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Travel

  • ASHLEY BIRD FEATURED LUMSDALE

    7 stunning waterfall walks in Derbyshire

    Just because we’re landlocked doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the water this summer. Grab your walking boots, pack some snacks, and head out to see these epic waterfalls across Derbyshire and Notts.

  • Muddy Insider Guide to the West Midlands

    The Commonwealth Games has shone a spotlight on Birmingham but there's far more to the West Midlands than its prime city. Read on for everything you need for a stay in the beating heart of England.

  • Dive in! 16 incredible swimming pools world-wide

    Make a splash on Instagram in one of these amazing swimming pools, from infinity-edged stunners to private plunge pools with a view.

  • Muddy Insider Guide to the West Midlands

    The Commonwealth Games has shone a spotlight on Birmingham but there's far more to the West Midlands than its prime city. Read on for everything you need for a stay in the beating heart of England.

  • The Muddy insider guide to Norwich

    Headed to Norwich for a holiday, or a local going "up the city"? Either way, you'll want to check out our brand new insider guide to this irresistible city.

  • 12 brilliant all-inclusive resorts for families

    Fancy some family fun in the sun without a nasty big bill at the end? Better make your next trip an all-inclusive, whether it's a Greek getaway or Caribbean adventure.

  • 6 places to visit in Cornwall without using your car

    Hankering after a Cornish break but don't fancy the drive and the parking? There's plenty of places totally accessible by public transport - here's six to bookmark.

  • Beach bonanza: cool down on the Essex coast

    All the Essex coast insider info you need, from the best beaches and beach huts to scenic coastal walks and where to get seafood suppers with a view.

  • Beach day trips within two hours of Cambridge

    Pack a picnic and bucket and spade and head to the beach for the day. These are the best seaside stunners within two hours or less of Cambridge.

  • Beach day! Seaside trips that are doable from Bucks & Oxon

    We may live in a landlocked region but we can still make it to the beach within three hours! Here are our favourite day trips now the sun has arrived - grab your flip flops and get ready to rise at dawn.

  • The Muddy insider guide to The Cotswolds

    With its butterscotch-stoned villages, rolling countryside and buzzing market towns, the sheep-nibbled hills of the Cotswolds are heart-tuggingly enchanting. Enter field-left, our Insiders Guide!

  • The Muddy Insider Guide to Cornwall

    Planning to staycay this summer? Our curated guide to Cornwall is packed with our in-the-know tips and up to date openings.

  • A guide to The Witterings

    Beautiful sandy beaches, pretty coastal villages to explore, luxury self-catered holiday rentals... and all just a stone's throw from Surrey. What more could you ask for?

  • 27 of the best beaches in East Anglia

    Summer's here so we've got the inside scoop on the best East Anglian beaches for all tastes. Buckets at the ready, sandwiches packed, bring on the sun!

  • Best beaches in the South & South West

    Heading south for the summer? Then you'll be needing our guide to the 18 best beaches, including the inside line on the best activities, foodie joints and sundowner spots.

  • 13 lovely local vineyards to visit

    Sunshine, glorious countryside and home-grown tipples – now that’s what we call a Muddy outing! Tour and taste at these brilliant vineyards around Hampshire, Surrey, Sussex, Kent and Berkshire.

  • Bilbao, Mykonos or Naples? Disney cruises into Europe

    Thought Disney Cruise Line was all about Miami, Florida and the Bahamas? Here are the coolest destinations for 2023 - and our insider tips on how to maximise the fun while you're in port.

  • Highway 1

    Driving us wild! The world’s best road trips

    There’s nothing like hitting the open road to give you a sense of freedom and adventure on holiday, whether it’s a 24-hour jaunt or a week-long epic escape.

  • Indian Ocean calling: Up to 40% off Mauritius family hols

    If you're going to the sun, you gotta do it in style, right? Leading luxury travel company Turquoise have teamed up with the Mauritian tourist board for three incredible deals this summer. Ready, steady, pack!

  • Review: Denbies Vineyard Hotel, Dorking

    Looking for a grape escape? Muddy checks into the Vineyard Hotel on the Denbies Wine Estate near Dorking - the perfect getaway for those who like walking, drinking lovely wine and eating fabulous seasonal food.

  • The-Ivy-windsor

    The Muddy insider guide to Windsor

    Thanks to the Platinum Jubilee, royal weddings and family tensions, the spotlight's fixed on Windsor right now. Ditch the guide book, here's where to hang out during your visit.

  • Let’s go boating on the River Thames

    Life slows down on the water, and whether you're with a bunch of mates or have the family in tow, the GoBoat experience from Kingston-upon-Thames is one of the most enjoyable days out you'll have.

  • Milsoms

    The Muddy insider guide to Essex

    Close to London yet home to beautiful countryside and a stunning stretch of coastline with in-the-know islands and hidden estuaries, Essex is the underrated jewel of East Anglia and it’s time you paid a visit.

  • suffolk heath

    The Muddy insider’s guide to Suffolk

    Put down that passport - with gorgeous five-star hotels and unique glamping spots to castles and a stunning coastline, the Costa del Suffolk is holiday perfection.

  • The Muddy insider guide to Norfolk

    Stunning beaches, beautiful broads, bijou boltholes and a vibrant main city – Norfolk is one of our favourite year-round staycation destinations. Ready to 'Do Different'?

  • Our insider guide to Southend & Leigh-on-Sea

    Oh we do like to be beside the seaside! Fancy visiting the UK's newest city this spring? Don't miss Muddy's insider guide to this picturesque stretch of Essex coast.

  • Guide to Truro Cornwall

    The Muddy Insider’s Guide To Truro

    Foodie, arty and cultural - Truro is Cornwall's Great Little City and our in-the-know local guide will point you straight to the places to be.

  • Your bang-up-to-date insider guide to Oxford

    Staycationing this spring? Then you'll be needing Muddy's amazing insider guide to the city of dreaming spires, including the tourist classics and hipster hangouts.

  • Muddy’s bang-up-to-date guide to Newbury

    Want to visit this buzzy West Berkshire market town, but have no idea what to see, do and try? I do! I do!

  • Let’s take a day trip to Chelmsford!

    Looking for a top-notch day trip just outside of London? Discover 12 of the best things to do in Chelmsford in our carefully-curated Muddy guide. You’re welcome…

  • Feeling fruity? Life is sweet at Plum Cottages

    Fancy playing weekend escape bingo? Five star style, foodie, fresh air and open fires. HOUSE! We've found just the place and it's new. Muddy checks in at Plum Cottages in Bray.

  • Coworth Park

    Spa struck at Coworth Park, Ascot

    A five star hotel so fab you'll never want to leave. Pack your bags, and canter towards Coworth Park for fun, fresh air, food and a heavenly spa. Ahhh that's better.

  • Muddy stays: The Great House, Sonning

    Fancy spending the night with George Clooney? OK, so he won't actually be in the same room, but he's within flashing distance of The Great House in Sonning – a fun, funky, riverside hotel.

  • Muddy stays: the Cowdray Estate, Midhurst

    Chances are if you're planning a trip over the next months you're back to thinking - UK, self-catering, countryside. And as it happens, I've just reviewed the perfect cottage for you!

  • Girls with guns: Ladies’ Day at Bisley Shooting Ground

    We're going on a clay shoot. Clay shooting is great fun, but it's even better when you're surrounded by a gaggle of great girls and it includes breakfast, elevenses and lunch.

  • Autumn breaks – from 1 to 4 hours away

    Planning a last-minute half term getaway? Here are 6 destinations perfect for the season, plus the chance to win one of FIVE Saltee Skin bundles to take with you, worth £500.

  • Ready, aim, fire? Let’s go shooting

    More women and children than ever are taking up shooting, so Muddy takes her teenager along to Bisley Shooting Ground and gives it two smoking barrels. Boom!

  • SWAN AT STREATLEY EXT RIVER

    Muddy reviews: The Swan at Streatley

    This boutique hotel in the village of Streatley, West Berkshire, with its slick styling and stunning riverside location is the ultimate weekend escape.

  • Protected: Muddy stays: Cliveden House Hotel, Taplow

    There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.

  • Insider guide to Cambridge

    This university city with a whole lotta history, fantastic architecture, excellent restaurants and plenty of green space is SO deserving of your next weekend break.

  • Insider guide to Bury St Edmunds

    Staycation alert! If you’re looking to discover somewhere a little bit under the radar, check our up-to-date guide to Suffolk’s historic market town, including where to scoff, shop, sleep, drink and hangout

  • Make your holidays count: 13 trips of a lifetime

    Splashing out on a big celebration holiday? Have we got some travel inspo for you, featuring palm trees, tropical islands, star-gazing, sundowners and private butlers. Bring it on.

  • The best places to fly long haul

    Thinking of winter sun but can't bear the idea of long haul? Think again lady - get ready to have your preconceptions dispelled with your expert tips on where, how and why

  • Coworth Park Hunter wellies green and one pair of leopard wellies

    Is this the ultimate family escape?

    A five star hotel so fab you and your kids will never want to leave. Pack your bags, Coworth Park is calling for fresh air, great food and post-lockdown fun on tap.

  • Muddy review: Alexander House, West Sussex

    With a stunning spa and newly launched fine dining restaurant, this five-star country manor house should be at the top of your list for a luxe post-lockdown escape.

  • Holiday in the hills: Muddy reviews Barnett Hill

    As holidays abroad are seemingly off the agenda - a staycation has never looked so good. And this country house hotel in the gorgeous Surrey Hills is the perfect getaway for couples and families.

  • Escape to Great Fosters for a fairy tale fantasy

    If ever a getaway was needed, it's now. For a fairy tale fantasy, head to Great Fosters in north Surrey, where there's plenty to keep kids and parents happy.

  • Insider’s guide to Reigate

    This medieval market town is bursting at the seam with independent shops, pubs and restaurants, beautiful green spaces and annual events you'll be desperate to attend. 

  • Muddy reviews: Artist Residence

    This boutique masterpiece in the hamlet of South Leigh, Oxfordshire with its slick styling and cleverly chosen art, is a welcome antidote to traditional Cotswolds inns.

  • Is this the most elegant B&B in Sussex?

    A top notch dinner and a secluded pool are among surprises at this antique-filled hideaway

  • 5 West Country wellbeing stays

    Looking for a Devon, Cornwall or Somerset escape? Check out these corker properties from Perfect Stays, all with on-site extras you'll love, from yoga and wine tasting to massage.

  • Stay here: One Abbey Lane, Southam

    This beautifully renovated Tudor gem in Warwickshire featured on BBC 2's Restoration Home is now a stylish B&B apartment.

  • What’s on your bucket list?

    Have you got a travel bucket list? Are these fantastic places on it? They should be!

  • 5 Cool things to do in Wales

    Fancy an activity holiday with the kids or an adreneline fuelled weekend with friends? Snowdonia is my new favourite staycation!

  • Fit for a queen?

    Muddy's Georgina Forsythe escapes to the Warwickshire countryside in the school hols for some overnight R&R.

  • Need a spa day? Check out the best ‘Superspas’ across Glos, Somerset and Wilts

    I'll tell you what I want, what I really really want... a massage, mani and Jacuzzi please, and make it snappy. Whether you’re going with your romantic other, bezzie mates or gloriously solo, here’s our pick of the very best spas near you.

  • The Langley is… OPEN!

    Superluxe The Langley in South Buckinghamshire opens its doors for the first time today! Here are 6 reasons why you should put it to the top of your hotel wish list.

  • Muddy’s ultimate travel guide: New Zealand

    Two islands, four million people, one incredible destination. I used to live in New Zealand and Mr Muddy is a Kiwi, so this is a proper Insider's Guide!

  • The dreamiest new hotels to book now

    In need of an indulgent weekend away? Er, ALWAYS. Here's our pick of the best brand new - and downright desirable - hotels to book pronto. Breakfast in bed and late check-outs all round!

  • Why travel agents rock

    You get one life - don't waste it - eight reasons to use a boutique travel agent.

  • Hurley House Hotel grey and white bedroom with bath

    Get a room! Hurley House reviewed

    Escape to the country for a luxury overnighter at this relaxing Berkshire bolthole – top nosh and quality starfishing await.

  • Five Super Cool Norfolk Staycations

    Grab a cuppa, snuggle up under a blanket on the sofa and start planning some Norfolk staycations for 2019.

  • Out-of-Season Scilly with Kids

    Cornwall meets the Caribbean on this unspoilt archipelago just 28 miles from Land's End. Here are my top tips for visiting with the family in 2019.

  • The best house party in the mountains

    Ready for more partying after the Xmas season is over? How about heading for the Alps for the best party you can imagine?

  • St Lucia, beyond the beaches

    As the nights draw in and the weather gets bloomin' chilly, what's the best thing to do? Book a holiday, of course! Fancy something with loads of adventure for the kids? It's got to be St Lucia, baby!

  • Brighton’s Rock ‘n’ Roll hotel

    From silly to sexy, there's plenty of fun to be had at Brighton's unique Hotel Pelirocco

  • The Big Beautiful Beach House

    This impressive family home was the setting for Richard Curtis' film, About Time and now you can rent it out and make your own memories here. Shall we have a snoop around?

  • bedroom double bed fur throw sofa cushions curtains

    The Northgate, Bury St Edmunds

    One night at the Northgate Hotel was the perfect respite to recharge my batteries. Less than one hours drive from Norwich and it felt like a proper luxurious escape!

  • Park House Hotel & Spa, Midhurst

    Spa - tick... fab food - tick... rooms with a view - tick... get a relaxing triple whammy at this country house-style getaway with great seasonal promotions. Go on, you deserve it.

  • The Belfry Hotel & Resort

    Muddy tucks into a 6-course Tasting Evening at this 4* top golf, leisure and spa resort in the North Warwickshire countryside. It was definitely well above par.

  • Cruising with kids

    Cruising is not just for pensioners - some lines go all out to attract families. Find out about typical children's activities onboard and some of the adventurous places you could visit.

  • hot tub sea view

    Stay Here: Cliff House

    One of our fave luxury self-catering stays in South Devon has just re-opened after a snazzy refurb. So what's new? Well, *that* hot tub for starters...

  • Make a dash for the seaside

    You don't have to hop on a plane to enjoy a little beach time this summer. Here are 8 stylish British staycations for inspiration

  • Cotswold House Hotel

    This boutique townhouse hotel in Chipping Campden gives its country house cousins a run for their money.

  • The Castle Inn, West Lulworth

    Rustic luxe pub with rooms, food by a Blumenthal protégé and just two minutes walk away from the stunning Jurassic coast. I'd say the dream combo for a weekend away...

  • shepherds hut

    Glamp rock

    The West does it best when it comes to camping and glamping! The definitive Muddy guide to campsites and glamp sites in Cornwall, Devon and Somerset

  • Stylish mid-century interior with cowhide rug.

    A Stylish Family Retreat

    Looking for a special, take-a-deep breath space—all Mad Men elegance, oodles of space for kids & a mahoosive dining table? Welcome to Slate Cottage.

  • Tour travel: could it be for you?

    Group touring has come a long way from guides waving umbrellas in the air! Increasing popular, there are now lots of small and perfectly formed far-flung travel options...

  • Cliff Cottage, Iken

    Heart-stopping views and an open, airy interior make this secret, Suffolk hideaway very special indeed. Perched high above the River Alde, expect big sunsets and endless, estuary horizons.

  • Caribbean island match

    Budget-conscious or luxe? Romantic or family-friendly? Get the lowdown on the right islands and resorts for you with our handy guide.

  • Thai for beginners

    As the kids go back to school and the nights draw in, what's the best thing to do? Book a holiday, of course! Fancy something a bit further afield this time?

  • Ski Luxury for Less

    Are you after a luxury ski holiday but want it on a smaller budget? Fear not, Muddy is here to help - check out our top tips for luxe for less!

  • big brass bath

    Room with a view

    Lavishly decorated, a spectacular view and a whopping great big brass bath at The Swan Hotel in Wells – why wouldn't you?

  • Shakespeare’s Gardens

    Been to visit the stunning contemporary new sculpture garden at Shakespeare's New Place in Stratford yet?

  • Say namaste to an Asian hotel in Alicante

    An Asian-themed hotel right in the centre of Alicante? Meet Asia Gardens Hotel & Thai Spa

  • Edinburgh Fringe planning tips

    Get the best from the fest with my handy guide to how to plan your gig-going

  • RED (CAMPER) VAN WOMAN

    This baby's got everything you need to be pretty much self-contained. It's fab to drive and when you park up you can be cooking up dinner, knocking back wine and/or be cosy in bed within minutes.

  • Breakfast in ‘Broadchurch’

    The first award-winning series of Broadchurch opened with a shot of distinctive honeycombed sandstone cliffs with a child’s body at the bottom. I may not have guessed who done it, even by the final episode, but I immediately recognised where.    Broadchurch is largely shot in West Bay on Dorset’s Jurassic coast, a few bays down from Lyme […]

  • And The Winner Is…

    Happy days to one very lucky Muddy reader who is about to float off with a luxury weekend at Another Place, The Lake in Ullswater, The Lake District. Thousands of you entered this one – I guess everyone needs a holiday! – but the winner is (*drum roll*)… Michelle Tebbutt. Congratulations to you lady. I’m […]

  • Sundays At The Star & Garter

    An amazing slow-cooked Sunday roast and stunning waterside views await at this gastro pub on Falmouth's old high street.

  • My fave places: Somerset crime queen Clare Donoghue

    Crime novelist Clare Donoghue was brought up in Somerset and spent the obligatory ten years in London before moving back to the West Country to do an MA in creative writing at Bath Spa. By the end of the year she had her first novel – Never Look Back – and her main characters DI […]

  • Stay here: The Castle Hotel, Windsor

    And so it came to pass that the mudlets were gently but firmly pushed into the loving arms of their doting Auntie while Mr Muddy B and I hopped into the car and floored it. Yes, we had escaped to Windsor for 24 hours… no kids to harrass us, nothing to do but browse in shops (yes, […]

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