Set the compass for ‘freedom’ with Abi Manning’s curation of cool places to escape this spring
Zephyros, Dorset
With the Jurassic Coast sparkling to the south, undulating valleys for miles and a commanding position on a ridge within an AONB, Zephyros delivers the distinct feeling of living in the clouds.
The uber‑luxe home (which sleeps 12) is a modern family Arcadia, thanks to its surrounding woodland and wildflower meadows, adventure playground, cinema snug and poolhouse. There are also fossil‑hunting opportunities a mere pebble’s skim away.
The interior is restfulness incarnate: lofty ceilings and giant windows impart the feeling of infinite space, while a palette of sky blue, grey and white – with bursts of pink and orange – connects guests to the seasons.
Foodies will relish the welcome hamper of local produce, as well as Zephyros’ position near River Cottage HQ, Lyme Bay Winery and Millers Farm Shop. Those angling to get on the water can charter a boat at West Bay
The Queen’s Arms, Somerset
This lovely pub with rooms is prime walk‑followed‑by‑pub‑lunch territory. Nobody wants their rural stroll to conclude with a sub‑par burger and pint of watery cola, so plan a route that ends at The Queen’s Arms, which straddles the Dorset‑Somerset border.
Weary walkers will find sweet reward as almost everything on the menu is crafted in‑house – from the nibbles served at the bar to the seasonal desserts.
Make it a full weekend and book one of ten boutique bedrooms (there are dog‑friendly rooms in the Coach House and a family‑friendly cottage in the peaceful garden), each individually decorated with handpicked antiques. There are heaps of surrounding paths to explore, and ramblers can even enjoy food to‑go as the pub provides picnics on request.
Tibbetts, Devon
Former Lundy Island agent Felix Gade wrote that ‘to enjoy Tibbetts one has to be the right kind of person’. Read: one who would find pleasure in staying in a remote building on a far‑flung island.
The former signal and watch station (it’s said that 14 lighthouses can be spotted from Tibbetts on a clear night) is a one‑way ticket to tranquility and ideal for those who relish solitude and space.
Slow down and switch off; this is a place of simplicity with little (to no) phone signal, no electricity (it does have a pumped water supply and shower) and original built‑in bunks. Despite its lack of flourishes, however, it’s remarkably comfortable and utterly delightful.
The Croft, Cornwall
Escape with a getaway to the sublime and sheltered harbour of Coverack on the Lizard Peninsula (Britain’s most southerly point).
Days at this lovely house, which sleeps eight, can be spent gazing over the ocean, taking dips in the sea (accessible from the bottom of the garden), soaking in the hot tub, wandering three levels of landscaped gardens, and cracking the spine of a holiday read while swinging in an outdoor egg chair. Come evening, the day’s catch can be cooked up on the Big Green Egg for an appropriately piscatorial feast.
The building is timeless, from its marble pillars and the stone balustrade of the terrace to the parquet flooring, oak staircase and reclaimed marble features. A stay includes a £100 Cornish Food Box voucher so you can order goodies ready for your arrival, while sumptuous land&water products are placed throughout the property.
The Beach Hut, Devon
Embrace utter isolation at this lovely hut, tucked in a private cove and invisible from the path above.
There’s zero phone signal, so consider this an ultra‑secluded digital detox. But who needs to indulge in doom scrolling when this quirky cottage has the most incredible views of the south Devon coastline? Drink it in while firing up the barbie, popping the cork on a bottle of fizz, easing into the wood‑fired hot tub or swinging in side‑by‑side hammocks.
Nearby Carswell Farm can provide food hampers ready for your arrival, while its foraging and safari tours are great for those who want to try a novel outdoor experience during their stay.
The Wellington, Cornwall
The intoxicating cocktail of history, literature, sorcery and scenery of the tiny fishing port of Boscastle is to be found at The Wellington, where echoes of the past charge the atmosphere.
The centuries‑old former coaching inn has recently enjoyed a heritage‑chic makeover, complete with rich colours and antique curios, while history oozes from huge open fires and stained‑glass panelling. The pub’s charm is further heightened on discovering that figures such as King Edward VII and Thomas Hardy revelled in these surroundings.
Guests can take their pick from accommodation that ranges from cabins to apartments, but historical escapism is best found in the luxurious superior rooms nestled within beautifully preserved fairytale turrets
Enjoyed places to escape this spring? Discover more impressive pads in the South West.
