Unplug and Unwind: The best digital detox retreats in the UK

Enter the digital detox retreat – a growing trend amongst travellers seeking to reclaim their mental space and rediscover life beyond the screen.

Recent studies have shown that the average Briton spends over 3 hours on their smartphone daily, with a staggering 70% checking their phone as soon as they wake up. This digital dependency has been linked to increased mental health issues, poor sleep quality, and diminished ability to focus. As a result, more people are recognising the need to step away from their devices and embrace a temporary period of digital abstinence.

A digital detox retreat offers a sanctuary from the relentless pace of modern life, providing an opportunity to reset, recharge, and reconnect with oneself and the natural world. In stepping away from our devices, we often find that we're stepping back into ourselves – refreshed, reinvigorated, and ready to engage with the world in a more meaningful way. A digital detox retreat with PoB Hotels isn't just a holiday; it's an investment in your mental and emotional well-being, offering a chance to reset your relationship with technology and rediscover the joys of an unmediated life.

So why not take the plunge? Disconnect to reconnect, and experience the transformative power of a digital detox retreat in some of the UK's most stunning locations.

For those seeking a holistic approach to their digital detox retreat, Grantley Hall in Yorkshire offers an Elite Retreat that combines cutting-edge wellness technologies with traditional relaxation techniques. Upon arrival, guests receive a personalised consultation to tailor their programme, which may include cryotherapy sessions, electro-muscular stimulation, and nutritionist-guided meals. This two-day experience ensures that participants not only disconnect from their devices but also reconnect with their physical and mental well-being through carefully curated activities and treatments.

In the Lake District, Armathwaite Hall's Woodland Wellbeing Retreat invites guests to immerse themselves in the healing power of nature. Led by a dedicated Forest Bathing Guide and Mindfulness Teacher, participants engage in guided forest bathing sessions – a practice scientifically proven to reduce stress and boost overall health. The retreat includes nourishing refreshments, a two-course lunch at the Courtyard Brasserie, and an afternoon of mindfulness and relaxation in the private Walled Garden, weather permitting. This mindfulness travel experience exemplifies how a digital detox retreat can seamlessly blend luxury accommodation with transformative outdoor experiences.

For those seeking the pinnacle of indulgence, Gilpin Hotel and Lake House’s Magical Gilpin Moons package offers a four-day luxury digital detox experience. Guests can savour Michelin-starred cuisine at SOURCE, unwind with bespoke spa treatments in the Spa Suite Trail, and explore the stunning Lake District landscape, all while leaving their devices behind. The package includes champagne on arrival, leisurely breakfasts, and a chilled-out dinner at Gilpin Spice, featuring tapas-style pan-Asian dishes.

At Gravetye Manor in Sussex, guests can trade screen time for green time with expert-led garden tours. This historic property, once home to visionary gardener William Robinson, offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature's rhythms and cycles – a stark contrast to the artificial urgency of the digital world. The garden tours are led by a member of the gardening team and last approximately an hour and a half, providing insights into the manor's ever-changing floral displays and kitchen garden.

For those craving more active engagement with the outdoors, Yorebridge House in Yorkshire partners with Muddy Boots to offer bespoke guided walks through the magnificent Yorkshire Dales. These tailored experiences allow guests to discover hidden gems off the beaten track, providing a perfect backdrop for technology-free travel and genuine human connection. Whether you're a first-time visitor to the Dales or looking to explore lesser-known routes, the experienced guides can craft a journey to suit your interests and fitness level.

Bodysgallen Hall in Wales offers seasonal garden tours that showcase the property's award-winning grounds. The 'Autumn Leaves in Colour’ tour in October and the 'Colour of Fruits and Berries' tour in November provide unique opportunities to appreciate the changing seasons and the rich tapestry of colours nature presents. These tours, led by Head Gardener Robert Owen, conclude with a delectable full Welsh Afternoon Tea, offering a perfect blend of outdoor exploration and indulgent relaxation.

A digital detox retreat isn't just about what you're giving up – it's also an opportunity to discover new interests or rekindle old passions. The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa in Bath offers an array of cultural experiences, from bespoke art tours to watercolour painting sessions with award-winning artist Catherine Beale. These activities not only divert attention from digital devices but also stimulate creativity and promote mental wellness. The 'Sketch Bath Experience' allows guests to capture the beauty of Bath's most painterly locations, creating lasting memories through art.

For those intrigued by equestrian pursuits, Bedford Lodge in Newmarket provides easy access to the National Horseracing Museum and The National Stud, offering a unique glimpse into the world of thoroughbred racing and breeding. This experience allows guests to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of British horse racing while enjoying a break from digital distractions.

Park House in West Sussex invites guests to perfect their swing on its challenging six-hole golf course or engage in a spirited game of tennis on their traditional grass courts. The property also offers croquet, bowls, and an outdoor heated swimming pool, providing a range of activities to keep guests engaged and entertained without the need for electronic devices.