From alfresco dining to a yachting adventure, these eight things will help you embrace escapism this spring
Dress for adventure
Cornish clothing brand Finisterre has teamed up with sustainable trainer maker VEJA to launch the Fitz Roy Trail Shoe. Made with ecological responsibility and crafted using innovative materials, they’re good for both adventuring and the planet.
Perch in the canopy
Overlooking the idyllic Start Bay coastline in Devon, Wildcomfort offers getawayers the chance to experience bird-like freedom in the trees.
Its three birdhouse cabins and The Lookout are perched within wild woodland, and each unique retreat has its own private bathroom, kitchen and a deck from which to soak up the dawn chorus.
Unfurl at Fern
Consider this your heads-up on one of Cornwall’s most exciting new restaurant openings. Hidden away in countryside near Bodmin in Cornwall, Fern is an oasis of creative cooking and cool vibes.
Visit for precise but casual small-plate feasting with service from the loveliest team. If you do nothing else, order the snacks: the cheesy Kern Custard Creams with blueberry ketchup, and Crispy Pigs with burnt apple and leek emulsion are knockout.
Take a sound bath
Escape the mental chatter at Cary Arms & Spa in south Devon. Its Water Sound Bath provides utter liberation for the senses. Float weightlessly on the water while healing tones from crystal singing bowls fill the air.
Set sail
Feel the wind in your sails on a yachting adventure. The Watersports Academy at Poole Quay in Dorset takes groups of up to ten people (overseen by a qualified skipper) out on the ocean. Half- and full-day charters pass landmarks such as Brownsea Island, Sandbanks peninsula and Studland Bay. For maximum escapist vibes, book the catamaran at either end of the day: watch the sun rise with a chilled juice in one hand and a bacon roll in the other, or witness dusk fall while nibbling canapés and sipping Champagne.
Feast at the beach
Head to Exmouth in Devon to soak up coastal culture at Heydays. Its bright brunches and sunny vibes make for a seriously chilled seaside dining experience.
Fresh-off-the-beach diners can wander into the open downstairs area or head upstairs for sweeping views of the sea – either from the spacious atrium-style main restaurant or on the outside deck. Stacked burgers, brunch dishes, and fresh cocktails are the order of the day.
Gather in the garden
As alfresco feasting returns to the calendar, there’s nowhere more joyful to eat outdoors than the garden at Halwyn near Newquay in Cornwall. A new spring menu of smart yet casual dishes is paired with a state-of-the-art golf driving range and contemporary mini golf. Family friendly and fun, it’s a fresh way to spend quality time with your favourite people.
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