
Best for: the hashtag views, but also a full nature immersion with hikes and walks for all levels.
Where to stay: If you are heading to Lake Windermere, then staying at The Samling is a great option for its views, calmness and optional activities to take part in.
Where to eat: The Cottage in the Wood is located in the heart of Whinlatter, England’s only Mountain forest with food sourced from the surrounding area.
What to rent: Jacquemus from £12, Roop from £5
Brighton
Best for: A beach break, great fish & chips and the best vintage stores.
Where to stay: Located in a classic Georgian house at seafront, Drakes Hotel is the perfect stay in Brighton and a walking distance to all the best hotspots
Where to eat: Located at 216 Church Road in Brighton & Hove etch. is a small British tasting menu only restaurant by MasterChef winner Steven Edwards - you won't want to miss!
What to rent: Cult Gaia from £8, Loewe from £10
Cornwall
Best for: unreal sand beaches and Cornish cream tea
Where to stay: Padstow Townhouse by Paul Ainsworth is a quintessentially British cosy 18th-century townhouse. The perfect weekend getaway.
Where to eat: If you are staying in Padstow, don't miss out on the local fish market or enjoy the fresh seafood at Prawn on the Lawn.
What to rent: Kalita UK8 from £23, Jacquemus UK8 from £40
Dorset
Best for: the iconic coastline
Where to stay: The Pig on the beach - don't be fooled by the name, the hotel and restaurant is situated along Studland Bay. You can enjoy truly rural views of the long stretches of Dorset's sandy coastlines aka heaven.
Where to eat: At the chapel, situated in a former chapel, the restaurant uses local produce and brings a relaxed Mediterranean approach to British food.
What to rent: Faithfull The Brand UK8 from £7, Cecilie Bahnsen UK12 from £25
Somerset
Best for: British landscapes, magical gardens and manors
Where to stay: The Newt in Somerset is a country estate incredible gardens, woodland, farmland and a new gelateria.
Where to eat: Head to Somerton to enjoy a meal at 28 Market Place established by former Soho House director Ben Crofton with chef Dan Fletcher.
What to rent: Staud UK10 from £10, Rhode Resort UK10 from £15
*Please note that most restaurants and hotels will only be reopening from mid-July, check out their websites for further details.
Header image by Luke Edward Hall
