The best UK staycation destinations for summer

With airports scarcely able to handle their passengers and airlines experiencing significant industrial action, one thing seems certain for UK holidaymakers: domestic travel is the hot new trend for 2022.

But to suggest that this will put a dent in your dreams of a luxury whirlwind vacation would be a grave error; the UK staycation market has exploded since the start of the pandemic in 2020, with hotels up and down the British Isles offering first-class accommodation catering to all demographics, be they families looking for an intense city break or couples seeking refuge in a delectable spa.

Below is a list of the five best hotels for UK staycations this summer.

For wellness gurus: The Gainsborough Bath Spa

The only hotel in the country to offer guests the opportunity to experience Bath’s natural thermal waters, The Gainsborough Bath Spa is a modern icon of luxury wellness. Look no further for those in need of a little zen this summer. In the heart of Bath, the hotel and its award-winning spa offers the ideal sanctuary to escape to and rest and restore body and mind.

For countryside lovers: Monkey Island Estate, Bray

Situated on a picturesque private island on the River Thames in the historic village of Bray, Monkey Island Estate is the ultimate destination for those in need of a peaceful countryside escape.

Set across seven acres, guests can look forward to outdoor adventures including sunset cruises down the Thames on the hotel’s boat, Dragonfly, balmy summer evenings star-gazing by the island’s very own Shepherd’s Hideaway, scenic picnics, hikes or bike rides and of course unwinding with an invigorating massage at the bespoke Floating Spa Barge

For whisky aficionados: The Glasshouse, Edinburgh

In the heart of Edinburgh, The Glasshouse boasts more outdoor space than any other hotel in the city with a stunning two-acre rooftop garden terrace offering captivating views of Calton Hill.

Equally impressive is the hotel’s award-winning whisky snug, offering a selection of more than 150 Scotch whiskies, with the expert team on hand to guide guests through the country’s drams and regions drink by drink. For those looking to go all out this summer, why not opt for the hotel’s Elite Whisky Experience, which includes private guided distillery tours.

For budding bookworms: The Academy, Bloomsbury

For many, years of on-off lockdowns ignited a newfound love for literature, or seen passions for reading grow even more. Look no further for the ultimate bookish break than The Academy, which offers guests a series of literary experiences to enjoy in celebration of the hotel’s Bloomsbury location, in London’s literary, cultural and intellectual heart.

From literary walks to intimate book club gatherings and a bespoke literary collection cocktail menu, there’s something for every budding bookworm.

For city slickers: Threadneedles, London

The perfect summer staycation for those who love all that London has to offer, from art, design, history or gourmet experiences, a visit to Threadneedles has it all.

Exuding style and glamour, the former Victorian bank is than a mile from Tower Bridge and The Shard. After busy days out enjoying all that the capital has to offer, guests can dine on Marco Pierre White cuisine or take afternoon tea in the iconic dome lounge.