Take a break
Whether you’re looking for a last-minute Easter getaway or a summer sojourn by the sea, East Anglia is blooming with possibilities
Words by Phoebe Harper
1. City Break at Turning Locke, Eddington
Turing Locke takes its name from the groundbreaking computer scientist, Alan Turing, and is a chic aparthotel complex in Cambridge’s sustainable district of Eddington.
This design-led property comprises a host of elegant apartments, each one equipped with a kitchen, living area, bedroom and bathroom. Inspired by mid-century design, the interiors feature luxurious teal velvet sofas, striking sculptural lighting and light wood accents.
The combination of style and comfort makes Turing Locke ideal for couples, friends, families and solo adventurers – even dogs are welcome! T
he complex is just two miles away from the historic city centre, close to major road links and accessible with good bus connections, complimentary bike hire (subject to availability) and convenient parking.
There are also plenty of nearby facilities to entertain you: sip cocktails at Dutch, dine in style at The Astronomer and visit the trendy barista bar/hair salon Douce.
Within Locke itself, guests can enjoy the courtyard, rooftop terrace and gym.
2. Indulge in creature comforts at The Old School House Rooms, Waterbeach
Experience a tranquil stay near the county’s top attractions at The Old School House Rooms in Waterbeach.
Set against a quaint village green, this charming B&B, once Waterbeach’s free school dating back to 1839, has been tastefully modernised into a homely countryside bolthole with seven newly refurbished en-suite bedrooms.
A small family-run business looked after and managed by Lisa and Phil, hospitality enthusiasts turned B&B owners, The Old School House Rooms is conveniently located with easy access to public transport and ample free parking to guarantee a stress-free stay.
Inside, immaculately clean rooms feature sumptuous beds and modern amenities, while Phil’s in-house culinary skills make for delightful dining.
Relax and wake up refreshed to a delicious, traditional breakfast cooked to order and choose from Sunday lunches and gourmet celebration dinners, all washed down with a glass or two of your favourite tipple from the fully licensed bar.
With the option to book function areas exclusively, including private access to the guest lounge and secluded garden, The Old School House Rooms is perfect for weddings, private events and reunions.
3. Fancy a rural retreat at Clopton Courtyard, Cambridgeshire?
Hidden away among the serene Cambridgeshire countryside, Clopton Courtyard offers a collection of charming barn conversions.
A destination to relax and unwind, guests can immerse themselves in the breathtaking rural scenery and spend idle time soaking in a wood-burning hot tub. Guests can also choose to indulge in spa treatments provided by Tiny House Retreats.
Built with an eco-conscious ethos, the six barns feature timber frames and recycled materials, and are powered by a biomass boiler for cosy underfloor heating.
Each barn has its own distinctive character – such as the Sheringham Hut’s modern glamping experience or the open-plan style of the Matilda Studio.
With a bedroom, bathroom and spacious living area and kitchen, each barn is well equipped; barns with more bedrooms are also available for larger groups.
Clopton Courtyard now also caters to micro-weddings of up to 30 guests. With Cambridge just 20 minutes away by car, it’s the perfect base for exploring the historic city.
4. Class act at University Arms, Cambridge
Since 1834, the University Arms has offered a leading luxury stay in Cambridge.
Majestically poised overlooking Parker’s Piece and Regent Street, the hotel stands as a beacon of elegance, providing the quintessential Cambridge retreat.
This local icon boasts 192 luxurious rooms and suites adorned with classic Edwardian interiors and lavish touches like tiered chandeliers and bespoke, leather-padded writing desks.
Parker’s Tavern bar and restaurant invites guests to indulge in the finest British fare, from sumptuous Sunday roasts to seasonal afternoon teas laden with freshly baked scones and clotted cream.
Whether enjoying a cocktail, an in-hotel spa treatment or a curated reading session courtesy of the in-house book butler, guests are enveloped in an atmosphere of refined hospitality.
5. Oh, I do like to be beside the seaside at The Happy Huts, Wells-next-the-Sea
Journey into the neighbouring county of Norfolk for an unforgettable stay by the sea.
With vast skies and endless beaches, Wells-next-the-Sea combines nature and a bustling town centre complete with pubs, a picturesque harbour and plenty of options for fish and chips.
For a quintessential seaside experience, look no further than The Happy Huts – a selection of picturesque beach huts that can be yours for the day.
Inside, you will find all the ingredients for the ultimate day at the beach, including wind breaks, deckchairs and beach toys.
If the weather isn’t in your favour, simply curl up inside with a good book and a cup of tea. Lovingly run and cared for by Jodie, the huts are available for single-day or multi-day hire between March and October.
To truly make the most of your visit, extend your stay with an overnight getaway nearby. Check out The Happy Huts website for a selection of home rentals and minibreak properties – like North Norfolk Glamping (pictured) – all located within an hour of Wells beach.
