Are these the best country escapes on Earth? 

10 Properties that will wow you post-lockdown

With lockdown lifting and the UK holiday sector already seeing huge increases in demand, staycations are once again set to be the trend of the summer.  With everyone from families to couples and groups of friends all scouring the internet for the very best destinations to visit on home soil, finding the perfect spot (that isn’t already booked up!) isn’t an easy feat. To aid in the search, here Sweetcombe Cottage Holidays has revealed the ten most showstopping stays up and down the country.

1. Heron Branscombe, Devon

This beautiful beach-front chalet offers its visitors uninterrupted views of Lyme Bay, perfect for dog-lovers to bring their pooch for a stroll along the beach throughout the summer heat. Heron has charming wooden interiors to relax in at night, reading and enjoying some of Devon’s local cuisine, with its location perfect for escaping the noise of everyday life on this peaceful beach getaway for a family of up to four.

2. Secret Water Beccles, Suffolk

A stunning two-bedroom hideaway, this unique glamping pod is nautically themed throughout with simple yet chic interiors, complete with timber walls and porthole windows. The large outdoor decking area gives its visitors splendid views towards Old Beccles bridge and quay and has been designed specifically for guests to get the most out of the sunrise and sunset. It is perfect for enjoying water life in a comfortable and unique way.

3. Shimoda Sidmouth, Devon

Located in one of the most visited areas of the UK, with incredible cliff-facing sea views, the Shimoda property is a stunning luxury home, complete with a large garden and a cosy and bright design. The house offers four double bedrooms, and an abundance of peace and quiet looking out across the sea. Some of its stand-out features include an open fireplace, an elegant terrace perfect for dining, and an abundance of entertaining space that is perfect for summer evenings.

4. Home Farm Porthleven, Cornwall

This truly incredible property is just minutes from the coast in a secluded wooden valley set in extensive gardens, complete with incredible design-led interiors, hot tub and snug room with a 50” TV. Home Farm is a beautifully restored Georgian home, perfect for luxury-lovers and larger families or groups to enjoy the abundance of space. The huge property is complete with a magnificent marble fireplace paired with traditional Georgian features, oak flooring, and a free-standing roll-top bathtub – just wow!

5. The Round House Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk

Nestled in an enchanting woodland glade just around the corner from Fairy Lake, (yes, that is its real name), is this fable-like rotunda cottage. A mini version of the larger Ickworth rotunda close by, this property is a spacious, quaint cottage accommodating up to six people and two dogs. Around the estate you will find walking trails and a dog-friendly outdoor café on your stroll. This property is perfect for people who cherish the outdoors and humble, folky interiors.

6. The Gate House Dover, Kent, England

Mythical and gothic all in one, The Gate House is a gorgeous getaway with several local historic attractions in its vicinity. Sleeping up to four people, the Grade II listed property dates all the way back to 1850 and was originally the gate house for the Dover Castle garrison. The castle offers accommodation over two floors with the master bedroom complete with a romantic canopied bed under exposed beams keeping the authentic Georgian features.

7. Bubble Dome County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland

Located in the secluded forest in Fermanagh, The Forest Bubble Domes are truly a magical experience like no other. Featuring 180° transparent walls, this is a perfect retreat for sleeping under the stars on a romantic break for two. This unique stay features a hand-crafted four-poster bed with breakfast included, which you can enjoy surrounded by wildlife and an unlimited view of the sky.

8. The Lighthouse Cottage Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria

The Lighthouse Cottage in the South Walney Island Nature Reserve showcases the most amazing sea views. Perfect for birdwatching and wildlife lovers, this unique property boasts three bedrooms and a luxury en suite bathroom from the master bedroom, along with stunning sea views from the upstairs living room. The most idyllic and cosy sea-front getaway!

9. Lulworth House Lulworth Cove, Dorset

Located on the stunning south coast of Dorset, Lulworth house is as luxurious and magnificent as holiday retreats come. Perfect for larger groups of up to 20 people, the house boasts bright, airy spaces with an open plan ground floor that is perfect for socialising and dinner parties. The property has been rebuilt to the highest standards with a bright, airy, modern feel. The standout features of this home include a TV room, grand library and even an indoor heated swimming pool with bi fold doors. Why not hire a private chef for your stay here too? With this option available upon enquiry.

10. Beacon Hill Farm Luxury Treehouse Morpeth, Northumberland

This property is truly unique; the Beacon Hill Farm Luxury Treehouse is a super stylish, modern retreat located on an award-winning farmland estate amongst 360 acres of rare, unspoilt rural views of Northumberland greenery. The ultra-modern design makes it a must-visit property for those looking for cool, design-led architecture. The structure is elevated within the trees on steel columns, complete with huge glass windows, with a balcony and dining patios for al fresco dining and relaxing.

With some of the most stunning staycation properties here in the UK, we will be spoilt for choice this summer deciding on a destination and most importantly, where to stay for our post-lockdown adventures!