Making the most of your UK staycation

From breath-taking views to historic towns and villages, staycations offer us the opportunity to explore what the UK has to offer, and as over three quarters (77%) of us Brits planned to enjoy at least one holiday at home this year, it’s clear the pandemic fuelled trend is here to stay, and with very good reason. From stress-free travel, pet friendly accommodation and hidden gems to suit all budgets, exploring landmarks and towns closer to home can create some fantastic memories for the whole family.

If you’re planning your very own UK staycation this year, our experts have put together a handy guide to help you make the most of it.

Break out of your comfort zone

Travelling, whether abroad or at home is a great way to push yourself outside of your comfort zone. You are thrust into a completely new environment where ways of life are different and habits you’re accustomed to are forgotten.

And as scary as it may be, a staycation really is the perfect time to take advantage of experimenting with new adventures, no matter how small. Try eating at a new restaurant, facing a fear, or learning a new skill and you’ll soon reap the rewards.

Take a break from technology

Did you know, most UK adults spend up to five hours per day digitally connected? We use screens for work, entertainment, shopping, and communication, meaning a huge part of our lives revolve around a digital device of some sort. And because of this, disconnecting can seem incredibly difficult!

However, when enjoying a staycation, the pressures of life can be forgotten (at least just for the week), allowing us to rely on our mobile phones, laptops, and TV screens a lot less. This forces us to reconnect with our surroundings, appreciate the time we get to spend with our loved ones, and engage more honestly with our chosen destination – enjoying each moment as they happen!

Learn something new

Whilst spending a week lying poolside soaking up the sun seems like the perfect way to keep life’s troubles at bay, stress relief today is taking a different shape.

Learning a new skill is a fantastic way to escape the holiday rut – and whilst we’re not complaining about beach days, fancy restaurants and shopping trips, trying something new such as bread making or open water swimming is a great alternative to relaxing the mind.

Sure, the idea of learning a new skill alongside your nine to five sounds great, but often finding time for yourself amongst the chaos of everyday life can be struggle, making learning whilst on staycation a great option.

Become a tourist in your hometown

Staycations usually include plenty of sun and long road trips, but have you ever considered staying put and exploring your own city? Not only will you spend less time behind the wheel and save a few pennies, but you’ll get the chance to discover the hidden gems that lie right on your doorstep!

Whether it’s a tranquil reservoir such as Bewl Water in Lamberhurst or a meal that wows at The Brasserie on Chapel Place, using your staycation time as the opportunity to finally get around and check out those places you’ve always put off is a sure way to fall in love with your hometown all over again.

Embrace nature

Mental health experts have determined that deepening our connection to nature is vital in keeping us emotionally, psychologically, and physically healthy. After all, we weren’t meant to seclude ourselves indoors all day every day!

There are endless benefits to spending time outdoors, and doing so during your staycation is the perfect escape from the busy schedules we too often get caught up in. Try researching popular parks, scenic walking routes and activity centres nearby your chosen staycation spot to fully immerse yourself in all things nature during your trip.

Staycations in Royal Tunbridge Wells

Set amongst 36 acres of picturesque grounds, The Garden Cottages at Salomons Estate are our newest luxury visitor accommodation available to book from November 1^st, 2022, where guests can enjoy their second night for half price when booking any stay up until the end November.

The four delightful buildings hidden amongst the winding gardens of Salomons Estate offer guests the chance to relax and unwind in their own little slice of rural paradise. Explore the stunning surroundings by day and spend evenings in your luxury cottage that boasts a double bedroom, a fully equipped kitchen, bathroom, and lounge area with TV.

Once part of a large glasshouse built in 1888-90, the holiday lets were originally a place for David Salomons’ gardening staff to nurture seedlings and re-pot plants for the estate’s extensive fruit and flower gardens which has shaped today’s restorations.

Expect plenty of original features highlighting the historical charm and character of the cottages allowing you to truly step back in time. Priced from £219 per night, guests can book by emailing reception@salomons-estate.com