Secluded staycation: 5 hip hideaways for an off-grid getaway |

published 10 July 2020

After weeks in lockdown, many of us are keen to book that longed-for getaway. But, while international travel is slowly opening up, what we're really looking for is a crowd-free secluded staycation that offers the perfect blend of cool interior style with wild, remote beauty.

If you're looking for something unique and luxurious that doesn't involve getting on a plane, the UK is bursting with hidden-gem hideouts, from contemporary-haven cabins, upscale country-chic farmhouses, hidden-gem Scandi-luxe treehouses, and achingly hip huts.

5 hip hideaways for a secluded staycation:

From the soul-stirring sweeping landscape of Northumberland to the crashing seas and craggy cliffs of the Cornish coast, we've rounded up our favourite beautiful boltholes for a design-led, secluded staycation below.

1. HUDNALLS HIDEOUT, WYE VALLEY, GLOUCESTERSHIRE

The very meaning of the word hideout is 'a secret place where someone can go when they do not want to be found by other people'. And what a place to do that... This A-frame treehouse perched in the tree canopy boasts chic interiors, an outdoor copper bath and a totally secluded location.

Set deep in the heart of the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Gloucestershire in two acres of private woodland, it's perfect for a romantic adults only ‘perched paradise’ where you can kick back, relax and sleep in the treetops surrounded by nature.

The interiors were created in partnership with Made.com, and boasts a Scandi-luxe style with all the modern amenities you need, including a copper alfresco bath and trendy kitchen. The cosy living room is all Berber-style rugs, sumptuous green velvet sofas and a snug wood burner. Bliss.

From £250 a night. Visit Hudnalls Hideout.

2. QUIRKY HUTS, NORTHUMBERLAND

For 'free-range' families that like to roam free, these huts are on a remote family farm in Northumberland National Park, and there’s no one to disturb you except the Aberdeen Angus cows and fluffy Valais Blacknose sheep.

Handcrafted from reclaimed oak, the two huts are beautifully decked out, with solar-powered showers, cosy woodburners and quirky touches like a climbing wall in the kids’ bedroom – plus fabulous stargazing roofs and alfresco baths.

Each sleeps 4, from £130 per night. Visit Kip Hideaways.

3. UKIYO, LIZARD PENINSULA, CORNWALL

A city-dweller's dream coastal escape, this luxury self-catering bolthole perched above Coverack Cove in Cornwall strikes the perfect balance between an industrial aesthetic and the natural environment in which sits; those wild coastal views are showcased by picture windows that wrap around the house.

Inside, a contemporary haven of sculptural furnishings and poured concrete is offset by silvering Siberian larch cladding, which seemingly melts into the shimmering ocean setting.

Outside, Coverack’s sheltered cove is perfect for a bracing swim; wild in winter but crystal blue in summer. Closer to home, and for those who'd prefer a splash in warmer waters, sink into the cedar hot tub with a glass of red, and soak up the rugged vista of the Lizard Peninsula.

From £1,450 per week. Visit Unique Homestays.

4. HILLSIDE COTTAGE, EDINGTON, WILTSHIRE

A private retreat in the bucolic village of Edington, Hillside Cottage is the ultimate English countryside experience.

Ideal for a romantic getaway or larger groups and family gatherings, the cottage features six en suite guest bedrooms and steam shower bathrooms, a formal living room, and modern country-chic eat-in kitchen with dining table.

Extra chill out space awaits at the outdoor plunge pool, hot tub, wet and dry sauna barn, bocce and croquet courts, and Trailhead Cabin, which offers a dartboard, games, wood burning stove and outdoor fire pit.

Newly built in 2017, the property’s design seamlessly blends traditional English style with contemporary cool.

From £1,500 per night. Visit Eleven Experience.

5. THE SUFFOLK FARMHOUSE, SUFFOLK

Set within a 5,000 acre private estate, The Suffolk Farmhouse boasts olde-worlde charm and retains most of its original features including beamed walls, ceilings, thatched roof and and exterior in traditional ‘Suffolk Pink’.

The interior style is, however, modern rustic with luxury touches like roll-top baths and high-end kitchen finishes.

The grounds are a haven for wildlife including over 100 bird species, as well as significant populations of amphibians, moths and butterflies. Enjoy an evening out on the private terrace watching the wildlife, or simply take in the views with a bbq and a few drinks. You'll have access to all the amenities the estate has to offer, including rowing on the lake, cycling, and use of the tennis court and heated outdoor pool. Aaannnd relax.

From £5,706 per week, sleeps 12. Visit Olivers Travels.

Ruth Doherty is a lifestyle journalist based in London. An experienced freelance digital writer and editor, she is known for covering everything from travel and interiors to fashion and beauty. She regularly contributes to Livingetc, Ideal Home and Homes & Gardens, as well as titles like Prima and Red. Outside of work, her biggest loves are endless cups of tea, almond croissants, shopping for clothes she doesn’t need, and booking holidays she does.