Summer holiday season is upon us! If you’re yet to make plans, perhaps one of these tempting staycation destinations could be the answer?
Feeling a little envious as friends and family start heading off for their summer holidays? Well, why not organise a last-minute break of your own! Even if you are short on time or have a limited budget, a night or two spent locally can work wonders for relaxing body and mind – in fact, staycations are often the stress-free option, requiring very little planning or travel time.
With a host of renowned hotels within Cambridge itself, the Fens on our doorstep and the most beautiful landscapes and coastlines stretching out around us in neighbouring counties such as Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex, a minibreak to remember is just around the corner. You may even be able to take advantage of late deals or special seasonal offers!
So why not start your search with this selection of stays…?
1. Shangri-La House
Waxham, Norfolk
Looking ahead in the year, this peaceful Norfolk coastal retreat is taking bookings for autumn and winter, including October half-term, Christmas and New Year.
Just two hours from Cambridge, but feeling like a world away, Shangri-La House is set behind the dunes of Waxham Beach. A peaceful holiday home designed by Cambridge-based Mole Architects and built to Passivhaus standards, it’s just steps away from the sandy beach, where seals gather along the shoreline and swim in the surf.
With plenty of space for the whole family, Shangri-La House can sleep six, is mobility friendly (set all on one level), welcomes dogs and sits within an acre of natural garden. There’s a cosy TV snug, fast Wi-Fi, EV charger, private parking and well-equipped kitchen for relaxed evenings in.
Every stay includes a welcome hamper filled with locally sourced treats, the Beach Rock Bistro and Waxham Great Barn are a short stroll away for coffee and cake, and the Michelin-recognised Ingham Swan is just round the corner.
shangri-la.house, @shangri_la_waxham
2. The Varsity Hotel & Spa
Thompson’s Lane, Cambridge
In the heart of historic Cambridge, The Varsity Hotel & Spa has everything you need for a luxurious, memorable staycation, blending riverside charm, boutique comfort and rooftop views to rival any European destination!
The Varsity Hotel & Spa, Thompson’s Lane, Cambridge. Image by Paul Winch-Furness
An idyllic base for a late-summer retreat, from here you can head out for a spot of punting. Or, if you’d rather stay put, you can soak up the sunshine and sip cocktails while overlooking the city skyline from that rooftop terrace, unwind with spa treatments or dine in style at Six Brasserie or The River Bar Steakhouse & Grill.
The hotel offers a one-night Sunday Romance package for couples, as well as a Spa Escape package to enjoy with friends or loved ones. Meanwhile, for those with extra time to luxuriate in their staycation, special Long Stay discounts can be applied. For three or more nights, a promotional 10% discount is available, while for seven or more nights there’s a 20% discount on Room Only rates. Don’t miss the chance to end your summer on a high note!
3. The Dutch Barn and The Hayloft
Ashdon, Saffron Walden
The Dutch Barn and The Hayloft, Ashdon, Saffron Walden
These two luxury holiday lets are located on a working farm in the beautiful north Essex countryside, with each barn sleeping up to ten people. It’s the perfect place for friends and family to get together for catch-ups, or to celebrate those milestone events. Here, you can relax and enjoy everything these stunning barns have to offer, including scenic views, giant swim spas, Sky Sports TV, Netflix and a built-in smart wireless music system in every room, which connects to any smartphone.
4. The Gonville Hotel
Gonville Place, Cambridge
Whether you’re planning a spontaneous escape or making the most of summer, The Gonville Hotel in the heart of Cambridge is an exquisite setting to retreat to for a luxurious staycation.
The Gonville Hotel, Gonville Place, Cambridge
Overlooking the historic Parker’s Piece, and just a short stroll from the city’s iconic colleges, punting spots and cobbled streets, the hotel combines timeless charm with contemporary comfort.
Make the most of your stay with thoughtful touches such as complimentary bikes for exploring the city and chauffeured Bentley tours, offering a unique and elegant way to discover Cambridge in style.
From last-minute weekend getaways to relaxed midweek breaks, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to unwind in the beautifully appointed rooms, delight in elegant and flavourful dishes at Gonville Kitchen and even indulge in a treatment at Gresham House Wellness.
As a special treat, the hotel is offering 20% off summer stays on selected dates from now until September – perfect for those booking late or looking to savour a spontaneous summer escape. But don’t hang around – availability is limited!
