Where to book a long weekend
Spring breaks, home & away
Pictured: The Hari, Belgravia
On your doorstep
The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is the perfect weekend break within easy reach of London and Surrey. The delightful Bourton on the Water is criss-crossed by tiny bridges over its river and home to a brilliant Motor Museum. Bourton on the Hill is a great spot for hikes, being on the Heart of England Way.
Stay in a treehouse at The Fish Hotel in Broadway. There are bathtubs on the outdoor terrace where you can soak up the suds with the trees around you, and there’s loads to do on the estate, from falconry to clay-pigeon shooting. It’s perfect for families, and dog-friendly too.
Belgravia
If you only have time for a night away, a London staycation can recharge the batteries. We like the boutique vibes of The Hari in Belgravia. You could head to the museums of Kensington, shop in Knightsbridge, or go for an art fix at the Saatchi Gallery (see its 40th anniversary show The Long Now, on until 26 April). Watch the sun set from your room over the city, then settle in for cocktails in the bar. Over Easter, children can take part in chocolate egg hunts in their room.
Within easy reach
South Devon
Take the train out of Paddington to the South Devon coastline. The Cary Arms is a top spot with views over Babbacombe Bay. Dine on seafood on the terrace or in the cosy bar. A walk along the Coastal Path will bring you to tucked-away Anstey’s Cove, which has a lovely outdoor café. You can also take a detour to Kents Cavern, home to an incredible labyrinth of caves. Go on a sea safari on a RIB boat from Torquay to spot porpoise and seals.
Further inland, another top spot to stay: Boringdon Hall – home to the fabulous Michelin-starred Acleaf restaurant and an adults-only spa. From here, you can take walks on Dartmoor, then retreat to the bar in the Great Hall with its vast mullioned windows.
Worth travelling for
Valletta, Malta
Malta’s capital Valletta is packed with historic charm, restaurants and shopping. Head there in the spring months, out of the peak season of summer, and wander cobbled streets, learn about the Knights of Malta, see the incredible gilded co-cathedral of St John’s (home to two striking Caravaggio paintings) and take in a host of museums. Barcelo Fortina Malta is a good base in Sliema across the harbour – you can gaze out at the Valletta skyline from its delightful outdoor pool. It’s also a short taxi ride to Mdina – the Silent City – this was Malta’s old capital and its narrow passageways and grand squares are particularly atmospheric at night.
