Although small in size, the Great British Isles are BIG in their appeal. A destination synonymous with history, heritage and breathtaking scenery, UK staycation holidays are a wonderful alternative to breaks abroad. Packed with fun and frivolity, not to mention incredible places to stay, it is the perfect destination for a big group. Hike through mountains, sail peacefully on tranquil lakes, find hidden coves along the rugged coast and when you feel like you are a million miles from anywhere, you can seek out a bustling metropolis or characterful village. Captivating landscapes combine with diverse activities and intriguing attractions to make the UK one of the finest destinations in the world.
You won’t have to compromise on quality: a large luxury house in the UK can come in many forms and without the cost of airfare, you can splash out and treat yourselves to a staycation with a swimming pool, hot tub, games room, cinema room and even a bar! From an extravagant fine country manor in the Cotswolds to a stunning beach house in Sussex, our UK collection promises not to disappoint your summer staycation.
Take a look below and let us know which one is your favourite UK staycation idea for a big group.
Take me to...
The Lake District
Swap the magic of the French Alps for the enchanting Lake District.
“...the loveliest spot that man hath ever found.” – William Wordsworth.
And it’s not hard to see what he meant. England’s largest national park is a unique landscape of magical lakes, mysterious mountains, vast forests, and fells, as well as charming towns and villages. If your summer holidays are more action and adventure than suntans and pool days, then the Lake District has just the right balance if you are planning a staycation. Although a haven for water sports lovers and thrill seekers, there are also quiet corners for peaceful contemplation too. You can see why this inspiring landscape captured the hearts of authors such as William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter: it’s a cultural dream and one of the best places for a staycation in the UK.
Groups will love:
- Watersports on Derwent water
- Country pursuits with Graythwaite Adventure
- Trying new outdoor activities with Newlands Adventure Centre
Where to stay in the Lake District:
Private access to Coniston Water gives Townson Ground House an extra special appeal. Backed by the striking Coniston mountain range and enclosed by a charming dry-stone wall, it is what you would imagine a holiday in the Lake District to look like. Indulge in lazy summer lunches in the pretty garden, head to the east of the lake and explore the woodland trails of Grizedale Forest or get a feel for the local charm by strolling through Coniston village.
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Suffolk
Swap the laid back feel of Croatia for the relaxed coastal charm of Suffolk.
Suffolk is a county brimming in history, heritage and natural beauty – once one of the richest counties in England due to the wool trade. Take a step back in time in the Suffolk Wool Towns of Long Melford and Lavenham, where iconic medieval buildings still stand, showcasing the incredible architecture of its time. 50 miles of glorious coastline presents rolling sand dunes, golden beaches and pretty seaside towns. If it's a taste of the finer things in life which you crave head to the races or sip English wine and one of are area’s finest vineyards.
Groups will love…
- Donning their prettiest frock (or suit!) and biggest hat for a sophisticated day at the Newmarket races.
- Sunny afternoons touring vineyards and tasting the finest English varieties of grape.
- Spending sunny days in the height of summer catching rays in the ‘sunshine coast’.
Where to stay in Suffolk
Dove Barn | Garboldisham (2mls SE) | Sleeps 8
High ceilings create a sense of space, and immense glass windows flood this sophisticated barn conversion with light. The open plan layout, beautifully appointed kitchen and impeccable eye for interior design make Dove Barn an extraordinary setting for a group getaway. While away hours with friends and family and as the sun sets over the neighbouring fields, relax on the terrace or in the luxurious lounge area as the stars appear in the night sky. Retire to the privacy of one of the two king-size and two twin bedrooms for an uninterrupted sleep surrounded by countryside. Close to the Norfolk/Suffolk border, this stunning group retreat is perfectly situated for exploring both counties.
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Cornwall
Swap the magic of a Greek island for the glistening waters of Cornwall.
Cornwall: where crystal clear azure waters give way to idyllic swathes of golden sand and charming, traditional seaside towns are interspersed with some of the most exclusive coastal resorts in the country. With some of the warmest waters in the UK, Cornwall is one of the best UK holiday destinations where on hot summer days, the beaches will be awash with bathers cooling themselves in the glistening waters whilst expensive yachts and speedboats will pull up in the bustling harbour towns – just like a Greek island or the French Riviera. Fine diners will be spoilt for choice with the splendid array of glamorous eateries in some of the most sought-after locations in the whole of Cornwall, such as the Michelin-starred or celebrity chef restaurants such as Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant and Paul Ainsworth’s No. 6, both in Padstow.
Groups will love:
- Long lazy days at the beach: surfing, playing ball games and making memories
- Learning to paddleboard with Newquay Activity Centre
- Sampling local beer and cider on a brewery tour of St Austell Brewery or Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm
Where to stay:
Situated within a Grade II-listed former rectory, this opulent home boasts character and charm throughout but with modern and chic accommodation for a truly memorable getaway. Sleeping 8, families of all ages will be right at home here - the kids will love the bunk room for the ultimate sleepover! When the sun shines, spill into the garden for croquet and a BBQ on the extensive lawn, or explore the North Cornwall coastline just 5 miles away; there's even surfboard storage so you can conquer Bude's waves with ease.
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The Cotswolds
Swap the intrigue of the Loire Valley for the colourful villages of the Cotswolds.
Known for its old-world charm, honey-coloured villages and thatched chocolate-box cottages, the Cotswolds exudes a quintessentially British feel. Peaceful meadows, meandering rivers and gentle hills give way to famed villages such as Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold and Chipping Campden, where ancient buildings house quirky shops, quaint tea rooms, galleries and intriguing attractions. An artistic buzz of food, festivals, culture and archaic architecture can be found in the illustrious towns of Cirencester, Stroud and Cheltenham – the latter famed for its racecourse, while the jewel in the Cotswold’s crown, Bath, provides shopping at its very best, glamorous restaurants, vibrant nightlife and indulgent spa visits.
Groups will love:
- Pampering themselves at the famous Bath Spa
- Place their bets at the prestigious Cheltenham races
- Exploring over 100 miles of The Cotswold Way through the very best countryside
Where to stay in the Cotswolds
Embrace Cotswolds life in an authentic Georgian manor house with a big wow factor. Set in 8 acres of beautifully maintained gardens and woodland, and with plenty of space to entertain a big group, both inside and out, it has that lavish appeal you crave on your big summer holiday in the UK. Set on the outskirts of Dursley village with views over the Uley valley, you can soak up the peaceful countryside or explore the pretty towns and villages of the Cotswolds.
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Sussex
Swap the rugged Amalfi coast for the vibrant Sussex seaside.
One of the most popular UK holiday destinations for families, Sussex is steeped in history and famed for being the site of the iconic Battle of Hastings 1066 – one of the most important locations in England’s history. A dramatic coastline attracts visitors who marvel at the iconic chalky white cliffs: a backdrop to long golden beaches and cosmopolitan cities. A mix of old-world charm and the hustle and bustle of modern life means that Sussex is a county of variety, from the history and heritage apparent in Hastings to the unique and eclectic appeal of Brighton and Hove. Relish the fantastic retail therapy opportunities in the Brighton lanes; witness the regal beauty of Brighton's Royal Pavilion; or embrace the traditional seaside holiday with ice creams and fish and chips on the pier in Eastbourne.
Groups will love:
- Exploring the majestic chalky cliffs, ancient burial mounds, and vast forests of the South Downs National Park
- Beach days full of fish and chips, ice cream and arcade games in Eastbourne
- Evening entertainment in the cosmopolitan city of Brighton
Where to stay in Sussex
Located directly on the beach, The Pevensey Bay Beach House is the ultimate beach staycation. Throw open the bi-folding doors and enjoy your morning coffee to the sound of waves lapping against the shore before the rest of the house stir and the family spill out directly onto the beach. There’s nothing like a bit of fresh sea air to raise spirits and relax souls. Sandwiched between Eastbourne, Bexhill and Hastings, you won’t have to travel far for a lively seaside feel to complete your staycation.
More staycation ideas in Sussex:
Which of these best UK holiday destinations will you choose for your big summer staycation? Search our full collection of large houses in the UK, and start planning a summer staycation to reunite with your favourite people! Planning a big birthday celebration? Why not gather together in one of our party houses to celebrate in style? Head over to our ultimate guide to milestone birthdays to inspire you.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.