A multi-award winning staycation, travel and lifestyle blog
If you’ve ever wanted to escape the noise and pace of modern life, quietcations are the perfect solution. This growing trend focuses on calm, restorative travel, offering a break from busy schedules and the everyday rush. From sleepy villages to serene coastlines, historic market towns to national parks, the UK is full of destinations where you can slow down, reconnect with nature, and truly unwind.
Continue reading ➞ Quietcations: The Ultimate Guide to Peaceful Getaways in the UK
If you’ve ever thought about taking a solo Christmas holiday, this is your sign. Travelling alone over Christmas might sound unconventional, but honestly, it’s one of the most freeing, soul-nourishing experiences you can have. Forget awkward family politics, endless washing up after Christmas dinner, or trying to smile through another pair of novelty socks. This year, you get to write your own festive story – mince pies, mulled wine, and all. Here are some destinations and tried-and-tested hotels where you can enjoy Christmas breaks for one!
Continue reading ➞ Christmas Breaks For One: The Ultimate Solo Christmas Travel Guide
If you’re a fan of Elizabethan grandeur, stunning countryside views, and a touch of period drama, then Montacute House in Somerset should be right at the top of your must-visit list. In the heart of the West Country, near Ilminster, this golden beauty is one of the National Trust’s most iconic properties – and with good reason!
Continue reading ➞ Montacute House and Gardens Review – National Trust in Somerset
Nestled in the scenic countryside of Somerset, Lytes Cary Manor is a beautiful medieval manor house with a rich history, formal gardens, and even a National Trust holiday cottage on site. Whether visiting for a peaceful day out or planning a longer countryside escape, this guide covers everything you need to know about Lytes Cary Manor near Somerton.
There’s something genuinely magical about stumbling across a place that feels like it’s been lifted straight from a period drama – minus the corsets and candlelight, thankfully. Barrington Court in Somerset is exactly that. It’s the kind of spot that quietly impresses without shouting about itself and having visited myself (trainers on, dog in tow), I can safely say it’s one of my favourite days out in Ilminster.
Fancy swapping a traditional hotel break for a cosy pub, a proper pint and a hearty dinner? Pubcations are the ultimate relaxed UK staycation, combining characterful pubs, comfortable rooms, good food and some of the best countryside and coastal destinations in Britain. In this guide, I’m sharing what a pubcation actually is, some of the places I’ve stayed and loved, plus ideas for where to go next – from Cornwall and Devon to the Cotswolds, Yorkshire Dales, Wales and beyond. And yes, plenty of them are dog-friendly, because it isn’t a real getaway if they can’t come too.
Continue reading ➞ Why Pubcations Are Britain’s New Favourite Staycation
The Bell at Broadway in Somerset isn’t just any country pub – it’s a charming 17th-century inn with bags of character, beautifully renovated rooms, and the kind of food that’ll have you planning your return before you’ve even finished dessert. From the moment we arrived, it felt like home – relaxed, friendly, and full of locals chatting away like old friends. Oh, and our dog Ivan? He was living his best life, with head scratches, cheeky treats, and being called by name by the end of night one.
Continue reading ➞ The Bell at Broadway: Dog-Friendly Dining and Dreamy Stays in Somerset
In the heart of Somerset, Ilminster might not be the first town that pops to mind when you think of a day out or a staycation, but it’s full of surprises! Whether after a peaceful family day, a quirky experience, or a local pub to unwind in, this charming town has something for everyone. Let’s dive into some of the best things to do in Ilminster.
Living in or visiting the Welsh capital puts you in the perfect position to explore some of the UK’s most iconic cities, scenic coastlines, and cultural gems – all within a few hours. Whether you’re after countryside rambles, historic towns, seaside strolls or even a quick hop across the water, here’s your ultimate travel plan day trip from Cardiff.
Looking to add a bit of magic to your next staycation? Phenomena Travel brings you jaw-dropping moments and gorgeous UK landscapes that feel straight out of a nature documentary. This travel trend is all about chasing the most awe-inspiring natural phenomena, from the Northern Lights to migratory marvels – these experiences are impressive.
Continue reading ➞ Phenomena Travel in the UK: A Staycation Guide