A British staycation is set to be a particularly popular holiday choice in 2021 – and it doesn’t take a genius to work out why. Sadly, Covid has put paid to dreams of far-flung, exotic destinations for most of us.
But the truth is, even before a global pandemic changed the face of the travel industry, we were waxing lyrical about a British staycation. There’s just so much to love about a homeland holiday and we have a feeling more people will be converted in the coming months – perhaps choosing to holiday in the UK even after the world has properly opened up again.
Here are just some of the reasons why we love a Great British staycation:
You get to swerve the airport drama.
Getting up at silly o’clock, never-ending queues, baggage allowances, lost luggage… not the most relaxing ways to start a holiday! The great thing about staying in the UK is you can choose when you hit the road, you avoid all the stressful airport procedures and your only restriction on luggage is how much room the kids are taking up in the back of the car! Plus, you don’t have to worry about accidentally leaving someone’s passport at the petrol station.
Furry friends are welcome!
We’re a nation of pet lovers, and it can be heart-wrenching to leave your four-legged family members at home while you jet off to sunnier climes. Not to mention the hassle of finding a willing pet-sitter while you’re away.
Here in the UK, we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to pet-friendly holiday accommodation, with options up and down the country ranging from hotels to self-catering cottages.
Travelling with kids is less stressful.
We’ve all been that parent: trapped on a plane with a screaming baby or a tantruming toddler and feeling like you have hundreds of disgruntled eyes burning holes in the back of your head. It’s not fun for anyone involved.
A British staycation means you can travel in your own vehicle and in your own time. While that won’t guarantee you a tantrum-free journey, you won’t feel like you’re under the scrutiny of other passengers and you can make pit stops for fresh air, snacks and distraction as often you need to.
It boosts the UK economy.
Choosing to holiday in the UK means your hard-earned money is going back into our own economy and supporting all kinds of businesses that depend on tourism. Hotels, holiday cottages, pubs, cafes, restaurants, leisure attractions, campsites – the list goes on! And, though we don’t want to dwell too much on the C word, there’s no getting away from the fact that in the post-lockdown world our hospitality industry needs the support more than ever.
You can combine it with seeing friends and family.
Most of us have friends and family around the UK who we don’t get to see very often. Planning a staycation can be a great opportunity to visit or meet up with loved ones en route to your destination. It’s also much easier to invite extended family to join you for some or all of your holiday than it is if you go abroad.
You’ll learn more about our beautiful country.
Stick a pin in a map of the UK and no matter where it lands, you’re sure to find a whole host of options for a holiday to remember. There is so much beauty and history to discover right here under our noses, but everyday life is hectic and it’s not usually possible to cover much ground if you’re limited to weekends alone. A staycation is a brilliant way of getting to know this island we call home.
Staycations in the Cotswolds
Of course, for us the ultimate destination for a Great British staycation is right here in the Cotswolds! Spanning six counties and 790 square miles, this picturesque area boasts charm and history at every turn. The iconic Cotswolds Hills are the region’s best-known landmark, but there is much more to explore besides, including quaint villages, bustling towns, river valleys, woodlands and a heap of family-friendly attractions.
If you’re looking for a base for your holiday in the Cotswolds, you’ll find a selection of country escapes and lakeside lodges here at Watermark. If you’re seeking a rural retreat, you’ll love The Byre at Tiltup, a stunning country house set over two acres in a beautiful hamlet near the charming villages of Southrop and Eastleach. Alternatively, Watermark’s lakeside properties are nestled right in the heart of the Cotswold Water Park: a stunning wetlands landscape made up of 147 lakes spanning 40 square miles of the breathtaking Gloucestershire countryside. The Watermark lakes are home to a collection of luxury lodges and a variety of activities for kids and adults alike. From scenic routes for walking and cycling to fishing, swimming, sailing and wakeboarding, there’s no shortage of things to do.
Feeling inspired? Whether you’re a couple craving romantic seclusion or a large family with the kids and dog in tow, start planning your staycation at Watermark today.
