Dorset has plenty to offer, from its Jurassic Coast and rock formations to stunning towns and castles.
So before you head down to the southwest England we wanted to give you some inspiration on places to visit and stunning sights to see. In order to put this list together we have searched all over Instagram and found some amazing images to help you start planning your trip.
Whether you are looking for an escape that’s for an occasion or just a break away for you and the family, we’re here to tell you why a Darwin Escapes break is for you!
From rural retreats to beachside breaks and everything in between, all of our resorts at Darwin Escapes can offer you exactly what you are looking for. But to help you make your decision on booking a holiday with us, we have listed below the top 10 reasons why a Darwin Escapes break is for you.
1.resorts across the UK
from the Cornish beaches to the Yorkshire Wolds
Here at Darwin Escapes we have 24 different resorts that range from Ayrshire in Scotland all the way down to Mullion in Cornwall. So no matter where you want to go in the UK we will definitely have a resort either in that exact location or a short drive from it. Each resort has something different to offer meaning that you will be able to find the perfect resort that suits you down to a T.
2. outstanding facilities
make the most of the pools, restaurants, spas, gyms…
Some of our resorts across the UK can offer you a range of facilities that will keep everyone entertained. Whether you are looking for a place to relax and rejuvenate or you want a resort that will have plenty of things to make memories with the kids we’ve got you covered. Most of our resorts will have at least one amazing facility from spas, swimming pools, restaurants, GoActive activities, gyms, golf courses, saunas, evening entertainment and more!
3.price ranges to suit all budgets
find the perfect escape at the perfect price
From luxurious couple escapes to family breaks in the holidays, we can offer you a range of different holiday types that will suit all budgets. At all of our resorts you have the choice to stay from 2 nights up to 7 nights! And each resort also has different accommodation types which will help you stick to the budget you may have. All of our resorts are open almost all year round too which means you can see which time of year works out best for you.
4. ideal for spending quality time together
cherish time with your loved ones
No matter what type of staycation you are planning you will be going with people you love. With a Darwin Escapes break you will have the perfect excuse to spend some quality time together. Most of the time when you are working etc. it can be hard to make sure you have quality time together so planning a break away like this is the best way to cherish time together.
5.perfect for all year round breaks
whether you are after winter escapes or summer breaks
A Darwin Escapes break is perfect all year round. You can enjoy a week long summer break, a winter escape or even getaway for Christmas. All our facilities, resorts and accommodation can cater for every season so whether you are with us in May or October we can ensure you will have the most amazing break away as a family, group of friends or couple.
6.activities for all
keep the kids entertained
In a handful of our resorts you will find that we have a GoActive team. Families of all ages will be able to stay entertained and have fun in a range of different activities that are on offer. You will find things like archery, fencing, raft building, sea scooters, body zorbs, water walkerz, snorkeling and more available during the week. You will also find things like parks and outdoor splash areas that are perfect for kids to spend time playing together!
7.makes the perfect base for exploring
discover more in the local area
The best thing about a Darwin Escapes break is that it makes the perfect base for exploring. You can decide an area in the UK you want to explore and we can almost guarantee that you will find one of our resorts not far from there. So enjoy some quality time together with outdoor adventures exploring the local area and beyond whilst knowing you’ve got a welcoming resort to head back to.
8.unique and luxurious accommodation
from treehouses to lodges, caravans to hotels
We have said this plenty of times already but a Darwin Escapes break can really offer something for everyone. All of our accommodation options are unique, clean and make a great base for your staycation. Whether you are after a luxurious lodge with an open plan living-diner area, want a couple’s escape in a unique treehouse or want to wake up next to the beach in a beach hut. We know we have the holiday accommodation to suit everyone in all of our resorts.
9.there doesn’t need to be an occasion to get away
enjoy an escape simply to unwind and re-charge
There is no need to justify why you are wanting to book a staycation. Wanting a change of scenery is enough of a reason to plan your next get away. Of course if there is an occasion coming up it makes a great excuse to plan an escape but you never need one with Darwin Escapes!
10.no pet gets left behind
pet friendly accommodation at most of our resorts
Darwin Escapes can offer you a huge range of pet friendly holidays across the UK. So whether you are wanting to enjoy countryside walks or relaxing on a beach we have plenty of pet friendly accommodation options to cater for all. No holiday is complete without including your four-legged member of the family.
Darwin Escapes can provide you with the perfect holiday escape as well as providing you with the chance to own your own holiday home at one of our incredible resorts.
Enjoy exploring the rugged county on the southwestern tip of England. With stunning beaches and wild moorlands throughout the peninsula.
Cornwall has so many things to see and do it can be hard narrowing it down to decide where to head during your time there. So we are here to give you a helping hand in doing exactly that. Using our research we have put together the ultimate list of things to do in Cornwall, they are perfect for kids, couples, families of all ages and groups of friends. Have a read and see which you’d like to add to your list for next time you’re down in Cornwall.
Eden Project
Bodelva, Par, PL24 2SG
The Eden Project is an eco-visitor attraction in Cornwall and is an educational charity. The unique Biomes and outdoor gardens cover around 30 acres and if you explore it all it will take around 4 hours. All across the site there are different facilities which make exploring the Eden Project memorable. They have so many things to do and explore like the Rainforest Biome, Mediterranean Biome, Invisible Worlds exhibition, outdoor gardens and more.
The Minack Theatre, Porthcurno, Penzance, TR19 6JU
The world-famous Minack Theatre is located in Cornwall, an impressive open-air theatre that is constructed into a granite cliff overlooking the incredible Porthcurno Bay. Although this theatre looks like it was built by the ancient Greeks it was only built less than 10 years ago! They have a range of different live performances throughout the year so make sure you check out what’s on during your time in Cornwall. Even if you don’t want to watch anything it’s a site that you will still want to see.
Located on the peninsula of Tintagel Island you will find Tintagel Castle, a medieval fortification sat right on the clifftops of the rugged island. To get onto the island there is an impressive bridge that you have to walk across as the entrance to the 13th century castle. Whilst you are in the area you could also explore Merlin’s Cave, located in the cliffs beneath the castle. It’s a 330 foot long sea cave that has been formed by erosion and it stretches all the way from one side of the island to the other so you can walk straight through it!
This country house and estate is the perfect place to explore if you want to learn more about Victorian life. You will be able to get a glimpse into the life of servants along with how the luxurious family lived. And the large wooded estate has plenty of gardens, woodlands, riverside paths and off road cycle trails that you can explore. Lanhydrock House and Garden is a stunning place to go for a day in Cornwall.
Located in St Ives, Porthmeor Beach is the perfect place to go if you want to enjoy blue waters, sandy beaches and lunch at trendy cafes that are not far from the beach. It’s an extremely popular beach for swimmers and surfers but many come to enjoy a picnic on the sand and enjoying the warm weather in the summer months. If you are visiting St Ives it’s definitely worth having a wonder down to Porthmeor Beach for a few hours.
Lappa Valley
St Newlyn East, Newquay, TR8 5LX
An attraction that is perfect for families with children, Lappa Valley can provide you with plenty of fun things to do in their secret valley in the Cornish countryside. There is a boating lake, crazy golf, adventure play park, indoor play area and a range of steam trains that you can enjoy a ride on. There is also a café at Lappa Valley serving a range of hot and cold meals, drinks and snacks for all. And at the end of the day you have to stop at the gift shop and have a look around at the things for sale.
There is something for everyone at The Hidden Valley Discovery Park which makes it a great place to head if you are away with your family and want to keep everyone entertained. There are a range of puzzle trails that you can explore to find your way to the Forbidden Mansion. On the way you will also have to look out for the miniature railway that goes through the gardens. And in The Hidden Valley Discovery Park there is also a maze that you can try and work your way around.
An amusement park located in South Cornwall which will make the best family fun day out whilst you’re in the area. At Flambards Theme Park there are over 25 different rides to suit all ages from the western mine train to the sky swinger and there are also different exhibitions throughout the year too. You can also enjoy some food whilst your there at their café or Ferdi’s Burger Bar, or there are plenty of picnic benches and open grass areas where you can bring and eat your own food.
South West Coast Path Walk – Mullion Cove to Lizard Point and Village
Mullion Cove, TR12 7EP
Cornwall is known for its breath taking views and stunning clifftops so why not enjoy both during the South West Coast Path Walk? The walk starts at Mullion Cove and continues mainly along clifftops until you eventually get to the Lizard Peninsula. It’s the perfect walk to enjoy even with dogs as you go past various beaches and pubs that welcome dogs. This can be a full day activity as you can stop and start as many times as you like to take in all the sites and views that come with the walk.
The Cornish Seal Sanctuary rehabilitates over 70 seal pups that have been rescued for different reasons each season! And you can visit the Sanctuary and experience the new life for these rescues and learn about all of their stories and where they came from. At the Sanctuary you will find grey seals, common seals, Humboldt penguins, southern sea lions, beavers and paddock animals like ponies, goats and sheep!
The thing that makes the Lizard Lighthouse so distinctive is the two towers on either end of the building. This lighthouse symbolises the most southerly point of mainland Britain and is open for tours throughout the year. If you are around this area we would definitely recommend booking onto a tour to learn more about this iconic landmark in Cornwall. Within the tour you are able to climb to the top of the Lighthouse and take in all the breath taking views.
Fistral Beach
Newquay, Cornwall, TR7 1HY
Known for being the home of British Surfing, Fistral Beach is the perfect place to go even if you aren’t a surfer! There is a huge International Surfing Centre that was built in 2003 which has various restaurants, retail outlets and more inside. There are also a range of events that are hosted here each year like Boardmaster’s and Europe’s largest surf and skate festival! So whether you are after a day at the beach or you want to get involved in some beach activities Fistral Beach will definitely keep everyone entertained.
Spread across 13 acres, Newquay Zoo has a range of different animals that you can view and learn about. Discover hundreds of the world’s most amazing animals, living among beautiful gardens at Newquay Zoo. One of Cornwall’s most exciting visitor attractions in the heart of Newquay, it’s a place to roam, discover, learn and get in touch with nature. There are 3 different cafes and restaurants available that you can takeaway food from and enjoy whilst you’re at the zoo.
If you are looking for a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of general life then you will love The Japanese Garden in Newquay, Cornwall. It is the perfect space for calming the mild and taking in the stunning views of the authentic Japanese garden. The garden was created by Robert & Stella who passed it on to their daughter Natalie and her partner Stuart when they retired. They are open from March to October each year.
One of the finest and oldest Grade II listed buildings in Bude, you will find the castle nestled near the sand dunes of Summerleaze Beach. The castle is also located at the side of the Bude Canal. Built in 1830 you can imaging there is a lot of history behind this building and today it is The Castle, Bude’s Heritage Centre where you will find art galleries, a café, shop and exhibition spaces inside.
The past 2 years have shown us how popular staycations have been for everyone in the UK, and 2022 will be no different.
With uncertainty still floating around about holidaying abroad it makes sense to enjoy all that the UK has to offer by booking a staycation for 2022. There are so many options that you can choose from when planning your UK break and there is always something to suit everyone – whether you are with family, friends, couples or pets! Keep reading to find out why we think staycations are here to stay in 2022 and our top picks for a range of different people.
why are staycations so popular?
From a survey carried out by Hoseasons in 2021, 83% of British travellers say they would book another UK break again next year. Of course this is due to the pandemic but from this more and more Brits have realised how good it is to have a staycation instead of going abroad. So it looks like the staycation boom is here to stay in 2022 for a number of different reasons. They are convenient and usually a lot more affordable than going abroad. They are also better for the environment and economy and they give you the chance to explore the country that you live in!
why is a staycation important?
Staycations have become extremely important as they help the economy massively. Especially the local economy of where you will be staying. Along with helping the economy they also guarantee peace of mind meaning you can really look forward to your holiday knowing you are staying in the UK. They also give you a lot more time to relax and explore the area you are staying in as there is less you have to plan usually when staying in the UK.
our top picks for 2022 staycations
perfect for walkers and explorers
Rivendale Lodge Retreat
Enjoy exploring The Peak District whilst using the stunning Rivendale Lodge Retreat as your base. With treehouses and lodges available you can enjoy time together in your spacious self-catering accommodation. If you love walks, hikes and cycling you will be able to explore and discover all the best trails in the area like the famous Tissington Trail!
Sometimes with a staycation you just want to sit back, relax and use this time as an escape from day to day life. And that is exactly what you can do at Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa, with the spa on site you will be able to enjoy a range of amazing treatments and facilities there. It’s also a great place for families with an outdoor splash zone and swimming pool.
All types of families will find the perfect escape at Cheddar Woods Resort & Spa. This pet-friendly resort has everything to keep the family entertained. You’ll find an indoor heated swimming pool, Go Active activities along with a two-lane bowling alley and the Eden Spa where parents can enjoy a massage or facial.
Whether there is an occasion or not, Beach Cove makes the perfect escapes for couples of all ages. Enjoy the views of the cove below and chill out in the hot tub in your premier lodge or explore the local area with your four legged friend. The lodges are all self-catering with kitchen facilities and a fully fitted bedroom.
Our Kilnwick Percy Resort offers you a place where you can enjoy the fresh air, put all your stresses aside and relax. With a golf course set in 120 acres, a stunning Glasshouse Restaurant and spa treatments available this resort would be perfect for golf lovers and people who just want to relax. Each lodge also has a hot tub that you can use during your stay.
This year you will be able to watch Birmingham Hippodrome’s first pantomime since 2019, Goldilocks and the Three Bears!
Over the past couple of years we have been partners with Birmingham Hippodrome and sponsored a range of their shows and pantomimes that they have hosted in the past. (Read more about our partnerships) This year we are sponsoring their Goldilocks and the Three Bears pantomime that runs from Saturday 18 December 2021 to Sunday 30 January 2022.
There are many big names in the cast like Jason Donovan who will be playing the Evil Ringmaster, Matt Slack as the Ringmaster, Doreen Tipton as Doreen the Lion Tamer, Andrew Ryan as Dame Betty Barnum, Alexia McIntosh as Candy Floss and Samantha Dorrance as Goldilocks!
As well as this amazing headline cast there will also be an amazing line-up of circus acts throughout the pantomime. This means that Goldilocks and the Three Bears is the first circus-themed pantomime at Birmingham Hippodrome for 24 years!
We thought it would be a great idea to ask Samantha Dorrance who plays Goldilocks some questions about holidaying in the UK to learn a little more about Samantha. And from her answers we have chosen the best Darwin Escapes resort.
Name: Samantha Dorrance
Which area of the UK is your favourite place to book a staycation?
St Ives
When searching for a (UK) holiday – what’s the first thing you look for?
Sea view and balcony! Preferably with a bakery close by so I can pick up some fresh bread for breakfast!
What would you never forget to pack?
My very over the top sunglasses.
What is the main thing you want to do during a staycation?
I love to have variety on holiday but sunny beach days and a lovely town or city to potter about in (with plenty of independent restaurants and coffee shops) would have to be my main two needs.
If you booked a self-catering lodge, would you cook every night or eat out?
If our budget allowed it, I’d choose to eat out every night but one. I think it’s nice to have one evening towards the end of the holiday where you stay in and just be cosy together.
Please tell us which of the options below you would opt for during your perfect getaway, based on your answers you will be matched to your ideal Darwin Escapes resort.
This or That?
Sunrise or Sunset
Beers or Cocktails
Woodland Walks or Beach Walks
Dinner for 2 or Big Family Dinner
Fish & Chips or Afternoon Tea
History or Scenery
Spa Treatment or Adventurous Activity – ER, BOTH!
Lodge or Caravan
Hot Tub or Power Shower
Last Minute Deal or Long Holiday Countdown – (MORE EXCITING!)
One of the main reasons people go on holiday is to relax, unwind and escape from reality.
With The Springs Resort & Golf Club that is exactly what you will be able to do. With hotel rooms, hotel lodges and self-catering lodges with hot tubs you will be spoilt for choice on where you lay your head at night. But to go with the unique accommodation offerings we also have plenty of facilities to enjoy during your time at our beautiful resort.
One of the facilities we are most excited about is the 1893 Spa located in The Springs. Here you can indulge in everything from a massage to hand and foot treatment, a dip in the hydrotherapy pool or even just something as simple as relaxing in the sauna. We wanted to dedicate this blog to the incredible 1893 spa. Have a browse through the images below that showcase every little detail that has been put together to make it the most relaxing place at the resort.
If you like the look of the spa then you will definitely like the rest of The Springs Resort & Golf Club. We can provide you with the most perfect holiday for any occasion all year round.
The Springs Resort & Spa has been open for a few weeks now and we wanted to catch up with the interior guru behind the interior design.
We have worked with Harriet Lazzeri from Lazzeri Creative Interiors before when we were opening our stunning Rivendale Lodge Retreat. And earlier this year Rivendale was nominated in the Restaurant & Bar Design Awards 2021. So when we were designing The Springs we knew Harriet would be the perfect match for creating the most stunning rooms and bringing the stunning Tudor-style house back to life. Now that The Springs is open we have caught up with Harriet and asked some questions about all things interior design.
1. Who are you and what do you do?
I am Harriet Lazzeri; Interior Designer and Owner of Lazzeri Creative Interiors, Part-Time Interior Design Lecturer at De Montfort University, and Professional cocktail drinker😊
I live near Nottingham with my partner, stepdaughter and Border Terrier puppy Chewi.
2. When did you start to have an interest in interior design?
Initially it was all about Architecture for me – from about aged 12 I used to spend hours designing houses for myself and family. I went to uni in Liverpool to study Architecture, but after graduating I worked in a few Architecture practises and realised I was more interested in what was going on inside the buildings; how people used and moved through the spaces and how they made them feel.
So from that point on I redirected slightly to Interiors and joined a small company in Birmingham who specialised in office interiors, and have never looked back. I think the faster pace also appealed to me – some Architecture projects can take years just to get through planning whereas most Interior projects are finished much more quickly.
3. When did you start your company?
It was back in February 2018. I had moved from Birmingham to Nottingham about 6 months previously and was hating the commute back to Birmingham each day, which was taking me about 2 hours each way with all of the traffic. I had moved to Nottingham to move in with my partner and I felt like I saw him less! The company I worked for then made some redundancies in the wake of the Brexit vote and it just made sense for me to go – I worked freelance for them for a few months while I got the business up and running and it has gone from strength to strength.
4. What was your first impression of The Springs when you visited?
My first impression was that it had so much potential to be a really stunning space and how forlorn it looked all empty and fenced off.
It had such great bones with the ornate panelling, the high ceilings, the sweeping staircase and that amazing view over the millpond, but it was covered in mould and graffiti and unfortunately had damage from people breaking in. There was no electricity so walking around the basement using our phone lights and stepping over dead pigeons was an interesting experience!!
As soon as I walked around I was so excited to get back to the office and start designing, to bring the building back to its former glory.
5. Did you learn anything interesting about The Springs or the local area when researching?
So many things! And we have tried to feature or mention as many references as we could throughout the Reception building and the Clubhouse. The now Spa Reception features the only known replica of the ceiling in the Scottish hunting lodge of King James 1.
The first owner who commission the construction of the building was a diplomat called Sir Alexander Condie Stephen – he was feature in Vanity Fair magazine (you can see the portrait up on the First Floor landing). The second owner, Sir John Wormald, owned the company that invented the sprinkler system. He was hugely philanthropic within the nearby village of North Stoke and is held in high regard.
It was bought and converted into a hotel in 1973 by Ian Gillan the lead singer of Deep Purple, who also commissioned the guitar shaped swimming pool (unfortunately this had to be filled in!) The famous contralto Opera singer Dame Clara Butt lived nearby – the Willow Warbler suite is themed around her. Agatha Christie lived and wrote in nearby Wallingford. Rowse Honey are also based in nearby Wallingford.
6. What was the main inspiration for The Springs décor?
The design intent for the Springs encompassed a few things – it needed to celebrate the history and features of the building and feel like a country house again, but with a modern and quirky twist and some eclectic features.
I wanted the Bedroom Suites to all have their own identity – as they all have different sizes, shapes, windows and ceilings etc. it made sense that they weren’t all based on the same scheme, that some are more airy and others more cosy. I also thought it was important that whilst some elements were traditional, other areas were a bit of a surprise like the black basement corridor to the treatment rooms.
7. How did you incorporate golf into the designs?
Although there are some references to golf in the artwork in the building, the main golf items are in the Clubhouse. We felt it was important that the building be slightly separate in style from the golf theme as there may be suite or lodge guests who were more interested in other things such as walking, the countryside, the spa, nearby attractions etc. who we didn’t want to alienated by it being overly golf themed.
The Clubhouse has the Spike Bar which is very much designed around golf with lots of golf themed artwork, balls and clubs on display, with the rest of the building having more subtle nods to golf – a repeated texture is perforated panels used on the feature staircase chandelier and the counter front of the pro shop which references the pattern on a golf ball, and many of the other lighting pieces feature illuminated globes to emulate golf balls. Also look out for the feature golf ball display coffee table.
8. What was your inspiration for the pool décor specifically? It’s very outdoor/indoor type feel with the wallpaper
The theme behind the pool interior scheme is “ethereal nature”- with the misty tree mural, the view of the woods through the beautiful bay window and the timber slatted wall cladding I wanted guests to feel like they could be swimming in a clearing in a forest somewhere. We wanted to blur the lines between outside and inside, and create a feeling of being surrounded by nature.
9. What was your inspiration for the 1893 Spa?
For the Spa I was keen that we didn’t go down the route of Buddha’s and Lotus flowers as the spa is in an English country house and it didn’t feel very authentic. With the stunning Chiltern Hills and The Ridgeway as inspiration the design is centred around nature, combined with accentuating the existing beautiful period features such as the panelling and ceiling of the Spa Reception and Lounge, and using subtle references to period design with the Regency style teal paint and traditional crystal chandelier.
There are references to local flora and fauna throughout, with woodland scenes and natural timber finishes. Utilising the panelling in the Spa Lounge with feature wallpaper inserts creates a feeling of a traditional Victorian orangery, with beautiful views over the Millpond where the Springs got its name!
10. How much did the size of the bedrooms influence your bold colour choices?
Very much so! With some of them being quite small rooms we knew they needed to have a big impact and be full of quirky features. Some of the best hotels in cities around the world that have smaller bedrooms are so successful because they are bold with their designs. By using feature wallpapers and bold paintwork combined with stunning tiles in the bathrooms creates a luxurious feel, full of talking points.
11. How does it feel to see your designs come to life?
It’s one of my favourite parts of a project! There is always a slightly nerve wracking period where you question decisions but seeing it all come together in real life is worth the stress!
12. If you could only choose one of the rooms you designed which would you choose?
Ooh that’s a tough one. Surprisingly one of my favourite rooms is the basement Relaxation Room – with timber slats on the walls, monochromatic tree wallpaper, draped curtains for privacy between the loungers and the warming fireplace it feels cosy and intimate and the perfect place for a snooze after a relaxing massage.
Why not come to The Springs Resort & Golf Club and see how Harriet designed all of the rooms. Relax and unwind in the spa or enjoy a bite to eat at The Ridgeway Restaurant.
We are proud to say that our stunning Rivendale Lodge Retreat is a finalist in the Mixology North21 Project of the Year.
Mix Interiors is the leading magazine for UK commercial interior design and each year they have various different awards for things like flooring, loose furniture etc. And this year we are one of the finalists for the Mixology North21 Project of the Year – Bar & Leisure Interiors. The winners are revealed at the Mixology North21 Awards on 9th December 2021.
To create and design what Rivendale is known for today we partnered with NBDA Architects and Lazzeri Creative Interiors. Together they created a welcoming, relaxing and beautiful space where people can enjoy a bite to eat, something to drink or just a place to sit and chat. From the living green wall behind reception to the most beautiful toilets we think we have ever saw! Have a scroll through the images below to see why we are finalists in the Mixology North21 Awards.
Why not come and see the beautiful Rivendale Lodge Retreat yourself and book an escape away?
The Springs Resort & Golf Club can provide you with everything you need and more in the English countryside.
Located in Wallingford, Oxfordshire amongst the glorious countryside, The Springs Resort & Golf Club houses a spa, restaurant, golf club and more to keep you entertained during your stay. Whether you just want to relax and unwind in this stunning Tudor-style house or you want to use it as a base for exploring the area, there are so many reasons why The Springs is the perfect get away for you; below we have listed a few of those reasons. No matter who you are and what you want to do during your stay you will be able to enjoy the most perfect escape here.
facilities for you to take advantage of
Within The Springs hotel you will find some amazing facilities that you can take advantage of during your stay. One of the most popular being The Ridgeway Restaurant, throughout the décor you will be able to find hints of golf, the hidden history of the house and large windows that showcase the stunning grounds. There is also a fully-equipped gym that will provide you with everything you could need for a full body workout.
The Springs can offer you the best of both worlds, it caters for groups that want hotel rooms and groups that want lodges. Our hotel rooms offer both twin and double bedroom options and all have an en-suite and vanity area. Relax and unwind in luxury and take in the views of the golf course from your bedroom window. We also have a lodge-style hotel suite that can really offer you the best of both worlds. And if you are looking for a longer stay there are also our self-catering lodges with fully-fitted kitchens.
Looking for a place to relax and unwind? The 1893 Spa at The Springs will provide you with exactly that. We have fully trained therapists who are there to give you the most perfect treatment from pedicures to massages and everything in between. The stunning reception will instantly make you relaxed with its warm and welcoming décor. Along with the peaceful treatment rooms and relaxing hydrotherapy pool. Sit on the beds at the side of the pool or soak in the heat with the underwater beds and seating areas.
To get to Oxford from The Springs it is only a 28 minute drive and exactly 15 miles away. There are so many different things you could do around Oxfordshire during your time with us. Especially in Oxford city centre, from the museums to the Harry Potter tours you will definitely find something to suit everyone. To give you some more inspiration we have a linked our blog below on a range of different things to do in Oxfordshire.
For all the golfers out there the main thing that would attract you here would be the amazing golf course. It runs alongside the River Thames and is 133-acres of parkland. Whether you are a pro or just starting out on your golf journey it’s the perfect course for everyone. As well as the golf course itself we also have a clubhouse, golf shop and practice facilities that all can use! There is also an option to become a member here, follow the link to our sister site to learn more about golf at The Springs.
As you know already, The Springs is based in Oxfordshire but there are so many amazing nature reserves located around the area. Warburg Nature Reserve which is 24 mins away and the stunning Cotswolds is only an hour drive away from the resort. These are only 2 from the large list of other amazing nature reserves too where you can really explore the amazing countryside that surrounds Oxfordshire.
The Springs Resort & Golf Club really is the perfect get away for anyone and can provide you with a huge variety of things to keep everyone entertained.
No matter what time of year you are around Oxfordshire, a trip to one of these nature reserves will always go down well.
Scattered all around Oxfordshire you will find so many protected areas of importance that have been made into beautiful nature reserves. So whether you are looking for somewhere to enjoy a country walk or you just want to explore the local wildlife and plants you will be able to do so in Oxfordshire. To make things easier for you we thought we’d do all the research and put together a list of large and smaller nature reserves that are near and around Oxfordshire below.
large nature reserves near Oxfordshire
Cotswolds AONB
Covering almost 800 square miles, The Cotswolds covers a huge area of England and is the largest AONB in England. Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire and Worcestershire are all covered within the Cotswolds. Throughout this area you will find quaint and unique villages with stone buildings along with market towns that are always busy. And there are also plenty of quieter places you can head to if you want to take in the views of the countryside and enjoy a walk. There are over 3,000 miles of footpaths that you can explore so you will be spoilt for choice with all the walks within the Cotswolds.
Our Springs Resort & Golf Club is located inside the stunning Chilterns AONB. Covering around 324 square miles and covers the counties Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire. It was designated as an AONB in 1965 and has some of the most incredible landscapes. Whether you are wanting to walk through one of the many woodlands that are located in The Chilterns AONB or learn more about the Chalk Streams and the history behind this area. You will find that there is something for everyone and you will all enjoy your time exploring this beautiful part of England.
The North Wessex Downs was designated as an AONB in 1972 and is 670 square miles making it the third largest AONB in England. The area covers the counties Berkshire, Hampshire, Oxfordshire and Wiltshire. All around the North Wessex Downs you will be able to find chalk streams, woodlands, river valleys, ancient monuments and beautiful historic towns and villages that are waiting for you to explore. There are also a great range of long distance walking routes if you are wanting to spend the day on foot taking in all the incredible views of the area.
This tranquil nature reserve is located right in the heart of Didcot and is open to visitors all year round. There is no car park at the nature reserve but you can park carefully and considerately around the residential area nearby. There is a pond and wildflower meadow that was sown in 2001 and has become a haven for over 200 different species!
Although CS Lewis Nature Reserve is located right near the A40 and is surrounded by houses you will be able to enjoy a peaceful and tranquil experience here. With a woodland and large pond that previously belonged to Oxford author CS Lewis. He has said that he enjoyed going here when writing his book series about Narnia!
Enjoy a half mile walk around the reserve all year round. The Dry Sandford Pit Nature Reserve is the perfect place to visit if you want to see some honeycombed cliffs, flowery fen, and take in all the views on the circular walk. If you look carefully in the cliffs, you may find some visible fossils from creatures dating back to the Jurassic era.
The Asham Meads Nature Reserve is made up of 3 damp meadows, a pond, hedges, a scrub and an oak plantation that dates back to the 1930s. Enjoy the vast grasslands as you explore the nature reserve. This area is also really popular with rare butterflies so you will want to keep your eye out for these during your time at Asham Meads Nature Reserve.
If you want a nature reserve you can enjoy a walk through no matter what the weather then Heyford Meadow Nature Reserve will be perfect. With a board walk that provides you with access over the wetter areas all year round you can take in all the views and the wildlife that live here. Oxfordshire’s County flower is called The Snake’s Head Fritillary and you can see the purple flower alongside the board walk when they are in bloom.
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