Can we let you into a little secret? While we love summer, we do, our favourite time of year to take a weekend break has got to be spring, autumn or winter. It’s not too busy – no crowds, no queues. The weather is perfection with low sun and when that light disappears we can sink into a cosy space. Plus the scenery is sensational – spring blooms, bluebells, autumn leaves – yes please!
Need a little more to be convinced, allow us to share our top ideas for off-season weekend breaks and inspire your next getaway. Better yet, some of our top off-season breaks are offering some pretty tempting early bird discounts…now who’s convinced?
Tewin Bury Farm Hotel
Another one with some cracking offers tempting us in, foodies need to take a look at the Tewin Bury Dine at The Farm offer which includes £70 allowance towards their wondrous tantalising A la Carte menu at the Cowshed, overnight stay, chilled bottle of prosecco in your room, plus a full English breakfast the next day – phew. Set out in the countryside, a stay here is the ultimate escape, with cosy rooms in the heart of a working farm. Food comes fresh from farm to fork with veg from the garden, so dinner here is a given, but if you fancy taking things up a notch, we recommend the Cookery School, which offers half and full day classes using ingredients fresh from the organic gardens and local suppliers.
The Grove
Another bucket list one, The Grove is the place to stay to cosy up and rejuvenate. Not only are you treated to boutique bedrooms, luxury spa and five star dining, but they also have a wide range of offers and additional activities throughout the year. For instance, they offer a Couple's Retreat where you'll get use of the spa plus Champagne and dining included; or the Signature Sequoia Escape which includes an 80 minute massage, lunch and three course dinner. So, however you choose to spend your day, we can guarantee you’ll be looking forward to heading back to your stylish room to sink into that luxury bed come night time. Oh and before we forget, dog lovers, your pooch can even come and stay with you!
At Home Farm Glamping
Welcome to one of London's nearest glamping sites, a 150 acre spot that boasts woodland, fields, lakes, and the chance to reconnect with nature and loved ones just a few miles from the city. Whether you choose to settle in for the night in one of the Yurts or Bell Tents, your stay will include an insulated hideaway with a real bed, luxurious bedding, your very own fire pit and even a BBQ. Trust us, these getaways will book up quickly, so be sure to take advantage of the January sale (ends the 29th!) and start planning your spring break in the great outdoors.
Chiltern Canal Boat Holidays
This one has been on our bucket list for a long time, and with early bird and saver discounts available on their website, now’s the time to book it! Cosy up in front of a log fire on your very own narrow boat, escape to the Grand Union Canal and wake up to a new view every day. Sunrise, sunset… trust us these views are phenomenal whatever time of the year, but when the canal is quiet and you can sit on the deck of your very own boat at dusk, listening to birdsong, it’s sheer perfection. And we know what you’re thinking, and the answer is yes, you can head out on the water all by yourselves, no experience required!
Banyers House
Oh Banyers House, your interiors are dreamy, your food is delectable and your short breaks are oh so tempting! This Grade II listed Georgian Hotel’s boutique bedrooms are perfect for a romantic getaway, while the Mediterranean-inspired menu’s wood-fired pizzas and steaks are the ultimate treat, plus with a delicious menu for breakfast, you might end up spending a number of nights here. If you do venture out of the hotel, stop off at the Royston Caves!
Crossover Blendery
In Spring 2024 The Crossover Blendery taproom will reopen for the season, so we reckon a stay just up the road at Banyers House calls for a visit to their tasting room. Sample their special fermented beers, which have been aged in traditional vessels such as oak barrels, crafted with ingredients sourced as close to the Blendery as possible.
(c) Jamie Meek Photography
Letchworth Garden City
Just down the road from Banyers House, you’ve got to pay Letchworth Garden City a visit while you’re here. Peruse books and records at David’s, pick up microbrews and ales at Crafty’s, or kick back with a good flick at Broadway Cinema and Theatre in the heart of the very first garden city.