17 June 2020
While COVID-19 is having a drastic impact on UK tourism, there is still plenty of news to be found. We’re doing our best to keep you updated, via various means, on some of the best examples of how tourism businesses in the destinations we represent are rising to the challenge.
#newsin30seconds
New England style, in Hampshire
Looking for a secluded country retreat for a spot of luxury social distancing with close family? Then this New England-style house, complete with private pool and five acres of grounds, is tailor-made for that ‘holiday villa’ break. Set on the edge of the South Downs National Park in Hampshire, Meon House sleeps up to 14 guests in seven bedrooms, and is flooded with natural light from its floor-to-ceiling windows.
Places to feel free again
Dreaming of enjoying those wide-open spaces? With so much uncertainty regarding overseas travel, the UK is set to be a popular choice when we are eventually allowed to travel again, but thankfully England has some spectacular open spaces where social distancing comes naturally. And for many of us, the chance to get outside, feel free again, and celebrate our revitalised love affair with nature and all things green, will be just the tonic after lockdown. So, here’s a round-up of some less well-known spots for a get-away-from-it-all, natural break.
Distillery school in good spirits for expansion
Staffordshire’s Nelson’s Distillery & School is set to expand its successful gin and vodka schools to three new locations, in addition to its current school. The school, at the distillery near Uttoxeter, offers a behind-the-scenes tour and a chance to take part in the art of gin-making. Hoping to fully re-open this summer, Nelson’s also has special offers on vouchers during June
An update from Hampshire’s Top Attractions
Here’s a link to keep an eye on for attractions opening again in Hampshire. It has been created by the “Hampshire’s Top Attractions” group; and it features details on which attractions are open, as well as highlighting any changes to their regular operations that may affect visitors.
New National Trust reserve in Lincolnshire
Plans for an all-year nature reserve as part of the Lincolnshire coastal country park have been revealed by the National Trust – its first coastal land acquired in the Midlands. A former golf course at Sandilands, between Sutton on Sea and Chapel St Leonards, will become a reserve to protect wildlife and create a new visitor experience (). Work cannot start yet, so check @NTSandilands on social media for updates.
A ‘secret gardens’ stay
For some post lockdown freedom while maintaining social distancing, how about exploring a historic ‘lost garden’ all to yourself? Part of the ‘Hidden England’ consortium of heritage sites, Lincolnshire’s Easton Walled Gardens is an ancient 12-acre garden restored after laying derelict for half a century. Those staying in the its self-catering accommodation have free access to the gardens during their stay. Open from July (restrictions permitting)
Enjoy a double gin in East Yorkshire
The Hooting Owl Distilleryproduces six distinctive gins. Proud Yorkshire folk, the owners seek-out botanicals that represent each of the Ridings and South Yorkshire. Meanwhile, Raisthorpe Manorin Thixendale uses traditional family recipes and water from the underwater streams from the Yorkshire Wolds infused with the finest ingredients to create their award-winning drinks.