Our pick of sensational staycations for the perfect last-minute minibreak – from across Cambridgeshire and beyond
Clopton Courtyard, Cambridgeshire
This rural retreat is hidden away in the serene Cambridgeshire countryside with a collection of charming barn conversions. Guests can immerse themselves in breathtaking scenery and spend their evenings soaking in a wood-fired hot tub. For an even more relaxed stay, you can indulge in spa treatments 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 character – like the Sheringham Hut’s modern glamping experience or Matilda Studio’s open-plan style. With a bedroom, bathroom, spacious living area and kitchen, each barn is well equipped; barns with more bedrooms are also available for larger groups. With Cambridge just 20 minutes away by car, it’s the perfect base for exploring the historic city.
Best of all, Clopton Courtyard is offering Edition readers the chance to win a one-night stay in one of its two-bedroom barns between October and December 2024, worth £155!
For details, T&Cs and to enter now, visit cambsedition.co.uk/competition
Holly Lodge, North Norfolk
Discover one of North Norfolk’s best-kept secrets – Holly Lodge in Thursford, near Fakenham. This unique accommodation offers three deluxe bedrooms, three cosy cottage-inspired rooms and a shepherd’s hut nestled among a countryside backdrop. Rated five stars by the AA, this boutique B&B is situated in perfect proximity to picturesque seaside towns and resorts. From the products placed in its rooms to the locally sourced produce at breakfast to the landscaped gardens, it has fast become a premium choice for those looking for a place to unwind. The B&B also offers free bike hire for guests looking to explore the local area. The property is often occupied by those attending the Thursford Christmas Spectacular in November and December, as well as wedding parties (the property boasts a beautiful wedding suite for those who marry at Thursford Garden Pavilion) and those looking for a countryside escape. With rave reviews and many return guests, make Holly Lodge your next North Norfolk staycation!
Visit hollylodgeboutique.com or call 01328 878477 to book.
Varsity Hotel & Spa, Cambridge
For a summer city getaway, look no further than The Varsity. This independently owned boutique hotel offers 48 tasteful rooms and a luxurious spa in Cambridge’s buzzing Quayside area. The riverside location, rooftop terrace, outstanding restaurants, full-service spa and modern decor combine to make this among the most well-appointed hotels in the city and the perfect base for punting, shopping, sightseeing and nightlife. To satisfy your appetites, The Varsity is also home to two impressive eateries, including the River Bar Steakhouse & Grill with magnificent riverside views. The head chef sources the majority of ingredients locally and is committed to serving the most tender, full-flavoured steak only with the finest prime beef aged for 28 days. Alongside the famous steak, guests can enjoy fresh fish, impressive vegetarian dishes, homemade puddings and a finely crafted cocktail list. The Varsity’s second restaurant Six Brasserie is housed on the sixth floor, below the hotel’s iconic rooftop garden. The 120-cover all-day brasserie serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a dedicated ice cream menu and weekend brunch offering. It’s the perfect spot for a pre-dinner cocktail, a nightcap or to relax in the sun during the summer. If you’re looking to unwind, The Varsity Hotel & Spa is also home to the impressive Glassworks Health Club. Located in the adjoining warehouse building, this is available to all guests staying at the hotel. With a whirlpool hot tub overlooking the river, a sauna, steam room, spa pool and huge range of luxury Elemis treatments, the Glassworks is the ultimate place to relax for those visiting Cambridge.
Book your summer stay now at thevarsityhotel.co.uk
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 country bolthole with seven newly refurbished en-suite bedrooms. A small, family-run business looked after by Lisa and Phil, hospitality enthusiasts turned B&B owners, The Old School House Rooms has easy access to public transport and ample free parking. Inside, immaculately clean rooms feature cosy beds and modern amenities, while Phil’s culinary skills make for delightful dining. Relax and wake up refreshed to a delicious breakfast cooked to order, and choose from Sunday lunches and gourmet celebration dinners, all washed down with 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. toshr.co.uk
Turing Locke, Eddington
This chic aparthotel located in the city’s sustainable district of Eddington takes its name from the groundbreaking computer scientist Alan Turing. This design-led property comprises a host of elegant apartments in which to eat, sleep or relax. Its intentionally decorated interiors feature luxurious teal velvet sofas, striking sculptural lighting and accents of light wood. A combination of style and comfort makes Turing Locke the ideal getaway this summer for families, friends, couples and solo adventurers – dogs are also welcome!
Just two miles away from the historic city centre, close to major road links and bus connections, complimentary bike hire (which is subject to availability) and parking are on offer. There are plenty of entertainment facilities on-site, too. You may like to enjoy the peaceful courtyard, sip cocktails at Dutch, dine in style at The Astronomer or experience the rooftop terrace at Douce Heights.
If you’re visiting in July, don’t miss the offer currently running between Cambridge Folk Festival and Turing Locke, the official partner of the festival’s emerging talent stage The Den. Courtesy of Turing Locke, festivalgoers are being offered a special rate for the weekend. Folk Festival guests can enjoy a 10% discount during the days between 24 and 28 July. Included in the stay is a free Universal electric bus ticket for travel to and from Cambridge station, where Citi 2 shuttle buses run every ten minutes to the festival site in the lush space around Cherry Hinton Hall.
Visit lockeliving.com to find out more.
