Whilst we love nothing better than grabbing our basket bag and jetting away somewhere tropical, the last three years have reminded us just how much beauty we have on our doorstep here in the UK.

Which is why, during our month of Escapism here at La Basketry, we wanted to share some of our favourite staycation ideas that don’t require a plane ticket. 

North Coast 500

With breathtaking landscape views on a par with New Zealand, the North Coast 500 route of Scotland takes you across the Highlands, starting and ending in Inverness.

Visit places such as Loch Ness, Glen Torridon, one most scenic glens in Scotland, and beautiful beaches including Mellon Udrigle Beach - heck you could even try your hand at spotting dolphins around the Black Isle.

All of which could be done from the comfort of your very own hotel on wheels - yes, that’s right, a campervan. Following 2020 (and the rise of Tiktok #vanlife videos, it has to be said), there has been an incredible resurgence in campervan hire. This could be a road trip to remember…

New Forest

Set on the south coast of England, the New Forest is a stunning untouched landscape of thatched cottages, heathland and wild ponies. The animals rule the roads here, with a slow pace of life that forces you to switch off from the hustle and bustle of the city. The perfect break if you ask us!

Whilst there are many great spots to reside in the New Forest, including Beaulieu, Lymington and Lyndhurst, if you’re looking for a luxury getaway for a special occasion, why not check out The Pig in Brokenhurst.

Be sure to book a table for dinner to experience the local menu of food grown on the grounds, or foraged and sourced within 25 miles of the hotel.

Cheltenham

With its beautiful Regency architecture, the spa town of Cheltenham resides just on the edge of the Cotswolds, Gloucestershire.

With so many beautiful places to visit surrounding Cheltenham, it provides the ideal base for a long weekend exploring.

If shopping is your jam on a city break, then head to The Promenade - a tree-lined street which leads to Montpellier, housing more independent offerings.

In terms of where to stay, the town hosts a plethora of hotel options, however No.131 is certainly an Instagrammable hangout, describing itself as “classic on the outside, contemporary British on the inside”, with the most stunning interior design across the board. 

Kent

Simplicity is the key at Cabu, a series of log cabins located on the Kent coast.

Scandinavian in style, each cabin is slightly different, with floor to ceiling windows enabling you to wake up to the most perfect view of the sea.

With a heated pool (very much needed here in the UK), you can expect a raft of outdoor activities, including grabbing one of the many bikes available, a long walk across the coastline, boating, golf and water sports.

If you’re looking to truly switch off and escape from the world for a while, Cabu might just be the perfect place to reside. 

York

With a just 2.5 hour train journey from London, it’s a short trip from the capital to the quaint city of York.

Home to its impressive Cathedral, river boats and shopping, York fits an incredible amount to see and do for a long weekend within its walled surroundings.

Shambles is one of the city’s most famous landmarks and one of the best-preserved medieval shopping streets in Europe in fact. Think traditional sweet shops, boutiques and of course, all things Harry Potter related.

There you have 5 of our favourite staycation ideas for here in the UK, but what about you? Where do you love to escape to without heading to the airport?