Summer is on. The heat is saying hello. And the prospect of holidays is a welcome one, as we put the current Covid-19 lockdown measures and restrictions behind us (come 19 July). While a foreign adventure may feel like the ultimate refresher after the year or so we’ve had, our recent customer travel survey somewhat suggests otherwise. Nearly 60% of 11,400 respondents expressed their desire to enjoy a UK staycation this year – despite the return of some overseas travel. <br> <br> Sounds like you? Well, whether you want to spend quality family time; indulge in a couple’s weekend away; or treat yourself to a luxurious city break with loved ones, look no further than home turf. Leave your passport and luggage restrictions behind, to make way for time-efficient, scenic train rides or cosy drives. And with over 32,000 km of coastline, 15 national parks, and the opportunity to enjoy home-grown seasonal produce, there’s a variety of options to suit your interests and budget. So, we’ve rounded up part one of our staff picks, to help inspire and plan your 2021 UK staycation ideas. <br> <br>
LARGE GROUP OF FRIENDS | Rekha – Content Executive | Lincoln, Lincolnshire
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<br> <br> The rich cultural heritage of the city of Lincoln, coupled with quintessentially English countryside vistas, offers a large group of friends the best of both worlds to discover in one UK staycation. <br> <br> As we start in the city centre, the notable <a href="https://lincolncathedral.com/" target="_blank">Lincoln Cathedral</a> proudly stands in all its glory at 272 feet tall – on a hilltop overlooking the rest of the city. Following a series of historical mishaps, including a fire and an earthquake, the third largest English cathedral is now a striking reflection of 13th century Early English Gothic architecture. So, take a moment to explore its stunning lancet stained-glass windows (depicting Biblical scenes); pointed masonry stone arches; and eastern transept, home to a deliberately misaligned vaulted ceiling. And maybe, you’ll find that some of the features look familiar, thanks to their cameos in Hollywood films ‘The Da Vinci Code’ (2005) and ‘The Young Victoria’ (2007). <br> <br> Another historical Lincoln landmark to look out for, is the privately-owned Elizabethan manor house <a href="https://www.doddingtonhall.com/" target="_blank">Doddington Hall & Gardens</a>. Set in the Lincolnshire countryside among five acres of landscaped gardens, the 17th century estate is a <a href="https://www.doddingtonhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Doddington-Hall-Estate-Map-2021.pdf" target="_blank">microcosm</a> of the city’s best offerings. Take your pick of organic products from its Farm Shop; spoil yourself to the wide range of homewares and luxury body and fragrance items from its Home Store; or sample an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs from its Kitchen Garden – making for a truly authentic British experience. <br> <br> And if you’re after a different kind of retail therapy, don’t forget to head over to the <a href="https://www.cornhillquarter.co.uk/" target="_blank">Cornhill Quarter</a>. There’s plenty on, so it’s an ideal place to visit for the day. The shopping district is lined with a wealth of cafés, bars, restaurants, a cinema, and a gym. You can even be vocal for local, thanks to a series of independent boutiques and year-round farmers’ markets (alongside the usual high-street favourites). <br> <br> Done for the day? Retreat to a secluded luxury holiday cottage, such as <a href="https://www.ashlinfarmbarns.co.uk/" target="_blank">Ashlin Farm Barns</a> (pictured above). Situated a mere 5 miles outside of Lincoln’s city centre, the accommodation sleeps a group of 10 across 5 spacious en-suite bedrooms. Relax with a glass of red and a TV series on a 52-inch screen, while you sink into the deep U-shaped sofa; fire up the barbeque and enjoy an alfresco lunch in the spacious private garden; wake up to the serene sights and sounds of neighbouring cows in panoramic fields; and unwind in the 10-seater swim spa, under the starry night sky. And if all that rest and relaxation has you geared up for the next day, you can venture further afield to <a href="https://www.lincswolds.org.uk/" target="_blank">Lincolnshire Wolds AONB</a> – where you can embark on a range of outdoors activities, including walking, cycling , and horse riding.
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PET-FRIENDLY | Chloe, Business Support Executive | North Cornwall
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<br> <br> Cornwall is one of the UK’s most popular coastal destinations in the summer. A refreshingly mild climate, pristine beaches, ready-to-surf waves, and beautiful woodlands and moorlands. You name it, you’ll find it here. And with over 300 coastline spots to explore, you’re looking at a dog-friendly getaway. <br> <br> Escape to the likes of the <a href="https://www.bedruthan.com/" target="_blank">Bedruthan Hotel and Spa</a>. Perfectly set in the hamlet town of Mawgan Porth in north Cornwall, you’ll find this award-winning, luxury hotel nestled in a cove mid-way between Padstow and Newquay (but more on the former a little later). <br> <br> If you’re a dog owner, travel light and take your pick from a choice of select dog-friendly rooms, apartments, or villas – each complete with a blanket, dog towel, two feeding bowls, and a feeding mat. There’s a limit of five dogs in the hotel at any one time. But this proves ideal for any four-legged companions, which tend to be wary or anxious around other dogs. Plus, many of the hotel’s communal areas - including the cocktail bar, terrace, and mezzanine – will welcome your canine friends. So, there’s plenty of space to keep them happy. And while you’re in such spaces, don’t miss the postcard vistas from sea-facing windows. Think basking in dramatic sunsets approaching the Atlantic Ocean horizon; rooms awash with dreamy pastel pink and blue hues. <br> <br> Time to relax a step further? Simply drop off your dog to the hotel’s doggy day care. Then head to the tranquil Sensory Spa Garden, to unwind in an hour-long Nordic thermal experience. Indulge in an oatmeal and Himalayan salt scrub; detoxify with a cold bucket drench shower; sit back in a soothing hot tub; and relax and cleanse in the Cedar sauna – accompanied by calming, serene ocean views. <br> <br> Away from the hotel, take a 10-minute stroll down to Mawgan Porth Beach. Facing west, the all year round dog-friendly beach offers an expanse of unspoiled golden sands, bordered by headlands on either side – making for an idyllic coastal walk or run with your dog. And at low tide, don’t forget to look out for several rock pools and small caves to explore. You can then embark on an hour-long hike via the South West Coast Path or take a seven-minute drive to the National Trust site at Bedruthan Steps. Its beach serves up statuesque sea stack drama and visual treats in equal doses. Take an invigorating dip in the crystal turquoise blue waters or opt for romantic walks and picnics amid a scenic backdrop – or both. Plus, Bedruthan Steps boasts <a href="https://gostargazing.co.uk/events/locations/carnewas-bedruthan-steps/" target="_blank">‘Dark Sky Discovery Status’</a>; meaning it’s recognised as a great place to star gaze, thanks to low light pollution. <br> <br> Can’t leave Cornwall without trying surfing? Head north to the nearby exposed Constantine Bay, which explains why it’s a popular surfing beach (and another dog-friendly space to have a paddle in – pictured above is Flossie). If you and your dog are feeling peckish, you can both visit famous chef Rick Stein’s gastropub The Cornish Arms in St Merryn, Padstow. And if you get time, check out the 12th century St Endoch’s Church – a local landmark in Daymer Bay (pictured).
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FAMILY WITH YOUNG CHILDREN | Hiren – Senior Front End Developer | Long Sutton, Lincolnshire
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<br> <br> What do you get with a relatively unknown market town in the South Holland district of Lincolnshire? A largely undiscovered gem in the form of Long Sutton. And one that is the perfect destination for a fuss-free family UK staycation, notably as we approach the school summer holidays. <br> <br> So, where to begin? Settle into a cosy <a href="https://www.airbnb.co.uk/" target="_blank">four-bedroom rural cottage</a> (pictured top right), in the heart of the picturesque Lincolnshire Fens. With a large secure garden, complete with toys to accommodate young children, you can let the little ones play with abandon. And with an equally spacious kitchen, you can cook to your heart’s content – and create lifelong memories over the dining table. In the evenings, opt for a walk, light run, or jog – an ideal opportunity to enjoy the refreshing summer breeze, and explore the stunning fields overlooking The Fens’ South Holland Drain. Plus, if you time your doorstep outings to coincide with dusk, expect to see such sublime sunsets (pictured top left). <br> <br> Aside from the accommodation, you can look forward to a series of child-friendly activities too! A quick 20-minute drive to nearby Spalding offers young crowd pleasers such as <a href="https://laserstorm.co.uk/spalding/" target="_blank">laser tag</a> and an <a href="https://www.springfieldsadventureland.co.uk/" target="_blank">adventure wonderland</a> (including a tree top village, paddle boats, and a rock climbing course). Or stay local, and opt for unique things to do; like classes at a <a href="https://www.doodlecrafts.co.uk/" target="_blank">kid’s pottery and clay studio</a>. <br> <br> But if you’re keen to drive out a bit further, enter: Norfolk. Head north east to Heacham South Beach (pictured bottom left), to enjoy a sandy, secluded beach – ideal for uninterrupted sunbathing (weather permitting!), or hire a beach hut for a family picnic. As Norfolk is home to renowned <a href="https://norfolk-lavender.co.uk/" target="_blank">lavender fields</a>, you’ll also be treated to the aroma of fresh lavender. Plus, while you’re here, don’t forget to add <a href="https://www.alivewestnorfolk.co.uk/venues/oasis/" target="_blank">Alive Oasis</a> to your list! A sports and leisure centre located in Hunstanton, just north of Heacham Beach, this is one for children of all ages – thanks to the swimming pool, roller skating facility, and indoor soft play area. <br> <br> Plus, for the golfer dads out there, Long Sutton is also home to <a href="https://www.pure-leisure.co.uk/parks/norfolk/tydd-st-giles/overview/" target="_blank">Tydd St Giles Golf and Country Club</a>. Complete with an immaculate 18-hole, par 70 golf course set amid stunning unspoiled patches of woodland, you’ll be right at home. Post-game exertion, you can unwind courtesy of the heated indoor swimming pool, sauna, and steam rooms.
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QUINTESSENTIAL BRITISH COUNTRYSIDE | Samantha – Senior Compliance Manager | Holmfirth, West Yorkshire
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<br> <br> Are you after a piece of the quintessentially British countryside – but with a twist? Enter: glamping (for the uninitiated, that’s glamourous camping), in West Yorkshire of all places. <br> <br> Take for instance, the family-run <a href="https://holmevalleycamping.com/" target="_blank">Holme Valley Camping & Caravan Park</a>. Located in Holmfirth on the outskirts of the Peak District, among 16 acres of woodland and meadows, this hidden gem is an ideal base from which to explore the outdoors; around and beyond the site. <br> <br> Opt to stay in the budget-friendly yet luxurious <a href="https://holmevalleycamping.com/glamping" target="_blank">Glamping Cabin</a>, which sleeps three. You’ll have access to lighting, electricity, and heating – plus, the comfort of your own en-suite shower room. But just as with any camping site, you will need to pack your own pots, pans, utensils, tea towels, bedding, and camping chairs for use outside. You can, however, stock up on other essentials from the onsite licensed shop; open into the evenings. And there's lots to enjoy, including nature trails, bike rides, and fishing in both the lake and river; with the River Holme meandering around the park – so expect to see sightings of herons, dippers, and kingfishers. <br> <br> If that’s not enough to keep you busy, you can venture outside of the camping site to numerous nearby reservoirs – each offering their own breathtaking views. Or for the ultimate challenge, take a 20-minute drive to Holme Moss: a high moorland which offers charming views (525 metres above sea level, to be precise!), which was part of the Tour de France route in 2014. And to top off your trip, drive down to <a href="http://www.purenorthciderpress.com/" target="_blank">The Pure North Cider Press</a> for a refreshing, authentic glass (or two) of cider or apple juice. <br> <br> Wherever you choose to staycation, don’t forget to take advantage of fee-free spending in the UK when you pay using your <a href="https://www.caxtonfx.com/cards/currency-card" target="_blank">Caxton pre-paid currency card</a>. <a href="https://myaccount.caxtonfx.com/Account/login" target="_blank">Log into your Caxton account</a> today to top up, view transaction overviews, and much more. If you’re yet to <a href="https://myaccount.caxtonfx.com/Account/Register" target="_blank">register</a> an account with us and would like to find out more, discover how to <a href="https://www.caxtonfx.com/cards" target="_blank">spend and send your money at home (and abroad!)</a> in a smarter, more secure way.