Take 5: Self-catering staycations

Self-catering staycations have been given the green light from mid-April, but with so many self-contained holiday options you’ll want to make sure your first escape was worth the wait. Let us recommend five uber-luxe self-catering possibilities

Lympstone Manor, Exmouth (pictured above)

Lympstone Manor, Michael Caines’ glamorous Devon destination, introduced five luxury shepherds huts to its glorious grounds at the end of last year. Due to the third national lockdown the new shepherd huts closed not long after opening, but with the relaxation of restrictions they will be the first part of the estate to reopen on April 12.

Each hut has a private decking area with outside seating so guests can do social isolation in style and immerse themselves in the beauty of the tranquil setting. Otter Holt, Hare’s Rest and Hedgehog Row have alfresco bathtubs, while Beehive and Fox Den boast free-standing bathtubs indoors and wood-fired Hikki hot tubs outside.

As well as a dreamy bathing set-up, each hut has a kitchenette, lounge area and king-size bed. There are also additional sleeping areas – engineered to disappear into the fabric of the hut – meaning each can accommodate between four and five guests. Find out more.

The Eastbury Hotel, Sherborne

For one of the most elegant getaways in Dorset, you’d be hard pushed to top a visit to the charming Eastbury Hotel.

While you can’t stay in the hotel until May 17, the Dorset destination is reopening its charming Eastbury Cottage and five private Victorian Garden Potting Shed Suites for self-catering staycations from April 12.

The beautifully refurbished 17th century Eastbury Cottage launched last summer and is a great choice for larger families. The cottage accommodates up to six guests and includes en-suite bedrooms, elegant dining room, fully equipped kitchen and large inglenook fire place in the living room. For a cosy getaway for two (and perhaps your pup) we’d recommend plumping for a stay in one of the dog-friendly Victorian Garden Potting Shed Suites. Find out more.

Chewton Glen, Hampshire

From its secluded spot among 130 acres on the edge of the New Forest, Chewton Glen offers a luxury escape from reality.

If you can’t wait until mid-May to indulge in a hotel break, we recommend a trip to the gorgeous tree houses in the Chewton Glen grounds for a truly unique holiday experience. There are four tree-house suites which cater to different groups, so whether you’re looking for a romantic break or a large family holiday you’ll find a suite to suit your break.

The latest tree house addition, The Yews, is the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature. Suspended 35 feet above the ground, this completely private and secluded accommodation elevates guests into the heart of the New Forest. The spacious pad sleeps up to twelve (six adults and six children) and features a large terrace and outdoor hot tub. Find out more.

Alexandra Hotel, Lyme Regis

Alexandra Hotel sits high on the hill above Lyme Regis and, in good weather, visitors find themselves inexorably drawn to a post-postprandial stroll through the lush gardens to take in the astonishing seascape below.

The gardens are a wonderful spot to wander with a glass of fizz and enjoy a moment of tranquillity – especially if you’ve spent the day in the bustling town or fossil hunting on the beach. Indeed, part of the charm of the Alexandra Hotel is its setting just on the edge of the action: it only takes a few minutes to meander down the footpath to the shore.

Its two self-catering apartments offer the perfect balance between indulgence and independence, with luxurious facilities and access to the hotel’s gorgeous grounds but with the extra freedom and space from staying in your own apartment. The apartments are available to book from April 12. Find out more here.

The Star and Garter, Falmouth

The Star and Garter isn’t just a fabulous find because of its exquisite dining: three contemporary holiday apartments above the pub make it the perfect base from which to explore Falmouth.

Located just off the High Street, you’ll be right at the centre of the bustling town – perfect for browsing the local boutique shops and taking long walks along the South West Coast Path. However you spend your days, you’ll relish returning to your cosy apartment come evening. The pub’s maritime history is echoed throughout the self-contained apartments (Starboard, Penthouse and Crow’s Nest), all of which feature phenomenal views of the estuary, log burners and large open-plan kitchens. Find out more.