The UK is brimming with unique experiences, quirky accommodation and interesting staycation destinations. To help you plan a memorable trip this year, we’ve put together a list of unique experiences to try and the best places to stay nearby that aren’t your typical hotel, B&B or glamping set up! So, if you’re searching for alternative things to do in the UK, let us introduce you to our top 4. We guarantee you won’t be disappointed!
1: Gin Tasting At Ramsbury, Wiltshire
Calling all gin lovers, if you’re looking for a unique experience set in the heart of the English countryside that involves eco-friendly gin, book a gin tasting experience at Ramsbury in Wiltshire. Stretching over 20,000 acres of land, the Ramsbury Estate prides itself on having no negative impact on the local environment and surrounding wildlife. Using their own wheat and barley, as well as water from a private chalk-filtered source, the team produces single-estate gin and signature flavours for visitors to try. During a brewery and distillery tour, explore behind the scenes and discover their award-winning beers and spirits, including Ramsbury gin which has a subtle hint of cinnamon and an earthy floral aroma.
How to book:
Book a gin tasting staycation experience at Ramsbury Estate
Where to stay:
Explore Wiltshire like a king and stay at King Arthur’s Willow Tree House in Devizes. This fascinating staycation idea comes with a whirlpool bath, rainfall shower and panoramic views across the meadows. The interior is definitely quirky, with a spiral staircase and spacious outer deck. Stargaze, bird watch, or dine alfresco and then retreat to the three luxury bedrooms set across three levels. King Arthur’s Willow Tree House is perfectly positioned to visit Ramsbury Estate around 30 minutes drive away, Stonehenge 27 minutes by car, and Longleat Safari Park, 38 minutes from this wonderfully different accommodation idea.
2: Whisky Tasting Canoe Cruise, Scotland
Fancy a wee dram or two as you explore the highlands this year? Why not taste your way around Scotland and visit its many whisky distilleries, by booking a seven-day, 50-mile canoe cruise down the River Spey. Hosted by Spirit of the Spey, this is certainly a more adventurous way to enjoy whisky tasting up north. Paddle down the river, and sample some of the finest Scottish malt whisky in the UK. This unique guided canoe cruise will stop off at Dalwhinnie, Cragganmore, Aberlour and The Macallan distilleries for a dram of the best. Your guide, Spey’s most experienced River Guide, will indulge you with his wealth of knowledge about the Scottish river and the famous whiskies you’ll be enjoying along the way.
While whisky tasting is certainly the highlight of this unique experience, the tour will also include visiting the 16th Century Ballindalloch Castle. The home of the Macpherson-Grant family, this stunning castle looks as though it’s been taken directly from the pages of a fairytale. You’ll also have a chance to visit Balvenie Castle, once the seat of the powerful Comyn, earls of Buchan. This trip includes food and accommodation in a four-star hotel, making it very convenient for anyone hoping to escape to the highlands this summer. While most days will be on the river, you’ll also enjoy time travelling to different whisky tasting destinations by minibus, giving your arms a much-needed break.
How to book:
Book your guided Scottish canoe cruise and whisky tasting experience with Spirit Of The Spey Online.
3: Design Your Own Craft Beer, Conwy, Wales
Create your very own craft beer at Conwy Brewery in North Wales. A unique experience for anyone who enjoys a cold pint in the summer, test your ability to mix flavour combinations and brew up a storm in the kitchen. This staycation idea includes everything you need to sample different beer and make your very own unique drink. First, you’ll start by tasting a range of beers to help you figure out which pint you prefer. Then you’ll have the power to change the colour, strength and taste, with guidance from an expert. Keep things simple or go crazy; it’s entirely up to you. After working hard in the kitchen, enjoy a buffet lunch in the brewery tap before finalising your beer label design and giving your six cases of beer a catchy name. Your beer will be ready to collect after four to six weeks. A delicious souvenir of your Welsh staycation!
How to book:
Design your own beer for the day at Conwy Brewery.
Where to stay:
Immerse yourself in the Welsh countryside and stay at Ebony Wood. This romantic, rural retreat is on the edge of Snowdonia National Park and provides a woodland escape surrounded by pines and panoramic views. As a self-catering cabin, it’s truly a wonderful way to visit Conwy and rekindle the romance as a couple.
4: Dining With Distinction, East Lancashire Railway
If you’re still looking for things to do in the UK with a more luxurious feel, embark upon an elegant journey through the Lancashire countryside on a vintage locomotive. Choose from silver service and a four-course dinner or a quintessentially British Afternoon Tea. The Pullman style carriages will instantly transport you back in time, to when train journeys and elegant candle-lit dinners were the height of sophistication. Now add a theme for your journey to make your staycation distinctly different. Dining With Distinction offer murder mystery, a comedy dinner, red rose dinner and even spirit or wine tasting on board. We highly recommend Agatha Christie fans to book the Murder Mystery Night and experience this award-winning event. The Murder Mystery event includes a welcome glass of fizz, a 2-hour 45-minute steam train ride through the Irwell Valley, a four-course meal and chocolates and Murder Mystery entertainment by the award-winning After Dark Murder Mystery Events.
How to book:
Explore the Dining With Distinction 2021 dates and book your unique experience aboard a locomotive today.
Where to stay:
Book an overnight stay at The Eagle And Child in Ramsbottom, Bury. With free WIFI throughout the hotel and complimentary breakfast hampers for each room, you’ll enjoy a warm, Northern welcome on arrival. The five boutique rooms are modern and well designed, with bespoke artwork by Fran Giffard. All rooms are en-suite, and there are also two suites with Juliette balconies and baths. A charming place to stay after a murder mystery locomotive experience.