Seven Staycation Spots To Spirit You Away

Staycations are on the rise and we at Muddy Matches, the champions of the rural life and the British countryside, are so delighted. What better opportunity to #GetYourselfOutThere and explore all that the UK has to offer than with a week or two on home soil? We’ve scoured the nation to seek out seven rural spots that will astound you with their natural beauty and local idiosyncrasies. It’s Staycation-o-clock!

1. Malham, North Yorkshire

If the last time you headed to Malham was for your Year 9 geography trip then it’s high time to visit again. As well as plenty of outdoor adventure at Gordale Scar, Janet’s Foss and Malham Cove, the incredible views will make your heart sing. There are plenty of cosy B&Bs and guesthouses to choose from, or sleep under the stars at one of the many camping and caravanning sites. For the foodies amongst you, you’ll delight in the local cheeses (hello Wensleydale Creamery), craft beers (make a visit to Black Sheep Brewery, Masham) and how about a taste of Yorkshire Chorizo? Find out more on Malham Dale.

2. Suffolk, East of England

Bordered by Essex, Cambridgeshire and Norfolk, the historic country of Suffolk enjoys the benefits of being both super-accessible and picture-postcard-perfect with its low-lying downs, unspoilt beaches (50 miles-worth) and historic towns. Dubbed as being the first place in England where you can see the sunrise, Suffolk’s natural beauty was well-recorded by artist John Constable, so you know you’re in for a rural idyll. By day, explore the beaches, Thetford Forest and The Brecks and by night, dine out in style in one of the beautiful old towns; Bury St Edmunds and Newmarket offer the best locally-sourced food you can get. Discover all you need to know at Visit Suffolk.

3. Isle of Wight, South Coast of England

For peaceful island living just a stone’s throw from the mainline, how about a trip to the Isle of Wight. That short trip across the sea really will make you feel you’re abroad, and the island is a rural retreat of narrow country roads, never-ending coastline and beaches and the highest amount of sunshine in the UK. Camp on the downs overlooking the beach or make one of its elegant hotels and guesthouses your base. Visit Isle of Wight has all the information you need.

4. New Forest, Hampshire

The acres of heathland, pasture and forest that make up the New Forest are a haven for active countryside lovers, wildlife junkies and adventure fiends. Known for its clean air and incredible wildlife, this National Park (named in the Domesday book as a royal forest back in 1086) has thousands of routes for you to hike, cycle or ride on horseback. For a quieter day, make a trip to one of its quaint historic towns (our favourites are Beaulieu, Lymington and Hythe) for local, independent shopping and locally-sourced food. Head to The New Forest for full details.

5. Loch Lomond + The Trossachs National Park, Scotland

For all of you who are looking to escape a fast pace of life and return to nature, head on up to Loch Lomond. Get your legs moving by climbing a Munro, hiking up a mountain or taking to two wheels on one of its many cycle paths, or boost your adrenaline with a tree top adventure, forest trail or jet-skiing, water skiing and kayaking. Take it easy with a gentle saunter along the beautiful banks of the Loch, spend a few hours in a hide to take in all that nature has to offer, and finish off your day with a serene loch cruise. plan your visit on Loch Lomond & The Trossachs.

6. Anglesey, Wales

A visit to Anglesey, off the north Welsh coast, will thoroughly immerse you in nature, history and heritage. Where else can explore an ancient copper mine and neolithic burial mound, see red squirrels at play, climb a mountain, collect your own Menai sea salt then dine at a Michelin star restaurant, all in one day? There are many more details to help you plan your Staycation on Visit Anglesey.

7. Scilly Isles, South West England

Peace and tranquillity await you in the Scilly Isles. With five inhabited islands and many, many uninhabited islands, it’s a haven for unique, coastal flora and fauna, abounding wildlife and the rugged beauty of its sea-pummelled coastlines and beaches. A visit here will give you the time and space to relax and recharge. We fancy a day of gently undulating coast-top walks followed by an incredibly romantic sunset boat trip. Locally sourced produce offers you the ultimate in slow food and low food miles. Perfection. Visit Isles of Scilly has everything you need to know.

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