With the end of lockdown in sight, for many, wanderlust is hitting an all-time high. While we might not be able to immediately jet off on an international adventure, the UK has plenty to offer for that first special trip once lockdown lifts. From the most exclusive luxury private estates big enough for all the family to dreamy spa breaks, city explorations, country boltholes and gourmet getaways, here is our great British bucket list…
The Gainsborough Bath Spa – For Wellness Gurus
After the year we’ve had, many of us will be seeking true rest and relaxation for our first post-lockdown break. As the only hotel in the country with access to Bath’s natural thermal waters, there’s no better place to restore body and mind than The Gainsborough Bath Spa. In the heart of Bath, the hotel and its award-winning spa is a true wellness sanctuary and is ideally located for guests to explore the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage City.
The Academy, Bloomsbury- For those who have developed a love for literature during lockdown
For many, lockdown has been a chance to catch up on reading and fully immerse ourselves in the world of books. Those who have a newfound love for literature, or for those who have seen their passion for reading grow even more need not let this go once lockdown lifts. YTL Hotels’ elegant Gower Street property, The Academy, is thrilled to offer guests a series of literary experiences to enjoy in celebration of the hotel’s location, in London’s literary, cultural and intellectual heart. From literary walks to intimate book club gatherings and a bespoke literary collection cocktail menu, The Academy is a literary hub with its very own story to tell. Book-loving guests looking to follow in the footsteps of Bloomsbury greats who once lived and worked in the neighbourhood need look no further for the ultimate bookish escape.
The Glasshouse Edinburgh- For Foodies & Whisky Aficionados
Located in the heart of Edinburgh, a stone’s throw away from Calton Hill and the Royal Mile, The Glasshouse boasts more outdoor space than any other hotel in the city with a stunning two-acre rooftop garden terrace offering captivating views of Calton Hill. The peaceful rooftop is the ideal setting for a luxury Scottish picnic to enjoy over the spring and summer months. Following an afternoon indulging, guests can look forward to retiring to the hotel’s award-winning whisky snug, offering a selection of more than 150 Scotch whiskies, with the expert team on hand to guide guests through the country’s drams and regions drink by drink.
DUKES LONDON – For Travellers Craving City Culture After Months of Isolation
Whilst most people took pleasure in the great outdoors during the pandemic, after a year, many are starting to crave the excitement of city life again, now that restrictions are forecast to ease. For city-lovers, DUKES LONDON is the perfect spot to soak up all that the capital has to offer. Located centrally, in the heart of St James’s, with Green Park and St James’s Park as its back garden, guests will find themselves in the midst of the action with fantastic proximity to galleries, restaurants, pubs and green spaces. With cultural events, exhibitions, and hospitality opening in the next couple of months DUKES LONDON looks forward to welcoming tourists back with open arms – and a celebratory Martini!
Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill, Marylebone – A classic city escape
Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill, offers a sophisticated stay in the chic neighbourhood of Marylebone Village. Close to Hyde Park, the hotel overlooks leafy Portman Square Garden and has Marylebone’s stylish independent boutiques, fashionable restaurants and local cafes on its doorstep. From some of London’s top landmarks and cultural attractions, including Buckingham Palace, The British Museum and Madame Tussauds, to the flagship stores of Oxford Street and Bond Street, the hotel’s prime position is perfect for those looking for a London city getaway this summer. With the upcoming launch of The Montagu Summer Terrace on 12th April, the hotel promises to transport guests away from busy London and to a tranquil British Marina, offering a mouth-watering menu of fresh seafood and chilled wines, allowing those to finish the day in a relaxed and summertide setting.
The Ultimate Five-Star Retreat at The Grove, Hertfordshire
The Grove, London’s country estate, is set within 300 acres of rolling Hertfordshire countryside and offers the ultimate five-star retreat for couples, friends and families alike, just 18 miles from central London. The former family seat of the Earls of Clarendon, the estate dates back to the 16th century and retains many of its original features. The Grove will unveil the results of an extensive renovation project when the hotel relaunches on 17th May 2021. The complete redesign has been masterminded by award-winning interiors studio, Martin Hulbert Design and incorporates all three dining spaces – The Glasshouse, The Stables and The Lounges – as well as the lobby area and all 189 West Wing guest rooms. The estate boasts a world-class, 18-hole championship golf course as well as an expansive spa, which offers an array of transformative treatments and luxurious facilities, including a 22-metre indoor pool, Jacuzzi, heat experience rooms and a state-of-the-art fitness centre. Family activities include archery, junior golf camps, forest camps, Segway tours, woodland hawking walks, archery, laser shooting, cycling and much more. The Grove recently unveiled Madhu’s at The Grove, a South Asian pop-up restaurant in collaboration with renowned banqueting specialists and caterers to the royal family, Madhu’s.
Dedicated Benefits for a British Break with Little Emperors
Little Emperors, the private members luxury hotel club has announced its best British breaks, all of which offer incredible dedicated benefits. Experience undeniably enticing luxury rooms at Clivedon House in Berkshire which is nestled within almost 400acres of National Trust parkland. Explore the tranquil water garden, fitness trail through the grounds or find your way out of the Clivedon Maze. Reconnect at the family friendly Four Seasons Hampshire, a restored 18th Century Manor House with rolling hills to ride along on horse-back and beautiful lush gardens to explore on foot. Little Emperors promises to deliver value in luxury like never seen before offering unparalleled benefits and a lowest price guarantee. The company works with 35,000 members and over 4,000 of the very best luxury hotels around the world. Little Emperors most popular British hotels include: Clivedon House, Four Seasons Hampshire, The Newt andLe Manoir aux Quat’Saisons.
Culloden Estate & Spa Launches Two New Romance Packages, Northern Ireland
The Culloden Estate & Spa in Belfast stands on the Holywood hills’ forested slopes, overlooking Belfast Lough and the glorious County Antrim coastline, offering idyllic surrounds for a cosy weekend break. Deemed ‘The Ritz of Northern Ireland,’ the Culloden is a grand estate originally built as a Palace for the Bishops of Down. Guests can explore the glorious, autumnal colours of Northern Ireland with nature at their doorstep, whilst admiring the maples at Mount Stewart, located just minutes from the Culloden Estate & Spa. A notable hotel among many A-list couples such as Victoria and David Beckham and Catherine Zeta-Jones, is celebrating the major accolade of Best Hotel for Romance in the UK.