BEDFORDSHIRE BERKSHIRE BUCKINGHAMSHIRE CAMBRIDGESHIRE CORNWALL DEVON GLOUCESTERSHIRE HAMPSHIRE HERTFORDSHIRE ISLE OF WIGHT KENT LEICESTERSHIRE NORFOLK NORTHAMPTONSHIRE OXFORDSHIRE RUTLAND SOMERSET SURREY SUSSEX WARWICKSHIRE WILTSHIRE

CORNWALL

Talland Bay Hotel, Porthallow

In Cornwall, driftwood and seafaring stripes is the norm, so Talland Bay Hotel stands out for its rock star spirit. From the zebra print couches to the cast silver bottom by the loos, there is something to make you smile – or raise an eyebrow – around every corner. Head of housekeeping Penny is the creative force behind the hotel’s quirky/cool style. Her mantra “nothing classic, nothing ordinary, nothing safe”, inspires flamingoes, feathers, fuchsia wood panelling and more. Known for its quirky character and double AA fine dining, Talland Bay Hotel attracts guests from all over the UK and beyond, including an impressive roster of celebs. The 16th-century, white-washed exterior sits elegantly in the scenic coastal setting but throughout the gardens and interiors, eclectic artwork, sculptures and other curiosities bring a magical sense of fun. The brilliant staff also make the experience. Friendly and relaxed, yet total pros, they make you feel right at home. tallandbayhotel.co.uk

CAMBRIDGESHIRE

Kingston Barns, Cambridge

“Ooh let’s go and stay in a corrugated metal barn conversion” isn’t the stuff of luxury holiday dreams, but the clever folk who renovated these four former farm buildings last year have turned them into a thing of beauty. Take over the entire property with 16 of your nearest and dearest or just rent one for the family. Inside you’ll find open plan, high-end interiors (the sort that make you want to completely redo your own house). Barn one is our pick as it includes the quirky silo, which houses a gorgeous master suite and circular kitchen. Outside there are landscaped gardens, and an orangery, that is just screaming out to host one helluva party. kingstonbarns.co.uk

The Arc Cabin, Elton, Peterborough

If you go down to the woods in Elton, you’re sure of a big surprise… The Arc Cabin, a little slice of glamping heaven for 2-4 people right in the middle of Cambridge’s glorious woodland along the River Nene. Grab your other half and the kids (or leave them with the grandparents and really enjoy the peace and quiet) and curl up by the wood burning stove with one of the many books and a glass of vino. The interiors are all homespun chic – crochet rugs, clashing prints and rustic wood furniture – that work perfectly in this setting. Outside there’s a charming verandah with festoon lighting and endless views of immaculate forest. Kenneth Grahame stayed in this same woodland and was inspired to write Wind in the Willows – so bring your notebook with you and that book you’ve been meaning to write might just happen! thearccabin.co.uk

RUTLAND

In the Stix, Greetham

Imagine spending the night in these impressive white domes. They may look weird but inside it’s a whole different story. We’re talking 5 star glamping all the way – comfy furniture, bathrooms, a log burner to stay warm and cosy during the cooler months and right next door is a private field kitchen complete with a wood-fired oven and a gas hob for that much-needed morning cuppa. Located in the heart of Rutland, the family-friendly retreat lives up to it’s name by giving the feeling like you’re in the middle of nowhere – which by the looks of things, is a great place to be. Sink into your chesterfield sofa with a glass of wine or take a dip in the wood-fired hot tubs. If you can tear yourself away, there’s plenty of wonderful walks and cycling routes right on your doorstep or for the more adventurous types, you can go sailing or windsurfing on one of the nearby beaches. inthestix.co.uk

LEICESTERSHIRE

Fair Farm Hideaway, Waltham on the Wolds

Want something with a little bit of luxury thrown in? Book a stay at Fair Farm Hideaway and you’ll bed down in a stylish shepherd’s hut. Nestled around two lakes on the edge of the village of Waltham on the Wolds, you’ll be able to sink into a plush double bed with a luxurious feather down duvet, crisp Egyptian cotton bedding and modern en-suite facilities (so no late night dashes to the public loos). There’s also fluffy towels and luxury toiletries provided as well as uninterrupted views of the countryside – you can even watch the sun set from your bijou pad. If that wasn’t enough you’ve also got your own outdoor patio area complete with a fire-pit and BBQ perfect to fire up during those balmy summer evenings plus, a private wood-fired hot tub. Sorry neighbours! Did I mention it’s an adults only site? Gives the word ‘hideaway’ a whole new meaning. fairfarm.co.uk

KENT

The Enchanted Faraway Tree, Whitstable

The newest of Kent Cottage Holidays 5 uniquely different properties this one is inspired by magical memories of childhood stories and gives a grown-up twist to escapist adventure. It’s a one-of-a-kind treehouse pod, complete with glass-domed ceiling, soft blankets and plush cushions, where you can fall asleep under the stars. The magic continues outside in the secluded garden with a twin open-air shower to kick start your day and a wood-fired hot tub to help you unwind at the end of it. There’s a BBQ for dining alfresco plus a fire pit for toasting marshmallows. A luxury stay with a difference. kentcottageholidays.com

Elmley National Nature Reserve, Isle of Sheppey

No need to leave the country for a safari holiday when you have Elmley Nature Reserve waiting in Kent for you – the only National Nature Reserve in England where you can spend the night. Okay so we are not talking lions and tigers and bears (oh my) but since 1991, this has been deemed a National Nature Reserve and is an internationally recognized site for the conservation of rare birds, plants, animals and insects. Stay in The Saltbox, The Damson or The Ferryman’s – modern twists on traditional Shepherd’s huts with luxury touches looking out onto unspoilt views. Massages are available on site in a dedicated treatment room. elmleynaturereserve.co.uk

BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

Badger’s Bower, Wendover

How adorable is this handmade wooden tabernacle? It looks like something out of a fairytale. Sitting at the edge of an ancient wood, penned Badger’s Bower because of the abundance of bluebells and surrounding wildlife, you’d never guess it’s just an hour drive from London and a five minute walk from Wendover, with its boutiques, indie shops and train station. Outside you’ll find a hammock, rocking chairs, firepit and you can also hire a private wood fired hot tub (yes please!). Inside, behind the huge church doors, the space is open plan with beautiful stained glass windows, a king sized bed, fridge and hob for cooking and mahoosive double ended bath with views of the private woodland. canopyandstars.co.uk

The Chiltern Granary, near High Wycombe

The quirky bit of this stay is not the 4 person Chiltern Granary itself (though actually that has an unusual upside layout with bedroom, bathroom and kitchen on the ground floor, and sitting room up top with panoramic views of ancient beech woods and rolling farmland. Rather it’s this gorgeous little artic cabin (pictured above), complete with a built in BBQ/fire-pit in the centre and benches that can be turned into beds is you fancy glamping for the night. The Chiltern rambling path runs past the end of the garden and the small village of West Wycombe is just a mile walk away which has Hellfire Caves and West Wycombe Park – both are hosting an outdoor cinema and theatre this summer. mulberrycottages.com

NORFOLK

The Control Tower, North Creake

This WWII Control Tower perched on the edge of former RAF North Creake has been lovingly restored by Art Deco enthusiasts Claire and Nigel and transformed into a unique vegetarian Bed & Breakfast. Step inside and back to the 1940’s. It feels a little like a cross between your Nana’s house and a museum with lots of fab retro art, furniture and memorabilia. Every room has original 1940’s fittings and decor, it’s an incredibly immersive experience. Muddy was lucky enough to stay in the Stirling Room – a garden annex double with a small living room and über cool pink and black art deco bathroom.

Breakfast is delivered to your room and the attention to detail with the crockery, baskets and cool box is so darn cute! And talking of cute, Nigel & Claire’s own personal vintage style is amazing and left us wondering how they have time run such a busy establishment and look so dapper! If you fancy learning more, there’s a free tour of the tower every morning, where you get to learn about the building and surrounding area. controltowerstays.com

Bumble Bell Tents, Norfolk

These guys know how to put the sexy into camping, with a range of bell tent hire options from Basic Bee to Queen Bee (I think we know which we’ll be opting for) Bumble Bell Tents have taken glamping to the next style level. Each tent is fully dressed with luxurious touches – from the high spec bedding, cushions and faux fur to the ambient lighting and macrame magic. This is definitely a little bit quirky and normal camping will never be quite the same.

Brilliant for the boho wedding vibe, laid back birthday celebrations and a personal favourite – setting up a festival Bee Hive with friends and family. Lots of helpful extras are available to book from food packages to kids equipment and toys to an Emperor tent which can be used for adult only chill out zone or a kids play area -depending on your parenting style! Plus – we’ve sneaked this into Norfolk but they are also available for hire in Muddy Sussex and Muddy Somerset. bumblebell.co.uk

DEVON

There are beach stays and then there is The Beach Hut. One of six holiday homes at Carswell Farm, it’s just four miles off the coast road near Plymouth but you could be cast away on a desert island, marooned in your own private cove, with just an outdoor hot tub and a sky full of stars for company. This tiny stone bolthole is perfect for love birds, day-dreamers and would-be Robinson Crusoe’s. Switch off for the weekend and watch the waves roll in as you snuggle in the hammocks and a romantic mezzanine made for two. Not for the faint-hearted, it’s a fifteen minute trek to your car with your luggage, with no phone signal and no electricity – just a a kitchen stocked with eco-friendly basics and a flickering log-burner to keep you toasty. But think: the wifi-free bliss of knowing you can’t check your emails even if you wanted to. And that location; a private beach all to yourself – you won’t be sending out an SOS, believe me. Prices start from £550 for a two night stay. carswellcottages.com

HAMPSHIRE

Solent Forts, Portsmouth

If you really want to push the boat out with your break then how about heading seaward? The Solent Forts, off the coast of Portsmouth, were originally built as defence fortifications by Lord Palmerston (in fact they are known as part of a group called Palmerston’s Follies), and have since been turned into luxury accommodation fit for the highest brass. You can choose from one of the suites on Spitbank Fort (starting from £1,009 per night for two people) or one of the classic rooms on No Man’s Fort (from £499 for two people). As well as beautiful nautical decor, there’s also a spa on No Man’s Fort, numerous bars and dining areas, a fire pit and roof terrace, plus you get to take a boat (or an exciting rib ride for a little bit extra) to get to these iconic spots. solentforts.com

Chewton Glen Treehouse, New Milton

If you’re looking for that perfect mix of high-end luxe and super quirky surroundings, then Chewton Glen’s Treehouses will be right up your tree. These gorgeous dwellings sit 35ft off the ground and come decked out with hot tubs, outside terraces overlooking the tree canopy, wood burner and a super squishy king-size bed. Starting at £1,400 per night, there is space for 4 adults, or 2 adults and 2 children, for a truly unforgettable stay. pittsdeepcottage.co.uk

ISLE OF WIGHT

Windmill Campersite, Carisbrooke

The Island’s wonderful eccentricity is at its peak at the Windmill Campersite. This one-of-a-kind glamping spot has some of the most unusual dwellings we’ve ever come across including Galahad the Helicopter, Bollywood the VW campervan and the teeniest Hobbit House you ever did see. And the quirkiness doesn’t just stop at the accommodation, the facilities are equally as… unique with the ‘Showershack’ that comes complete with music and disco lights while you get clean, Bluebell the prettiest loo and shower block on the Island and its very own ‘Spudomatic’ where you can cook up to 100 baked potatoes at once. windmillcampersite.com

Chapel House, Chale

Chapel House (13)

Located in one of the most picturesque spots on the Island, Chapel House in Chale is quite simply heavenly. This ancient church has been lovingly converted into a self-catered dwelling with room for up to six people. The conversion fully embraces the architecture and details of the original building (they’ve even left the organ pipes in as a feature) making it a really unique sight. The interior is bright with homely decor, complete with many modern touches (we particularly love the chrome and glass balcony on the second floor). It also comes with off-road parking so you can bring the car and really explore the Island as well. Rates start from £854 for two nights. sykescottages.co.uk

Tom’s Eco Lodge, Yarmouth

Tom's Eco Lodge Modulogs

Located at Tapnell Farm in Yarmouth, Tom’s Eco Lodge is famous around the world for their unusual buildings and sustainable credentials. With a range of dwellings to choose from including safari tents, “Modulogs” and EcoPods, the farm has plenty happening around it and lots of history as well (it was actually the original site of the Isle of Wight Festival). While you and your family enjoy your stay you can swing by the farm itself to see all the cute animals or take part in lots of on-site activities including clay pigeon shooting, axe throwing and mountain boarding. Prices vary depending on the dwelling, but the Modulogs and EcoPods start from £130, with discounts for booking online. tomsecolodge.com

St Catherine’s Lighthouse, Niton Undercliffe

Catherines Lighthouse

St Catherine’s Lighthouse, located at the southernmost point of the Isle of Wight, was built in 1838 and is located on prime National Trust property. And while you don’t get to stay in the lighthouse itself, it does have three beautiful cottages – Gunard, Landward and Penda – at its foot that each sleep up to five people. During your stay here there are plenty of beautiful and historic sights nearby (make sure to look out for St Catherine’s Oratory), and its rural location makes it perfect for really getting away from the world. The lighthouse is still currently in use but thankfully doesn’t have a fog signal, so you can enjoy plenty of peace and quiet. Prices start from £111 per night for up to 5 people. trinityhouse.co.uk

HERTFORDSHIRE

Glamping at North Hill Farm, Chorleywood

If George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces tickle your fancy, you’re gonna love the uber quirky glamping options at North Hill Farm. This collection of back-to-basics huts and pods includes Owl’s Lookout (a tunnel-like construction with a sauna and BBQ area), Squirrel Run (a treehouse accessed by a suspension bridge), a Shepherd’s Hut with its own jacuzzi, as well as a flying tent, nomadic tipis and The Beehive, complete with (slightly trippy) yellow and black décor. Nestled in the rural Chess Valley it’s just a 15-minute walk to the Chorleywood Metropolitan line into London, so don’t panic – civilisation is within touching distance! glampingglamping.co.uk

SOMERSET

Inspired by a land girl’s love story, Esme’s Escape is a luxury shepherd’s hut set in a small orchard in the tranquil south Somerset village of Haselbury Plucknett. During WW2, Liverpudlian Esme was posted to the village as a land girl, fell in love and married a local boy called Fred and lived happily ever after *sigh*. Esme’s Escape, in the grounds of their former home, is an homage to their story: a cosy and romantic hideaway, with vintage furniture, bone china crockery, a woodburner, black & white photos on the walls along with mod cons like a nespresso machine, a flushing loo and hot shower. Sip prosecco in the log-fired hot tub, fire up the pizza oven/barbie, walk a couple of minutes to the foodie-favourite village pub or just cuddle up under the duvet. esmes-escape.co.uk

WARWICKSHIRE

Tree Pods, Wootton Park, Wootton Wawen, nr Henley in Arden

Fancy escaping the rat race for the perfect romantic quirky getaway but not relinquishing any luxuries? Climb 20 steps to your very own boutique tree house on stilts – there are two, Heavens Above! and Over the Moon. You’re 11ft high above glorious lush green pastoral scenes of fields, farmland and a 16th Century farmhouse in a sheltered vale. Sit under the stars sipping fizz in your very own hot tub with your Tree Pod for two lit up in fairy lights. Walk the grounds or go and explore the woodland and landscaped grounds of this former dairy farm, nestled in a 360-acre valley of rolling Warwickshire countryside. Facilities include a welcome pack with fresh farm eggs and a mini bottle of fizz, a kitchenette, comfy double, en-suite, shower, TV, underfloor heating and bbq. If you’re feeling adventurous there’s wakeboarding and horse-riding on-site. Seeking civilization? Head out to the beautiful, bustling historic market towns of Henley in Arden and Stratford upon Avon nearby. Enjoy an excellent choice of local restaurants and pubs, the RSC theatres and stately homes/gardens on your doorstep. Superbly placed close to Warwick, Leamington Spa and within easy reach of Birmingham. woottonpark.co.uk

White Hall Farm B&B, Long Itchington, nr Leamington Spa

Love quirky heritage buildings? This grade 11* listed, part Elizabethan farmhouse, on the edge of a pretty Warwickshire village is packed with rustic charm, exposed timbers and original period features. Set on a working arable farm, nine miles from Leamington Spa, it’s been in the family for generations. Outside is a lovely walled kitchen, which guests can view from each room. The B&B is set in an idyllic, tranquil spot but still an easy walk to the local village pubs. You can stay in one of two super king sized en-suite guest rooms, both having a bath and a walk in shower, TV, fridge, toiletries, dressing gowns and share the use of a beautiful timbered sitting room with original carvings. Guests also have the use of a private entrance, staircase and plenty of parking space. Rooms are £100 per night weekdays, £110 on Friday and Saturdays. booking.com

WILTSHIRE

Hidden Wood Glamping

Get in quick for the last availability this summer at this super-cool spot in the heart of Wiltshire. Hidden Wood Glamping pod is completely secluded (no nosy neighbours here) and within a fenced-in paddock so perfect for dogs and small Mudlets – it’s a properly off-grid luxury glamping experience that we love the sound of. Out of this world location? Tick. Hammocks, fire pit, BBQ and Scandinavian wood-fired hot tub? Tick. Glamping with a sprinkle of luxury? Tick. The pod sleeps four and is a fab place to stay if you’re heading for Longleat, Wookey Hole, Stonehenge or Bath. It’s the perfect place to be at one with nature, toasting marshmallows and star gazing. Sit back, slow down, relax and enjoy a unique glamping experience in your very own Hidden Wood. Missed out this year? Get ahead of the game for next year. hiddenwoodglamping.com

Howard’s House Hotel, Teffont Evias

Ah, now we’ve snooped out a seriously cool and quirky stay for you here, and it’s a real hidden gem. Wiltshire’s best kept secret is a country house hotel but in true indie style – it might be nestled in an idyllic Wiltshire village but everything inside is just that little bit different. And when it comes to cooking it really is unique – ingredients are homegrown or locally sourced, seasonal ALL the time and dishes inspirational. Bedrooms are indulgent with lots of funky touches, the location is picture perfect and you’ll bump into wildlife (deer, pheasant, fowl) around every corner. Bliss. howardshousehotel.co.uk

Whychurch Farm, Malmesbury

It’s camping and glamping all the way at this cool and quirky gaff just outside Malmesbury. Glamping wagons are cute and comfortable, with enough mod-cons for a fair-weather camper like me, and the perfect spot to rest your head if you’re visiting glamorous Malmesbury, Abbey House Gardens, Westonbirt Arboretum, Cotswold Water Park, Bath, Badminton Horse Trials, Stonehenge, Lacock or Castle Combe, or even if you’re hitting the bright lights of WOMAD this summer. There is also a campsite and two B&B cottages on site but it’s the wagons I particularly love. In fact, bring the car around, will you? I might just hitch one up and take it home. whychurchfarmbandb.co.uk

Lansdowne Strand, Calne

Fancy bedding down in a Grade 2 listed coaching inn in the heart of Calne with a real honest-to-God medieval brew house in the courtyard? You can’t get quirkier than this old pub, which has been welcoming hungry and thirsty travellers for over 500 years. Rooms are cute, the 2 AA rosette restaurant will serve you well with a fab menu (love the sound of crispy lamb breast), and a big tick goes to their super quirky vibe, with a panelled snug, gorgeous open fires, a bar bursting with character and odd little twists at every corner. You’ll be living and breathing history, here. lansdownestrand.co.uk

GLOUCESTERSHIRE

Wanderlust Camper Co

Ready for Festival season? Summer camping and an adventure in the great outdoors? Roadtrip or rock up at a campsite of your choice? Ah, then you’re going to need one of these babies. We love these quirky vans (each with their own personality, honestly!) which will totally make you stand out from the crowd at the best of the fests. Each glamper-camper has been designed individually, both inside and out, thinking of everything from mega-equipped kitchens to mood lighting. And, ‘cos we’re Muddy and style is of the essence, these vans look stunning with vintage blue exteriors and funky interiors, all handcrafted by the team at Wanderlust Camper Co. wanderlustcamperco.com

BEDFORDSHIRE

Lookout Lodge, ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, Dunstable

Fancy going on safari? Ok, ok, it might not be as exotic as the African plains, but it is pretty cool… Book a sleepover at the zoo and you’ll get your own private (double or twin) lodge, where you can find out what the zoo’s permanent residents get up to after dark on an exclusive tour (one of three during your stay), then drift off to the dulcet (…?) tones of your neighbouring rhinos and reindeer – apparently they’re pretty chilled after hours, so won’t keep you up all night, but don’t bank on a lie in as the lions like to make themselves heard in the morning! A two-course dinner and breakfast are thrown in too, plus free tickets to peruse the zoo at your leisure the next day. See you there (we’ll be the ones donning the leopard print!). zsl.org

SUSSEX

Cosmic Loft, Canvas & Stars, Chiddingly

New this year at Canvas & Stars glamping at Hale Farm, Chiddingly is the double-decker Cosmic Loft ‘apartment’ with a flexible ground floor space for cooking, eating and relaxing and a cosy upstairs that will sleep four adults, or two adults and three children under proper bedding. Snuggle round the firepit of an evening and use the telescope provided for a spot of star gazing. On family breaks children can join a scavenger hunt while adults await the arrival of the gin van or spend time in the hot tub. Or grab some friends for a Girls Go Glamping getaway with Prosecco, fluffy robes and collagen eye masks. Fun extras to book include luxury marshmallow and smores kits, afternoon tea, massages and facials. canvasandstars.co.uk

Hotel Pelirocco, Brighton

The most fun place to lay your head in Brighton is surely Hotel Pelirocco on historic Regency Square, where the 19 rooms are individually themed, many with musical and popular culture references from Country to Mods, Darth Vader to Diana Dors. Treat it as a base for a weekend break in Brighton, or hole up with a pamper package enjoying a couples’ massage and champagne. Or, if you’re in town to party, book with your friends for karaoke, cocktail classes, a retro makeover or a photoshoot. You can even learn how to stitch your own vintage-style frilly knickers! Just visiting? Drop into the quirky bar for a cocktail and you might catch one of the frequent free live music or comedy nights. hotelpelirocco.co.uk

Cabin by the River, Rye

Rustic meets industrial chic at this romantic waterside hideaway on the river Rother at historic Rye. The cool interior features reclaimed materials and Moroccan tiles and is carefully furnished with an eclectic mix of contemporary and mid-century furnishings, bold prints, cosy cushions and throws. Luxe touches include a Nespresso machine and an Emperor sized bed with goose-down pillows and Egyptian cotton linen. From the cabin you overlook Romney Marsh with Rye’s ancient Citadel rising in the distance. Prise yourself from your deckchair to walk into Rye, browse the cobbled streets and antique shops and stop into the pubs, or take a ten minute drive to the famous beach at Camber Sands. Arriving by train? The station is under a mile away. cabinsandcastles.co.uk

Wellies and Windbreaks, West Wittering, Sussex

Who fancies a small slice of the Cotswolds by the beach? Me me me! Wellies and Windbreaks is a bespoke luxury holiday rental company in Sussex with a range of high-end properties to chose from, including Windlestraw, this cute and quirky thatched-roof cottage just minutes from the sea. Or perhaps you’re a twitcher and fancy Orchard House, right on the RSPB Medmerry Nature Reserve. We also love Wickham, an unusual beach house that’s literally right on the beach. welliesandwindbreaks.co.uk

OXFORDSHIRE

The Windmill, Blackthorn Hill

Who needs a posh hotel when you can have a naughty weekend away in a, erm, windmill? Newly renovated, the 17th century, Grade II listed building is spaced over three floors with an ensuite bedroom, fully equipped kitchen and stunning top floor living space with 360 degree rural views that stretch across three counties. Lots to do in the area too – Bicester Village is round the corner, Oxford is a 25 minute drive, plus surrounding heritage sites like Waddesdon Manor and Warwick Castle are great for a day out. hostunusual.com

Cedar Hollow, Shotover Country Park

The thought of a treehouse doesn’t exactly scream luxury which is what makes Cedar Hollow so unusual. Hidden in the woodlands at Shotover Country Park (the inspo for CS Lewis’ Narnia) the 730sqft open plan living space sleeps up to six, on four single and one king sized bed, has a modern kitchen and bathroom, underfloor heating, outdoor pavilions, al fresco dining spaces, heated bar area, and shared access to a tennis court and table tennis. There’s also an indoor pool and bicycle hire for an additional cost. Amazingly, Oxford centre is just a 10 minute cycle away, with its beautiful cobbled streets, pubs, bars, Westgate centre and punting along the river Cherwell. cedarhollow.uk

BERKSHIRE

Braywood House Estate, Winkfield

Queen Victoria was a regular visitor to Braywood House Estate and we think she would like what current owners James and Rachael have done to the place. In a secluded spot in the village of Winkfield, a stone’s throw from Windsor (with its mainline station into London), Windsor Great Park, Legoland, the gastro enclave of Bray and Marlow and more. Don’t be fooled by the traditional building, the vibe is eccentric luxe. Think acid bright walls, zebra rugs, garden chandeliers, a zip wire and the aisle of a derelict chapel with a congragation of deceased residents. You get 10 acres of forestry and gardens to play and there’s secret access to the Queen’s estate. Perfect for Royal stalkers, I means spotters. braywoodhouseestate.co.uk

River Arts Club, Maidenhead

A quirky, riverside escape, the River Arts Club is ranked among the top 10 most beautiful estates in the UK, and makes cinematic cameos in Being Julia, starring Annette Benning, and Ballet Shoes with Emma Watson. Nestled on the banks of the Thames, this Grade II listed Victorian mansion is an aristocratic B&B-come-gallery space. Its 13 rooms are an eclectic mix of colour, pattern, antique furniture and quality art with works by Latin American artists Felix Perdomo, Roberto Valentin and Aisar Jalil hanging from the walls. Within throwing distance of Berkshire’s mighty Michelin star restaurants and just 30 mins from London, you can do as much or as little as you want here. Or simply lie back with a glass of fizz in Ophelia, the River Art Club’s a private launch, and drift downstream in a tipsy haze. It’s a gem. riverartsclub.com

SURREY

Brooklands Hotel, Weybridge

This luxury four star hotel on the historic Brooklands motor racing circuit will inject va-va-voom into your break. With stunning modern architecture and Art Deco interiors, there’s also a top-rated spa and award winning restaurant. Rooms are contemporary and stylish, and feature all the mod cons you can think of including free wifi and 42inch TVs. As well as deluxe rooms and suite, there are also five family rooms. brooklandshotelsurrey.com

Lingfield Park, Lingfield

Nestled in the hills of Surrey – not far from the borders of Kent and Sussex – and set in 450 acres of stunning Surrey Parkland this is a racecourse that truly has it all. As well as the busiest racecourse in Europe, Lingfield can also offer up a 4* Marriott Hotel and Country Club that includes a luxury spa and leisure club plus an 18-hole golf course. Every room has a view – of either the golf course or the race track – or for something special go for one of the six premier corner rooms with views of both. lingfieldpark.co.uk

NORTHAMPTONSHIRE

Canoe2, Rushden

Hop onto the water on the River Nene and enjoy a paddle which will take you to a private spot putting the style into camping. This is a perfect place to enjoy an adventurous weekend, especially if you love the outdoors. You will spend the morning canoeing to Wadenhoe where bell tents, a kitchen tent, fire pits and of course the good old portaloo awaits ready for you to spend your stay with everything you need. The camp is yours and yours only, and with only a 20 minute walk to the local pub, The Kings Head in Wadenhoe (great food), you have the choice of eating and drinking there, or going all out and cooking up your own grub. The guys at Canoe2 can provide you with all of your cooking essentials and locally sourced food, perfect for breakfast to get you fired up for the busy day ahead. What makes this place special is the number of bundles you can choose from making your stay here well and truly tweaked to your needs. canoe2.co.uk

Love2Yurt, Farthinghoe

Situated on Limes Farm in Farthinghoe this is a tres chic and stylish way to camp. With country views for miles, the four yurts offer double bed with luxurious soft furnishings, wood-burner or gas stoves, lovely lanterns or electric lighting and are fully equipped with kitchen and washroom and all come with a large fridge freezer (no warm tonic in your gin here)! Don’t worry about bringing BBQ food as Love2Yurt provide you with a BBQ pack filled with local meat from Brackley Butchers and they also have a veggie option too! You can cook it up on the BBQ supplied for your yurt and enjoy it in the outdoor seating areas, or if the rain does decide to fall, in the undercover dining area. There’s loads nearby too, including Silverstone and West Midland Safari Park to name a few. Quirky glamping at it’s best. love2yurt.co.uk

40 Quirky Stays for Summer

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