UK vs Abroad: Why the British Staycation is Here to Stay

As the sun has finally started showing some signs of hope for a warm British summer, we thought this would be the perfect time to reinforce why a British summer holiday is a winner for 2024. Post-covid, we’re glad we’re now free to wander through duty-free, board a plane and trek overseas if we wish, but what about the glorious amenities on our doorstep? Shorter travel-time, no airport security to worry about, exploring beautiful beaches and scenery and discovering local cuisines and small businesses: that sounds more like it! Read on to rediscover the beauty of Britain with Catch The Breeze Retreats and why we think a staycation is your best bet this year.

Northumberland Beaches

You might argue that a summer holiday is not complete without a beach trip, reminiscent of nostalgic memories of sand in between your toes, salty chips to devour and gradually but eventually dipping your feet into the cool blue waters. The catch is: there is no catch. Rather than fly hundreds of miles in search of this experience, why not try out the beautiful beaches of the UK? In Northumberland, where our gorgeous Craster properties are located, an abundance of sandy spots await you; here are our top picks.

Bamburgh Castle Beach

Picture this; it’s a beautiful summers’ day, you have found the perfect spot on the sands, have laid out your towel to catch some rays and are now ready to unpack the delicious picnic you’ve prepared in one of our Craster cottages. Along with the waves of a surfer’s dream, behind this gorgeous scene is the beautifully majestic Bamburgh Castle along the skyline, the perfect backdrop for your beach day. After soaking up the sun and the gorgeous scenery, why not treat yourself to some delicious cuisine at a local restaurant such as The Potted Lobster, where you’ll be spoilt for choice with a range of fresh seafood.

Embleton Bay

Hailed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Embleton Bay definitely lives up to the title. This is another spot for incredible castle ruins intertwined with golden dunes and is known for its wonderful birdwatching opportunities and the plethora of wildlife for you to gaze at. If that was not enough to tempt you, do not just go off our recommendation; Embleton Bay won Best Beach of the Year in the 2017 BBC Countryfile Magazine Awards! Whether you’re here for the wildlife or just the sands and sunbathing, settle down with your chosen holiday read and enjoy.

Beadnell Bay

If you’re looking for calm waters where you can slow down with your paddleboard, Beadnell Bay could be the place for you. Popular with both locals and holidaymakers alike, the stretching golden dunes set the scene for a classic seaside break. Home to Beadnell harbour, a diving centre and an endless coastline, there’s plenty to do whilst on a day out at Beadnell Beach. Finish your day off with some delicious fish and chips at The Craster Arms, and you cannot go wrong.

Seahouses and Farne Islands

Seahouses is a historic coastal town, home to a beautiful beach brimming with dunes and views that make for a wonderful beach day. If you’re looking for a coastal experience that does not involve lounging in the sand all day, the Farne Islands may be the perfect compromise for a family day out. Hop on a boat to the islands where you can fulfill your desires of sparkling oceans, seal-spotting, and even dolphins if you are lucky! Home to a colony of grey or Atlantic seals, make sure to bring your binoculars and camera to catch a glimpse of the amazing array of wildlife whilst you sail around the islands.  

For a lot of families, a staycation is not complete without a furry friend. If you bring yours along, you are in luck, as these beaches are dog-friendly! To read more on dog-friendly spots in Northumberland, head to our guest blog written by Emily, a.k.a., Great British Dog Walks. If you would like to find out more about the beautiful beaches surrounding our Craster cottages, we have even more suggestions here.

Exploring the Yorkshire Dales

Despite the seaside being seen as a quintessential element of a typical British holiday, we know that they are not to everyone’s liking. If your idea of the perfect summer holiday is days spent exploring the luscious landscapes and brimming with family activities, our stunning Oughtershaw Hall in the Yorkshire Dales is a wonderful choice. Surrounded by incredible places to discover, our manor house will fulfill your adventurous desires, without all the sand. As our largest property, Oughtershaw Hall is the perfect place to holiday if there are a few of you, so if you are looking for a place to rent for the whole family’s summer holiday, Oughtershaw Hall could be the place for you.

Bolton Abbey

Located in the heart of the sprawling Yorkshire Dales, Bolton Abbey is a perfect day out for the family. With a chance to explore the Abbey itself, an abundance of woodland nature trails and pop-up activities like the Pirate Ship and Pop-Up Beach, Bolton Abbey is a great way of exploring the Yorkshire Dales landscape. Although there are restaurants and cafes on-site where you can treat yourself to some local produce, we think that a warm summer’s day beckons a homemade picnic which you can enjoy at your own pace by the calming riverside.

Malham Cove

If you are a Harry Potter fan who enjoys exploring places with a star-studded history, welcome to the glorious Malham Cove. Formed from gleaming white limestone, this spot is rich in centuries-old heritage and home to a pair of peregrine falcons in the summer months. Reminisce on the heart-wrenching scenes from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows as you wander along the clifftop.

Grassington House

Luxury meets charm at the gorgeous Grassington House, with the finest food served up by award-winning chef, John Rudden. Set in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park, you are invited to dine in true style with the backdrop of the sprawling Yorkshire Dales landscape setting the perfect scene. If you fancy award-winning dining in the comfort of Oughtershaw Hall, look no further, as John doubles up as a private chef for guests at our stunning manor house. You can read more about our relationship with John and his journey to becoming a chef in our blog.

Beer Gardens

Beer gardens are arguably a staple of British summertime; a chance to relax in the sun with a refreshing drink and make the most of the precious sunshine. The surrounding areas of our properties in Northumberland and the Yorkshire Dales are spoilt for choice with fantastic beer gardens, but here are our top recommendations to make the most out of your holiday.

Northumberland

The Jolly Fisherman, Craster

Right on the doorstep of our Craster cottages is The Jolly Fisherman. Renowned for its delicious fresh seafood dishes that are truly mouthwatering, this gastropub has another title to add to its glory; number 4 out of the 25 best beer gardens in Britain last year! A huge achievement for the only pub in Craster, we are not surprised that The Jolly Fisherman made the list. Beautiful home-cooking, rich in historic character and stunning sea views, this staple of Craster cuisine has all the components of a perfect beer garden. We recommend the famous crab sandwich which you can enjoy overlooking the Craster coastline with a drink of your choice; absolute bliss.

The Horshoes Inn, Alnwick

Perfectly located on the way back from a day trip to Alnwick Castle, The Horseshoes Inn is our next pick. This pub boasts a small but sun-soaked beer garden where you can enjoy freshly made pub food and a crisp, refreshing drink after a day of exploring. Known for its good portion sizes and home-cooked meals, this is another pub that has maintained its traditional heritage and not compromised on delicious food and service; what is not to love?

The Craster Arms, Beadnell

Making its second appearance in our recommendations is The Craster Arms! After spending the day soaking up the sun at Beadnell Bay, make the most of your evening by making the short seven-minute drive to this classic pub. Delicious dishes aside, their beer garden provides the perfect place to spend a summers’ evening, home to a number of cosy huts that provide you with “your own private garden room;” words from a happy customer! With the opportunity to listen to live music on a sunny Saturday evening, sit back within the suntrap whilst the music washes over you and enjoy.

The Yorkshire Dales

The Red Lion, Burnsall

If you are staying with us in the Yorkshire Dales and are in search of beautiful pub garden views, look no further than The Red Lion. Just over half an hour drive from our magnificent Oughtershaw Hall, you can expect luscious greenery, a riverside terrace and historic charm. With a delicious menu, ranging from your classic pies to modern platters and tofu salads, rest assured there is something for everyone. Pondering the menu whilst overlooking the sparkling river sounds like a glorious summer’s day to us.

The Cover Bridge Inn, East Witton

It is no surprise that the pubs of the Yorkshire Dales boast gorgeous views, and The Cover Bridge Inn is no exception. On a beautiful summer’s day, you can take a seat and embrace the picturesque scenery as the River Cover gently flows by. Popular for day-fishing, you are welcome to buy a permit for £14 to fish upstream if you are in search of something different for your beer garden trip.

Aysgarth Falls Hotel

A holiday to the Yorkshire Dales is not complete without a trip to the iconic Aysgarth Falls. After you’ve explored the beautiful waterfalls and have worked up an appetite, why not make a pit-stop at the Aysgarth Falls Hotel? Enjoy a freshly cooked pizza as the sun begins to set and relax in the sprawling gardens with stunning views.

A Last-Minute Catch the Breeze Retreat

Beautiful beaches and sprawling landscapes to explore, gorgeous local cuisine to discover and sun-soaked beer gardens to relax in; what more could you ask for from a summer holiday? If you are sold and are worrying about not having anything booked in the diary, you are not too late; our cottages still have availability for you to snap up.

Craster Reach, Craster

Sleeping up to 6 guests, our quaint terrace cottage that is tucked away in the heart of Craster has plenty of summer availability for you to choose from:

• Friday 5^th July to Friday 12^th July
• Friday 12^th July – Friday 19^th July
• Friday 19^th July – Friday 26^th July
• Friday 26^th July – Friday 2^nd August
• Friday 23^rd August – Friday 30^th August

Harbourway, Craster

With space for up to 8 guests, our gorgeous 19^th century cottage is available from:

Friday 5^th July – Friday 12^th July

Driftwood, Craster

Our classic fisherman’s cottage that is dog-friendly is available from:

• Friday 5^th July – Friday 19^th July
• Friday 16^th August – Friday 23^rd August

Oughtershaw Hall, Skipton

Our gorgeous manor located in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales sleeps up 16 guests and is available from:

• Monday 3^rd June to Friday 7^th June
• Friday 14^th June – Friday 21^st June
• Friday 21^st June – Friday 28^th June
• Friday 28^th June – Friday 5^th July
• Friday 5^th July – Friday 12^th July
• Friday 12^th July – Friday 19^th July
• Friday 9^th August – Friday 16^th August
• Friday 16^th August – Friday 23^rd August

For further information on our properties and their availability all year-round, contact us on 01829 708693 or email info@catchthebreeze.co.uk. And do not forget to tag us in any pictures you may take and use the #MyCTBR, we love seeing your fabulous pictures and all the fun you have whilst staying with us in our properties.

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