cosy

I stayed at the enormous countryside manor hotel with cosy rooms, Japanese gardens and karaoke club

YOU’LL find this majestic manor hotel tucked away in the Hertfordshire countryside with beautiful gardens and cosy rooms.

Read on to find out more about Fanhams Hall and everything you can do there from exploring the beautiful Japanese garden to table tennis and even karaoke.

Fanhams Hall is a Jacobean manor that is now a huge hotel Credit: Unknown
Fanhams Hall sits on a 27-acre estate with huge gardens Credit: Angela Ward Brown

Where is Fanhams Hall?

One mile outside of the pretty town of Ware in East Hertfordshire is the sprawling Fanhams Hall which is set on a 27-acre estate.

The former manor house that dates back to the 14th century has since been built upon and as enormous as it is, if you didn’t know if it was there, you’d never stumble upon it by chance.

After driving through winding country roads you’re welcomed in with the grand driveway that leads towards the beautiful hotel.

It’s a true countryside spot with manicured grounds where you’ll see wildflowers, ducks, ornate Japanese gardens with its own tea house, a wisteria canopy, croquet lawn, and water features – along with the occasional dog walker too.

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What is the hotel like?

Fanhams Hall is a Jacobean mansion which oozes charm, history and luxury. Inside are wooden panelled walls and formal dinners take place in the elegant Drawing Room.

For drinks, there’s the grand conservatory which has its own outdoor terrace and patio.

There are some rooms reserved for events, but you can poke your head in to admire them if nobody’s there and you’ll want a glimpse of the Long Gallery.

It was formerly a picture gallery inside the main house and has oak panelling and a vaulted ceiling with impressive, sparkling chandeliers.

The hotel itself is enormous, as are the grounds, so don’t be surprised if you lose your bearings at first.

What is there to do there?

Of course exploring the gardens is a must. But on a rainy day, head upstairs where you’ll discover the Energy Zone which has a foosball table, table tennis as well as a pick n mix sweet station, soft drinks, and refillable tea and coffee.

On the grounds is a Japanese-inspired garden Credit: Unknown
Collage of travel items including a plane, sunscreen, passport, suitcase, and plane tickets, advertising The Sun's travel Instagram account.

If you’re staying in a larger group, you may want to hire out the Karaoke Klub which has disco balls, a private bar, popcorn and even a slushie machine.

Outside is a small fitness room with free weights, running and rowing machines and bikes.

Fanhams Hall is a five-minute drive away from the centre of Ware. Here, take a stroll down the high street and pop into its shops like Noire, Sparkles of Ware and The Sage Garden along with plenty of pubs and coffee shops.

In the springtime check out the local lido, or take a walk along the River Lea to see the barges, boats and swans.

Ware is also a 20-minute drive away from Hertfordshire Zoo where you can see big cats, lemurs, meerkats and reptiles.

What is there to eat and drink there?

For dining, head to the Drawing Room for an intimate setting and tasty food.

The menus change seasonally, and while we were there, we indulged in juicy steak that came with a side of salad and fries, as well as a creamy mushroom pasta with crispy pieces of parmesan cheese.

At the bar, you can choose anything from a refreshing glass of white wine, to sweet rosé, a gin and tonic and a choice of beers on draught.

In the morning, head to the pavilion for breakfast where there are both hot and cold options with all the classics like fried eggs, toast, beans, mushrooms, sausages and bacon along with croissants with jam.

For those who are a fan of tea, you’ll be thrilled that there are Teapigs which come in a choice of flavours and you get your own tea pot – there are various milks on offer too. Feel free to refill your juice, tea and coffee as often as you’d like.

A traditional afternoon tea is popular here where guests can sample a selection of sandwiches from dill and salmon to egg mayonnaise, fresh cakes and gateaux.

Don’t forget the scones which come in flavours like vanilla and lavender and enjoy a cup of tea on the side- this starts from £40 per adult.

You’ll want to bag a space on the pavilion terrace for breakfast Credit: Fanhams Hall
There’s a range of rooms and suites – some with four-poster beds Credit: Angela Ward Brown

What are the rooms like?

There are rooms and suites both in the main building and in the courtyard of the hotel.

Each vary in size and design from the smaller Shoebox room aimed at solo travellers to the large Chestnut Suite which has a four-poster bed. 

I stayed in the luxurious Bonsai Room which has cosy mustard accents, a comfy king-size bed. Its two windows make it light, airy and provide sweeping views across the lawn.

There’s also a mini SMEG kettle and fridge with a few complimentary cans, there was also a coffee machine, snacks and the room has free WiFi and air con too.

The most lavish part was the ensuite where that you can watch TV from the bath, then there’s the huge shower which has side jets and Molton Brown toiletries.

For those who want to bring their furry friends, you can. There is a £40 per stay extra charge, which includes room access and a special welcome pack for dogs.

Room rates start from £126. See https://www.exclusive.co.uk/fanhams-hall/ for more.

Is Fanhams Hall family-friendly?

Yes. The Family Rooms come with two double beds and sleep two adults and two children – making them an ideal choice if you’re travelling with the kids.

The rooms are in the main mansion house and have a large bathroom too, some have a shower, some come with both a shower and bath.

Is there access for guests with disabilities?

Some parts of the courtyard building are accessible, with one fully accessible room which has been adapted with a wet room and handrails.

You can request this room when making your booking and for more information, call the hotel directly.

The lift inside the main building is a lift next to the Conservatory Bar – from there guests can reach the Energy Zone and some third-floor bedrooms.



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I stayed at glam farm resort seen on Made in Chelsea with unreal roast dinners and cosy ‘Pyggie’ pods

IF you love the countryside but prefer something glam over actually getting mucky, this one’s for you.

Silchester Farm in Hampshire delivers all the charm of a country escape without you ever having to ruin your shoes.

Silchester Farm in Hampshire is a stylish country stay which appeared on Made in Chelsea Credit: Silchester Farm

This rustic retreat was even featured on Made in Chelsea, which tells you something about who you’ll be rubbing shoulders with here.

From where to eat to local history, here’s everything you need to know about staying at Silchester Farm in Hampshire.

Where is Silchester Farm?

This stay is in Silchester, a small village close to Basingstoke in Hampshire. The farm is less than an hour’s train journey away from London.

If travelling by car, the farm is well-signposted through a series of pleasant country lanes, crossing over wooden bridges and past old-fashioned country pubs and pretty churches.

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What’s it like?

A popular wedding venue, Silchester Farm is a stylish rural retreat set among fields of quietly grazing sheep and calm countryside.

The site centres around a series of manicured flower and vegetable patches, vine-draped arbours and an outdoor barn kitchen.

What are the rooms like?

The Pyggies have cosy, curved wooden ceilings, giant plush beds and their own kitchenettes Credit: Jenna Stevens

Framing the outskirts of the vegetable patches you’ll find the Pyggies, nine giant, self-contained pig arks.

There’s room on the steps outside to drop off your wellies and brolly from your day at the farm. Once you open the door, you’re met with cosy warm orange lighting, a relaxing wood scent, and a giant bed you’ll immediately want to jump on.

The Pyggies are equipped with kitchenettes, which have lovely touches like glass-bottled milk in the fridge, posh teabags as well as matching cup and saucer sets.

In our Pyggy, Rosemary, a large telly sat above a cosy wood burner, opposite a large sofa to sink into. The bed was piled up with cosy throws, and behind a wooden screen was a roomy bathtub complete with the Silchester Farm’s own soaps and body creams.

A spacious rainfall shower, cosy curved ceiling and giant glass doors letting the sunlight pour through were the cherry on top of this chic countryside accommodation.

Rooms start from £252 per night for two, with great rates on last-minute bookings in particular. See SilchesterFarm.co.uk.

What is there to eat and drink?

If you book in for The Sunday Club you can enjoy a hearty roast during your stay from £22 Credit: Jenna Stevens

The Trough Farm Shop on-site is a great spot for brunch, with coffee, sausage rolls, cakes and pastries available, with indoor and outdoor seating.

As for dinner, you’re best off booking in at a nearby pub, as the restaurant here is usually reserved for wedding guests.

The Plough Inn is a pretty, restored 18th century pub serving food and local ales, while The Calvella Arms does a spectacular sticky toffee pudding.

There are, however, food events you can book yourself onto at the farm. The Sunday Club offers fantastic roasts with giant yorkies (from £22) while the Harvest Feast sees the outdoor kitchen come alive with seasonal produce served by a roaring fire. Check dates here.

What else is there?

Silchester is a Roman village, and is a short walk from well-preserved, third century walls as well as amphitheatre ruins. Reception will happily direct you on the walking route.

While there’s no gym at a rustic retreat like this, there are bicycles available to hire, as well as a tennis court facing the pristine country gardens.

Is it family friendly?

Each of the Pyggies sleep up to two people, equipped with king-sized beds fit for two adults.

This retreat is best for couples’ escapes or friends getaways.

Is it accessible?

While there are ramps available for accessing the farm’s buildings and gardens, the site is made up of pebble and grass pathways also.

Silchester Farm recommend disabled visitors are accompanied by a companion where possible. For more information, see their website.

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These are the 10 BEST campsites for autumn and winter in the UK with saunas and cosy lodges from £8pp

DO YOU think camping is just for summer? Think again.

With the help of Pitchup.com, we’ve put together a list of the 10 best campsites for the autumn with on-site saunas, spas, and even lodges with central heating.

Herding Hill Farm has cosy lodges to wrap up warm inside Credit: Unknown
The pods at Wighill Park Glamping have small kitchenettes, bedroom and living area Credit: Pitch Up

Wighill Park Glamping, West Yorkshire

When it’s dark and gloomy, some of us would rather not sleep in a flimsy tent, and at Wighill Park Glamping are some super cosy camping spots.

Campers can shelter from the elements inside the individual wooden pods.

The smallest sleep up to two people but still have all the essentials like a little kitchenette, sofa, bed and its own toilet and shower room.

For a little extra, you can opt a hot drink pack, fireside kit and even a bottle of gin and a bottle of tonic.

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Some of the larger pods even have their own hot tubs and can sleep up to five people.

The farm is part of Wighill Park, once a private cricket pitch for Lord Hawke (a well-known figure in the world of cricket). Its woodland trails are perfect for an autumn walk, and dogs are welcome too.

If you’re after some exploring further afield, the campsite is a 25-minute drive away from York and under 40 minutes from Leeds and Harrogate.

Rates start from £85 per person per night.

Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Retreat, Stafford

Moddershall Oaks has an on-site spa with heated loungers and pools Credit: Pitch Up

If you really want to take your camping holiday to the next level, how about a retreat with an on-site spa?

The wooden pods at Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Retreat sit on a huge estate with woodland and lakeside walks.

But when the Great British weather inevitably turns, huddle inside the spa, gym, restaurant and bar.

At the spa are swimming pools, a steam room, hydrotherapy pool, heated tiled loungers, experience showers and a relaxation lounge.

When it comes to the pods, these sleep from two up to four with large beds, black-out curtains, air conditioning and an ensuite with a rainfall shower.

There are luxury toiletries, a flatscreen TV, mini-fridge, GHD hair dryer and tea and coffee also inside.

Guests staying in the pods get complimentary gym access during their stay as well as breakfast which is in the adjoining Oak House restaurant (spa and exercise classes are charged separately).

Rates start from £150 for two people per night.

Whitehouse Farm, Suffolk

Whitehouse Farm in Suffolk has pretty lakeside sauna pod Credit: Pitch Up

Tucked away in Suffolk is Whitehouse Farm, a campsite perfect for anyone who is after a quiet and peaceful retreat.

On the campsite are cosy shepherd’s huts which come with snug double beds, a kitchenette, small dining area – some also come with firepits and barbecues.

Or for those who have their own motorhome, simply book the pitch.

Pitches are either in the meadow, or the old orchard where there are fruits like damsons, apples and pears in early autumn.

For those on a family trip, there’s an outdoor climbing frame for children who don’t mind the weather.

And on the campsite, dogs are welcome too as long as they’re kept on a lead.

During the cooler evenings, adults can take advantage of the on-site sauna which is a new addition and sits above the pond.

Rates start from £30 for two people per night.

North End Farm, Dorset

The lodge at North End Farm even has central heating Credit: Unknown

Down in rural Dorset is North End Farm which is close to beaches and local pubs.

There are three spots available to book, a cosy stay called the North End Cabin which sleeps two people.

The Potting Shed cabin has lake views and also sleeps two people, then there’s the Old Cricket Pavilion lodge which has two bedrooms, a TV and most importantly for winter, central heating.

The site is dog-friendly with plenty of walking trails and there are three lakes suitable for swimming.

There’s a hot outdoor shower on the lakeside so anyone brave enough to get into the water can warm up afterwards.

Slightly unusual additions include the chance to go paragliding as the owner owns a paragliding company. It’s also possible to organise clay pigeon shooting and fishing trips.

For a pub lunch and a trip, the farm shop is a five minute drive away and the Jurassic Coast beach at Seatown is two miles away.

Rates start from £160 per two people for two nights.

Woodside Country Park, Herefordshire

The brave ones can take a cold dip in the lake at Woodside Country Park Credit: Unknown

For long walks in the Malvern Hills National Park on a campsite which has wild water swimming and fishing, head to Woodside Country Park.

The campsite is in amongst 28 acres of landscaped grounds with lots of chances to see birds and wildlife.

Campers can choose to stay on a non-electric or electric pitch in a tent either on the ground of a rooftop tent, to a caravan, campervan or motorhome.

There’s also a choice of camping pods which sleep up to five people and while they don’t have any facilities, it will will be cosy.

When it comes to activities, a lakeside wood-fired sauna is available for private hire or public sessions.

Or head out on one of its many trails, including a fairy door trail for children.

For the adults, a 15-minute walk along the Herefordshire Trail leads to a vineyard and winery which holds both guided and self-guided tours and tastings.

Rates start from £29 per two people for two nights.

Andark Lake, Southampton

Andark Lake is centred around a purpose built scuba diving lake Credit: Pitch Up

Any campers who actually enjoy the darker days and don’t want to compromise when it comes to activities should head to Andark Lake.

Six miles outside of Southampton, the campsite is centred around a lake – which is purpose-built for scuba diving.

It holds pre-booked training courses, recreational dives, kit hire and air fills for certified divers.

Other facilities include its lakeside sauna which is perfect for a warm up after a cold lake plunge.

There are open-water swims at the weekend (for an extra £7 charge) and nearby at Swanwick Marina, visitors can try their hand at sailing, paddleboarding, kitesurfing and windsurfing.

The on-site café serves snacks, light lunches as well as hot and cold drinks throughout the day.

For a more hearty meal, there are three pubs within walking distance.

Rates start from £25 per two people per night.

Wildswim2sauna, Devon

Saunas can be hired out after a cold swim at this South Devon campsite Credit: Pitch Up

After a secluded no-frills campsite with wild water swimming right on your doorstep? Wildswim2sauna is an option for autumn.

The campsite in South Devon is open year-round and is very much an off-grid site.

There are non-electric grass tent pitches or non-electric grass touring pitches – and make sure to take supplies as well as the site has no showers.

What it does have however is a river right on your doorstep for wild swimming or chilly cold plunges.

There are also hot tubs and a sauna which can be hired for warming up after a swim.

Within the site, it’s possible to organise mackerel fishing trips, sea swims and coastal cruises in and around Salcombe.

One visitor wrote in their review: “Amazing beautiful and remote location, incredible swimming right by our tent. So peaceful waking up to the birdsong and rustling of animals on the river.”

Rates start from £40 per two people per night.

Lunga Pier and Shore Camping, Argyll

For cold swims and wildlife spotting head to Argyll Credit: Pitch Up

For a taste of adventure, head to Lunga Pier and Shore Camping in Argyll – it’s a remote spot and even quieter in the off-season.

The campsite sits on the Craignish Peninsula in western Scotland, with impressive coastal views that reach the Corryvreckan Channel.

Thanks to its location by the water, the site is ideal for wild swimmers, paddleboarders, anglers and kayakers.

There are also rugged coves and nearby islands to explore – just don’t forget your wetsuit.

Visitors have seen wildlife such as otters playing in the sea and you’re also likely to see seals, hares, herons and curlews.

Campers have also praised the site for its incredible pitch views across the water.

The village of Ardfern, with a shop, restaurant and pub, is ten minutes’ drive away.

Rates start from £28.88 per two people per night.

Herding Hill Farm and Caravan Camping Site, Northumberland

The clear skies at Herding Farm Hill make it ideal for stargazing Credit: Pitch Up

While most dislike the early nights of autumn and winter, it’s the perfect time for stargazing.

Herding Hill Farm Caravan and Camping Site in Northumberland even has stargazing kits and visitors could even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

The on-site petting farm will prove popular with the kids who are welcome to help with the twice-daily feeding of the animals.

Children can also make use of the playground and ball field behind the cabins.

Pitches vary from electric hardstanding for tents, caravans and campervans. It also has pods which have raised beds and mattresses – some also have private hot tubs.

Other things to do include seeing Hadrian’s Wall which is half-a-mile away and the market town of Haltwhistle is a five-minute drive away.

There’s a camping kitchen with vending machines and the accessible shower block has underfloor heating so it’ll be warm even in the winter.

Along with the stargazing kits, firepits and barbecues all available to hire too. Rates start from £30 for two people per night.

Wassell Grove Camping and Caravanning, West Midlands

Wassell Grove campsite has three fishing lakes and an on-site cafe serving hot meals Credit: Pitch Up

Wassell Grove Camping and Caravanning is a great find for anyone who loves fishing with three lakes available to its campers.

For those who aren’t into fishing, the nearby woodland is lovely for an autumn stroll.

Not to mention both Cadbury World and West Midland Safari Park are under half an hour away.

Kids will love the woolly addition to the campsite, the friendly alpacas which campers can feed with food bought from the café.

The on-site café also serves hot and cold food throughout the day for guests, or for those who decide to embrace the chill, there’s the option to fire up the barbecue instead.

If you fancy a cosy stay not in a tent, the campsite has pods that sleep up to three people and cabins which are basic but will keep the chill away.

The cabins have an outdoor picnic table and a kettle.

Rates start from £16 per two people per night.

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Danny Jones hugs wife Georgia as they share cosy video from Pride Of Britain Awards after working through marriage woes

DANNY Jones shared an affectionate moment with his wife Georgia Horsley at the Pride of Britain Awards after she stood by him through their marriage woes.

The married McFly singer, 40, was caught snogging Love Island star and TV presenter Maura Higgins at the BRIT Awards afterparty in 2025.

Georgia Jones and Danny Jones looked loved-up on the Pride Of Britain Awards red carpet Credit: Getty
The couple’s outing comes a year after his snog with Maura Higgins at the 2025 BRIT Awards Credit: Getty

This led to Danny publicly apologising to Georgia after the drunken kiss – with his wife of 10 years agreeing to stand by him.

Showing they’re united, Georgia and Danny shared a clip of them posing together on the red carpet.

The pair shared a get ready with me clip with Georgia stunning in a burgundy dress and Danny opting for an all black suit.

Danny captioned the post: “Last night at Pride of Britain Awards we celebrated the courageous & extraordinary.

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Danny and Georgia shared a clip as they glammed ug up before the event Credit: Instagram/dannyjonesofficial
Maura is currently thousands of miles away in Los Angeles competing on DWTS Credit: Shutterstock Editorial

“In what can be a very scary world sometimes it’s so important to acknowledge the kindness & selflessness of these individuals.

“Truly inspiring stories and even more incredible & inspiring humans.

“Be kind, always.”

Meanwhile, Maura – who is currently competing on Dancing With the Stars in the US – was thousands of miles away.

On Sunday, Maura sizzled in a white PVC skintight bodysuit and corset as she attended the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in Los Angeles.

The Sun revealed how Danny and Maura, who appeared together in I’m A Celeb last year, shared a brief kiss during Universal Music’s Brit Awards.

The duo then travelled separately to the five-star Nobu Hotel for more drinks.

Last March, Danny made his emotional statement on Instagram, and showed his regret for putting his loved ones “in this situation.”

The dad-of-one, who shares son Cooper with Georgia, 38, wrote: “Hello everyone.

“Sorry it’s taken me a while to post this but I’ve taken some time out to be with those closest to me.

“I want to deeply apologise to my wife and family for putting them in this situation.

“I love them so much and we’ll continue to deal with this privately.”

Danny continued: “I love you guys, thank you for your patience, understanding and support.

“See you all soon, Danny.”

At the time, pals previously said that Danny was keen to draw a line under the scandal, which saw him holding crisis talks with Georgia, his wife of ten years.

A friend said: “Danny wants to draw a line in the sand and move on.

“He has talked with Georgia, and they just want to carry on with their lives.

“His actions were incredibly embarrassing, and he has expressed how much he regrets it.

“Now is the time to move past it and try and get back to normal.”

It came after it was claimed Georgia had issued The Voice panelist with a “final warning.”

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I visited Venice of the Cotswolds that’s better in autumn than summer with riverfront bakeries and cosy cottages

Collage of Cotswolds scenes, including a river running alongside historic stone buildings, a cozy bedroom, and a large stone house.

THE Cotswolds is one of the few places in the UK that looks even more beautiful at this time of year than during the summer months.

Gorgeous thatched-roofed cottages offer a snug escape, old pubs light up roaring fireplaces and woodlands are carpeted with fiery leaves.

The Cotswolds is one of the few places in the UK that looks even more beautiful at this time of year than in summer Credit: AFP
A four-night midweek break at Kestrel Cottage is from £476.50 in January and early February (excluding half term) Credit: Supplied

I was visiting Bourton-on-the-Water, which offered all of this and more. In fact, the picture-perfect village has been dubbed the “Venice of the Cotswolds” thanks to its gorgeous scenery.

Weaving its way through the heart of the village, the River Windrush has a series of low stone bridges spanning its clear, shallow waters.

Honey-coloured homes line the grassy banks, creating a stunning backdrop that looks like the set of an English murder-mystery drama.

Its charm is magical and it comes as no surprise to learn that Kourtney Kardashian pipped me to the post, visiting the village and snapping the cottages I was lucky to call home for the weekend in her Instagram story.

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And Instagram-worthy this home certainly is.

Kestrel Cottage is the perfect bolthole for a weekend away. With one beautifully-decorated bedroom and a comfy sofabed, there is more than enough room for a couple, family or group of friends.

It’s one of four cottages set within an old mill and it’s bursting with character. It looked like it was straight out of an interior design magazine with fluffy carpets, a chic olive-coloured kitchen and bare-brick walls.

I loved how well equipped and homely the kitchen was, with enough facilities to whip up dinner for a cosy night in, along with all the decor you’d want to jazz up your own home.

Kourtney Kardashian has visited the Cotswolds village Credit: Getty
The reality star posted this snap of her in Bourton online Credit: kourtneykardash/Instagram

My fairytale visit does come with a cautionary tale, though.

Where the Kardashians go, wannabe influencers will follow.

And Bourton-on-the-Water serves up the perfect picture spots, with a steady stream of visitors — although slightly less so now that summer is over (another good reason to visit in autumn).

Plus, staying in the heart of the village comes with the luxury of slipping out before the crowds for a peaceful wander in the sunshine to grab a morning coffee.

Bakery On The Water is the enemy of your waistline, but well worth it. Two cappuccinos and a side of pastry and sausage roll was the fuel we needed to explore.

We bounced from gift shop to restaurant, perusing all the lovely-looking menus, past the sweet store and ice cream parlour (making a note to return in summer), before turning the corner to find the beautiful Victorian Christmas Shop — a treasure trove for the festive-obsessed among us, myself included.

Coffees long gone, we treated ourselves to a pint or two by the fire at The Old New Inn, and wiled away the afternoon playing cards and debating where to eat that evening.

Bourton-on-the-Water leaves you completely spoilt for choice when it comes to food. With Smiths, the award-winning burger joint, two Italians, a Chinese, chippie and pizza spot, it’s almost impossible to agree.

A beautiful old mill towers above the River Eye at Lower Slaughter Credit: Getty

GO: COTSWOLDS

STAYING THERE: Save 20 per cent off all 2027 dates for all Cotswold Cottages, when booked before November 16.

A four-night midweek break at Kestrel Cottage is from £476.50 in January. For this autumn, four nights arriving November 20 is from £532 in total.

Members of Boundless – the club for public sector and civil service workers, employed and retired – can save an extra ten per cent. See boundless.co.uk.

After much debate, we opted for one of the lovely village pubs, The Willow, which has a huge garden overlooking the river.

This hostelry does pub classics properly, including a top-notch fish served with suitably crunchy chips (£19.95) and a traditional steak and mushroom pie loaded with moreish gravy (£19.50). The roast dinners looked good, too. Although those are best saved for Sundays.

Ahead of filling your belly, a Sunday in the Cotswolds is best spent strolling the scenic landscapes — and this time we decided to venture beyond the confines of the village.

A gentle, winding footpath guided us through the countryside towards the twin villages of Lower Slaughter and Upper Slaughter.

The peaceful, 1.5-mile route takes you along the banks of the River Eye, past wildflower meadows and yet more honey-coloured cottages.

The tranquillity of Lower Slaughter (despite its name) is what struck us most, especially when compared to its tourist hotspot neighbour. Crowds were minimal and all that could be heard was the chirp of birds and a gentle stream.

If you’d like to fuel here ahead of your walk back, Slaughters Country Inn is known for its excellent roasts.

Cosying up inside by the fire, we enjoyed another well-earned drink before ducking low ceilings to get to the restaurant, where we were met by giant Yorkshires, roast beef and all the trimmings.

Skip dessert, though, and end your meal at the Hawkstone Brewery instead — another gem we can thank Jeremy Clarkson for.

It’s less Aperol spritz and more traditional English pints — mine with an elderflower twist. The perfect way to toast an autumn escape.

It may even top Venice . . . 

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English city makes a perfect cosy escape — iconic pub and small festive markets

This beautiful city offers a quieter alternative to the UK’s busiest festive destinations, with a magnificent medieval cathedral, riverside walks and traditional pubs to warm up in.

Christmas markets might put Bath, York and Edinburgh high on your winter travel wish list, but Norwich has plenty to tempt anyone seeking a quieter staycation.

With its medieval landmarks, independent shops and welcoming pubs, the city combines festive atmosphere with opportunities to slow down and explore. Spend a day browsing for gifts, strolling beside the river or admiring the cathedral before settling in somewhere cosy.

Norwich is Britain’s only city located within a national park — one of its major draws.

Norwich was among the leading UK staycation destinations picked by specialists at StressFreeCarRental.com in 2024. The company’s CEO, John Charnock, said: “As the nights draw in and the temperatures plummet, it’s inevitable that many of us start to feel a little down at this time of year.

“The picturesque Broads National Park has miles and miles of footpaths for visitors to truly feel at one with nature and help to keep active. Norwich is a great city to connect with the outdoors and practice ecotherapy.”

Back in the city, Norwich Cathedral is a highlight for visitors drawn to its medieval architecture. Its appeal extends beyond the building itself, with Christmas services, concerts and a light show adding to the festive experience.

On TripAdvisor, one recent visitor to the cathedral said: “Visited early on a Friday morning as the Cathedral was being prepared for the weekend with Flower arrangers busy creating displays. We had a lovely chat with one of the volunteers.

“A lovely building made of Caen Stone. We visited the grave of brave Edith Cavell. There is small gift shop if you wish to purchase something. Beautiful grounds around the building.”

While another recent visitor added: “An outstanding cathedral. Well worth visiting. Entry fee is a suggested £5. Wonderful cloisters and some very interesting and historic graves and monuments. I would definitely go back as there is so much to see.”

For Christmas shopping, Norwich offers a mix of independent retailers and familiar high street names. Its bustling marketplace, shopping centres and Norwich Lanes provide plenty of places to hunt for gifts and keepsakes.

Rather than one huge Christmas market, the city has a collection of smaller festive events showcasing local creativity. There are also multiple Christmas markets and late-night shopping on Thursdays in the run-up to Christmas.

Seasonal lights and decorations brighten the streets, while historic venues including The Assembly House and The Maids Head Hotel add to the celebrations.

When it’s time for a break from browsing, the decorated Norwich Lanes make an inviting setting for a leisurely wander. Alternatively, head out from Norwich railway station for a walk beside the River Wensum.

Along the riverside, sights include Pull’s Ferry, Cow Tower and Norwich Cathedral, with pubs such as the Compleat Angler and The Red Lion offering somewhere to stop for a drink.

For a longer dose of history, try the city’s circular walking route, which follows the Wensum and crosses ancient bridges. Medieval city walls, the imposing castle and churches are among the landmarks to look out for.

Norwich’s oldest pub, The Adam and Eve, is conveniently placed along the route. And after a day spent exploring in the winter air, one of the city’s traditional pubs with a crackling fire could be just the place to finish.

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