Spring is well and truly upon us and weekend getaways and breaks away in the UK are perfect for exploring the beauty of Britain. With staycations more popular than ever, we’ve chosen 5 of the best weekend breaks to experience Britain's wonders, whether you fancy unwinding in front of the beautiful backdrop of Englefield Green in Wind or you have a sweet tooth and would like to visit the Chocolate Factory Hawkshead during your stay at The Belsfield on Lake Windermer.
1. Fairmont Windsor Park Hotel - Located in Windsor
Fairmont Windsor Park Hotel is set in the beautiful backdrop of Englefield Green near Windsor, with over 40 acres of plush green grass which is coupled with the relaxing Fairmont Spa; this hotel is the prefect getaway for couples, families or just for one.
There are a wide variety of rooms and suites which have stunning views of the hotel grounds; and in the evening you can retire to one if the hotels restaurant, while having a glass of wine on the terrace. There are plenty of activities in the local area, maybe a walk to explore the 4,800 acres of ground at Windsor Great Park or perhaps for those who like a little more history why not visit Windsor Castle. If you want something for the kids then Legoland is a stones throw away from the hotel as is Thorpe Park; so for family days out, there’s never a dull moment while at the Fairmont.
2. The Langley - Located in Iver, Buckinghamshire
The Langley, which is part of the luxury collection of Marriott offers 5 star experience. Formally the Manor of the 3rd Duke of Marlborough, set on 150 acres of grassland and gardens, it offers a picturesque scene for a countryside getaway. The architecture of the hotel is breathtaking and as you walk through the different hallways, you will see that time has been taken in reforming the former Duke’s manor. The guest rooms and suites are simply bursting with character and parts of the former home have been kept to add something different to each room.
The Langley Spa boasts of having one of the largest indoor pools in Europe, so why don’t you take a dip or why not indulge in one of the blissful spa treatments they have to offer. With a hotel set on such land there is not much one can do but take in the scenery, but if you do want to venture out of the grounds then you can go on one of the country walks or visit one of the local attractions like the Cliveden House National Trust.
3. Down Hall Hotel - Located near Bishop Stortford, East Anglia
Only 45mins drive away from London, Down Hall is nestled in the quiet countryside of Hatfield Heath near Bishop’s Stortford. The Hotel offers 98 stunning guest rooms and an exquisite spa experience which has some amazing packages from the Eden Spa Getaway to the Restful Yoga stay; you will definitely be left feeling rejuvenated after your stay here.
Down Hall Hotel has a lot of history and has been standing since then reign of Edward the Confessor in the 10th century almost 1,000 years ago, it is thought that the hotel used to be one of the medieval manors in the Parish of Hatfield; so definitely worth a visit. Maybe have a tour of the grounds then finish up with Afternoon tea in the outdoor terrace while taking in the beauty of the grounds.
4. Danesfield House - Located near Henley on Thames
This beautiful 55 guest room and suite hotel, is set over two floors offering some breathtaking views of the meandering River Thames for its’ guest suites. Each room has a little character as they have included original themes by using traditional country house fittings and fixtures throughout. The hotel sits on 65 acres of land so is ideal for weekend get away, or a cheeky spa retreat for you and the girls or just some you time.
For a real countryside experience, you can use the hotels local countryside concierge company to arrange your activities for the day. Why not try some clay shooting on the beautiful English countryside, or perhaps visit the Falconry and meet some of the most magnificent birds that the UK has to offer; or try your hand at horse riding through Windsor Great Park.
5. The Belsfield on Lake Windermere - located in Lake District
Would you like to wake up and look over the beautiful lakes and scenery of the Lake District, in a contemporary designer suite? If yes then you will definitely love The Belsfield Hotel. This hotel by far has some of the best views a hotel can offer; located in the idyllic surroundings of the Lake District in Bowness-on-Windermere, the hotel is encapsulated within a romantic setting of the lake as well as the green banks of the river.
There are no spa facilities at the hotel, however there a number of activities you can get involved in. For example you can go for a walk or climb around the high surrounding of the Lake District or go for a boat ride on largest natural lake in the UK; the cruise can take anything from 45mins to 3 hours depending on the route. If you rather stay drier & at normal eye level, then you should definitely visit a The World of Beatrix Potter attraction which is 5 mins away from the Hotel & very popular. Maybe you have a sweet tooth, if so then visit Chocolate Factory Hawkshead which holds workshops but are prefect for small group activities.
