Landmark Trust sees a surge in bookings, the best UK sites to book a staycation through
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While Europe slowly eases its lockdowns and returns to a ‘new normal’, it’s clear that for most Britons travelling abroad for a holiday this year is simply unfeasible.
In the short-term, this is due to travel restrictions at home and abroad, as well as the imminent commencement of 14-day quarantine period for all those returning to the UK.
This means that - for the first time in decades - enjoying a summer staycation looks rather appealing for those desperate for a change of scenery.
The Landmark Trust has already reported a surge in bookings - despite overnight stays not being permitted by the government until July 4th at the earliest.
Read more: How to turn 24 days of annual leave into 53 in 2021
They note that people are particularly keen to enjoy getaways in July and August at they host of rural, quirky self-catering properties which are sprawled nationwide - with great interest in Scotland and Lundy Island on the Bristol Channel.
Like many tourism businesses, they will be reopening following Visit Britain’s hygiene and cleaning protocols.
With such reassurance, it is unsurprising we’re keen to make the most of the natural beauty on our doorstep - from the Cornish beaches to the Lake District and the Norfolk Broads.
Here the other best sites to help you book a getaway on British soil...
National Trust | Book here
Like the Landmark Trust, the charity usually welcome visitors to its hundreds of unique holiday cottages, campsites, bunkhouses and bothies across the UK.
They are closed to bookings until June 30th, but hope to welcome guests again from July 1st.
Airbnb | Book here
The hugely popular home rental firm - which usually gives the option of more than 257,000 properties throughout the British Isles - has restricted UK bookings to “essential stays” for key workers for the foreseeable future.
In response to the coronavirus they have also tweaked their cancellation policy for guests for bookings between March 14th and June 30th, and they are also introducing a new ‘Enhanced Cleaning Initiative’ so hosts can keep their properties free of Covid-19.
They have found that since the pandemic began, those looking to book a trip nearer home increased from 13% to 30% - so when the site reopens you’d better be quick.
English Heritage | Book here
Another very British institution with a selection of stunning holiday cottages on its roster, located in some of the country’s most picturesque spots.
Indeed, as well as all featuring slick, contemporary interiors and are just a stone's throw from an amazing historic castle, country house or abbey.
The organisation hopes to resume their holiday operations from July 2nd.
HolidayCottages.co.uk | Book here
The site prides itself on offering “quality” and “handpicked” self-catering properties across England, Wales and Scotland.
They will begin accepting bookings again from July 4th, and are already promoting getaways for summer 2020 and the October half-term break.
Lastminute.com | Book here
Their famous last-minute philosophy might come in handy for UK trips this year - particularly if you’re still holding out hope for a foreign jaunt.
If you do opt for a staycation, they offer hotels to suit any taste and budget, including both the grand 5-star, stylish boutique and spa retreat varieties.
Skyes Cottages | Book here
Despite their name, the site connects customers with around 15,000 holiday cottages across the UK.
They are accepting bookings that have a check-in date after July 3rd - with a 30% deposit required to secure your stay.
Centre Parcs | Book here
They have welcomed families on breaks to more than 400 acres of incredible forests for generations - and they’re likely to be more popular than ever with parents and their restless kids in the coming months.
While they are taking bookings until December 2021, their holiday villages are currently closed throughout the UK until July 5th (with Longford Forest shut until July 19th) - after which point they hope to reopen as per government guidelines.
Canopy & Stars | Book here
If you’re after a stay with a difference and love nature, this is the glamping and luxury camping site for you.
They’ve got an incredible collection of treehouses, yurts, cabins, Gypsy caravans and other outdoor stays around the UK.
In line with official guidelines, you won’t be able to enjoy a stay before July 4th - however they are already reporting a surge in bookings for summer getaways.
Unique Homestays | Book here
They offer luxury holidays in stunning self-catered properties throughout the UK - including coastal retreats and country escapes.
From May 11th they have been taking provisional bookings for between July 4th and July 16th, with confirmed bookings commencing on July 17th.
