If you're anything like us, you could really do with a change of scene right now – a sweet escape from the same four walls.
As Boris Johnson unveils his roadmap out of lockdown 3.0, leaving home for a few nights feels more appealing than ever.
And while we're all still trying to keep a Covid-safe distance from one another, a minibreak in the middle of nowhere, designed just for two, couldn't sound more idyllic.
Advertisement
This past year has reignited our love for the humble British staycation and since we can't guarantee that hot international beach breaks will make a comeback just yet, we're seeking some variety from our next UK holiday, with campsite and self-catering holiday open on April 12 and hotels can reopen on May 17.
We're talking unique, quirky and stylish little hideaways that are just as 'grammable as any of the jet-set vacations of yore.
Read next
-
These are the best holiday cottages in the UK as searches for British holidays surge by 300%
Lifestyle
These are the best holiday cottages in the UK as searches for British holidays surge by 300%
So why not make shepherd's huts top of your post-lockdown bucket list? It's the contemporary alternative to glamping where idyllic self-contained sanctuaries are poised in the great outdoors for any-weather getaways that deliver optimal escapism.
From rustic and quaint to modern and kooky, shepherd's huts come in all shapes and sizes, meaning no two minibreaks will ever be the same. Plus, there are options up and down the country from Cumbria to Sussex so you never have to travel far to feel like you're a million miles from home.
Even better, these quaint little retreats often come decked out with plenty to keep you entertained during a romantic rural escape. (So no more puzzles and board games.) Imagine spending lazy afternoons reclining in a roll-top bath with nothing but countryside on the horizon, or enjoying never-ending evenings roasting marshmallows on a fire pit or rustling up your own dinner on a wood-fired outdoor pizza oven.
Advertisement
Did we mention that there's usually a hot tub sitting on the deck? That can only mean one thing: bubble baths under the stars.
Want a hot tip? The newly-opened huts at Burley Manor are one of the UK's best-kept secrets – and you'll want to book in ASAP. If you prefer the buzz of a hotel but still want a secluded night's sleep, the Deer View Hut is ideal as you can dine in the hut or in the hotel. It's pure rustic luxury from the moment you step foot inside where you'll be greeted by the chef’s homemade welcome cake, with a freshly brewed tea or coffee from your kitchenette. There's also a locally-made treat box and a wood-burning stove for you to cosy up by as you order a tipple from your in-hut digital concierge.
The real highlight (and 'gram worthy fodder) is the free-standing William Holland roll-top copper bathtub smack bang in the middle of the hut that makes for the perfect relaxation spot before rolling into bed. It's also an absolute treat to wake up to the leafy-strewn skylight above your plush bed before meandering through the local forest to dust off the cobwebs. Book it before all your friends do because it's memories of these long and blissful weekends that will live rent-free in our minds when we're dealing with whatever 2021 has in store. So, discover 10 of the best socially-distanced shepherd's huts to book up now… before they become this year's hottest holiday option.
Arrow Up
Arrow Down
-
Expand
-
Expand
-
Expand
-
Expand
-
Expand
-
Expand
-
Expand
-
Expand
-
Expand
-
Expand
-
Wild Rural Shepherd's Hut, Rye
Sleeps: 2
Availability: Currently has availability throughout 2021. Bookings via Airbnb
Why we love it: Cosy, clean and comfortable, this blissful little Shepherd's Hut is situated on a farm near to a wild flower meadow and honestly it sounds like heaven. There's use of the heated outdoor swimming pool and BBQ, making for a perfect spring/summer stay. -
Sleeps: 2
Availability: Currently has availability throughout 2021. Bookings via Airbnb
Why we love it: Delightfully cosy, this rural Oxfordshire Shepherd's Hut almost guarantees you won't see a single soul. For a much-needed departure from your surroundings without putting yourself in harm's way, this secluded staycation could be just the escape you need! -
Sleeps: 2
Availability: Please enquire with The Shepherds Hut Retreat for availability.
Why we love it: If you're looking for a romantic escape for two, it doesn't get much more idyllic than The Shepherds Hut Retreats in Somerset. There are five huts to choose from, each surrounded by acres of woodland and set on the water's edge. There's also a hot tub and sauna to enjoy! -
Deer View Hut at Burley Manor, New Forest
Sleeps: 2
Availability: Currently has 2021 availability. Bookings via Coolstays.co.uk
Why we love it: Be one of the first to discover the new – and exceedingly chic – hideaway at Burley Manor. Deer View Hut is a sumptuous double Shepherd's Hut that feels spacious but also incredibly cosy. From breakfast hampers in bed to long soaks in the roll-top copper bathtub, it's a spot of luxury made just for two. -
Crannaford Shepherd's Hut, Exeter
Sleeps: 2 + cot
Availability: Currently has 2021 availability. Bookings via Classic.co.uk
Why we love it: Take a minibreak to the Jurassic Coast, just the two of you, and find a little escapism at Crannaford Shepherd's Hut. With a hot tub and a fire pit set within the grounds of your idyllic rural plot, you won't want to leave for the whole weekend. -
Sleeps: 2
Availability: Currently has 2021 availability til October. Bookings via Coolstays.co.uk
Why we love it: Looking for a glamping spot that still feels luxurious? This beautifully-decorated hut haven is for you. With a skylight right above your heads and windows overlooking Buckland Abbey all the way to the River Tavy valley, we defy you to leave your King Size Bed. -
The Hilly Hut at The Fish Hotel, Cotswolds
Sleeps: 2
Availability: Currently has 2021 availability. Bookings via Thefishhotel.co.uk
Why we love it: Set within the leafy grounds of the glorious Fish Hotel, the Hilly Hut is a sweet retreat from the main accomodation and ideal for a peaceful escape from the city. -
Sleeps: 2 Adults, 2 Children
Availability: Currently has 2021 availability. Bookings via dreamhuts.co.uk
Why we love it: For families seeking a change of scenery, The Shepherds Rest Hut feels like a European break, right on your doorstep. Beautifully decorated in a stylish yet homely fashion, the hut has enough room for a small group to relax, unwind and enjoy each other's company. -
Austin Shepherd's Hut, Leicestershire
Sleeps: 2
Availability: Currently has 2021 availability. Bookings via Canopy & Stars
Why we love it: This cool and contemporary staycation hut will feel like a home from home. It's set in the glorious Vale of Belvoir, where muddy walks will feel like a breath of fresh air and after a long day, the treat of an any-weather pizza oven and hot tub will draw you back for cosy nights under the stars. -
The Shepherd's Hut at Crake Trees, Cumbria
Sleeps: 2
Availability: Please enquire with Canopy & Stars for availability.
Why we love it: For a hut holiday in the middle of beautiful nowhere, your Crake Trees Manor holiday home sits amid the sprawling Westmorland Dales National Park. Whether it's nights in by the wood-burning stove that tempt you or the thrill of walks and wildlife a long way from home, you'll love unwinding in this countryside paradise.
