12 Aug 2020
Whilst often overlooked for our continental cousins, this year, more than ever, has raised the profile of the seemingly humble UK staycation.
Yet it’s not like the UK doesn’t have the holiday credentials – dramatic coastline? Check. Areas of outstanding natural beauty? Check. Vibrant cities, gastronomic hotspots and culture in spades? Check; check and check.
There are obvious concerns with travel abroad at the moment, and honestly, have we ever been so in need of a holiday? A slice of delight? Whether you’ve been working, schooling or simply spending time at home, chances are you’re yearning for frolics beyond your front door. And that’s where Blighty steps in.
Here’s my top reasons for holidaying at home this year.
1) Convenience. If you tot up the time it takes to travel to your nearest airport, wait for your departure and actually sit on the plane, you could already have your feet up at some of the UK’s renowned destinations with an hour or three to spare. Driving your own car has added benefits too – no luggage limits; social distancing friendly, and, you can tick off points of interest along the way
2) Our foodie scene really is one of the best. Talented chefs, Michelin-starred restaurants and simply charming gourmet boltholes could shine across a map of the UK like fairy lights on a Christmas tree. Of course, I’ve a bias towards the North – Lancashire in particular. The Red Rose County is home to some of the country’s best produce – from Tarleton tomatoes to traditionally-reared herds; Lancashire cheeses to specialist black pudding. The region is also home to a number of distillers, such as our friends from Goosnargh Gin.
3) Weather or not. Yes, I went there. Because, as well as getting more sunny days than I think we ever truly acknowledge, we’re also incredibly fortunate to have real seasons here in the UK. Is there any better feeling than curling up in front of a roaring fire with your favourite tipple when the grass outside is frost-tipped? Dining al-fresco on a summer’s afternoon or feeling the crunch underfoot of autumn leaves? The elements can add to your whole experience in the most wonderful way.
How to have a holiday at home
Easy like a…Sunday morning. A short break can be planned with relative ease – if there’s a gap in your schedule, you needn’t worry about passports, quarantine restrictions, unfavourable exchange rates or time off work – set the date, rally the troops, and off you go. Plus, there’s no time difference to factor in either – ideal if you need to check-in with business colleagues at any point.
Here in the UK we have the best of both worlds. Torn between a city break and a great escape? Some of the UK’s major cities are also ideally located for soaking up coastline, countryside and everything in between. Moor Hall is a two Michelin star restaurant near Liverpool, with seven guest bedrooms. The city centre can be reached in less than 30 minutes by car, meaning you can enjoy world-class cuisine at a rural retreat whilst exploring one of the city’s many draws – be it the Fab Four, arts & culture (did you know that Liverpool has more museums and galleries than any other UK city outside of the capital?) or a certain famous football team…
Moor Hall offers a one-night stay, inclusive of breakfast, from just £220. Residents must also reserve a table for dinner in Moor Hall Restaurant.
Words by Kayley Fernandes, Head of Marketing at Moor Hall
