You don’t have to go abroad for a memorable holiday…
Island hopping in Greece: been there. Elephant trekking in Thailand: done that. Enjoying holidays abroad is all very well and good, but have you stopped to consider that a staycation in the UK might actually inspire more excitement and intrigue than boarding a plane to far-flung lands? Here’s our round-up of the quirkiest places to stay on home soil. The best part? No queueing at the M&S bureau de change.
Check out some unusual places to stay in the UK that we’ve found…
Belle Tout Lighthouse, Sussex
Lighthouses aren’t just for keeping sailors from crashing into the rocks. They can also be a fantastic location for a getaway. Developed into a delightful B&B, this 19th-century lighthouse is, literally, on the very edge of England’s south coast and has spectacular, panoramic views of the English Channel, the Seven Sisters cliffs and Beachy Head. It also has a telescope in one of the rooms in case you feel like spying on passing ships. Ahoy there!
Wee Retreat, Norfolk
Feeling flush? Then head to this converted toilet block located right on the seafront in Sheringham. The former Victorian loos are surprisingly spacious, with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, and offer all mod-cons – plus amazing sea views. Don’t fret, there’s not a urinal cake in sight.
Faithful Fishing Boat, Devon
This refurbished fishing boat is a great place to drop anchor for a few nights. Originally constructed in 1965, this vessel is now a shabby-chic romantic retreat for lovebirds. If you’re into stargazing, you’ll love the roof window located above the king-sized bed, where you can try to spot Orion’s Belt as the waves lull you into a peaceful slumber. Merrily, merrily, merrily… life is but a dream.
The Beermoth, Aviemore
You may think that the only people who sleep in trucks are, er, truck drivers… but you’d be wrong. The Beermoth is a 1956 Fire Service truck that’s been transformed into a truly unique place to lay your head for the night. Almost all the interior has been upcycled – an oak parquet floor was taken from a Tudor mansion, a snooker table slate is now a hearth, and a fire escape has been made into a staircase. Vroom!
House in the Clouds, Suffolk
Do you walk around with your head in the clouds? How would you like to sleep there? OK, so the House in the Clouds isn’t actually in the clouds, but at 70ft high, it’s pretty lofty. Originally intended to provide storage for the water supply of the nearby village, it’s now been remodeled to give it a fairytale feel and, for miles around, looks like a cottage nestled in the trees. Once upon a time…
The Majestic Bus, Hereford
If you’re after vintage-chic, the Majestic Bus is your route there. A great deal of care and love went into converting this Bedford Panorama, to give guests a gorgeous getaway in the wild, un-spoiled hills. A testimonial from the website sums it up nicely: “A lovely location, a beautiful bus, a fab bath, a tasty lemon drizzle cake, wine, friends and attentive hosts – a relaxing weekend.” All aboard!
The Windmill, Lincolnshire
Ever considered staying in a windmill? Us neither. But this beautifully converted one might just swing it for us. Set in the rolling countryside of Rutland – the smallest county in England – it’s a far cry from the hustle and bustle of modern, hectic life. Into birdwatching? Bring your binoculars.
The Main Bridewell – Former Prison, Liverpool
On holiday, are you all about the clink of wine glasses? Why not try a clink of a different kind? This arresting accommodation is a former prison that housed criminals for more than 130 years. Now, the cells have been modified into considerably more comfortable rooms and the prisoners’ old exercise yard is an atrium. An escape with a difference.
