Well Britain, you’ve only gone and done it.
After years of begging, you’ve finally gone and given us the summer we’ve all been waiting for. Yes, temperatures soaring to above 30 degrees, endless hours of sunshine, and BBQs and fans flying off the shelves like they’re going out of fashion. It certainly makes those of us who haven’t booked a summer holiday rather smug. Instead of being consumed with jealousy so much that you’re so green you’re being mistaken for stray seaweed, we’re actually giving them a pitiful wave off at the airport, muttering under our breath “the weather is better here anyway, AND I saved all my money and holiday allowance!”
For the first time ever, holiday goers are the underdog, and Britain has come up trumps in providing us with our very own slice of paradise. Now, yes, this is all very well if you are a) loaded and have a pool, or b) live near the beach. However, most of us will still have to travel a little further afield to fully appreciate the weather, but how does saving a load of cash on skipping out flights from your holiday bookings sound?! There are tons of luxurious locations to soak up sunshine right here in the UK. Okay, so I’ll admit, they are wasted for 11 months of the year most of the time, but now is when they are thriving. Here we show you some of our favourite summer destinations in the UK!
GWEL AN MOR, CORNWALL
Gwel An Mor in Cornwall is a luxury 5* resort, boasting beautiful holiday lodges, close to the beaches of Portreath and Godrevy, and has its very own Wellbeing spa, offering a range of treatments and heated swimming pool, sauna and steam room. The resort’s Terrace restaurant allows you to dine on the decking, absorbing spectacular sea views, and serves up everything from authentic Cornish Cream Tea to locally produced evening dishes. Nearby, there are beaches perfect for surfing or relaxing, and the on site tennis court is available to hire.
The lodges range from 1 bedroom to 4, and prices vary by season and availability. One of my favourite of the lodge offering as to be the Tregea VIP Deluxe Lodge, sleeps 6, and has a private hot tub on the sun terrace, gas BBQ, wood burner and LCD televisions. You’ll also enjoy maid service so you won’t have to lift a finger. This really is my kind of ‘self catering’ holiday!
SANDBANKS, BOURNEMOUTH
One of the best stretches of coastline in the UK, Bournemouth boasts miles of golden sands amidst a range of activities and nightlife to enjoy. If you’re looking for luxury, Sandbanks must be your first port of call. Home to the South coast’s elite, and Dorset’s answer to Chelsea, Sandbanks offers luxury dining, plush beaches and great hotels. The Haven Hotel, The Sandbanks, and The Harbour Heights, all owned by The FJB Collection, are four star hotels in Sandbanks. My favourite has to be the Haven Hotel, as it has a beautiful outdoor pool with sea views, and is walking distance from the beach, not to mention panoramic views at the Pavillion Bar.
Nearby eateries include Cafe Shore (great steaks!), Jazz Cafe and Branksome Beach – all ideal for unwinding with a cocktail while listening to the crashing waves.
ALEXANDRA HOTEL, LYME REGIS
This grade II listed historic house has been converted into a gorgeous boutique hotel right on the beach, and offers award winning food and reserve wines, for a real touch of elegance. Winner of the Conde Nast Johansens Best Waterside Hotel award, this enchanting hotel in the quaint town of Lyme Regis is the ideal location for luxury getaway. Every room has sea views, and unique yet quintessentially British decor.
ST MICHAEL’S HOTEL AND SPA, FALMOUTH
Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life at this secluded sanctuary of relaxation in Falmouth, Cornwall. Featuring a gorgeous spa overlooking the sub tropical gardens, with a sauna, steam room, jacuzzi with sea views, and a pool on the sun deck, this is the perfect spot for a luxurious weekend away. After a £4 million refurbishment, the hotel is regarded as one of the finest hotels in the South West. The on site restaurant serves up local cuisine over looking the sea, and during the summer months you can enjoy al fresco dining watching the sun set over the breathtaking Cornish sands. The surrounding area offers spectacular walking routes, watersports and golf courses.
