Summer is fast approaching, and that means you might be starting to think about booking your last-minute staycation. If you want a getaway with a difference, you may decide to avoid the usual hotels and Airbnbs and look for something slightly more leftfield.
From a floating lighthouse and a windmill to “Rosie” the gypsy wagon, we have you covered.
Keep reading for your rundown of five quirky staycation destinations perfect for your 2026 UK summer break.
1. LV14 SULA Lightship, Gloucestershire
Moored at Gloucester Docks, the LV14 SULA is a lightship – or floating lighthouse – that was in service for more than a quarter of a century. Having been decommissioned in 1985, it has since been renovated. It then made the near-200-mile journey from the Humber Estuary to the historic city of Gloucester.
The lightvessel now sleeps four, with one king-size bedroom, one double bedroom, and a bathroom. You’ll also find a kitchen-diner and a cosy seating area with access to the decks, perfect for enjoying an evening drink this summer.
Explore the busy docks, visit the city’s cathedral, or use the lightship as your gateway to the Cotswolds.
2. The Wheelwright’s Shop, Shropshire
This restored cabin from the 1840s sits within the 30-acre grounds of Walcot Hall, which itself sits within the Shropshire Hills area of outstanding natural beauty.
Low ceilings, original timber beams, and mottled walls are complemented by upcycled antiques and modern touches to create a unique experience that is like stepping back in time.
The central open-plan living area opens out onto a beautiful garden perfect for reading, quiet introspection, or enjoying a morning coffee.
Sleeping four, the main double bedroom is on the mezzanine floor, while a double sofa bed in the living space provides flexibility. It was also featured on Channel 4’s ‘Extraordinary Escapes with Sandy Toksvig’.
Just 20 miles northwest of Ludlow near the Welsh border, you might visit the 11th-century Ludlow Castle or Hay-on-Wye, the so-called “town of books”.
3. The Windmill, Oxfordshire
Formerly known as the East Mill, this Grade II-listed building dates back to the 17th century. The thoughtful renovation combines original features and modern flourishes and provides 360-degree views over three counties.
It sleeps four, has two bathrooms, and has previously been selected as one of the UK’s best stays by The Times.
Expect bare brick walls coupled with clean white lines, the latest modern conveniences, and a beautiful spiral staircase. You’ll also find a private lawn on the roof terrace, a perfect spot to watch the sun set.
Nearby are Bicester Village, the historic city of Oxford, and Warwick Castle.
4. Haldon Belvedere, Devon
A little further afield, you’ll find Lawrence Castle – or Haldon Belvedere – an 18th-century building just six miles from Exeter that is Grade II* listed. One of Devon’s most famous landmarks, the Haldon Belvedere is now owned by Devon Historic Buildings Trust.
The top floor of the castle (or folly) is nearly 250 metres above sea level and sleeps two. It could prove perfect for a romantic summer staycation.
Standing within five acres of beautiful woodland, the castle commands panoramic views over Dartmoor, Exmoor, and the River Exe valley.
Dartmoor National Park and the Jurassic Coast are nearby, but the beautiful interiors and modern conveniences of this unique property mean you might not want to leave.
5. “Rosie”, the gypsy wagon, Hampshire
At the other end of the scale from a 250-foot-high Georgian Castle is the more down-to-earth “Rosie”, a restored showman’s wagon from 1885.
Rosie offers the perfect glamping experience for two and can be found close to the beautiful coastal village of Milford-on-Sea in Hampshire.
The refurbishment of this iconic wagon wasn’t left to chance. Instead, the job of painting Rosie was entrusted to one of the last trained gypsy wagon painters in the country. The interior has likewise been lovingly considered to ensure a cosy and comfortable stay that is also the height of chic.
This genuine piece of history sits close to the New Forest, while Milford-on-Sea offers impressive views towards Christchurch Harbour and the Isle of Wight.
Get in touch
If you’re planning a summer getaway but need an independent financial adviser in Milton Keynes or Olney to help ensure it’s affordable, look no further.
At Jane Smith Financial Planning, we’ve been helping clients for 30 years, so contact us at info@janesmithfinancial.com or call 01234 713131 to see what we can do for you.
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