The Most Inspiring PoB Breaks for 2024
19 June 2024
In a world that seems to spin faster with each passing day, there is an increasing longing for a slower pace, to discover a destination like never before, connecting with local people and seeing a different side of the British Isles.
This is where PoB Breaks steps in, offering an ode to the art of slow travel staycations. It's about more than just reaching a destination; it's about immersing yourself fully in the wonder of our nation, unrushed and unfiltered.
PoB Breaks encapsulate the essence of embracing the present, lingering a little longer, and delving into the soul of the destinations you visit. Each break is meticulously curated, designed to unveil hidden gems and authentic experiences that are often overlooked in the rush of modern travel. It's a celebration of local culture, a culinary journey through the flavours of the region, and an invitation to bask in the unparalleled hospitality of PoB Hotels.
As we look ahead to more exploration and discovery, let us embrace the spirit of PoB Breaks which reminds us to slow down and savour the journey. Whether you're embarking on a sporting odyssey, a foodie adventure, or a cultural staycation, let PoB Breaks be your guide.
Join us as we uncover the most inspiring PoB Breaks for 2024 because, after all, the journey is just as important as the destination.
Best for: Sports Enthusiasts
An Inspiring Sporting Odyssey with Victoria Pendleton
The perfect break to celebrate the Olympics this summer! Immerse yourself in a week-long escapade through the picturesque Cotswolds and the charming Chilterns, guided by Olympic champion Victoria Pendleton. Feel the adrenaline rush as you mountain bike along winding trails, each twist and turn offering a new challenge and breathtaking views. Alternatively, opt for a more leisurely yet equally invigorating horse ride through scenic villages, where history and nature blend seamlessly. Retreat to the comfort and sophistication of The Painswick, where sumptuous meals and luxurious accommodations await. From the quaint town of Painswick, with its charming streets and historic architecture, your journey will lead you to Tetbury, where Calcot & Spa's state-of-the-art gym and serene spa promise ultimate rejuvenation. Your adventure continues to Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa in Wiltshire for an unforgettable horse-riding experience around the hotel’s 500-acre grounds. Finally, in Bath, you’ll stay at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, offering elegant dining and a tranquil spa, before concluding your journey at the Relais Henley in Henley-on-Thames, where you can try your hand at rowing under the guidance of an ex-Olympian. Each mile travelled is a testament to your adventurous spirit and love for sports, making this break an unforgettable blend of action and relaxation.
Game, Set, and Match: Stories from the Tennis Court
For tennis enthusiasts, this 10-night staycation promises a thrilling experience at every turn. Begin your UK road trip along the rugged cliffs of Cornwall, where the dramatic coastline provides a stunning backdrop for your games on the En Tous Cas court at The Nare. Head northbound to try your hand at the multitude of activities on offer at Bovey Castle on Dartmoor, unwind in style at Park House Hotel & Spa in Midhurst, and refuel with a touch of Michelin-starred dining Hambleton Hall in Rutland. On your journey towards Scotland, enjoy a stay at Rockliffe Hall, boasting award-winning food, one of the largest spas in the country, and tennis courts to hone your skills before your final tournament. As you travel northwards, discover the serene landscapes of Scotland, with its rolling hills and pristine lakes offering the perfect setting for tennis at Cromlix, Andy Murray's luxury hotel. This journey is more than just a series of tennis games - it's a grand slam of cultural and gastronomic experiences that will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper love for the sport.
Discovering Sussex by Bike: A Cycling Adventure
Embark on an 8-night, 110-mile cycling adventure through the idyllic countryside of Sussex, where every pedal stroke takes you closer to nature and tranquillity. Whether you prefer the refreshing breeze of seaside rides or the challenging trails through the South Downs, Sussex offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Start your journey from the doors of Ockenden Manor Hotel & Spa in Cuckfield, cycling through charming villages and vineyards. Rejuvenate in the luxurious spa at Bailiffscourt Hotel & Spa in Climping, and Park House Hotel & Spa in Midhurst, providing the perfect respite for your muscles. Conclude your adventure in the heart of London at The Hari in Belgravia, offering contemporary chic accommodations and easy access to cycling routes in Hyde Park.
Links Escape: A Golfer’s Dream Journey
Grab your clubs and embark on an 8-night, 800-mile golfing odyssey that takes you through some of Britain's most scenic and prestigious courses. Start your staycation along the rugged coastline of South Devon at Thurlestone Hotel, where the sea views are as spectacular as the fairways. As you travel north, to the majestic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, prepare for an unforgettable golfing experience at Nairn Golf Club, where you’ll stay nearby at Ness Walk. Break up your journey with a stay at Sopwell House in Hertfordshire, and Rockliffe Hall on the border of County Durham and North Yorkshire, both offering luxurious accommodations and superb golfing facilities. In Edinburgh, stay at Prestonfield House, just minutes from the iconic Prestonfield Golf Club. This is more than just a golfing trip - it's a journey that combines the best of sport, luxury, and natural beauty.
Best for: Foodies
Matt Tebbutt’s Epicurean Expedition: The Food & Provenance Getaway
Step into a world of culinary wonders as you follow the renowned chef, BBC Presenter and PoB Hotels’ celebrity Ambassador, Matt Tebbutt, on a gastronomic slow travel journey through Northern England. Over 4 nights and 160 miles, indulge in the rich flavours of Lancashire's Ribble Valley and Yorkshire's Wensleydale, where Michelin-starred dining meets the finest local produce. Begin your adventure at Northcote, a 19th-century manor perched on the Ribble Valley’s edge, where Executive Chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen crafts Michelin-starred creations with the finest seasonal ingredients from the area. Continue northward to Yorebridge House, a splendid Grade-II-listed estate in Wensleydale, where Head Chef Dan Shotton showcases the best of local produce, much of it sourced within a 30-mile radius. The journey takes you to the enchanting Lake District at Gilpin Hotel and Lake House, offering sumptuous spa suites with private hot tubs and a Michelin-starred dining experience at SOURCE. Finally, explore the charming cathedral city of Ripon and enjoy the luxurious hospitality of Grantley Hall, a former 17th-century Palladian mansion with five restaurants, including Yorkshire chef Shaun Rankin’s Michelin-starred venue. From traditional fare to innovative culinary creations, every meal is a celebration of the region's rich culinary heritage, making this journey a must for food lovers.
Escape to the timeless beauty of the Cotswolds on an 8-night, 100-mile odyssey through England's heartland. Begin your sojourn at Homewood Hotel & Spa, where the charm of Bath's Roman baths and Georgian architecture beckons you to explore. Continue your journey to Lucknam Park, where the scene is set from the moment you turn into the magnificent mile-long driveway, leading to the restored Palladian mansion. Enjoy Michelin-starred cuisine and eco-luxury at Whatley Manor near Malmesbury, amidst the idyllic landscapes of Castle Combe and Painswick. Each stop offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern elegance, providing the perfect backdrop for your culinary staycation. Wind through the picturesque Stroud valleys to The Painswick, a boutique Palladian house epitomising English charm, and head north to Cirencester and Burford for a blend of rustic charm and fine dining. Your journey culminates in the cultural embrace of Stratford-upon-Avon near The Elms, a retreat fit for literary enthusiasts and epicurean explorers alike. From countryside inns to sophisticated fine dining, this break promises an unforgettable culinary adventure in one of England's most beautiful regions.
Best for: Culture Trips
Amanda Lamb’s Break: Inspired by Interiors & Design
Immerse yourself in Scotland’s enchanting interiors on a captivating journey curated by PoB’s Ambassador, TV presenter and property expert Amanda Lamb. Over six nights and hundreds of miles, explore Scotland’s finest hotels, where each destination promises a unique blend of historical elegance and modern luxury. Begin your adventure in the serene Ayrshire region at Glenapp Castle, a five-star retreat boasting period furnishings and luxurious touches. Here, enjoy activities from archery to private boat trips and an adventurous overnight Sea Safari. Continue north to the newly refurbished Cromlix in Dunblane, owned by Sir Andy and Kim Murray, featuring an eclectic collection of artwork and opportunities for tennis and local foraging. Next, journey into the Cairngorms National Park to The Fife Arms in Braemar, a meticulously restored Victorian coaching inn with 12,000 works of art and antiques. Then, visit Ness Walk along the River Ness in Inverness, a tranquil retreat with light and airy rooms named after trees on the hotel grounds. Finally, reach The Torridon, the UK’s most northerly five-star hotel on the shores of Loch Torridon, offering breathtaking Highland views and a variety of outdoor activities. Each stop on this tour offers inspiration for your own home, with designs and décor that blend historic charm with contemporary comfort.
Immerse yourself in the elegance and romance of a bygone era on an 8-night, 250-mile journey through middle England. Begin your staycation in York, exploring ancient streets and a 2,000-year-old cathedral, before staying at the stately Middlethorpe Hall. Travel through misty fenlands to Rutland Water, where you can discover the history of The Lost Village and dine at Michelin-starred Hambleton Hall. Next, visit the charming village of North Kilworth and enjoy an evening at the Kilworth House Hotel & Theatre. Head south to the Vale of Aylesbury, stopping in Oxford to explore its prestigious colleges and at Waddesdon Manor for a taste of Victorian grandeur. Conclude your trip at the historic Hartwell House, nestled in over 90 acres of gardens and parkland, where history and elegance blend seamlessly.
Embark on an 8-night, 200-mile exploration of South East England's rich heritage. Start with the iconic white cliffs of Dover, a symbol of home, before visiting Leeds Castle, a cultural hub with its open-air cinema and theatre. Discover Hever Castle's unique water maze and landscaped gardens, while staying at the picturesque Ockenden Manor. Cross the South Downs to historic Arundel, where mediaeval jousting and falconry await, and stay at the charming Bailiffscourt Hotel. Continue to Winchester, a city with deep Roman and Norman roots, and visit Highclere Castle, famous as Downton Abbey. Follow the Thames to Henley-on-Thames and Windsor, staying at The Relais Henley and ending your cultural journey in London. Explore its museums, theatres, and vibrant cultural scene, with stays at The Athenaeum, The Capital Hotel, or The Hari. From historic castles to bustling cityscapes, this break offers a deep dive into British heritage and culture.
More Stories
British Travel
Merry Moments: The top family-friendly Christmas days out across the UK
7 November 2024
Discover magical Christmas days out across the UK, from illuminated trails to festive train rides, and explore family-friendly events paired with luxury stays for unforgettable holiday memories.
British Travel
Family Ties: The Ultimate Guide to Multi-Generational Trips
31 October 2024
Discover the rise of multi-generational UK family holidays. Explore top hotels offering activities and accommodations for all ages, creating unforgettable memories together.
Flavour & Savour
Date Night Dining: 9 of the most romantic hotel restaurants
24 October 2024
From Michelin-starred extravaganzas to modern comfort food, we've handpicked 11 of the most enchanting spots across the UK for date night dining.