Latest news with #boutiquehotels
Skift
2 days ago
- Business
- Skift
TakeUp's $11 Million Funding Highlights Pricing Gap Crushing Indie Hotels
A pricing technology gap has created a David-and-Goliath dynamic in hospitality, where small, indie operators compete against chains. Can AI help level the playing field? TakeUp said Monday it has raised $11 million to help independent hotels close a widening tech gap that's making it harder to compete with big chains — especially when it comes to setting room rates. The startup builds AI-powered pricing tools for boutique hotels, inns, B&Bs, and glamping retreats. The funding underscores how independent properties have fallen behind in the race to optimize revenue while big hotel brands deploy data science teams and artificial intelligence to squeeze every dollar from their rooms. "Less than 10% of folks have
The Sun
4 days ago
- The Sun
The UK's best 100 cheap stays – our pick of the top hotels, holiday parks, B&Bs and pubs from just £22 a night
FANCY exploring more of of the UK, but don't have much of a budget to spend? We've got you covered, after scouring the country for the best cheap hotels, holiday parks, cabins and cosy B&Bs. 39 In our inaugural, annual list of the top 100 affordable places to stay in the UK, there is something for everyone, from coastal caravan parks to inner-city boutique hotels and pubs with rooms. For 2025, we were on the hunt for budget bookings that are excellent value for money and offer more than just a bed and breakfast - because bargain doesn't have to mean bland. From remote and wild locations in the north of Scotland or the wilderness of Wales, to loud and lively British cities, we have locked in a list of the best cheap stays in the UK. There is plenty to choose from, including some absolute bargains, cheap-but-cheerful chains and a sprinkle of boutique hotels, if you do want to splash out on some affordable luxury. Whether you're planning a family escape with room to relax or a romantic weekend by the sea, these are the top spots for a seriously good sleepover. BEST SEASIDE STAYS Roslin Beach Hotel, Southend, Essex Southend on Sea is the sunniest place in Essex, according to the Met Office, and the classic seaside town is having somewhat of a comeback, with well-heeled locals bringing boujee to the beach. The Roslin Beach Hotel is the perfect example of this, with its English garden-meets- Miami South Beach vibe. Rooms are beautiful, with many looking out to sea. The hotel's two AA Rosette award restaurant also has a beautiful vista across the Thorpe Bay shoreline and an outdoor terrace, perfect for a summer evening with a sea breeze. You can walk along the beach to the famous Southend Seafront in 30 mins, or it's an easy six-minute drive. But we highly recommend relaxing at the hotel and switching off for a few days. They have a spa retreat so you can have a massage to the sound of the waves. Our Sun expert says: "Staying here felt like a trip abroad with sea views from the window and a real holiday feel as soon as you step inside. "The lux, boutique feel wouldn't be out of place on the Italian Riviera. On a sunny day, you would not believe it's only in Southend." BLVD, Blackpool The entrance to BLVD (or, Boulvelard) Blackpool is actually inside Blackpool Pleasure Beach, so it doesn't get more in the mix than that. With the Big One swooping past on one side and the beach on the other, you'd expect this hotel to be bold, brash and, well, Blackpool. However, they have managed to capture seaside chic with pops of personality, such as interiors and fabrics from Designers Guild. The BLVD is owned and managed by Amanda Thompson OBE, who happens to be the CEO of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, which was founded by her great grandfather. Despite being a large hotel, elements of a family-run-business filter down through personal touches and friendly staff. Location-wise, you couldn't ask for more. Rooms have a view of the beach or the theme park and both are brilliant. Our Sun expert says: "We loved the unbeatable location, right in the middle of the action. "This made it perfect for a trip with kids, as you can speedily head back for a break, snack or extra jumper." The Rose, Deal, Kent The quirky, colourful rooms at The Rose, in Deal, are straight out of a photoshoot, which is not surprising, since it was designed and decorated by power-duo Nicola Harding and Michelle Kelly, a former fashion designer. A lot of love has been poured into the look and feel of the hotel, but it's wonderfully welcoming and comfortable too. With just nine rooms, you could be forgiven for thinking you've moved into your own swish beach house, but the lovely lodgings and proximity to the delightful Deal seafront are a rare find. The in-house restaurant is pretty special, loved by critics such as Jay Raynor and Grace Dent, so if you really want a beach bolt hole with no stress and all the perks, this is your dream weekend away sorted and we bet you'll be back for a return visit. Our Sun expert says: "We loved the cosy bolthole feel, which each of the rooms feeling like they popped off Pinterest. "Make sure to grab a bite at the on-site restaurant too - they're famous for their huge chicken schnitzel and it was delicious." Ibis Styles, Paignton Beach, Devon Once dubbed the English Riviera, this sunny stretch in Devon has always been popular with Brits who want a no-fly beach break and it still delivers. Chain hotels can sometimes be hit and miss, but the Ibis Styles at Paignton Beach is ideal for a springtime beach weekend. Bright and airy with a stylish nautical theme, rooms are excellently priced for the location even in the school holidays. The hotel is on the seafront, meaning you are a flip flop throw from the sandy beach, which is famous for its pink-tinged sand. Paignton is also a great base to explore nearby Torquay and Brixham, so why not make a week of it? Our Sun expert says: "We loved the dry spa rooms for treatments, as well as the in-house restaurant's American-style menu. "Chicken wings, loaded fries and pancakes with maple syrup for breakfast will keep the whole family happy." Editor's Choice: The Cuan, Co, Down, Northern Ireland 39 What a spot for a stay with sea views and a truly beautiful setting. We almost didn't want to share! The Cuan is a former pub, converted into a fantastic hotel with just nine rooms but heaps of personality. Situated on the banks of Strangford Lough, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty known as the Narrows, where it's not uncommon to spot dolphins, whales and basking sharks off the coast. Inside has its own brand of Irish cool - part whisky-den, part countryside-core, yet it somehow works and everyone is wildly friendly too. Claim to fame: the cast of Game of Thrones stayed here while filming scenes in nearby Castle Ward, (or, Winterfell for us Thronies), further cementing its undeniable star quality. Our Sun expert says: "We loved the cosy rooms exceptionally comfy beds and possibly the best fish and chips in the UK, using fish caught that day." Details: Rooms from £80 Ideal for: Something different, families, outdoor lovers Book a stay: The White Horses, Rottingdean, Sussex Summer is when the Sussex coast comes alive, with buzzing beaches, sea swimming and never-ending queues for the ice cream van. Most people set Brighton in their sights, for obvious reasons, but those in the know head a little east to the quieter, yet equally beachy Rottingdean. Here, you get a bit more space and a lot more for your money, starting with a swish room at The White Horses. This cliffside hotel has oodles of Art Deco charm, zen-like rooms and a brilliant outdoor terrace looking over the English Channel. For half the price of an equivalent hotel in Brighton itself, the colourful seaside town is just 10 minutes by car, or you can walk it in an hour. Here, you get the best of both worlds and the sunset is worth sticking around for. Our Sun expert says: "We loved the high end feel of the hotel, despite its budget prices - with both the rooms and restaurant decorated to a very high standard. "The views over Rottingdean Beach were also exceptional." Details: Rooms from £99 Ideal for: Families, chilled-out beach breaks Book a stay: Hotel Victoria, Robin Hood's Bay, North Yorkshire Clifftop location, beautiful gardens, hearty grub and killer sunsets? Sounds like the ideal spot for a seaside stay and it just might be. Hotel Victoria is perched on a hill at the edge of the Yorkshire Moors. Recently revamped, but crucially keeping the original features that make it so charming, the interior does sultry seaside in the best way, meaning it works on gloriously sunny days as well as brisk winter weekends by the fire. Robin Hood's Bay itself is a quaint fishing village with wonky streets and cute independent shops selling old-fashioned sweets and coastal kitsch, but dramatic Whitby is six miles along the coast and most people base themselves here to explore the rugged Jurassic coast. Our Sun expert says: "We loved how grand the building feels, with fantastic views over Robin Hood's bay from the terrace." Tolcarne Beach Village, Cornwall 39 There are not many secret hideaways in Cornwall, possibly the most popular beach destination in the UK. But this seafront stunner with a private beach not only feels like a family secret, but also like a holiday back to the 1940s in the very best way possible. The hotel is knock-your-socks off fabulous, with Colonial themes, eccentric worldly accessories and lavish Edwardian kitsch that celebrates the first real era of world-travel. Basically, if your wacky aunt had a £20million beach house, this would be it. For us temporary residents, you can book a beach hut that opens up right onto the golden sand and it feels like a little patch of paradise. Sun expert says: "We loved the nostalgic feel of this hotel, and the freedom that the private beach gave the kids on a family holiday to Cornwall." The Front Rows at The Penn Estate, Isle of Portland 39 Pennsylvania Castle is a Gothic Revival Mansion in a striking clifftop location on the Isle of Portland, near Dorset. The castle is a stunning wedding venue, but if you are not there to say ' I do', book a stay in The Front Rows, a collection of 20 luxury cabins and pods that have nabbed the best location on the estate, on the cliff edge looking directly out to sea. Waking up here really is a dream, especially if you are up early enough to watch the sunrise from your front porch. From here, you are on top of the beach if you want to swim, surf or paddleboard out on the water and the estate is ideally located for exploring Portland too. Our Sun expert says: "Waking up here was absolutely idyllic. There was no noise, other than the sound of the waves and the kettle boiling. "Having your own porch to sit on and have coffee with unrestricted views out to sea felt far more luxurious than the price suggests. It's a rare, undiscovered find in Dorset." Details: Rooms from £120 per night Ideal for: Seclusion and sea views Book a stay: Hilton Bournemouth Sometimes, a hotel in the ideal location, for the right price with a few cheerful extras is exactly what you need, and if ever a chain hotel ticked all the boxes, it's this one. The Hilton is perched on a hill, above arguably one of the UK's best coastlines, Bournemouth Beach. Many rooms have sea views and some have balconies. On a clear day you can see across the water to Sandbanks. After just a five-minute walk from the hotel, you'll have your toes in the golden sand as you wander along the lively promenade. The hotel itself is very charming, with bold, bright rooms and a very good restaurant, Schpoons & Forx, which is open to non-hotel guests too. Those staying the night can also get access to a secret, cave-like spa, which is the perfect antidote to Bournemouth's buzzy nightlife. Our Sun expert says: "We loved the friendly reception staff and the excellent sea views, plus the fact that the hotel is dog friendly. "There is also a small, spa-like pool which is free to use for guests, elevating this hotel above its budget room rate." BEST CITY STAYS Bullitt Hotel, Belfast 39 Northern Ireland is known for its no nonsense attitude and Bullitt hotel in Belfast is exactly that. Tucked away on Church Lane, a short walk from the buzzing high street, the city centre location can't be beaten for the price, but this is no budget bail out. Every room has a surprisingly comfy king-sized bed - even the hotel's self-titled 'dinky' room. A smart TV, rainfall shower and free WIFI are also part of the deal. If you want to stick around, the Taylor and Clay restaurant serves great food, cooked over a fire grill and there is a rooftop restaurant and bar which is super on a sunny day. Our Sun expert says: "We loved the incredible city centre location, perfect for enjoying Belfast's nightlife. "The stylish rooms were had a very cool design and the secret cocktail bar served excellent drinks for reasonable prices." The Parkgate Hotel, Cardiff 39 This hotel has got some serious design details, considering its excellent location and reasonable prices. With 170-bedrooms, this is may not be a boutique B&B, but the charming rooms are as welcoming as its friendly staff. The Parkgate Hotel is the beautifully restored, former Head Post Office and County Court, which has been given an elegant and classy revamp, with plenty of references to its charming history. Have dinner in The Sorting Room, a 2 AA Rosette winning, Michelin-rated restaurant. Although not included with your room rate, but the rooftop spa is well worth a visit for an afternoon of indulgence. From here you will get excellent views of the city skyline and the Principality Stadium. What a find! Our Sun expert says: "We loved the glamorous feel of the building, despite the very reasonable prices. "The spa felt particularly high end, with very attentive staff." Details: Rooms from £111 per night Ideal for: Concerts and sports events, a weekend city break Book a stay: Motel One, Newcastle You couldn't ask for a better location for a night out on 'the Toon' than this no frills, perfectly appointed hotel that's in the centre of everything. The industrial design is a nod to the city's historic backstory and could easily be mistaken for a fancier, design-led boutique place at twice the price. Despite being part of a larger chain, this motel is perfectly at home in the city, with a clear nod to Newcastle United's black and white colours as you check in at reception. Rooms are simple and efficient, some with floor-to-ceiling windows. Most conveniently, you are a stumble away from the city's spirited nightlife and sightseeing spots, including the Theatre Royal, Grey's Monument and Newcastle Town Hall. Our Sun expert says: "We loved how close the hotel was to the best bars in the city, although it's well worth checking out Motel One's own bar - with very affordable cocktails from £8.50 and sleek decor." The Buxton, Brick Lane, East London 39 The Buxton is a hip restaurant at the end of East London's Brick Lane, but few people know there are 15 brilliant, yet budget-friendly rooms upstairs. Ideal for a hip city break and the opportunity to stay in a cool area without a being burned on price, this stylish stay is one of London's best kept secrets. The restaurant downstairs is great. Snack on small plates like sardines on toast or burrata with Maldon sea salt and then take advantage of the best hotel-guest perk – a drink on the private rooftop bar. Venturing out, the colourful streets of Shoreditch are just around the corner. Stroll past the vibrant and political graffiti art on Brick Lane, before scoffing an authentic east London curry and still be close enough to roll home. Our Sun expert says: "We loved how cosy and personal The Buxton felt, despite being in such a busy part of the capital. "There is a lot of character and it certainly doesn't feel like a budget stay, especially with an excellent breakfast included." Details: Bed and Breakfast from £99 Ideal for: Trendy tourists Book a stay: St Paul's House, Birmingham We'd say it was a 'diamond in the rough', but Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter is rather nice and St Paul's House is right at home, slap bang in the middle of it. Rooms are simple, but very comfortable and considering how close it is to the infamous Brummy nightlife, the hotel is surprisingly quiet. The restaurant is open all day, serving British staples like fish and chips, fish finger sandwiches and burgers, but on Sunday you can sit down for a plentiful Sunday lunch instead. Coming to 'Brum with the girlies? They also do bottomless brunch here. Two courses are £38, including unlimited prosecco, Amstel and cocktails (men also welcome!). Our Sun expert says:"We loved the grand feel of the building and its location, next to some of the best attractions and restaurants in Birmingham." The Queens Hotel, Leeds You can't miss the iconic Queens Hotel in Leeds (and not just because it is part of the train station). The striking Art Deco hotel may have been welcoming guests since 1937, but after a £16 million refurb, she is back and better than ever. What's especially great about The Queens Hotel is that many of the 232 bedrooms have original features and Art Deco touches that remain unchanged since the golden age of glamour and the hotel hasn't lost its Gatsby-esk vibe. The bar is especially sexy, but for those visiting Leeds with kids, the hotel is an excellent choice for families too, with decent and reasonably-priced family rooms. Location wise, most of the city's sights are just walking distance away. Our Sun expert says: "We loved the simple, yet stylish feel, with plush hotel robes and nice toiletries in the rooms. "It's a great choice for exploring Leeds, but equally relaxing and comfy if you want some down time." Details: Bed and Breakfast from £130 per night Ideal for: Central location, history buffs and families Book a stay: School Lane Hotel, Liverpool A spin-off from the better-known Hope Street Hotel, this bright and airy budget option has the same elegant architectural features, such as original sash windows and three-metre-high ceilings. It's fair to say, School Lane Hotel has nailed city chic with Scandi-style rooms, super-king beds and lightweight oak furniture at a truly impressive price, considering the hotel is right in the middle of the city. You can find this refreshing hotel within Liverpool ONE, the city's one-stop place for fashion, retail and fun. Our Sun expert says: "We loved the sleek, Scandi-feel of the rooms and the free coffee and croissants for guests in the morning." Details: Rooms from £50 per night Ideal for: Mate-cations, solo stays Book a stay: House of Gods, Glasgow Extra, extra, this just in: House of Gods in Glasgow i s as opulent and unapologetic as they come. Think gold trim on just about everything, animal-print bed linens and swaths of contrasting textures on throws, cushions and occasional chairs. It's a boutique hotel that stands out for all the right reasons. Situated in the heart of Merchant City, the vibrant hotel is actually more than a pretty face, with a lot of charming quirks (such as ringing a bell for Prosecco and cookies at bedtime). It's adults-only, if your desire is to escape your kids, or other people's, and it would be rude not to stop off at the sultry cocktail bar for a smoky old Fashioned. Our Sun expert says: "We loved the intentionally cosy and dark rooms, with fun found in every nook and cranny - from the in-room butler buttons to the midnight milk and cookies. "We had cocktails freshly shaken at our door - a nice touch." The Milner, York This hotel exudes elegance and sits well in York's Georgian/Victorian cityscape. The striking building is a landmark in the city, originally opening in 1878. If you want to stay in a real park of York's history, the recently updated The Milner is a top find and excellent value. The calm and understated rooms continue the character of the hotel without being dated. The main lobby, restaurant and bars are always lively, making a stay here feel really exciting. The Milner is a 15-minute walk into the centre of York but, since it used to be part of the station itself, at least if you arrive by rail you can hop across the road and drop off your bags before you go exploring. Our Sun expert says: "We loved how grand this hotel felt and the proximity to the train station, which made it easy to check in and out." Native, Manchester Ever dreamed of living in a warehouse city pad, a-la Friends, but a swish loft above the Manchester skyline is a bit out of budget? Consider checking in to Native Manchester, a slick apartment-hotel with oh-so-stylish rooms in a top location on trendy Dulcie Street. We love a hotel as much as the next person but there is something a bit extra in pretending you're at home in your swanky city crash pad. For less than 100 quid, you can stay in a full equipped studio apartment with a kitchen and dining table, huge original windows and in-house facilities including a gym, cinema and social space. The project also hosts supper clubs, art workshops and pop-up markets. There is even a mini cinema. While you're living your best life here, don't forget to get out and enjoy Manchester too! Our Sun expert says: "We loved how stylish this hotel feels for the price point and the spacious rooms." BEST COUNTRYSIDE STAYS Whitemead Forest Park, Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire 39 Tucked away in the Forest of Dean, Whitemead Forest Park has a range of accommodation options suitable for families, friends or couples, from apartments and bungalows with hot tubs, to luxury glamping pods (complete with underfloor heating). The pods are great for families because they provide all the fun of camping, without the need for tent pegs and blow up beds. Plus, they allow you to experience the captivating forest year-round. Guests can explore acres of unspoiled woodland and follow the Whitemead nature trail, an easy hike with a fun activity map for kids provided by the park. There are also on-site leisure facilities, including a heated swimming pool, spa pools, sauna, steam room and pet-friendly café for four-legged friends. Our Sun expert says: "We loved how Whitemead remains loyal to its rich roots and - barring a couple of vintage machines - families are offered old-school entertainment or the space and facilities to create their own." Marine Hotel, Ballycastle, Northern Ireland 39 This family-friendly stay offers more than sweeping sea views of Northern Ireland's stunning Causeway Coast. The hotel has simple, spacious rooms with a pop of colour and a fantastic bistro with beach views. Guests can explore the local area with coastal walks, horse treks, or boat tours to Rathlin Island. Be on the lookout for the locals, which include puffins, seals and dolphins. Four-legged friends are welcome at the Marine Hotel too and for an extra £20 per stay, dogs are provided with bowls, blankets, and treats. The hotel has a real sense of community, with complimentary activities ranging from Irish Coffee making with local mixologists to Guinness Wheaten Bread making demonstrations. Guests can also play daily board games in the lounge, offering screen-free fun for families and couples who want to switch off. Bike and Boot, Derbyshire This modern and fun leisure lodge has redefined the idea of stuffy stays in the Peak District, with its modern take on countryside cool. Well-priced and just 30-minutes from Sheffield, it's a great base for exploring the national park. Clearly designed for outdoorsy types, the lobby is filled with hikers, bikers, maps and supplies. If you're not sure you've got the thighs for the surrounding hills, local business, True North, has partnered with the Bike and Boot to offer electric bike hire direct from the hotel and offers guided tours. (Booking is recommended). When you get back, enjoy a well-earned feast on classic diner grub like burgers and pizza in the busy ground-floor brasserie. Our Sun expert says: "We loved the dog-friendly feel and the very trendy bedrooms, as well as the huge portions in the on-site restaurant." Details: Rooms from £81 per night Ideal for: Outdoor adventures Book a stay: Guardswell Farm, Perthshire, Scotland 39 It doesn't get deeper into the countryside than this. This rustic retreat is set within a 150-acre grassland farm on a remote hillside between Abernyte and Kinnaird in Perthshire. By night, guests can have local produce cooked on an open fire before a long soak in wood-fired hot tub. Then, sleep in an off-grid shepherd's hut waking up to cinematic views. If you want a break from busy day to day life, this is where to go. Extra cute: they offer an 'earth friendly' discount for anyone who arrives by bike or takes the 12 mile walk from Perth or Dundee Station (don't worry, taxis are available for those who don't want to take on the trek). Our Sun expert says: "We loved the remote feel of the hotel and the cosy interiors, with unbeatable views over the Scottish countryside." Details: Rooms from £110 per night Ideal for: Animal lovers and getting away from it all Book a stay: Housel Bay Hotel on Lizard Point Lizard Point is the most southernly place in the mainland UK, which is some claim to fame. Conveniently, Housel Bay Hotel is perched right on the peninsula looking across the Atlantic and perfectly located for those who want to get outdoors and enjoy fresh air and country walks along the rugged coastline. Simple, spacious and bright rooms here give you a choice of sea view or countryside view (both are great). Downstairs, you can take a Cornish Cream Tea on the terrace, in the garden or made up as a picnic t o take with you as you head out and explore (£9.50pp). By night, the Lizard Peninsula is a top spot for star gazing, with clear views out to the south. Our Sun expert says: "We love the unique spot on one of Cornwall's most beautiful stretches of coast, a stone's throw from the famous SW Coastal Path." Details: Rooms from £103 Ideal for: Fresh air and coastal walks Book a stay: The Huntsman, Brockenhurst 39 The New Forest National Park is one of the most beautiful countryside spots in the UK, surrounded by rolling hills, beautiful woodland and gardens and wildlife. Take a stroll from The Huntsman at Brockenhurst and you'll likely pass a band of wild ponies, roaming deer and a nonchalant sheep in your path. The forest has no end of ways to explore. Get lost in the wildflowers or hop on a bike and go a bit further. Back at base, The Huntsman is a family-friendly pub with cosy rooms and cute touches like 'Borrow Boxes' for kids – little treasure chests filled with toys and games to keep the kids entertained during your stay. Speaking of treats, the cold Lillet Rhubarb Rose Spritz they serve here, enjoyed in the back garden should be the official tipple of the English countryside. Our Sun expert says: "We love the roomy, chic yet had a feel of get-away-from-it-all country charm plus all mod cons. A nice touch was the little bottle of proper milk next to the posh coffee machine." Details: Rooms from £93 Ideal for: Families Book a stay: The Archangel, Frome, Somerset Frome is cool. They seem to have been keeping the trendy, arty hipster scene here under wraps, but if you wander along the cobbled streets of this storybook market town, you'll be taken in by excellent coffee shops, creative and independent shops and excellent restaurants. If you want to escape to the country for the weekend, but the converted barn vibe isn't your thing, step forward The Archangel, a hip pub-hotel with killer cocktails, sourdough pizza and shakshuka eggs on the menu. It's a great place to hang out and the fantastic monthly makers market starts right outside. Our Sun expert says: "We love how the owners have seamlessly moulded medieval charm with mod cons, and the dog-friendly attitude." Details: Rooms from £65 per night Good for: Country, but make it trendy Book a stay: The Horseshoe, Llangattock, Wales For centuries, this has been a charming village where travellers cross the 17th century bridge over the River Usk and make their way to the majestic Brecon Beacons National Park. The Horseshoe at Llangattock makes a brilliant base for exploring the southern Black Mountains. The inn has twin, double and family rooms and is a rare find, off the beaten track. Perhaps most surprising is The restaurant, which combines authentic Jamaican street food and home-cooked Welsh dishes to delicious effect. After dark, this area is also a designated night sky reserve. On a clear night in the Brecon Beacons, you can see the Milky Way, major constellations, bright nebulas and even meteor showers. Our Sun expert says: "The canal side location is fabulous and we really loved the unique 'Jamwelsh' food that comes in enormous portions." Details: Rooms from £99 Ideal for: Exploring the Brecon Beacons Book a stay: YHA The Sill at Hadrian's Wall, Northumberland Sometimes, location is everything. This is certainly true for The Sill at Hadrian's Wall, which is just a short walk from the famous spot. This modern hostel is perfectly placed, nestled in a valley and surrounded by green hills. It is adjoined to the National Landscape Discovery Centre, so ideal for staying with kids and the hostel has private rooms as well as bigger dorms that would suit groups. Our Sun expert says: "We love the modern, airy feel of the hostel with its exceptionally family-friendly lounge with board games, and the spotless dorm rooms and showers." Details: Rooms from £75 per night Ideal for: Groups and families looking for an adventure Book a stay: AFFORDABLE LUXURY Margate House, Margate, Kent 39 This stylish boutique hotel is a tiptoe away from some of Margate's coolest bars and restaurants, yet it's gloriously quiet, leaving its vibrant interiors to do the talking. The beautifully converted townhouse is on a residential road along from the beach, in the ever-trendy Cliftonville area. Independently-owned and decorated with the flair and style of someone who clearly appreciates texture, colour and striking independent art, stepping inside is like a warm welcome home. The nine rooms are stunning, especially the ones that give you a glimpse of the sea. Our Sun expert says: "We loved that every room has a generous king size bed (in which you can enjoy a picnic breakfast for an extra £10pp). "But be warned, these cloud-like mattresses are dangerously comfortable, so if you want to get out and brave the beach, you'll need some serious willpower." Details: Rooms from £120, including breakfast. Ideal for: Couples Book a stay: The Salthouse, Ballycastle, Co Antrim Location-wise, this stunning setting above Ballycastle beach on Northern Ireland's north coast could not be more idyllic. The Salthouse is a family-run, modern hotel, with slick décor and an excellent in-house restaurant, plus the hotel gets top marks for being extremely eco-conscious. All the resort's power and hot water comes from air source heat pumps, a 225kw wind turbine and a 150kw solar PV and even the bottled water comes from the hotel's own borehole. If this feels very ' Game of Thrones', you may be interested to known that filming locations for the epic TV show are just along the coast along with the spectacular Giants Causeway and the Mussenden Temple. Our Sun expert says: "We love the airy, Scandinavian-style rooms and the spa with outdoor hot tubs that overlook Rathlin Island." Details: Double rooms from £155 per night. The detached, Eco Lodge sleeps six adults, starting at £360 per night (£60 per person). Ideal for: Groups, nature lovers, switching off Book a stay: Ruby Stella, Clerkenwell, London 39 Literary fans can curl up with a good book here, tucked away in the old stomping ground of Charles Dickens, no less. This decedent guest house is part of a trendy chain that has hopped over from Europe, opening its newest hotel just a short walk from Farringdon Station and it's a real find. With its cosy corners, velvet armchairs by the fire and industrial-style bar, this place is sexy without even trying. Rich in Victorian decadence, yet the guitars on the wall give it an edgy, British rock vibe. There aren't many hotels in London offering such a charismatic stay for this price, so we've bookmarked this one. Our Sun expert says: "We love that rooms have Marshall amps in them, if you want to embrace your inner-rockstar , you can bring your Gibson and rock out before bed." Details: Bed and Breakfast from £130 Good for: Romantic stays, great location, direct access from Heathrow Airport on the Elizabeth Line Book a stay: The Bull, Charlbury, Oxfordshire 39 Take a 600-year-old pub and throw in two Notting Hill hipsters and you've got the winning combination of modern luxury and classic charm. Owners of trendy London pub, The Pelican, returned to their home town of Charlbury for this venture and have created a wonderful, somehow unpretentious Cotswolds bolthole. Ideal for a weekend away, the 16 th Century Inn has 10 beautifully serene rooms, all with stand-alone baths to soak your toes after a romp in the countryside. Staff will point you in the direction of some excellent rural walks and you can even book a session of clay pigeon shooting if you want to test your aim. Our Sun expert says: "We thing that dinner is where The Bull really excels, serving Michelin Bib Gourmand pub grub. "Highly recommend the Bull Pie with mash - perfect, especially after a brisk ramble on the rolling hills." Details: Bed and Breakfast from £150 per night Good for: Foodies, outdoorsy breaks Book a stay: Lido Townhouse, Bristol The Bristol Lido has now achieved icon status after making this formally derelict Victorian bath house one of Bristol's coolest hang outs. The pool itself was restored to its former glory in 2008 and now a convenient guest house has opened across the road so you can stay and swim (access to the spa is £15 per person for the duration of your stay). Simple, perky rooms are minimalist and bright and the location is perfect for a wander into Bristol itself. The town centre is a 15-minute walk or five minutes on the bus, which leaves from just outside. Lunch, brunch or dinner is highly recommended at the Lido restaurant, which overlooks the pool and guests from the hotel get 10% off the bill. Our Sun expert says: "We think this is chilled out luxury at its best - order a Negroni at sunset and you could be fooled into thinking you'd stepped back in time for the night." Details: Rooms from £130 per night Good for: Weekend vibes, a charming city break, access to the Lido Book a stay: Llanerch Vineyard, Wales 39 Llanerch Vineyard is a chic countryside hotel on a working Welsh vineyard, situated on a former dairy farm. Just a short drive from Cardiff, you are spoilt for choice with a walk between the vines, along the lake or through the forest that hugs the resort. You don't have to be a hotel guest to join the Llanerch wine tasting tours and sample the variety of Cariad sparkling and dry wines made from the over 22,000 vines. However, the simple and elegant rooms are ideal if you want to sample the fruits of the area and don't want to drive home. Our Sun expert says: "We love the AA two-rosette hotel, with its locally-sourced food, warm Welsh hospitality and view overlooking the vineyard, plus a sunset over the hills worth toasting." Details: Double rooms start from £120 per night Good for: Wine lovers Book a stay: The Finch's Arms, Hambleton, Rutland It doesn't get more British than a 17 th Century Inn with a roaring log fire and acres of unspoilt countryside seen through the window. This beautiful cottage is tucked away on the Hambleton Peninsula, on the edge of Rutland Water, one of Europe's largest leisure reservoirs. The village itself is like something from a Richard Curtis movie, all thatched cottages and winding lanes, but you can also ramp things up with activities on the lake, which include kayaking, boating, fishing and mountain biking. Our Sun expert says: "We love the hotel's modern, feminine rooms that are also ludicrously cosy, as well as the exceptional Sunday lunch." Details: Rooms from £130 per night Good for: Country walks, romantic stays Book a stay: Bath Arms at Longleat, Wiltshire With meat and game from the Longleat estate, dinner here is reason enough to go. But even better is that you can stay upstairs in one of the pub's simple and stylish rooms. Longleat has stunning grounds and year-round activities, including the safari park which is fantastic for families. Horningsham is a beautiful village, dotted with country trails to get lost while wandering in the hills. For more going on, the city of Bath is 35 minutes away. Spend the day taking in the Bridgeton-esk buildings, cool cafes and excellent nightlife. Our Sun expert says: "We love how much you can pack a lot into a trip here and the prices are great value for an overnight stay. "Note, the rooms are not designed for kids that need their own bed, but cribs can be provided for infants." Details: Double rooms from £85 per night Good for: Families with younger kids, couples Book a stay: Burleigh Court Hotel, Gloucestershire This manor house in the Cotswolds is the epitome of laid-back luxury. While outside, it's all Cotswolds stone walls and rolling hillsides, inside is a perfect, modern take on country chic and it all works beautifully. Rooms are delightfully feminine, some with four-poster beds and wraparound windows. Outside, there is a wellness garden with a pool, hot tub and a boutique spa set across little cabins along a winding path. From the hotel, you can head off on a ramble and explore the Cotswold Way National Trail and the Haresfield Beacon, stopping for a famous ice cream at the Berties Ice Cream van. Our Sun expert says: "The secluded location really feels like an escape to the country. "We highly recommend saving room for dinner at Burleigh House's award winning restaurant, the simple salad picked from their own garden is just the beginning." Details: Rooms from £145 per night Book a stay: Guest house 124, Brighton 39 Brighton seafront has it all. A stunning Victorian promenade, top foodie spots, independent shops and a beach on which to see and be seen, especially in the summer. This guesthouse is right in the middle of everything, with beach views and earthy, sun-drenched rooms. The décor is beautifully designed and has managed to capture seaside style along with a cosy, cottagecore feel. You won't believe there are 32 rooms here, as well as a boutique spa, a cocktail bar and a restaurant. The best deals are available outside of the summer season, plus the prices drop last minute, but it's the sort of place that will always have you coming back for another stay. Our Sun expert says: "This place was such a surprise. We say what used to be a dated B&B is now one of the nicest places to stay in Brighton." Details: Rooms from £149 per night Good for: Sea views and beach days Book a stay: CHARMING PUB STAYS Inn at the Sticks, Carmarthenshire In 1809 when this Welsh pub first opened its doors, you'd be arriving in style by horse and cart. But if even if you're driving electric these days, not much has changed inside. This country pub with five rooms in the tiny village of Llansteffan, has every bit the warm Welsh welcome that everyone talks about. Run by married couple Teej and Jenks, their aim was to run a pub for locals with room for a visitor or two. Nearby, there's a small sandy beach, Scott's Bay and 'the Sticks' itself, a patch of land where eisteddfodau (Welsh festivals) were traditionally held. Our Sun expert says: "We love the excellent food. Locally sourced and well thought-out, but not pretentious and very celebratory of Welsh cuisine." Details: Bed and Breakfast, £120 per night Good for: Escaping life, making friends Book a stay: The Seagate, North Devon 39 With rooms that look out to sea and a great boozer downstairs, this coastal pub in the picture-postcard fishing village of Appledore in North Devon is a fab little find. Nearby attractions include The Big Sheep and The Milky Way or you can hop on the relaxed Appledore ferry across the bay to explore and have lunch in sister pub, The Boathouse. If you have time, add a day on and take the vintage ferry to Lundy Island. It takes about two hours to get there but once you do, you'll get cinematic landscape, wild animals and birds and a lot of history hidden behind ancient walls and forts across the island. Our Sun expert says: "We say Appledore is an Instagram dream, with pastel-coloured houses, cobbled streets, tea rooms and a beach right outside." Details: £89 per night Good for: Something different Book a stay: The Old Ship, Hackney East London has its own brand of cool and this pub with 10 rooms above it is right in the centre of the action. Steps away from the Hackney Empire and a short stumble home from some of Hackney's most notorious drinking dens like Oslo, Mare Street Market and The Dolphin, rooms here are simple, comfortable and great value. It's a lively area, so you may hear some hustle and bustle from outside, but it's a top spot. Our Sun expert says: "We love the pub downstairs, that's a favourite with locals and known for its rotisserie chicken, which smells so good you wont be able to resist." Details: Rooms starts from £75 Good for: East London nightlife Book a stay: The Golden Fleece, York This notorious cavern in the ancient city of York has been serving up spirits since 1503, so if walls could talk, I'm sure there would be some brilliant (ghost) stories to tell. Thought to be the most haunted pub in the UK, the Golden Fleece is not for the faint hearted. Location-wise, you're slap bang in the middle of York, so you couldn't be better placed to explore one of the UK's most beautiful and historic cities. Our Sun expert says: "We love cosy rooms, even with the 'Medieval chic' décor, which includes a 200-year-old bed (the mattress is new) and some have roll top bathtubs inside. "The only downside is there were no ghosts spotted during out stay." Details: Double rooms from £80 per night Good for: Ghosthunters, history buffs, a great story to tell Book a stay: The George, Rye This 16 th Century Coaching Inn is now an atmospheric pub with beautifully decorated guestrooms above it, including five suites. The pub still has original Georgian, Elizabethian, and Victorian features, but has been given a contemporary update that blends beautifully and makes it one of the most romantic pubs on our list. The food at the Charcoal Grill is excellent and the steak frites lunch special (£18) is a steal. Rye is beautiful, with fairytale-esque streets and charm overflowing. Our Sun expert says: "We think The George is a fantastic place to spend a sunny weekend, with the fabulous Camber Sands just down the road." Details: Rooms from £95 Good for: Romantic stays Book a stay: Old Bridge Inn and Bunkhouse, Speyside 39 What a spot, along the River Spey in Cairngorms National Park. This pub is as warming as the whisky distilled in the hills that surround it and the log fire burning next to the bar. Plus, everyone is welcome. Not only does the Old Bridge Inn and Bunkhouse have beautiful double, twin rooms, and family rooms (which start at £95 per night), you can also get your head down in a stylish shared dorm for only £30 per night. Considering one of Scotland's most beautiful places is just outside the front door, this is exceptional value. An old game keeper's cottage, it has a playful vibe and armfuls of character. Our Sun expert says: "We say food is better than any place with a dorm room we have ever stayed, so go now and fill your boots before everyone finds about it." Details: Double rooms from £60 Good for: Excellent value and stunning location Book a stay: The Merry Harriers, Hambledon, Surrey The Merry Harriers is a proper pub. All oak beams and roaring fireplaces with a dog asleep under the table next to you, probably. Located in Hambleton in the Surrey Hills, a picturesque beauty spot just an hour from London, you can use the pub as a base for countryside walks or biking. Exploring a bit further afield? The National Trust's Winkworth Arboretum is four miles away. It's worth staying for the food, which is outstanding. Everything is sourced locally, included meat from the family farm and gin from a distillery just next door. Our Sun expert says: "We love the pub's traditional rooms, which are bright and airy, but for something different book into one of the cute rainbow-hued Shepherd's Huts in the back garden, all set around the duck pond with a fire pit for toasting marshmallows." Details: Bed and Breakfast from £120 per room Good for: Foodies Book a stay: Three Horseshoes, Leek, Staffordshire The Three Horseshoes is a charming country inn on the edge of the Peak District with 26 bedrooms, so there's plenty of room. This is a great pub stay for larger family groups or mate breaks, where everyone wants to be in one place. If you're after an action-packed weekend, the Peak District is on your doorstep, but the pub also has a spa (for an extra charge), so you could check in for some countryside chill. Our Sun expert says: "We suggest sticking around if you're there on a Sunday - the roasts are hearty ans served in a dining room with an open fire." Details: Rooms from £90 Good for: Big groups and big appetites Book a stay: The Olde Bell, Berkshire From the Best Western chain, BW Signature Collection hotels have been handpicked for being unique, cool or quirky– or all three - and The Olde Bell is one of the oldest Inns in the world, with some parts incredibly dating back to 1135. The pub has 48 rooms across its buildings, and Hurley in Berkshire is just 40 minutes from London, along one of the most beautiful sections of the River Thames. The Henley Festival is held just down the road, so if you can bags room for the Regatta, your luck is already in. Our Sun expert says: "We love the pub's beautiful English garden where you can also dine alfresco in the summer." Details: Rooms from £107 per night Good for: Exploring London while staying in the countryside Book a stay: Stow House, Yorkshire Dales 39 This luxury Bed & Breakfast is set in two acres of stunning North Yorkshire countryside, moments from the Aysgarth Waterfalls on the River Ure. The striking house is slap bang in the middle of nowhere, views over the dales from every window. The married owners, Sarah and Phil, are former city slickers that moved out to set up this independent boutique hotel and couldn't help bringing a little bit of city cool to the country. There is a cocktail happy hour every night with top tipples you'd expect more from a fancy London bar. Our Sun expert says: "We love the cool interiors, with a mix of vintage furniture and modern art that very much feels like escaping to a chateau in France." Details: Bed and Breakfast from £125 per room Ideal for: Sleek solitude Book a stay: BEST CHAINS AND RESORTS Z Hotels 39 This chain of city hotels has managed to accomplish simple and affordable, with little extras that elevate what could easily be a bland city stay, into something far warmer and more memorable. The hotels, which now have addresses in UK cities including London, Bath, Glasgow and Liverpool all have social spaces in which to relax or work, board games and a wine and cheese hour every day so guests can mingle and socialise with staff and other visitors. Rooms are excellent value. Slick in design and very functional with free WIFI, making the chain ideal for both work and play. Our Sun expert says: "We love that the compact, interior rooms keep the budget down and are a steal considering the excellent locations, including at Covent Garden and Soho in London and on George Square in Glasgow. "Plus, the common areas of the hotel and the social wine and cheese hour are fantastic for solo travellers." Details: Rooms from £35 per night Ideal for: City breaks and business travel Book a stay: Moxy Personality-packed, fun communal areas and a young energy give this chain extra cool points, but they also pop up in excellent locations across the UK, including major airports such as London Heathrow and Edinburgh. Hotel check-in is at the bar where they can serve you a rum punch with your room key if you choose to indulge. By night, the bar area is often buzzing, but rooms are generally quiet and oblivious to any merriment downstairs. Worth mentioning that beds are super comfortable with high quality linens and all the rooms have relaxing mood lighting. Our Sun expert says: "We love that each hotel has a 24/7 snack bar and a shared ironing room, if you need it - the chain is owned by Marriott, but Moxy is the hot, younger sister that everyone wants to hang out with (in). "Our favourite is in Manchester, with some rooms having fantastic views over the city." Details: Rooms from £59 per night Ideal for: City breaks, airport stays Book a stay: Premier Inn Premier Inn is possibly one of the best-known budget chains in the country and for good reason. With over 800 hotels in the UK, their classic brand of safe, simple and functional rooms in top locations is a winning formula for guests who need a great base without splashing the cash. Every room has good quality bed linens, a TV with Freeview, tea and coffee and an en-suite bathroom, with some Premier Inn's starting from as little as £45 per night. The brand recently introduced self-service check-in machines, which mean a speedy way to get your key and head upstairs if you just want to get cracking. Our Sun expert says: "Despite its affordability, rooms are always clean and quiet, meaning you get a great night's sleep there. "Not only that but its an extremely cheap place to eat too - opt for their Meal Deal and for £29.99 you get a two-course dinner and drink as well as their unlimited breakfast buffet in the morning." Details: Rooms from £45 Ideal for: Bargain hunters, short stays Book a stay: Malmaison 39 Malmaison hotels have a boujee boutique vibe, with all the reliability of a larger, established brand. Rooms are sexy, often with crushed velvet bedsteads and cushions and most of the UK's 17 hotels are housed in listed, historic buildings, giving them a grandiose feel. As well as rooms that perfectly lend themselves to romantic mini breaks, the hotels also have a chic bar and restaurant downstairs. Prices can vary, but booking directly on the hotel's website usually gets you the best price and they often have some great deals for special occasions like Valentine's Day, as well as great happy hours and dinner deals year-round. Our Sun expert says: "We say the Malmaison in Leeds is perfectly positioned for anyone wanting to enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife. "But the hotel itself is quite the social space with a buzzing bar and restaurant. Details: Rooms from £82 Ideal for: Couples Book a stay: Butlin's Holiday camps offer a range of different accommodation types and the hotels at Butlin's are rather nice - working out a brilliant bargain even if you're not planning to explore the extended holiday parks. Take the Shoreline Hotel at Butlin's in Bognor Regis. Bright, spacious rooms are on the side of the resort, some with sea views and the location on the Sussex seafront is a premium spot, even if you aren't planning to take in the Redcoat shows and resort entertainment. The hotels have their own bar and diner and you could be forgiven for forgetting you're at a Butlin's! Best of all, the price deals can be super for the seaside locations, especially if you book well in advance. Our Sun expert says: "The Ocean Hotel's fun, vibrant rooms, with a separate children's bedroom area complete with mood lighting and their own TV - which of course they loved." Details: Rooms from £23 Ideal for: Families, beach on a budget Book a stay: Hotel Indigo This chain describes itself as a neighbourhood hotel, but in fact has destinations all over the world, including 18 in the UK. A lot of effort has gone into making each hotel personalised to their location and they are often found in revamped heritage buildings. This is a refreshing change from non-descript chain hotels that, once inside, look the same from Birmingham to Belize. The newest property, the Hotel Indigo in Coventry has a stunning reception and eye caching art on the walls celebrating legendary local icon Lady Godiva as well as nods to the city's industrial history. The rooms are very tastefully designed, some of the best we've seen from a mid-priced chain and feel very luxurious, given the price. If you're planning on staying at the Indigo often, they have a good reward program too, with deals and rewards for members. Our Sun expert says: "We loved how quiet the hotel Indigo Dundee was, despite its inner city location - the thick walls of the former textile factory meant you're guaranteed the sleep of a lifetime." Details: Rooms from £90 Ideal for: Business and stylish mine breaks Book a stay: Wetherspoons Hotels That's right, Wetherspoons, home to the cheap pint, has a chain of hotels connected to some of their pubs and we have to say they're actually excellent value for money and well worth checking out. If you were expecting no-frills, functional and plain, you might be surprised to find that Wetherspoons rooms are well designed, calm and even cosy, with little splashes of colour of texture to add personality and comfortable beds and pillows. Lets not forget, JD Wetherspoon is known for its choice of historic buildings, so depending on which one you choose, you may get a little history lesson for the bargain price too. Better still, stay on a Thursday and take advantage of the pub's famous 'curry and a pint' night and you've got yourself a good deal. Our Sun expert says: "We loved the spacious and clean with comfy beds in our family room in Weston Super Mare, featuring a bay window with a showstopping sea view overlooking the promenade. "Everyone knows what they are getting with a Wetherspoons - affordable grub and an extensive menu that ticks all boxes." Details: Rooms from £46 per night Ideal for: Budget in a good location Book a stay: Hub Hotels by Premier Inn The contemporary, urban side hustle from this hotel juggernaut deserved its own entry. The high tech, mega trendy rooms are fantastic for younger and solo travellers who want to stay right in the mix but don't have the cash for bigger, more elaborate hotels. Minimalist and well-designed, these funky rooms are perfect for city breaks where you won't spend too much time at the hotel and want to be centrally located. They also work well for solo travellers with a 24-hour reception and are always in busy, well-populated areas of the city. Our Sun expert says: "We love their how fresh, snug and very Gen-Z these hotels are, with an app that allows you to check in, operate the lights, aircon and TV." Details: Rooms from £65 Ideal for: Solo travellers Book a stay: Hotel Du Vin This charming chain offer great value breaks in some beautiful destinations around the UK, including Poole, Exeter, Brighton and Cambridge. Quintessentially British by design, rooms have an opulent feel with quality furnishings and lots of attention to detail. An ideal chain for a special weekend away without a hefty price tag, room rates are competitive given the locations and lovely rooms. Dinner at Hotel Du Vin is always good and very affordable with an excellent price fixe menu (£19.95 for two courses) and seasonal promotions that are worth checking out on the website before your stay. If you're celebrating, there is a brilliant £8 happy hour in the bar too. A perfect excuse for a toast. Our Sun expert says: "We say the mock Tudor building at the Brighton property is bursting with character, but the standout is its cracking location, down the city's famous Lanes and in the thick of the action." Rooms from £81 Ideal for: Budget luxury Book a stay: Village Hotel Club This funky hotel group has the kind of trendy, youthful energy that a chain brand needs to keep people coming back. Most locations have an in-house bar and restaurant, a gym, pool and co-working space. It's geared up for a long-term stay if you do need to relocate temporarily. With locations including Southampton, Manchester, Leeds and Cardiff, there are plenty to choose from and members are subject to perks such as room upgrades and special events. Our Sun expert says: "We loved the young, breezy feel of the Manchester location. It's giving functional accommodation a new energy, away from the bog-standard budget business hotels." Details: Rooms from £70 per night Ideal for: Friendship groups, work trips, budget city breaks Book a stay: BEST HOLIDAY CAMPS Bluestone National Park Resort, Pembrokeshire 39 Set over 500 acres of National Park, this holiday camp is in an incredible location. The resort is surrounded by woodland trails and the stunning Welsh countryside. There is hiking, biking, kayaking and more, plus fun activities like high ropes and axe throwing (all completely safe, of course). If the great British weather isn't on your side, you can seek refuge at the indoor water park, adventure playground and enjoy day-long entertainment, including live music. Cabins are well appointed with a small kitchen, dishwasher, two bedrooms, living space and an outdoor patio. Ideal for a fun family trip or a couples escape to the country if your love language is active relaxation. Our Sun expert says: "We love the affordability of Bluestone, compared to similar UK holiday parks. "Bifold doors in the cabins that are the perfect way to bring the outdoors indoors." Details: £115 per night (Based on a seven-night break in the Caldey Lodge. Sleeps four) Good for: Adventure lovers, longer stays, pre-teens Book a stay: Away Resorts, Newperran, Cornwall Another brand known for a serene staycation and top sites that offer a great mix of thrill and chill is Away Resorts. The Newperran holiday park in Cornwall is just 10 minutes from Newquay and its key attractions, including the Newquay Zoo, Blue Reef Aquarium and of, course, the world-famous beaches. At the resort, everything is more chilled with accommodation ranging from caravans, lodges and a tent camping option. Newperran is an excellent base to explore Cornwall and the local area, which is beautiful. Our Sun expert says: "We say the Away Resorts are ideal for families who like the quiet life or groups who want to enjoy time together." Details: £46 per night (Based on four nights in a luxury caravan. Sleeps 4) Good for: Taking time out, a great base to explore, extended family groups. Book a stay: Hoseasons Norfolk Woods Resort and Spa 39 Hoseasons are known for their 'Go Active' Breaks, which are ideal for families that want to enjoy time together rather than split their time between adult and child attractions. The Norfolk Woods Resort is in a great location to use as a base to explore the Norfolk countryside and coastline. Although the camp itself is not as high-octane as some family-centred resorts, on-site activities include archery, an outdoor adventure play area and an activity programme for ages 3-7. There is also an indoor swimming pool and an outdoor splash area for kids. Our Sun expert says: "We were surprised by how fancy the lodges - the Bircham style lodge even has a roll top bath. Who knew?" Details: £58 per night (Based on seven nights in an Birchem Lodge. Sleeps 2). Good for: Outdoorsy types, child-free stays, families with pre-teens and teenagers. Book a stay: Butlins, Minehead The OG Holiday Park, Butlins, certainly knows how to keep families entertained on a budget. From an on-site fairground and themed weekends, each of the three famous parks (Minehead, Skegness and Bognor Regis) has a multitude of entertainment for any age group or family type, with accommodation ranging from budget rooms to spacious apartments. Evening entertainment is top of the holiday park game, with immersive shows and guest singers and bands. If you have children with a disability or additional needs, the Minehead and Skegness locations are fantastic options, as the newly installed SKYPARK is an inclusive and interactive playground for children of all abilities, including wheelchair users. For an extra spend, Butlins have a new all-inclusive option from under £100pp, based on two adults and two children (five and under). Available exclusively on Showtime Term-Time, midweek breaks, there are five different dining plans on offer, from all-you-can-eat buffet packages to the DineAround plan, which covers sit-down restaurants. A fantastic deal for families with pre-school kids. Our Sun expert says: "We were among the first to try out the new West Lake chalets at Butlins Minehead, smashing the traditional view of hi-de-hi style accommodation. "The bright, colourful and uber modern holiday homes have fabulous views over a lovely lake too." Details: £13 per night (Based on four people for four nights, staying in a comfort room). £25 with all-inclusive food court dining or £51 premium dining*). *Midweek only. Good for: Value for money, term time perks for pre-school kids, accessible-friendly breaks. Book a stay: Parkdean, Eyemouth, Berwickshire (Scottish Borders) This holiday park is in a stunning location, next to the beach and close to the village of St Abbs, surrounded by beautiful coastal walks and dramatic landscapes. There is no swimming pool at the park, but guests have unlimited use of the local pool and there's always the beach if you fancy a brisk sea swim in the crystal-clear waters. The holiday park has a lively clubhouse, the Driftwood Complex, with entertainment on selected nights and a casual restaurant and bar. The beautiful location is the real selling point but budget-wise it cannot be beaten. With caravans that sleep eight, that works out less than £5 per person, per night. Fantastic value. Our Sun expert says: "This site is perfect for visiting North Berwick, home to the fantastic Scottish Seabird Centre. "You can book a trip to sail round the amazing Bass Rock, which is home to thousands of gannets in summer - or a sailing to the stunning Isle of May, a fantastic place to get up close to puffins." Details: £33 (Based on a four-night stay in a Coastal Caravan. Sleeps 8) Good for: Nature lovers, beautiful setting and value for money Book a stay: Haven Craig Tara Holiday Park 39 A Scotland holiday park with a serious amount to do is Haven Craig Tara. The Adventure Village is an attraction in itself with all-weather indoor and outdoor activities, including trampolines, zip lines and even Segway rides. But, even more impressive is the huge Splashaway Bay pool area, which is officially Scotland's biggest waterpark. Cabins are simple and efficient. Some are even beach adjacent, with views over the Isle of Arran. The location is ideal, but if you do want to venture further, Craig Tara is surrounded by some of the most beautiful coastline in Scotland. Sun expert says: "We stayed in one of the site's Platinum three-bedroom caravans which come with a decking area and incredible views across the bay. Our Sun expert says: "The ultra spacious interior boasted a modern décor with full-length windows and a skylight adding to the airy feel." Details: £49 (Based on a four-night stay in a Saver Caravan. Sleeps 4) Good for: Waterslides, Tweens and pre-teens, lots to do in one place Book a stay: Park Holidays, Sand Le Mere This sunny holiday park is located on the beach, with golden sands stretching as far as the eye can see. Families will settle right in to a static caravan or a kooky camping pod. By day, the park is lively and buzzing with jolly Yorkshire spirit, complete with excellent evening entertainment in the newly-restored clubhouse. The leisure complex has a heated indoor pool, splash park and soft play. For families, Sand Le Mere is close to a host of attractions, including Bugtopia Hornsea Zoo, The Deep Aquarium and Spurn National Nature Reserve. Our Sun expert says: "Cabins along the beachfront might cost a little more, but waking up to the sound of the waves is what summer holidays are made of." Details: £33 (Based on a four-night stay in a Gold Plus Caravan. Sleeps 6) Good for: Family activities, beach lovers, recent revamp Book a stay: Cove Resorts, Seal Bay Resort, Selsey Selsey, on the sunny Sussex coast is a charming seaside town, a short drive from both Chichester and Bognor Regis. Thought to be one of the sunniest spots in the UK, Selsey-on-the-sea is perfect for a UK summer staycation. With indoor and outdoor pools, a lazy river and an outdoor lido sun deck with a splash pad, sun loungers and cabanas, you'd be forgiven for thinking you'd escaped to the Italian Riviera. Adults can slip away to a slick spa and gym, while kids meet characters from Madagascar and Paddington. With the beach walking distance from your front door, it's a top holiday park for those who want to stay and play. Our Sun expert says: "The giant Viking Bar looks like an imposing cowboy saloon but is actually a warm and welcoming local pub. Meanwhile, the burgers, beers and ice creams at Cafe Lido are of bafflingly good quality." Details: £87 (Based on three nights in a two-bed holiday caravan. Sleeps six) Good for: Younger families, single parent families and sunseekers Book a stay: Hagan's Leisure, Causeway Coast The Causeway Coast is one of Northern Ireland's most beautiful and striking locations, making it a great place to explore for the whole family. Hagan's Leisure is a family holiday camp that has all the perks of a fun-packed holiday village, but is a stone's throw from the Giants Causeway, the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, Dunluce Castle and The Dark Hedges. Accommodation styles here vary from camping and caravan pitches (starting at £25 a night) to caravans, hot tub cabins and quirky 'fairy pods' which can sleep a family of four. Our Sun expert says: " There's plenty to do here, including an indoor pool with slides, but really it's all about the location." Details: Caravans from £58 (Based on a seven-night stay. Sleeps six) Good for: Location, families Book a stay: Haven, Kent Coast, Rochester 39 This Haven has great location on the beach, lots going on for families and the bragging rights of being the closest holiday camp to London. Just over half an hour by train and you can swap the beach for the big city, making this holiday village a great shout if you're visiting from out of town, offering the best of both worlds. If you're all about sandy toes and paddling in the calm water, the Kent coast is notoriously sunny, so you can rock up and chill out. Caravans are compact but fully equipped, some sleeping up to eight people. There is a huge indoor pool, fun activities like an adventure park and hidden forest trails, with lively evening entertainment in the main clubhouse. Our Sun expert says: "The new Adventure Village hosts the bulk of the outdoor activities, with bungee trampolines and a mini-aerial adventure that the kids will love." Details: £49 per night (for a Bronze Caravan, sleeping up to six people) Good for: A mix of city and coast, families Book a stay: BEST FAMILY STAYS Pinewood Pods at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve 39 Port Lympne is a wild animal reserve found right here in the garden of England. A breeding sanctuary for rare and endangered animals, you can spot over 800 animals, including the big five just wandering around the Kent Savanah. The safari park also has human accommodation on site, with cosy woodland pods nestled in the forest. Snuggle up in the heated pods, ideal for romantic couples or a family night in the wild and listen out for the roar of lions and tigers on the other side of the trees. One of the perks of staying at Pinewood Pods is having access to the Port Lympne Reserve before the general public, getting to see the animals at dawn and dusk at your leisure. Seats on the fun Port Lympne safari are also included in your overnight booking. Prices usually start at £139. This includes a one-night stay in the pod and two-day access to Port Lympne. Our Sun expert says: "There's nothing quite like Port Lympne in the whole of the UK. It's a real experience and the closest you'll get to a proper safari in Britain." Details: Rooms from £99 Ideal for: Families who want an easy adventure Book a stay: EXCLUSIVE CODE FOR SUN CLUB MEMBERS Special Offer: Stay in a Pinewood Pod at Port Lympne for £99 per night, exclusive to SUN CLUB readers using the code PINE99 Glamp in style at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve in the Kent countryside. At the top of the hill, in the woods of Port Lympne, Pinewood offers cosy glamping pods for those looking to get back to nature amidst the roars of the resident lions and tigers. Snuggle up in heated luxury Pods for a romantic couples break or a family night in the wild and gather round the fire to toast marshmallows under the stars. Your stay includes two full days at Port Lympne Reserve and a Truck Safari journeying through free roaming wild and rare animals Terms and conditions: Pinewood non-ensuite, for up to four people. The code will be valid to book until 10th August 2025. *Excludes all school holidays and valid until 26 th November for Monday – Thursday stays (weekends not included) Hideaway Lodge at Chapel House Estate Tucked away in the Kent Countryside, Chapel House is set across 35-acres of farmland and is ideal for families and friends who just want to switch off. The Hideaway Lodges are contemporary cabins, with views across the unspoiled woodland. The on-site restaurant serves up delicious winter warmers, such as an indulgent hog roast and they host special food events throughout the year. Our Sun expert says: "We loved that there is only a small collection of cabins here as it's so quiet and feels like you're in the middle of nowhere, despite plenty of facilities on site. "The pizza from the Number Nine restaurant is really good and the restaurant is in a beautiful glass courtyard. They do two cocktails for £20 too." Details: Rooms from £120 per night Ideal for: Large groups, luxury wildlife, couples Book a stay: Drayton Manor Resort Hotel 39 Right on the edge of Drayton Manor in Staffordshire is the theme park's own hotel and it's a top place for families to hang out and play. With themed rooms (any Thomas the Tank Engine fans here?), two on-site restaurants, evening entertainment and mini golf outside, it's an easy and fun option for families. Located in Tamworth, you are also close to Tamworth Castle, Statfold Country Park and the SnowDome if you want to stretch out our stay. The resort's Stay and Play packages are really good value and include fun extras, so check them out before you book. Our Sun expert says: "We booked a Thomas the Tank Engine room - they're spacious with themed bunk beds and a comfy double bed for the adults. "As well as being just a ten-minute stroll to the theme park, the great thing about staying at the onsite hotel is getting exclusive early access." Details: Rooms from £125 for a standard family room with breakfast Ideal for: Young families Book a stay: Village Blackpool This holiday complex is a modern and clever option for families with a lot of facilities under one roof and excellent room rates. The Village Blackpool is two miles from the main pier and a 10-minute walk to Blackpool zoo. As well as basic but functional family rooms, you will also have access to other perks of the village, including evening entertainment and the large indoor swimming pool. Families must stick to dedicated family swim times but it's only £5 per room for everyone to dive in. There are Village Hotels across the UK, including Aberdeen, Bournemouth, Hertfordshire and Nottingham. Our Sun expert says: "As a family, we could not have been happier with this resort and the location. It's so close to Blackpool, so we really made the most of it. The pool was a real bonus." Details: Rooms from £79 (pool entry is £5 per room) Ideal for: Extended families, longet stays Book a stay: MacDonald Craxton Wood, Cheshire Chester is an underrated destination for a family trip, with Chester Zoo, Blue Planet Aquarium and the Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet nearby. Chester itself is only a 15-minute drive. MacDonald Resorts are very family friendly, with spacious rooms and lots of onsite facilities. Craxton Wood can be found surrounded by 27 acres of woodland and has its own restaurant, bar and indoor pool. Our Sun expert says: "There is a surprisingly zen spa, if mum or dad are able to slip away…" Details: Family Double rooms from £96 Ideal for: A country stay for a city break Book a stay: Hideaway Escapes Farm Stay, Pembrokeshire, Wales If a digital detox is required or you just want a wholesome, low cost holiday with your people, a chilled-out farm stay could be a winning formula. This cute, independent farm has simple indoor rooms as well as funky caravans, yurts, geo domes and rental tents. By day you can stay around the farm and hang out with the other residents - Mable the pig, Tom & Morwenna the donkeys, Rocky the pony, Peanut & Twix the pygmy goats and Magic, Toffee, Gwylym & Janto the alpaca's. Our Sun expert says: "Animal-loving kids will be in their element. "Close to the farm is a wide, sandy beach and the town of Narberth is very cute with shops that look unchanged from the 1950s and not an ipad in sight." Details: Family room £115, rental tents (bring your own bedding) £65 Ideal for: Screen-free fun Book a stay: Ibis Budget, Whitechapel, London If you're coming to London with the family, costs can start to creep up but getting a great deal on your hotel can help out enormously. A Triple Classic room here has a double bed and a single bunk bed, sleeping three and the hotel also do a bumper deal for two adjoining rooms, which really solves the problem for larger families or if you have teens or older kids. The free-to-enter Young V&A is just down the road. Our Sun expert says: "What was once a more gritty and grubby area, Whitechapel has really smartened up its act, and the new Elizabeth Line Station has direct connections to Farringdon and Paddington Stations, as well as Heathrow Airport." Details: Two double room bundle from £122, Triple Classic Room £121 Ideal for: Doing London with kids Book a stay: Parkdean Resorts, Camber Sands, East Sussex 39 Booking a holiday park close to a fancy area is a great idea. As well as being ideally located to explore, you will also benefit from all the perks of the holiday camp, such as swimming pools, playgrounds, entertainment and in the case of Parkdean at Camber Sands, seven miles of golden beach on your doorstep. From here, you can explore the beautiful town of Rye and you are close to Port Lympne Safari Park. If the weather allows, the water here is ideal for beginner surf lessons, so limber up. Our Sun expert says: "We loved the stylish new 3-bed bungalows and the excellent range of children's activities. "The park's location, just minutes from one of the UK's best beaches was also a huge selling point." Details: Caravans from £128 for three nights (sleeps 8) Ideal for: Bargain beach trip Book a stay: Bartley Lodge, New Forest This is a beautiful hotel in a former hunting lodge set within eight acres of the New Forest. Family rooms manage to retain the hotel's fresh and airy style but are large enough to fit the brood in. It's fair to say a stay here would be one for the grown-ups to enjoy, since Peppa Pig World at Paulton's Park is close by. A cute Alice in Wonderland Afternoon Tea is served here too (£28 per person) and a Mini afternoon tea for kids (£12.50). Our Sun expert says: "Make the most of the manicured outdoor gardens and serene forest walks before you head off to experience the thrills of George's Dinosaur Adventure." Details: Rooms from £119 but if you book through you can hotel and theme park packages, which may even work out better value. Ideal for: Young families Book a stay: The Ness, South Devon This is a beautiful pub hotel in south Devon, just a short walk to the beaches of Shaldon and Ness Cove. Originally built in the 1810, the ornate building is picture perfect, with a lavish wraparound porch. Kids (and dogs) are warmly welcomed and teens will love the secret passage at the pack, which is thought to have been used by the infamous Clifford Family for smuggling in goods from the waters outside. Our Sun expert says: "We say Sundays have a friendly vibe, with excellent roast dinners followed by a walk along the coast." Details: Deluxe room with balcony (sleeps 4/5) from £118 Ideal for: Seaside stay Book a stay: BEST B&B'S The Sandy Duck, Falmouth, Devon This modern Bed and Breakfast is in the quintessential harbour town of Falmouth. The distinctive detached house stands out with its Georgian architecture and cheerful pink door. It fits in right here, next to a pretty high street dotted with wonky buildings, local shops, tiny cafes and fishing boats knocking together in the harbour. In the summer, Falmouth also has some beautiful beaches, the best being Gyllyngvase Beach. Little design touches inside are what really makes this B&B memorable. The bright lounge with coastal nik naks and sea views along with handmade blankets and colourful art. Breakfast is outstanding. Stay for two nights and you can try the Cornish salmon and the fluffy pancakes. Both are suburb. Our Sun expert says: "This was a delightful find. It really feels like a seaside stay at someone's lovely beach house." Details: Rooms from £95 per night Ideal for: Feeling happy Book a stay: The Black Lion, Long Melford, Suffolk The Black Lion is a Georgian coaching inn on the Melford Mile in Suffolk. The pace here is slow, rummaging through the odd antique store or just planning a day outdoors breathing in fresh country air. Long Melford Country park is a good place to start. Explore 8.13 hectares of land on foot or by bicycle. The B&B have designed a 'Nine Stile Stride' walking map to follow, taking you over sleeper bridges, stiles and across the picturesque Suffolk countryside. Work up an appetite and book in for the Family Roast, a sharing platter with all the trimmings and kids under five eat free. Our Sun expert says: " Rooms are fuss free and pleasant, with breakfast served until 10am. Have you got the appetite for the Full Suffolk? It will fill you up all day." Details: Double rooms with Bed and Breakfast from £103 Ideal for: Outdoorsy families Book a stay: La Fosse at Cranbourne, Dorset 39 Nabbing a great spot between the New Forest National Park and the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast, this whimsical restaurant with rooms also happens to be under a stunning International Dark Sky Reserve – so stargazing is guaranteed. La Fosse is run by award-winning Chef Patron Mark Hartstone, who grows much of his own produce and the restaurant is a foodie paradise with interesting menus and truly memorable food. From the log burner in the bar to the whisky barrel in the corner, it's all so warm and cosy. Of course, Dorset is beautiful in summer but this place is equally as perfect in winter too. Oh and all the guest rooms are named after different cheeses. What's not to like? Our Sun expert says: "The restaurant, with the six-course tasting menu is a stand-out dining experience. "Allotment tapas, melt-in-the-mouth plaice, stunning hogget, seeped pineapple palate cleanser, hazelnut bostock with a rich chocolate ganache, all rounded off with a tasting cheese board. A masterpiece. "The room rate here is a steal, for the quality and experience." Details: Bed and Breakfast from £89 per night Ideal for: Winter breaks and foodies Book a stay: The Alan, Manchester Long gone are the days where the term 'bed and breakfast' has a fuddy duddy feel to it. Step forward The Alan. This mega cool, modern and minimalist hotel is in the heart of Manchester and is as hip and happening as the city itself. The six-storey building has been completely revamped and is now a design-led co-working space with seriously stylish rooms. Breakfast is served in the bright dining room with the option of continental buffet and a hot item from the menu. If you are there for work, you can hang out all day in the impressive co-working space, but it's also ideally placed for exploring the city. Our Sun expert says: "We say trendy design hotel is smack-bang in the middle of the city, so you can easily walk back after a night on the town. "And the interiors are some of the coolest we've ever seen - with brass showers, pink lime-wash walls and exposed brick throughout." Details: Bed and Breakfast from £80 Ideal for: Hip holidaymakers Book a stay: Victorian House Hotel, Grasmere, Lake District 39 This chic and informal B&B has a vintage French apartment vibe, perfectly designed and simply gorgeous. Grasmere is one of the best places in the Lake District to explore the stunning nature and outdoor activities like horse riding (treks can be arranged by the hotel), biking and hiking. The rooms here each have a different personality, with stargazing rooms that have floor-to-ceiling windows, family suites with mini tepees in them for the kids and dog-friendly rooms if you want to bring your pooch. Our Sun expert says: "Breakfast is served in the country-style garden room, which is flooded with light and the perfect way to wake up." Details: Rooms from £78 Ideal for: Stylish stays, romantic weekends, solo females Book a stay: Dukes, Bath This place has full Bridgeton vibes and a top location on a grand Georgian terrace. Tucked away on Great Pulteney Street, you can walk to all Bath's best areas from the hotel, including the Roman Baths, the Theatre Royal and the Jane Austen centre (if you like your literary history more highbrow). The hotel's décor is perfectly suited to its surroundings, with striking vintage furniture and four-poster beds in some rooms. Our Sun expert says: "The overall feel is quintessentially Somerset, which is marvellous. "Keep an eye out for great last-minute deals here and booking directly with the hotel gets you a free bottle of wine on arrival." Details: Rooms from £98 with breakfast Ideal for: Literary fans, period drama buffs Book a stay: The Buddle, Smugglers Inn, Isle of Wight This charming inn on the Isle of Wight has been on the island since the 18 th Century but all the rooms were freshly renovated last year, clean, modern and cosy. This pub is a friendly hub for both locals and visitors, with a calendar of fun themed nights, like a murder mystery party and live music, in the main bar on selected nights. Our Sun expert says: "We loved that the updates to the inn retained the character, which is so charming. "The location is a real beauty spot, with some fabulously wild, secluded beaches." Details: Rooms from £100 and if you book your stay and your ferry tickets to the island at the same time at you can save 25% on your ferry fare. Ideal for: Feeling like local Book a stay: Pear Tree Hill, Belfast Belfast is a top city, but if you go to Northern Island and miss out on the dramatic landscape, you're missing out. The Pear Tree Hill hotel, just a 20-minute drive out of the city in Dundonald has all your problems solved. Breakfast is a real treat as eggs don't come any fresher - they are freshly laid by the chickens in the garden. By night, if you don't venture into the city for some live music and jovial nightlife, watch the sunset next to an open-fire. Our Sun expert says: "The zen-like rooms have bi-fold doors that look over the hills and you can enjoy the view with a breakfast picnic basket in bed." Details: Rooms with breakfast from £85 Ideal for: Everyone Book a stay: The Townhouse at Brecon, Wales 39 This boutique B&B overlooks the River Honddu, with distant views over the splendid Pen-y-fan. Originally built in the early 1800's The Town House is now a five-floor bed and breakfast that owners Glenn and Paula have lovingly poured their heart, soul and individuality into, making it a welcoming home away from home. All three rooms are individually designed with vintage furniture and detailing. It's very friendly here. Our Sun expert says: "What made the stay for us was breakfast in the main dining room. It's very social and everyone is excited to share hiking tips and pub recommendations from their time exploring outdoors." Details: Bed and Breakfast from £99 per room Ideal for: Couples, girl trips Book a stay: B+B Edinburgh Scotland's most stylish city is notoriously pricey, so that's why this is a low budget, basic B&B is a surprising find. This Georgian townhouse is steps from the Royal Mile and ideal for first-timers to the city who want to explore. Design-wise it's a bit of a mish mash of styles. The building itself is stunning and many rooms incorporate authentic original features, but they've gone with modern, slightly cheap-looking furniture in the common areas. Our Sun expert says: "The rooms themselves are great and quiet. For this price to be sleeping in the centre of Edinburgh, you won't hear us complaining." Details: Bed and Full Scottish Breakfast from £90 per night Ideal for: City breaks on a budget Book a stay: TOP QUIRKY STAYS Tahuna Bothies, Aberdeenshire 39 Sleeping on a Scottish hillside with panoramic views as far as the eye can see and a blanket of stars above your head sounds like a dream. However, when you throw in the Great British weather and modern practicalities, wild camping isn't always as romantic as it is in the movies. Step forward, Tahuna Bothies in Newburgh. These wilderness log cabins allow you to be at one with nature but with your own heat, water, shower and Wi-Fi. Our Sun expert says: The floor to ceiling windows mean you can watch the sun set and rise again from the comfort of a cosy double bed. "It's the perfect way to switch off – just remember to put your phone in aeroplane mode." Details: Cabins from £100 Ideal for: Fair weather campers, stargazers, couples Book a stay: The Sidings Hotel and Restaurant, York When it comes to kooky hotels, this one is just the ticket… The Sidings Hotel has created 10 unique rooms from former Pullman Train Carriages. It's a really clever idea, especially if you have train spotters in the family. Adults and kids are welcome and there are double and family rooms to fit everyone in. The restaurant is, of course, in an old Pullman Dining Car and they even do a Sunday roast. The hotel is just outside York, which itself has a rich railway heritage, so you can head into town and continue the theme. Our Sun expert says: "As a family, this was a really fun stay. The cabins are surprisingly roomy and some even have four poster beds." Details: Train cabins from £65 (sleeps 2) Ideal for: Somewhere different, families Book a stay: Bloc Gatwick This sleek hotel at Gatwick South is a welcome departure from the usual bland and soulless airport hotel offering. Not only are the relaxing modern rooms have extra comfortable beds, the hotel offers plenty of fuss-free perks like mobile check in and jet-lag-friendly mood lighting. But the really cool thing about his hotel is that you'll be waking up on the runway (almost) with rooms that overlook the planes as they touch down and taxi in. There are family rooms with bunk beds, and the kids will love the view. For a super slick stay, the new VIP suites have wrap around windows that look over the airport, which is very exciting (even for the grown-ups). Our Sun expert says: "We reckon that "Bloc Gatwick isn't just for early flight stayers, as aviation geeks will love it too. "Watching the sun come up over all the planes lined up at the terminal is the perfect way to get in the holiday mood." Details: Rooms from £100 Ideal for: Early flights, excited travellers Book a stay: Oxwich Bay HotelSecret Garden Pod, Swansea 39 This bewitching hotel is hidden in a secluded bay on the Gower Peninsula, but even more enchanting is the Secret Garden at the side of the hotel which has six individual sleeping pods for a cosy camp out. Pods are adult-only and each has its own bathroom, heating, a smart TV and a bed that pulls down from the wall. Oxwich Bay Hotel is set in an area of natural beauty and has official Dark Sky Status, so go stargazing on your own private terrace. Each pod is named after the trees planted around it. Our Sun expert says: "We stayed in spring and the Cherry Blossom Pod was particularly gorgeous." Details: Garden pods from £94 Ideal for: Special occasions, friend-cations Book a stay: Garrison Prison Cell, Fort William, Inverness 39 Fort William is a spectacular spot in the Scottish Highlands, most famous for being the gateway to Ben Nevis. The Garrison was a former police station, built in the 1950s and fantastically perched next to the spectacular Loch Linnhe. The holding cells, which still have the original bars on the windows, now make for cosy bedrooms and it certainly makes for far more comfortable stay than the cell's former occupants. Book directly with the hotel and breakfast in included. Our Sun expert says: "While The Garrison does not look welcoming from the outside, inside is a beautifully designed boutique hotel with well-thought out interiors, beautiful furniture and art." Details: Bunk rooms and double rooms from £90 per night Ideal for: Friends Book a stay: The Old Radar Station, Charmouth, Dorset Starting life in 1961 as a Ministry of Defence radar station, there aren't many places like this for you and your famly or friends to spend a fun weekend. Steeped in history, the Old Radar Station offers a remote hideaway on the peak of Stonebarrow Hill overlooking Lyme Bay and the Golden Cap. Inside is warm and charming and sleeps six, making it great value for a group. If you love a good hike, you're in the ideal spot, with 25 miles of footpaths through headlands right from your doorstep. Once you get your bearings, you can hike further along the Dorset coastline. Or stay local and relax on Charmouth's beach, which is only a 30-minute downhill walk. Our Sun expert says: "This was a really fun stay for a group and we loved the history and the completely remote location. "It's a lot more comfy than the name would have you believe." Details: Rent the whole building from £113 per night (sleeps six) Ideal for: An adventure, history buffs Book a stay: Christ Church University Halls of Residence (Harry Potter University) Did you know that you can stay in the Oxford University where Harry Potter was filmed? The Great Hall at Hogwarts was heavily inspired by the real Tudor Dining Hall at Christ Church Collage, which is part of the University of Oxford and was constructed in the 1520s. What's really magic is that when the full-time students are home for the holidays, you can stay in a dorm room inside the University, so you can almost brag that you went to 'Hogwarts'. Rooms are basic, but most have their own bathrooms, tea, coffee and a fridge as well as WIFI. Christ Church was used as a filming location and inspiration for many of the scenes in the Harry Potter films – with the grand staircase and Dining Hall being two of the most iconic. Our Sun expert says: "We love the magic of staying in one of the world's most famous universities, but it's important to remember these are no-frills rooms designed for uni students." Details: Room with en-suite from £90 per night Ideal for: Movie buffs Book a stay: The Dome Garden, Forest of Dean 39 The Dome Garden looks especially magical at night, when the three futuristic sphere tents are illuminated in the dark of the forest. This family-owned, eco glamping site has been running for 12 years and also has a treehouse for hire and a B&B lodge with rooms. Inside the 20ft domes, you will find comfy beds and a bathroom, one even has a roll top bath. One of the coolest ways to camp, each dome sleeps four people, or five if you're staying with children. Climb trees, glide on the rope swing or go exploring in the Forest of Dean. Just be back as the sun goes down as that is when the garden is at is most enchanting. Our Sun expert says: "We say the garden itself is the perfect way for families to go screen free and spend quality time together, as there is no Wi-Fi." Details: Domes start from £100 per night (a three-night minimum stay is required during peak times) Ideal for: Getting off grid Book a stay: Moonacre Floating Treehouse Pod, Dorset You'd be hard pushed to find anywhere more unique than a floating treehouse above the treetops of Dorset. Imagine your dream childhood camp but with a romantic makeover, electric, heating, running water and a fire pit. It's purposely basic and a way to escape life for a while. There are other glamping areas on the site but this is the best, especially as it is a great spot for sunset. Our Sun expert says: "This is a such a cute spot for a couple. We loved the childhood nostalgia of wishing we had a fairy treehouse in the garden." Details: Stays start from £90 per night Ideal for: Couples Book a stay: Hidden Valley Yurts and Lake House 39 In one of the prettiest corners of Wales, you can bunk down in a colourful Mongolian yurt and embrace your inner hippie. Deep in the Wye Valley in Monmouthshire, South Wales, Hidden Valley Yurts is a glamping site that runs along the top of a beautiful meadow alongside a stream. There are five yurts to hire (between March-September) and the larger tents sleep up to six people, each with their own private bathroom facilities). The black Mountains and Brecon Beacons National Park are just a 20-minute drive away, so if you book up for the week you won't run out of things to do. Our Sun expert says: "This is the perfect location for extended families or friendship groups and you can even cook pizzas in the wood-burning oven." Details: Private yurts from £70 per night. Ideal for: Groups Book a stay:
Grazia USA
17-07-2025
- Grazia USA
The GRAZIA Retreat: The EVE Hotel, Sydney
Photo: Supplied When it comes to escaping the UAE heat during summer, the first destination which is the go-to is, naturally, the balmy climes of Europe – namely the Greek islands, the Amalfi Coast, Bodrum or perhaps a cityscape in the form of Paris, London or, if you're going slightly further afield, New York City. But what about looking to the East of the region? Specifically, southeast towards Australia. As a bucket list destination for many, the country's biggest city, Sydney, is arguably the gateway to the country for many. With a population of over five million, the coastal Australian city has everything from a buzzing cosmopolitan centre to being home to over 100 beaches, as well as being a major cultural hub. In fact, it ranked number five on the global survey for the best cities in the world for culture in 2025 by Time Out – and it was the only Australian city to rank on the list. In recent years, post the pandemic, there's been a huge investment in both the culture and hospitality sectors in the city, with approximately $279 million USD investments in the hotel sector alone in 2025 so far, according to reports, which includes a huge rise in boutique and independent hotels. Perhaps one of the most notable recent hotel openings, tucked into the vibrant heart of Sydney's inner-city Redfern district, is The EVE Hotel. Opened in late 2024, the boutique bolthole has already earned a cult following among in-the-know aesthetes, drawn to its art-filled interiors, sultry rooftop and irreverent personality. A love letter to the creative pulse of Sydney, if you will. From the moment you step through its bronze-framed glass doors, you're immersed in a sensory world that blurs design, culture and comfort, complete with moody lighting, terrazzo floors, and local artworks curated with gallery-level taste. If its Brisbane counterpart, The Calile, which opened its doors in 2018 and has been on the World's 50 Best Hotels list for two years running, is anything to go by, The EVE could very well be on its way to many incoming global accolades. The 102 rooms are equal parts sleek and soulful. Expect high ceilings, curvaceous furniture, Aesop amenities, and thoughtful tech touches that whisper luxury without trying too hard. But what truly sets The EVE apart is its connection to Sydney's cultural lifeblood. The hotel shares a postcode with artist-run spaces, buzzy wine bars, design-forward boutiques and even GRAZIA editor-approved brand Aje's head offices, which give the neighbourhood its enriching character. That's not all, the hotel is also complete with a rooftop pool, which gives a West Hollywood, Los Angeles vibe with its terracotta accents and lush sunbeds. By way of gastronomy, the Greek restaurant Olympus, located in the hotel, is a chic location for drinks and small bites at the bar, or just next door, Island Radio, is an eclectic spot for casual dining and indulging in Southeast Asian street food. The EVE is a hotel that will leave you falling a little bit in love with the city's grit and glamour, and marks the perfect place for the start of a bucket list trip in Australia.
Skift
08-07-2025
- Business
- Skift
IHCL Eyes Boutique Chain Acquisition to Drive Growth to 700 Properties by 2030
India's hotel growth story won't be built on mega-properties alone. Having snapped up boutique chains like Claridges and Tree of Life, IHCL is betting that small hotels in the right places can deliver big returns and faster market reach than legacy five-star sprawl ever could. Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), the hospitality business of the Tata Group, looks to acquire boutique hotel chains as part of its effort to nearly double its hotel portfolio by 2030. The company currently has a portfolio of 392 hotels, including 143 under development globally across 14 countries and in over 150 locations. The company wants to grow to 700 hotels, with a total of 70,000 rooms by 2030. To meet this goal, IHCL would be investing around INR 12 billion ($142 million) each year. In the last earnings call, IHCL CEO Puneet Chhatwal said, the company has also allocated INR 250 million ($3 million) over three years to promote India abroad. At IHCL's 124th annual general meeting on Monday, Tata Group Chairman N Chandrasekaran talked about acquiring boutique hotels. The shift to smaller, often locally-rooted boutique hotels helps IHCL enter markets where large properties may not be viable. 'Everywh
South China Morning Post
24-06-2025
- Business
- South China Morning Post
The rise of independent female hoteliers: from Valentina De Santis with Passalacqua, rated one of the best hotels in the world, to Esin Güral Argat with Joali in the Maldives
The hospitality industry has long been powered by women but it wasn't until the mid-1990s, when Singaporean hotelier Cristina Ong founded Como Hotels and Resorts that female founders started to attract the spotlight. Women like Rosewood's Sonia Cheng and Marie-Louise Scio from Pellicano Group have taken the helm of their family businesses and focused on new brands, openings and acquisitions. Others like Italian Irene Forte, heir to Rocco Forte Hotels, have carved their own niche by experimenting with new concepts ranging from wellness to fashion. Now a new generation of female founders are moving beyond their family legacies to create fresh hotel concepts that reflect their own personalities, while catering to the needs and desires of a new breed of travellers. Al Moudira Hotel in Luxor, Egypt. Photo: Handout Advertisement 'Today most female-run hotels are not big chain hotels. Many of these properties are independent and showcase the founder's unique personal touch. Female hoteliers today are intent on doing things their own way – it's not about following the masses,' says Zeina Aboukheir, founder of Al Moudira. Aboukheir is not a new name. The Italian-Lebanese tastemaker launched Luxor's now famed Al Moudira Hotel in 2002, before selling it in 2022 (she is still a consultant). The chic boutique hotel was designed by renowned Egyptian architect Olivier Sednaoui, but every detail was conceived by Aboukheir, including its old-world interiors featuring artworks and antiques she sourced, from handcrafted doors to hand-painted floor tiles. 'Twenty-five years ago it was already strange to have someone building a hotel in Egypt in the middle of the desert, let alone a woman,' she explains. 'Al Moudira has been successful because it has a special charm – everything is personal. It reflects my tastes and personality. It's a little bit of a mess, like me.' Zeina Aboukheir, founder of Al Moudira. Photo: Handout Italian hotelier Valentina De Santis is another ambitious hotelier who has made waves by transforming an 18th century private villa on the banks of Lake Como into Passalacqua, one of the best hotels in the world (an accolade bestowed upon the hotel by the World's 50 Best organisation, William Reed Business Media, in 2023). Hospitality runs in her veins – her grandfather bought Grand Hotel Tremezzo, another iconic property on Italy's Lake Como, in 1975. She joined the family business in 2010, but it wasn't until 2018, when they stumbled upon the property, that she was ready to build a new concept from the ground up. De Santis meticulously restored and updated the villa's historic interiors, while also engaging her good friend, renowned Milan-based designer J.J. Martin of La DoubleJ, to help her transform the hotel's pool and bar areas with her colourful and maximalist prints. Valentina De Santis, founder of Passalacqua. Photo: Handout 'It was the first time J.J. worked on a design project but we loved the idea of doing something together. Hospitality is still quite a male-dominated industry but the attention to detail, the kindness, the feminine touch a woman can bring to a property are unique. Guests are always saying our hotel has a female heart,' she says.
