Unique places to stay that will transform your definition of ‘British summer holiday’
Parnham Park, Beaminster, Dorset
This sprawling, fairytale mansion suffered devastating fire damage in 2017, but its custodians are overseeing a rebirth that’s transforming the 16th-century, Grade I-listed home into a hub of craftsmanship, culture and community. The vision includes nurturing new ecosystems, generating homegrown produce, and hosting workshops, events and exhibitions.
Experience the evolving magic with a stay in one of the elegant bedrooms in the West Wing (which also includes a grand dining space, tranquil library and hidden speakeasy) or in the private three-bedroom retreat The Dower House.
Magical opportunities amid the estate’s 139 acres are boundless. Wander through woodland and gardens, spot deer in the park, splash in the waterfall, go boating on the spring-fed lake, search for treasures by the river and delight in creative dishes at the Michelin-recognised walled garden restaurant.
The Nici, Bournemouth, Dorset
On Bournemouth’s West Cliff, The Nici offers a Miami-coded, sunshine-soaked escape, whatever the British weather.
The chic hotel has nailed laid-back luxury in an unapologetically kitsch and colourful manner. Playfulness is found at every turn – from the beachy-bright artwork and opportunity to sip in-room spiced rum out of a golden pineapple to basking next to the flamingos flanking the outdoor pool.
The Nici is one of those rare finds that’s equally as chic for a grown-up getaway as it’s fun for a multi-generational break. The cinema room (with popcorn machine, natch), kids’ den and dedicated family swim times offer bonding moments for grandparents and littlies while parents sneak off for a spa treatment.
There are two dining options: classic elegance abounds at South Beach restaurant, while Old Harry Rocks bar and restaurant is the go-to for easygoing vibes, big flavours and live DJs.
Pythouse Kitchen Garden, Tisbury, Wiltshire
For sensory seekers, green-fingered folks and the sustainably minded alike, this 18th-century walled garden in stunning Wiltshire landscape is an enchanting place to call home for a weekend.
Book a spot in the glamping village, located in a secluded orchard, or an atmospheric shepherd’s hut for two to enjoy a restorative stay. Days spent in the outdoor sauna, pottering through the gardens and sampling Pythouse’s own Sprigster botanical drinks conclude with ethically aligned dining, which is cooked with a lick of fire and smoke, in the Michelin Green Star restaurant.
North Rocks, Sennen, Cornwall
What could possibly transform your summer more than a getaway at a clifftop oasis? Answer: a getaway at a clifftop oasis complete with heated outdoor pool, sauna, ice bath and knockout sea views of course.
The exquisite North Rocks house sleeps seven, so take the gang and embrace Mediterranean villa-style living. Spend the long summer days tag-teaming dips in the pool and the ocean, embracing the nordic cycle with hot and cold therapy, strolling through sprawling gardens and gathering round the firepit under the evening sky.
Wherever you choose to spend time, you’ll find every inch maximised to make the most of the panoramic views.
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.
Kudhva, Tintagel, Cornwall
Give your annual camping holiday a serious upgrade by staying in one of the artfully curated spaces at this old slate quarry.
There are four choices of lodgings at the off-grid location. The Kudhva cabins (pictured) are towering treehouse-like structures amid woodland. The TPs are simple comfortable tipis overlooking the Atlantic. There’s also the Kudhva Kanvas, an innovative elevated canvas cabin, or choose the Danish Cabin, a one-of-a-kind 1:3 replica of the quarry’s old engine house.
A wild swimming lake, waterfall, climbing wall, hot tub and the nearby coast deliver the rest of the fun.
Thyme, Southrop, Gloucestershire
Shaped by nature, Thyme is like a self-contained idyllic Cotswolds village. It comprises 17th-century houses and cottages (31 bedrooms in all), the Ox Barn restaurant, the Baa Bar, The Swan pub, a cookery school, Meadow Spa, a couple of boutiques and the Tithe Barn event and exhibition space.
Visit to immerse in a slower pace of life and reconnect with nature.
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