BACK TO NATURE
After a cosy period of hibernation, there’s no better moment to embrace the great British outdoors and reconnect with nature as she blooms into beauty. Whether you’re itching to stretch your legs and explore the rolling countryside, venture into the wild and take a break from technology, or breathe in some salty sea air, here are our top picks of the very best rural retreats around the UK.
From top: Sky Den’s amazing opening roof; Stargaze before bed; Return to a post-walk cuppa; Nearby Kielder Water
and nature. Spend your time huddled around the fire-pit Sleeps 4 under a dark sky, foraging This treehouse property, for lunch, biking along the featured on Amazing Spaces coast, or hiking in the hills on Channel 4, is tucked away – you can’t help but feel in the heart of the Calvert reinvigorated and restored Trust, within Kielder Water by the fresh air and wild, and Forest Park, with views ancient landscape. And if over the river below and a you prefer to enjoy glorious roof that opens so you can views from indoors, relax enjoy clear, starry nights. with a book in the library Ideal for adventure-seeking overlooking the spectacular families, there’s an activity Downs, or treat yourself centre only a short walk away, to a botanical massage and where you can get stuck facial. Doubles from £105 into watersports, climbing per night. and orienteering. And for tiltonhouse.co.uk those seeking a slower pace, why not head out on one of Little Bear, Sussex the woodland trails and go Sleeps 2 wildlife spotting? From This luxury cabin is nestled £150 per night for a minimum in acres upon acres of two-night stay. bluebell-swathed ancient canopyandstars.co.uk woodland, making late spring the prime time to visit. Tilton House, Sussex Hidden from the outside Bed & breakfast world, with a wood-fired In the middle of the South eco-friendly hot tub and Downs National Park, this no WiFi or television, it’s beautiful Georgian B&B and an idyllic place to enjoy a yoga retreat is the perfect romantic, digi-free weekend place to get back to yourself away with your other half.
uniquehomestays.com; 01637 881183
Sky Den, Northumberland
Little Bear
Discover the enchanting forest in peace or amble to the local inn, just a short walk away, to enjoy home-cooked food and real ales. From £795 for a three-night stay. uniquehomestays.com
Doyden Castle, Cornwall
Sleeps 2 High up on the dramatic cliffs near Port Quin, overlooking the sea, you’ll find this fortress sitting proudly. Built in 1830 as a pleasure house for a wealthy bon-viveur, there’s no better way to feel at one with the elements than snuggled
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Doyden Castle
inside this quaint retreat. With the popular beaches of Rock, Polzeath and Port Isaac within four miles, it makes an ideal base from which to pull on your walking shoes and enjoy the rugged Cornish coastline. From £528 for a three-night stay. nationaltrustholidays.org.uk
Moat Cottage, Suffolk
Sleeps 6 Set on the Wilderness Reserve – a 5,000-acre private estate across three river valleys, with a stately home at its centre and a scattering of other lovely properties – this Tudor farmhouse is a wonderful spot to reacquaint yourself with the great outdoors. Not only does the area boast some of the most beautiful views and cleanest air in England, but there’s so much to do. Try your hand at paddle boarding and rowing on the serpentine 31