English Escapes

To celebrate the Enjoy England Awards for Excellence, we’ve rounded up some of the country’s most beautiful travel locations

If you're in need of a break but don't fancy jumping on a plane, check out these beautiful weekend escapes, all in the heard of England.

Devon

If you’re desperate for a sunshine break but fancy staying closer to home, Devon is unbeatable for its beautiful beaches and gentle climate. Head to the South for historic market towns and spectacular coastal walks, go horse riding over Dartmoor, or walk in the waves on one of the golden-sanded beaches. To stay, check in to Thurlestone Hotel in Kingsbridge for some serious four-star luxury, and be sure to grab a suite with a sea view.

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Bath

For fans of the city break, beautiful Bath is the perfect place for a romantic getaway. It's less than two hours outside London and there are plenty of historic sights, with some super shops thrown into the bargain. If you’re feeling flush, treat your other half to a trip to the seriously steamy Roman Baths, or take a walk around Bath Abby. For somewhere to stay, try the Bath Priory. It took home a prize at the Enjoy England awards, and with the tranquil settings and beautiful spa, it’s not hard to see why.

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Bath

For fans of the city break, beautiful Bath is the perfect place for a romantic getaway. It's less than two hours outside London and there are plenty of historic sights, with some super shops thrown into the bargain. If you’re feeling flush, treat your other half to a trip to the seriously steamy Roman Baths, or take a walk around Bath Abby. For somewhere to stay, try the Bath Priory. It took home a prize at the Enjoy England awards, and with the tranquil settings and beautiful spa, it’s not hard to see why.

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Bury St Edmonds

A town surrounded by countryside, bustling Bury St Edmonds has something for everyone. Culture lovers can be transported back in time at the Theatre Royal, or if architecture is more your thing, marvel at the beautiful Ickworth House. For a mixture of the modern and traditional, check in to The Angel. A favourite with famous faces old and new (from Charles Dickens to Angelina Jolie!), there's also an award-winning restaurant.

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Windermere

For those who like their UK breaks green, hilly and full of rambling countryside, beautiful Windermere in Cumbria is definitely the place to be. Walk off those hearty pub meals around the lovely lakes, or visit Victorian Gothic Wray castle set on it’s banks. When it’s time to rest weary legs, check into a garden suite at the Gilpin Lodge Country House. The private outdoor hot tub is a perfect antidote to a days walking.

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Leicestershire

With some stunning countryside on offer, rural Leicestershire is a great place to while away a weekend. If you fancy a treat, spend a day an indulgent day in the spa at Ragdale Hall, or if you like your breaks a little more active, you can walk, cycle or horse ride through the beautiful national park. For some relaxing respite, visit Kilworth House hotel. Its quirky rooms are named after famous authors and poets, it’s set in 28 acres of beautiful parkland, and (more importantly!) has fantastic health and beauty rooms.

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Northumberland

Home to golden beaches, rugged moorland and rolling countryside, Northumberland is the perfect place to escape the rat race and breathe some clean, country air. Be sure to check out Bamburgh Castle for some of England’s best views and take a trip to the coast, recently designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Rest sleepy heads at the Old School, a luxury bed and breakfast which has notched up a whole host of awards.

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Warwickshire

If you want to treat a loved one and get out of the city but don't have time to jump on a plane, spend a weekend snuggling up at Ardencote Manor, surrounded by lush views and beautiful Warwickshire countryside. Relax in the spa for some serious R&R or build up an appetite with a splash in the pool. If you fancy getting out and about, wander around Warwick castle, hit the shops, or go boating on the canal.

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Sussex

From the scenic Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens to boho Brighton and the rolling South Downs, you’re guaranteed to feel well rested when you return. For a long and luxurious sleep, treat yourself with a trip to the South Lodge hotel in Horsham. The award-winning Pass restaurant is a culinary delight not to be missed.

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Scarborough

It may not be the first place that springs to mind during thoughts of a UK break, but Scarborough has some serious things going for it. Set on the beautiful coast, it’s been having a bit of a revival. Visit the picturesque North Bay beach and historic castle, or bag yourself some tickets to the open-air theatre. Bed down a the Crown Spa hotel, complete with original architectural features, and you guessed it, a spa.

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Worcestershire

If quiet weekends aren’t really your thing, visit Worcestershire for a jam-packed weekend away. Dress up for a day at Worcester Racecourse, sample some Shakespere in Stratford upon Avon or take a trip to the Astley Vineyards nestled close to the River Severn. At the end of the day, check in to Brockencote Hall. A beautiful Victorian country house, it’s set in acres of rolling parkland, and even has its own private lake. Sigh.

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