Four very different types of UK holiday feature in our latest update, and all are equally appealing for very different reasons. Firstly, a busman’s holiday (!) in a cleverly converted 1960s Bedford Panorama bus.Next, a jolly jaunt to the South Coast for a contemporary take on the British seaside holiday. On to a medieval-style romantic tower retreat in a lush green setting for a taste of the rural life, and finally, an urban break with a designer touch in one of the country’s most historic cities.
If this stunningly converted Bedford Panorama buslooks familiar, it may well be from its starring role in George Clarke’s ‘Amazing Spaces’. Unrecognisable from its state when owner Rob acquired it, the transformation of the bus is no less than spectacular; abespoke wooden floor, pine boarding, gorgeous open-plan style kitchen/diner and an outdoor deck on two levels are just some of its excellent features, plus a luxurious bath house with roll-top tub to soak in. That’s all before mentioning the panoramic views the bus enjoysthanks to its unspoilt setting overlooking the Radnorshire Hills, closeto Hay-on-Wye.
How does seven miles of golden sand and lapping waves, one of the UK’s most iconic seaside destinations and brand new contemporary ‘beach hut’ style lodgessound to you? One of the joys of these impeccable lodges is that you don’t need to bring anything with you, just turn up and experience a newtwist on the great British seaside holiday. Featuring an aesthetically pleasing design, each of these fifteen timber-framed retreats can accommodate a surprising 6 guests, and each comes with its own outdoor wood deck to take advantage of the direct sea views. Some selected lodges also cater for one four-legged friend!
The Wye Valley is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where you can be assured of pretty remarkable views at every turn – no more so than inside your very own circular tower,accessed via a quaint medieval-looking drawbridge with wild deer roaming around from the nearby ancient woodland. Welcome to The Dovecote; a uniquely styled tower comprised of four levels of charming accommodation, including curved stairwells, a circular bathroom and a high-vaulted beamed ceiling. The setting is a true walker’s paradise, with Offa’s Dyke and River Rye just aching to be explored, and after a full day of ambling you can return to your cosy romantic retreat to unwind.
40A Ivy Lane
An architect-designed Grade-II listed gemin the heart of the Garden of England, 40A Ivy Lane has even featured in a coveted list of the ‘Thirty Best Homes in Britain’ in The Times, soif it’s good enough for them, it’s good enough for us! The building itself is as much historic as it is stylish, dating back 500 years yet the professional restoration has resulted in a spellbinding mix of old and new. Oak parquet flooring, an opulent marble bathroom and your veryown garden courtyard are amongst the unique features. Canterbury is oneof the UK’s most fascinating historic cities, packed with attractions to enjoy, such as the original Roman city walls and authentic cobbled streets.