News

Best Dog-Friendly Trails in the New Forest

The New Forest, with its vast expanses of ancient woodland, heathland, and coastal paths, is a veritable paradise for our four-legged friends.

As a dog owner, you’ll find no shortage of exciting trails to explore with your furry companion.

From leisurely strolls to more challenging hikes, the New Forest offers a diverse range of dog-friendly walks that cater to all abilities and preferences.

best-dog-friendly-trails-in-the-new-forest

Why the New Forest is a Canine Paradise

Before we dive into the specific trails, let’s explore why the New Forest is such a fantastic destination for dog owners:

  1. Varied Terrain: From forest floors to coastal paths, your dog will never get bored.
  2. Abundant Wildlife: Opportunities to spot (from a respectful distance) ponies, deer, and various bird species.
  3. Dog-Friendly Amenities: Numerous pubs, cafes, and accommodations welcome four-legged guests.
  4. Year-Round Appeal: Each season brings its own unique charm to the forest.

Essential Etiquette for Dog Walkers in the New Forest

Before we set off on our trail adventures, it’s crucial to understand the responsibilities of dog ownership in this protected area:

Do’s Don’ts
Keep your dog under close control Allow your dog to chase wildlife or livestock
Clean up after your dog Leave dog waste bags in the forest
Respect seasonal restrictions Ignore signs or warnings
Carry fresh water for your dog Let your dog drink from stagnant water sources

Remember, responsible dog ownership ensures that the New Forest remains a welcoming place for all visitors, both two-legged and four-legged!

Top Dog-Friendly Trails in the New Forest

1. Brockenhurst Tall Trees Trail

Distance: 15.4 km Difficulty: Moderate Highlights: Ancient woodlands, majestic redwoods, riverside views

This circular trail offers a fantastic mix of landscapes for you and your canine companion. Starting in the charming village of Brockenhurst, you’ll wind your way through lush forests, including the impressive Rhinefield Ornamental Drive with its towering redwoods and firs.

Dog-Friendly Features:

  • Multiple streams for dogs to cool off
  • Wide, gravelled paths suitable for all paw sizes
  • Shaded areas for rest stops

Top Tip: Pack a picnic to enjoy at the Rhinefield Arboretum, where you can relax while your dog explores the surrounding area.

2. Lyndhurst Hill and Swan Green Circular

Distance: 10.3 km Difficulty: Moderate Highlights: Open heathland, forest glades, potential wildlife sightings

This varied walk takes you through some of the New Forest’s most iconic landscapes. Your dog will love the mix of open spaces and sheltered woodland paths.

Dog-Friendly Features:

  • Opportunities to spot New Forest ponies (keep dogs on lead)
  • Several dog-friendly pubs en route for refreshment stops
  • Mix of terrain to keep your dog engaged and exercised

Top Tip: Start early to avoid the midday heat in summer and to increase chances of wildlife spotting.

3. Fritham Circular

Distance: 9.0 km Difficulty: Moderate Highlights: Amberwood Inclosure, rolling countryside views

This popular route offers a perfect balance of forest and open landscapes. It’s ideal for dogs who enjoy a good sniff and explore.

Dog-Friendly Features:

  • Varied terrain to challenge and stimulate your dog
  • Quieter than some other trails, good for reactive dogs
  • Dog-friendly pub near the car park for post-walk refreshments

Top Tip: Bring a long lead to allow your dog more freedom to explore while maintaining control in areas with livestock.

Seasonal Considerations for Dog Walks in the New Forest

Each season in the New Forest brings its own unique charm and challenges for dog walkers. Here’s a quick guide to help you prepare:

Spring

  • Pros: Beautiful wildflowers, mild temperatures
  • Cons: Ground nesting birds (keep dogs on leads in certain areas)
  • Top Tip: Watch for signs indicating ground nesting bird areas

Summer

  • Pros: Long daylight hours, warm weather
  • Cons: Can be hot for dogs, busier trails
  • Top Tip: Walk early morning or late evening to avoid heat

Autumn

  • Pros: Stunning foliage colours, quieter trails
  • Cons: Potential for wet, muddy conditions
  • Top Tip: Pack a towel for muddy paws

Winter

  • Pros: Crisp, clear days, fewer visitors
  • Cons: Short daylight hours, cold temperatures
  • Top Tip: Invest in a high-visibility jacket for you and your dog

Essential Packing List for Dog Walks in the New Forest

To ensure a safe and enjoyable walk, consider packing the following items:

  • Plenty of fresh water and a collapsible bowl
  • Dog treats for positive reinforcement
  • Poo bags (and a way to carry full bags)
  • A basic first aid kit for dogs
  • A towel for muddy or wet paws
  • A long lead and a short lead
  • Your dog’s favourite toy for play breaks

To Finish

The New Forest offers an unparalleled experience for dog owners and their furry friends. With its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and dog-friendly amenities, it’s the perfect destination for a day trip or an extended stay. Remember to always respect the forest, its inhabitants, and other visitors to ensure this beautiful area remains a welcoming place for all.

Whether you’re tackling the challenging Tall Trees Trail or enjoying a leisurely stroll around Swan Green, the New Forest promises unforgettable adventures for you and your four-legged companion. So lace up your walking boots, clip on that lead, and get ready to explore one of England’s most beautiful natural treasures!


At Short Stay Homes, we understand that your dog is part of the family. That’s why many of our luxury self-catering holiday cottages in the New Forest are dog-friendly, providing the perfect base for your canine adventures.

After a day of exploring these fantastic trails, you and your furry friend can relax in comfort, perhaps even enjoying a soak in a private hot tub while your dog dozes by the fire.

Book your pet-friendly getaway with us today and create lasting memories with your entire family – four-legged members included!

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Barbel and Chub Fishing with Martin Bowler

Fisherman Martin Bowler with a Barbel in a net on the River Avon, staying at Riverside Lodge, New Forest.

Martin Bowler returns to Riverside Lodge


Martin Bowler revisits Riverside Lodge in his attempt to tackle Chub and Barbel in the River Avon.

‘Lob in a worm and prepare to do battle’ is how this feature piece in the Angling Times begins, as Martin touches on natural bait whilst filming for an episode of FishFlix.

On a recent trip with Laurence Hanger, Martin stayed at our very own Riverside Lodge on the River Avon, where you can find some of the country’s best chub and barbel fishing. For the fishing break, Martin would use a freelined or quivertipped lobworn in his quest to catch both of the species, and potentially more.

With the lodge just a dozen footsteps away from the river, the pair woke early after a peaceful nights sleep, enjoyed a coffee overlooking the river and meadows and were ready to wet the line.

View of the River Avon and meadows whilst eating breakfast in the Riverside Lodge

Stealth-like fishing!

After setting the lines and donning the polarised glasses, Martin was ready for the day of fishing ahead. An unintended trout took the line first, followed by a 1.5 lbs perch, both very pleasing catches, however, it was time to focus on the Chub, if any could be located.

They would require a stealthy approach and even though they will eat just about anything, any disturbance and they’re gone! Climbing trees, peering around bushes and avoiding any heavy footfall were some of the techniques used in stalking the chub, and he was soon rewarded.

Half-a-dozen big chain-mail clad specimens drifted into view and from their leisurely behaviour, it was apparent they didn’t know Martin was there. Wanting to present the bait naturally, he slid behind a tree trunk and poked his rod out over the Avon with a little ‘plop’ putting the chub shoal on red alert.

Eventually the bait was taken, and the focus for Martin was to prevent the chub from smashing him under a raft of debris. Plunging the rod-tip deep into the river, he was able to hang on and slowly gain the line. Fantastic stuff!

Riverside Lodge has a fully equipped kitchen, which beats soggy sandwiches, so after a spot of lunch, despite fighting the urge for a siesta, he returned to the river.

The elusive barbel!

Although chub were the mainstay of the afternoon fishing, he also caught a bonus dace which was excellent fun. However, the desire to catch an Avon Barbel grew. One final time, Martin cast a worm, just under a fallen branch.

The bouncing of the tip as the split shot shuffled across the bottom , told him that he’d got this one right. As the light started to fade, he got exactly what he wanted, but now the barbel was intent on showing him who’s boss.

Martin, thinking he had secured the fish, was scuppered by the Barbel’s masterplan. As he was wielding the landing net, the barbel dived for the tree roots under the bank and smashed me up.

The barbel didn’t have the last word, as Laurence, who had stayed another day, sent Martin a picture of him holding the prince of the river! The bait, of course, was a lobworm!

The read the full article from Martin, click here. If you’d like to subscribe, visit Angling Times. He also created a video on his channel, FishFlix. 

Riverside Lodge is run by Short Stay Homes and if you would like more information visit the website listing, contact info@riversidelodgenewforest.co.uk or call 01425 517311.

Laurence Hanger and MArtin Bowler holding a River Avon Barbel

If you’d like to know more about our properties in New Forest, Salisbury, Christchurch, West Moors and Mid Devon, click here. We also have some great offers on at the moment, so take some time to have a look at our latest offers page.

Forest Drove, New Forest Cottage

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Unusual Places to Visit in Hampshire for Adults: Hidden Gems

As you probably well know, Hampshire, a county known for its landscapes and rich history, harbours a treasure trove of unique experiences that often fly under the radar. For adults seeking something beyond the ordinary, this southern English county offers a plethora of offbeat attractions and hidden gems.

Discover the most unusual places to visit in Hampshire, perfect for those looking to add a dash of eccentricity to their holiday.

Unusual Places to Visit in Hampshire for Adults

Historical Oddities: Step Back in Time with a Twist

The Living Past: Butser Ancient Farm

In the South Downs, Butser Ancient Farm offers a glimpse into the distant past that goes far beyond traditional museums. This experimental archaeology site brings history to life in the most hands-on way possible.

What makes it unusual?

  • Participate in ancient crafts like flint knapping or wattle and daub construction
  • Sleep in a reconstructed Iron Age roundhouse during special overnight events
  • Witness archaeologists testing theories about ancient life in real-time

The Watercress Line: A Railway Journey with a Difference

While heritage railways aren’t uncommon, the Watercress Line elevates the experience with its unique themed events tailored for adults.

Unusual experiences include:

  • ‘Real Ale Train’ journeys, combining scenic rides with craft beer tasting
  • Murder mystery evenings set in the golden age of rail travel
  • ‘War on the Line’ events, recreating the atmosphere of the 1940s

Natural Wonders with an Unexpected Twist

The New Forest Wildlife Park - Visit Hampshire

New Forest Wildlife Park: Behind-the-Scenes Keeper Experiences

The New Forest Wildlife Park offers more than just animal viewing. Their exclusive keeper experiences provide adults with an intimate look at wildlife care and conservation.

Unique opportunities:

  • Shadow a keeper as they care for endangered species
  • Prepare meals and feed animals not usually accessible to the public
  • Learn about conservation efforts and the challenges of wildlife management

Hayling Island Seal Watching: Nature’s Hidden Spectacle

While Hampshire isn’t typically associated with marine life, Hayling Island offers a surprising wildlife encounter.

What to expect:

  • Tranquil boat rides through calm harbours
  • Close-up views of seal colonies in their natural habitat
  • Knowledgeable guides sharing insights about local marine ecosystems

Scientific Marvels and Technological Wonders

Portsmouth: Hovercraft Flight to the Isle of Wight

Eling Tide Mill: Harnessing Nature’s Power

This working tide mill offers a fascinating look at sustainable energy production that predates modern concerns about climate change.

Highlights:

  • Witness the power of tides turning ancient machinery
  • Interactive exhibits explaining the science behind tidal energy
  • Opportunities to grind your own flour using tidal power

Hovercraft Experience: Glide Between Worlds

For a truly unique transport experience, the Hovercraft Experience Flight with Hovertravel offers an exhilarating journey across the Solent.

What makes it special:

  • Behind-the-scenes tour of hovercraft operations
  • Meet the pilots and crew for insider knowledge
  • Experience thrilling manoeuvres during a demonstration flight

Artistic and Cultural Curiosities

878 AD Step into Anglo Saxon Winchester - Visit Hampshire

878 AD: Immersive Time Travel

Hidden within a modern shopping centre, 878 AD offers a startlingly immersive journey into Winchester’s Anglo-Saxon past.

Unusual features:

  • Cutting-edge audio-visual projections bringing history to life
  • Live performances recreating pivotal historical moments
  • Augmented reality tour of Winchester, revealing hidden historical layers

Theatre Royal Winchester: Unconventional Performances

This historic venue pushes the boundaries of traditional theatre with its innovative productions.

Look out for:

  • Immersive theatre experiences that blur the line between audience and performer
  • Late-night cabaret and burlesque shows
  • Experimental productions combining multiple art forms

Offbeat Adventures for the Adventurous Soul

Moors Valley Country Park Activities Near Me | Go Ape

Go Ape: Treetop Thrills for Grown-Ups

While often associated with family outings, Go Ape offers specially designed courses and experiences for adults seeking an adrenaline rush.

Adult-oriented challenges:

  • Extreme zip lines and free-fall experiences
  • Night-time treetop adventures with head torches
  • Team-building exercises high above the forest floor

Hawk Conservancy Trust: Birds of Prey Up Close

This centre offers more than just bird watching, with hands-on experiences that bring you face-to-face with majestic raptors.

Unique experiences:

  • ‘Owl Prowl’ evening events, exploring the nocturnal world of owls
  • Photography workshops focused on capturing birds in flight
  • ‘Raptor Encounter’ days, where you can fly multiple species of birds of prey

Hidden Culinary and Beverage Experiences

Winchester & Bombay Sapphire Gin Tour 2024 - London - Viator

Bombay Sapphire Distillery: Gin Journey

Housed in a beautifully restored mill, this distillery offers a multi-sensory exploration of gin production.

Unusual offerings:

  • Create your own gin recipe in the Botanical Dry Room
  • Cocktail masterclasses using foraged ingredients
  • After-hours exclusive tours with gin tasting sessions

Underground Supper Clubs: Secret Dining Adventures

For food enthusiasts, Hampshire’s underground supper club scene offers unique dining experiences in unexpected locations.

What to expect:

  • Pop-up restaurants in historic buildings or natural settings
  • Themed dinners based on historical periods or literary works
  • Collaborative meals where guests participate in the cooking process

Hampshire’s landscape is dotted with these unusual attractions, offering adults a chance to break away from the typical tourist trail and create truly memorable experiences.

Whether you’re passionate about history, nature, science, arts, or culinary adventures, there’s an offbeat experience waiting for you in this diverse county.

When planning your unusual adventure in Hampshire, consider basing yourself at one of Short Stay Homes’ holiday cottages in Hampshire.

Our comfortable and conveniently located properties provide the perfect launching pad for your explorations of the county’s hidden gems and quirky attractions.

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Yet Another Reason To Holiday in The UK

Sunset in the English Countryside. Green fields with a background of trees, an orange sun in a blue and orange sky.

European Union Impose A Visa Waiver On British Citizens


The European Union is planning to introduce an EU visa waiver for some non-EU citizens, including British Citizens in the Summer of 2025.

New rules stipulate that visitors from a list of non-EU countries, including the UK, will need to apply for a waiver, similar to a United States Esta, before travelling to 30 countries in Europe. The waiver will cover travel to the Schengen area, which includes every EU state except for Ireland and Cyprus, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

Here’s some information you will need to know about how the new scheme will operate and when it will start:


How will the new EU visa waiver scheme work?

The new scheme will be called the European Travel Information and Authorisation System, shortened to ETIAS.

As it stands, visitors from the United Kingdom can visit the EU’s borderless Schengen area for up to 90 days, every 180 days, without a visa. However, under the ETIAS scheme, this will change.

Visitors from the non-EU countries on the list, including those from the United Kingdom, will need to apply for a visa waiver to travel to the EU for the same duration of 90 days every 180 days. Longer stays will require a visa.

The document will be checked by border guards when crossing the EU border and the full list of non-EU countries eligible for ETIAS is published by the EU.

The visa waiver will last for three years and allow an unlimited number of visits, but it will be linked to your passport, so if your passport expires in less than three years, you will need to apply for a new ETIAS when you get a new one.


How much will it be to apply for the ETIAS?

The ETIAS visa waiver will cost €7 (£6) for most people, which the EU Commission says is “way cheaper” than the US Esta, which costs $14 (€12.50; £10.75) and this fee will apply to anyone between the ages of 18 and 70. There will be no waiver fee cost for the age groups above and below this.


When could the ETIAS scheme start?

The EU has not announced a firm start date for the star of the visa waiver scheme yet, with the EU website alluding to a start date in the first half of 2025.

However, the EU says the ETIAS requirement will not be enforced for a period of “at least six months” at first, although it recommends all visitors apply for a visa waiver. A Home Office spokesperson said the UK expects the EU to provide more information on the rollout of the scheme “in due course”.

How will waiver applications work?

All eligible passengers will need to apply online or via a mobile app. The form – which the EU describes as a “necessary and small procedural step” – will take around 10 minutes to complete, authorities say.

The details needed for the application form will include passport information as well as background questions about criminal records and medical conditions. It is claimed that more than 95% of applications will be approved automatically within minutes, the EU says. However, it warns that in some cases may take up to 72 hours.

Applications may also be denied or take up to four weeks to process in exceptional circumstances.

How about a Staycation?

With this latest news adding more to ever increasing holiday costs, it could be time to consider a Staycation, here in the United Kingdom. You can also read 14 more reasons as to why it’s time to try a staycation.

If you’d like to know more about our properties in New Forest, Salisbury, Christchurch, West Moors and Mid Devon, click here. We also have some great offers on at the moment, so take some time to have a look at our latest offers page.

Forest Drove, New Forest Cottage

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Welcome Justin and Pippa to South Farm

Welcome Justin and Pippa

Welcome Justin and Pippa to South Farm
Introducing the new managers to our lovely South Farm Holiday Cottages and Fishery, Justin and Pippa.
Pippa spent her teenage years growing up on a farm and learnt to drive on a tractor. She has a love of countryside walks and is very happy in a pair of wellies. She loves being creative and being amongst nature gives her endless inspiration for this.
Justin has been fishing since he was a boy and is passionate about anything to do with fish. He adores being outside and being a Firefighter is a practical, problem-solving person who loves being in water and up ladders.
“50 years experience between us in the Fire Service and NHS was enough for us. When we spotted the opportunity to manage South Farm holiday cottages and fishery, we decided that our love of nature and the countryside alongside a love for people and fish(!) that this was definitely a perfect change for us.”
“On our first visit to South Farm, as we ventured all along the lanes and through the woodlands on a rainy, misty day we were not sure exactly where we were going or what we would find but when we arrived it was love at first sight. We were not put off by the weather and we could not even see the whole view that first day but were still blown away by the beauty and tranquillity of the place.
It has a traditional, country style that we both just loved.”
The two feel very lucky to be a part of South Farm and are loving welcoming new and returning guests.
“It feels like we are part of somewhere special, we love to see people enjoying themselves and leaving the busy world behind for a while and we feel it’s a privilege to be a part of that”.
South Farm Holiday cottages in Devon stunning views from the properties

South Farm

Aerial views of South Farm showing the lakes

Aerial views of South Farm showing the lakes

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South Farm News

South Farm News

Blue logo featuring a colourful kingfisher

We are sad to announce that our managers Debbie and Gary after many years of commitment to South Farm have decided to move on to pastures new in mid June 2024. We wish them all the very best with their future plans. It is a testimony to their long service and loyalty that so many guests return year after year. We are currently recruiting for their replacement so be assured that South Farm will continue to offer a very warm welcome to guests for them to enjoy the beautiful and peaceful surroundings of such a unique place.

We thank Debbie and Gary for all their hard work and making South Farm the welcoming and special place it is.

South Farm holiday cottages for rent for self catering holidays

Fishing lake surrounded by woodland

Aerial views of South Farm showing the lakes

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FANTASTIC FEBRUARY FOR FOREST DROVE

Forest Drove, New Forest Cottage

Five Star February for Forest Drove Cottage

It has been a wonderful February for Forest Drove Cottage, with not just back to back but three five-star reviews from our guests who has a break with us during this month!

Forest Drove Cottage is our very own charming picturesque 300 year old thatched cottage close to all amenities and yet secluded, with 6 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms and cloakroom in the New Forest, sleeping up to 11 guests.

This stunning cottage has a delightfully airy extension for the kitchen and dining area with underfloor heating but also full of old world charm for the rest of the cottage, with beams, lattice windows and inglenook fireplace with wood burner.

There are lovely gardens to front and rear with a children’s play frame and trampoline to rear and a decking area with garden seating and with barbecue. The decking is accessed through the patio doors of the extension, where you will find an outdoor hot tub. We are also dog friendly, so you can bring your furry friends too!

To the front you have a heated games room with darts and a multi games table including pool, air hockey and table tennis as well as a ground floor bedroom with an en-suite wet room. Outside of the property you will also find an electric vehicle charge point.

Here is what some of our guests had to stay.

Forest Drove Rear of the cottage in the hot tub

Louise’s review:

“A beautiful house with everything you could possibly need. A peaceful location with plenty of walks near by which was great for us and the dog. It is also well situated for exploring so many areas the new forest has to offer. We had a fabulous stay and made some great memories as a family!”

Forest Drove lounge area looking at the woodburner

Sharon’s review:

“It’s a beautiful cottage easy to find . Well maintained and quiet.
Play area bonus for our small children when we got back after day out.”

Forest Drove dining area next to the kitchen catering for 11 guests and fully set up

Lynne’s review:

“A beautiful period cottage, very warm and inviting, with maintenance just at the other end of the line and very responsive, polite and helpful. To clarify, Maintenance were called about a small thing (perhaps user error) rather than anything bad. e.g getting the TV to work or the dishwasher (which was new). An excellent stay!”

If you’d like to know more about Forest Drove Cottage or to view some of our other properties, click here. We also have some great offers on at the moment, so take some time to have a look at our latest offers page.

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Seasonal Greetings From Short Stay Homes

Season Greetings from the offices at Short Stay Homes including the office dog Buddy

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We are Gold again!

Short Stay Homes’ Quay House Awarded Gold By VisitEngland for 2023-2024.

VisitEngland’s Accolades are designed to celebrate excellence within the self-catering accommodation sector and showcase those that go the extra mile to provide high-quality accommodation for guests.

Gold award status recognises accommodation that have scored highly across the board, with accommodation being assessed on over 35 criteria, from the exterior of the property to the management efficiency and cleanliness of the rooms to decoration of the property.

Quay House is one of only fourteen self-catering accommodation venues in the whole of Dorset to receive 5 stars and the gold award this year.

Christchurch Holiday Home wins Gold Award from Visit England 5 stars

Quay House, Christchurch is one of only fourteen self-catering accommodation venues in the whole of Dorset to receive 5 stars and the gold award this year. This property is in a prime location, sleeping up to 15 guests.

Visit England Gold Award 5 Stars Dorset Holiday Accommodation

Quay House was assessed on over 35 criteria points, scoring extremely highly across the board, receiving the Visit England Gold award and 5 stars.

Tony Sweeney, Owner Short Stay Homes, said:

“I am very proud to receive the 5-star gold award again, maintaining our 5-star experience, from booking through to the time spent in our homes, particularly as we refurbished this grade II listed property from a derelict and uninhabitable house, to the magnificent mansion it is today.

The staff at Short Stay Homes work really hard to ensure that customer experience continues to meet the excellent levels we have accomplished.”

Keep up to date with the latest news and offers at Short Stay Homes, by heading to our latest offers page, following on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or booking your next stay now.

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14 Reasons To Try A UK Staycation

View from Riverside Lodge New Forest

14 Reasons why you should try a staycation.

A staycation is a holiday where you stay in your country of residence, exploring new towns and cities. The South of England has some fantastic areas for a staycation, which can be more affordable than you think.

1. Short Breaks
A staycation works well for a short break. These are often needed to recharge your batteries or an opportunity to use fewer holiday days at work. In this scenario, a staycation can be perfect and often fit in to a busier schedule.

2. Saves You Money
A staycation can cut out a lot of extra costs. Airline tickets, hold luggage, reserved seats, parking or taxi costs all mount up and often at inflated tourist prices. With a tank of petrol or a train ticket, you will be surprised how much you save, allowing to make your staycation extra special if you wanted.

3. Planning time
Arranging everything for a holiday takes time. Flights, insurance, visas, vaccination, rentals, accommodation, currently are all things we spend time on in preparation for travelling abroad. On top of that, you may schedule plan, attractions, restaurant, cultural attractions, before looking at cultural norms and etiquette and before you know it you have started a project. Your planning time for your staycation will be reduced.

A woman pointing at a map planning a vacation

4. They Make Great Surprises
If you have a celebration for someone, it is a lot easier for everyone to meet at a luxury location and make their celebration that much more special with their loved ones.

5. Climate
In recent years with the climate changing, this has meant we have seen a rise in heat waves and forest fires in many tourism hot spots. This can lead to many problems when abroad, even to the point of potentially cancelling your holiday. The UK has a variety of things to do even if there is the occasional day of rain.

6. Greener way to travel
We are becoming more aware of our carbon footprint and the impact it has on our world. By switching flying abroad to exploring your own country, lessens you travel emissions and improves the sustainability of your holiday.

7. Travel risk
This year has seen a number of impacts on travelling during your holiday, in particular there has been flight, train and ferry delays largely due to staffing and air traffic control issues. Whilst roads in the UK are busy, delays can be counted in hours and not days and the implications are far less expensive.

A view of Durdle Door with beautiful clear water.

8. Discover Your Doorstep
We get so caught up in going abroad that sometimes we forget just how stunning our own country is. You can view your own country with a different mindset and experience local traditions, culture, history and cuisine, getting the same traveller buzz.

9. Accommodation
There is now a far greater choice of high-quality self-catering accommodation throughout the UK, that you have many options when planning a trip for you and your fellow guests, whether planning a university reunion or Grandad’s 80th birthday.

10. No language issues
We have all been there when we order from the menu and you are hoping they have understood your order or request or getting lost in a taxi trying to find the local waterpark. For some, the language barrier is a source of stress and when you take a staycation you can avoid these communication break downs, however, you may experience a few different accents.

11. No passport and visa requirements
Valid passports, visa requirements, travel insurance documentation and other travel approved documentation can be a small nightmare for families booking travel abroad, as well as the costs. With your staycation, you won’t need any of these. One less thing to worry about can make your holiday much more enjoyable.

Foreign Currency - colourful notes and a tower of coins.

12. No currency issues
With your staycation, there is no currency that needs exchanging. You can use your British pounds in cash and bank card form. Checking exchange rates, working out how much you may need, letting banks know you’re taking your card abroad, making sure you have the right money takes a lot of planning.

13. Less Stressful
Your staycation will help you full unwind. No flights to catch, lost luggage, vaccinations, medical documentation or culture shocks. Knowing what you can eat and the familiarity of your country, helps you relax and feeling more refreshed.

14. Fuelling local economy
Local shops, restaurants, attractions, accommodation and taxis all contribute to the local economy within your country. This helps maintain jobs and thriving towns and cities.

In these challenging times perhaps supporting UK tourism and the economy is not a bad thing!

Check out our feature on the New Forest, which became a national park in 2005 and was once a royal hunting ground for William the Conqueror. It covers an area of 566 square kilometres and is made up of vast tracts of unspoilt woodland, heathland and river valleys. Today deer, ponies and cattle continue to roam free in its ancient heaths and woodland. Clear rivers and shady groves provide tranquillity and a car-free haven for walking, cycling and horse riding.

Click here to view our latest offers.

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