The UK’s truly Unforgettable Past

Welcome, fellow adventurers and seekers of the extraordinary, and the UK’s most unforgettable stays, where we visit the most haunting corners of the UK and tell their stories.

Join me on a journey of the UK’s most historic and haunting accommodation! dust off your torches and prepare your senses for a good dose of wonder (and perhaps a healthy dose of trepidation!), because we’re embarking on a brand-new journey.

This isn’t just about creaking floorboards and spectral whispers (though we’ll certainly touch upon those!). This is a comprehensive guide to experiencing the UK’s past in truly unforgettable ways. 

We’re talking about:

• Haunted Castles: Where history’s drama played out, and some residents never truly leave. We are so lucky today aren’t we?, as ordinary people to have access to beautiful castles, where once lived Kings and Queens, Lords or Ladies – where we are able visit and even stay the night. Lots of these historic heavies are still lived in by the same families who built them generations ago. They need so much upkeep that turning to the public to help with income is useful to their continued survival.

We will also visit………..

• Hauntingly Beautiful Wild Camping: Sleeping under celestial tapestries in places steeped in ancient folklore. If you’re looking for a bit of solitude, a deep connection to nature or a perfect escape – where you can listen to the forest noise or perhaps go to sleep when it gets dark and wake at the break of day; it might be time then to dust not only your torch but that tent down too!

• Stargazing Sanctuaries: Discovering the cosmos from the UK’s darkest, most ethereal landscapes. Being witness to the vastness of the sky – they say can promote a feeling of well-being; a sense of awe and wonder when looking at the immensity of it all, can not only leave you with a feeling of humility and perspective but somehow, rejuvenated.

• Hotels with a Historic Tale to Tell: From grand manors to ancient Inns; where every stone has a story. A connection to a legacy of luxury and service, These hotels often have a long-standing tradition of hospitality, sometimes even maintaining service standards that reflect their origins, offering a different, often more personalised, level of guest experience.

It’s all here in the UK, and I have found some of my own personal favourite places to stay as well as visit, eat, or drink at. In this blog I will walk you through some of its fascinating history and where there is a tale to tell I will tell it. 

Also guide you through some of the essentials of staying in some of the best accommodation the UK has to offer which will get you to your own favourite haunt.

It’s Just A British Thing

The last hotel I stayed in (a wonderful 17th century coaching Inn) had, at no extra cost, waiting for me in my room on arrival, an elegant antique glass decanter, half filled with a rich, ruby Malmsey wine; not only that; but also provided for my comfort a few homemade shortbread biscuits to go with this fine port! Just what a weary traveller on an eerie foggy, cold evening is looking for. 

Ready to transcend the ordinary and immerse yourself in the mystique of the UK? Well let’s begin.

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Content

1. Staying Overnight in Haunted UK Castles
2. Beautiful UK Camping and Star-gazing Nights
3. Hotels with an Historic Tale
4. Tips For an Historic and Haunting Stay
5. A Journey Through Time: The UK’s Accommodation Story
6. Uncover 5 Great Reasons to Stay in a Haunting or even Haunted Accommodation
7. 6 Good Reasons Why The UK Do Hotel Stays and Other Accommodation Better Than Anyone Else
8. Finding Your Perfect Historic Haunt: 5 Mini Spotlights
9. Something for the Grown-ups

Staying Overnight in Haunted UK Castles

Imagine waking within ancient stone walls, the echoes of centuries past whispering through the chambers. The UK is riddled with magnificent castles, many of which come with their own resident spirits and chilling tales. These aren’t just ruins; they’re living testaments to tumultuous histories, and for the brave, they offer an unparalleled overnight experience.

England’s Eerie Keeps

• Chillingham Castle, Northumberland: Often cited as “Britain’s Most Haunted Castle,” Chillingham lives up to its name. With a chilling past that includes torture chambers and executions, it’s no surprise that the castle boasts a plethora of reported apparitions, including the infamous “Blue Boy” and the “Radiant Boy.” You can actually book a stay in one of their historic apartments too – if you dare!

• Warwick Castle, Warwickshire: While not exclusively an overnight stay for the general public (though they do offer themed glamping and lodges), Warwick Castle’s rich history, from medieval sieges to Victorian grandeur, is ripe with spectral tales. Keep an eye out for the ghost of Sir Fulke Greville in the Watergate Tower.

Want to know more? Warwick Castle

• Amberley Castle, West Sussex: A luxurious hotel set within a stunning 900-year-old castle, Amberley is home to the ghost of a young serving girl named Emily, said to wander the ancient ramparts. Enjoy five-star comfort with a side of supernatural intrigue.

Want to book? Amberley Castle

• Lumley Castle, County Durham: This magnificent 14th-century castle, now a four-star hotel, is reportedly haunted by Lily Lumley, who was murdered within its walls. Guests have reported unexplained noises and cold spots. When I last stayed it was within the courtyard – was the thumping in the night noisy guests?!. The impressive line- up of Knights leading you to breakfast in the morning, continues to root you to the mysteries of the past throughout your stay.

Lumley Castle County Durham

Scottish Strongholds of the Supernatural

• Dalhousie Castle, Midlothian: Just outside Edinburgh, this 13th-century fortress, now a luxury hotel, is famously haunted by Lady Catherine, a lovelorn mistress said to roam the battlements. Guests have reported seeing her spectral form and feeling her presence. Dare you stay? If you are of a chilled nature, there are Spa facilities available. 

Want to stay? Dalhousie Castle

• Tulloch Castle Hotel, Dingwall, Scottish Highlands: This ancient castle, with origins dating back to the 12th century, has a long history of paranormal activity. Guests have reported ghostly girls in the children’s room and a shadowy figure in the Great Hall. It’s a truly atmospheric place to spend a night. For those looking for somewhere to stay which is full of Scottish character, well this is the place.

Want to stay? Tulloch Castle Hotel, Scotland

Dalhousie Castle Hotel – Scotland

• Borthwick Castle, Midlothian: One of Scotland’s best-preserved medieval strongholds, Borthwick was once a refuge for Mary Queen of Scots. While it’s now an exclusive-use venue, its history is dense with tales of sieges and intrigues, and whispers of its past residents linger. You can even get married here if you want to!

Want to know more? Borthwick Castle.

Wales’s Phantom Fortresses

• Ruthin Castle, Denbighshire: With a Drowning Pit and Whipping Pit in its past, Ruthin Castle has a truly dark history. The “Grey Lady” and the ghost of a knight are among the spirits said to inhabit this impressive 13th-century fortress, now a hotel and spa.

Want to stay? Ruthin Castle

• Craig-y-Nos Castle, Swansea Valley: Built by opera singer Adelina Patti, this Victorian Gothic castle is steeped in theatrical history and, naturally, ghost stories. Patti herself is said to haunt the theatre, and other spectral residents include former staff and even children. Are you looking for a posh Welsh bound wedding?

Want to know more? Weddings at Craig-y-Nos

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Hauntingly Beautiful Wild Camping & Stargazing Sites

For those who seek a different kind of immersion, the UK offers breathtaking landscapes perfect for wild camping and excellent stargazing. While not always always “haunted” in the traditional sense, these ancient, untouched places often carry the weight of folklore, myth, and the sheer awe of the universe, creating a profound and sometimes eerie connection to something far older than ourselves!

Wild & Whispering Landscapes (where permitted)

• Dartmoor, Devon, England: One of the few places in England where wild camping is legally permitted in designated areas. Dartmoor is famed for its rugged beauty, ancient stone circles, and a wealth of ghostly legends, including the Hairy Hands and the Whisht Hounds.

(Whist is a dialect word for ghostly or haunted). Sleeping on the open moor, under a vast sky, can be an intensely atmospheric experience.

• The Brecon Beacons, Wales: An International Dark Sky Reserve, the Brecon Beacons offer stunning landscapes and numerous opportunities for wild camping. Folklore speaks of ancient Welsh princes and mythical creatures inhabiting these hills, adding an extra layer of mystery and fun to your overnight adventure.

• The Scottish Highlands & Islands: Wild camping is generally permitted throughout Scotland, provided you follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. HERE

Imagine pitching your tent by a lonely loch, nestled amongst ancient mountains, perhaps in a glen with a known history of Jacobite skirmishes or faerie encounters. Places like Glen Coe or the remote parts of the Isle of Skye offer profound solitude and a deep connection to the wild.

Glen Coe – A view from the summit of the Devils Staircase

Stargazing Sanctuaries (with nearby accommodation options)

• Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, England: The largest area of protected night sky in Europe, covering Northumberland National Park and most of Kielder Water & Forest Park. This is a stargazer’s paradise. While wild camping might be restricted, there are numerous cozy cabins and lodges nearby, some even with stargazing roofs, allowing you to witness the Milky Way, meteor showers, and distant galaxies in unparalleled clarity.

Want to stay? The Cookie Jar at Alnwick is Pet Friendly Here

Side Note – Alnwick Castle has been owned by the Percy family since 1309!

• Galloway Forest Park, Dumfries & Galloway, Scotland: The UK’s first Dark Sky Park. This sprawling forest offers incredible stargazing opportunities. Campsites and lodges within and around the park provide perfect bases for your celestial explorations.

Want to stay? Galloway Forest Park

• Exmoor National Park, Devon/Somerset, England: Europe’s first International Dark Sky Reserve. Exmoor boasts incredibly dark skies, and local accommodations often cater to stargazers, with some even offering telescopes for guest use. The ancient moorland itself feels timeless under a blanket of stars.

Want to stay? Exmoor National Park

• Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park, Wales: Another designated International Dark Sky Reserve. The dramatic peaks and valleys of Snowdonia provide a spectacular backdrop for observing the night sky. While strict wild camping rules apply, numerous remote cottages and campsites are available, allowing you to experience the awe of the cosmos.

Want to stay? Snowdonia National Park

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Hotels with an Historic Tale

Sometimes, the charm of a historic stay lies not in overt hauntings, but in the palpable sense of history embedded in the very fabric of the building. These hotels, Inns, and unique accommodations have witnessed centuries of human drama, love, loss, and transformation, offering a captivating backdrop for your UK escape.

From Coaching Inns to Grand Estates

• The Mermaid Inn, Rye, East Sussex, England: Dating back to the 12th century, this iconic Inn is famed for its secret passages used by smuggling gangs and its numerous resident ghosts. Guests have reported seeing figures in period clothing, hearing whispers, and experiencing strange phenomena. Its timber-framed rooms and atmospheric bar are a journey back in time.

• The Langham, London, England: While a grand and luxurious hotel, The Langham is reputedly one of London’s most haunted. With tales of a German prince, a butler, and even Emperor Napoleon III, Room 333 is particularly active. A truly elegant stay with a spectral twist.

• The Old Bell Hotel, Malmesbury, Wiltshire, England: Claiming to be England’s oldest hotel, dating back to 1220, The Old Bell Hotel has hosted kings and queens. Its medieval origins and long history are palpable, with many guests reporting unexplained events and a general feeling of ancient presences.

• The Shard, London, England (Contemporary History): While not “haunted” in the traditional sense, The Shard offers a unique perspective on London’s layered history. From its soaring height, you can trace the city’s ancient origins, from the winding river Thames to its many famous historic landmarks, offering a modern way to contemplate centuries of development. It’s a testament to how even contemporary structures can connect us to history.

• Bodmin Jail Hotel, Cornwall, England: A truly unique offering, this boutique hotel is set within the historic Bodmin Jail. Transformed from a dark past into a luxurious present, it allows guests to sleep within the original cell blocks. While the spirits of former inmates are certainly a talking point, the sheer historical significance of the building itself makes for an unforgettable stay. I stayed here once and didn’t get a wink of sleep. Getting your money’s worth either by ‘feeling’ the vibrations of the building or a comfy bed; well that’s up to you.

At over 900 years old this pub in Wales has been offering travellers hospitality for a very long time.

• The Drovers Inn, Arrochar, Scotland: An 18th-century coaching Inn on the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond, The Drovers Inn is renowned for its character and its many resident ghosts, including a headless drover. It’s a pub and hotel where history truly comes alive (and perhaps bumps in the night).

• The Skirrid Mountain Inn, Abergavenny, Wales: Believed to be the oldest pub in Wales, dating back to at least 1100, the Skirrid Mountain Inn has a truly grisly past as a former courthouse and site of numerous hangings. It’s considered one of the most haunted Inns in the UK, with reports of spectral figures, moving objects, and disembodied voices. If you are ever there I dare you to find the painting of the young lady who won’t take her eyes off you!

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Tips for a Historic & Haunting Stay -Planning Your Ethereal Escape

Planning stuff to me has always been a bit boring, I am not one to overly enjoy planning things – I’m more of one of those ‘just go with it’ types. However when I do plan things I usually have a better time, and if I want to at the last minute change my plan, I have got something to change rather than not having a choice.

• Book in Advance: Especially for popular haunted locations or unique historic stays, demand can be high. The most captivating and historic places, especially those with unique stories or limited rooms, get snapped up fast., especially at certain times of the year, think Autumn, that’s always popular with people wanting to make the most of Halloween and Celtic festival celebrations like Samhain (pronounced Sou-win) – this is a time (31st Oct – 1st Nov) when the physical world and the spiritual world is at its thinnest and communication is heightened.

• Do Your Research: Each location has its own specific tales and atmosphere. Decide what kind of experience you’re looking for – a subtle historic charm or a full-on ghost hunt.  Do you dream of hushed grandeur and polite spectres, or are you craving a truly spine-tingling ghost hunt? Each place has its own distinct personality. 

• Respect the History: These places are a bit like living museums. Treat them with respect and appreciate the stories they hold. I have been on hen-do’s before and enjoyed it but when you are seeking a more profound visit these parties can be annoying.

• Embrace the Atmosphere: Whether it’s a chilling castle or a tranquil dark sky reserve, lean into the unique ambiance. Turn off your phone, listen to the quiet, and let your imagination roam.  Listen to the silence, or the wind, or the distant hoot of an owl. Let your imagination run wild. Who walked these halls? What secrets do these stones hold?

• Safety First (for wild camping): If considering wild camping, always adhere to local regulations and the principles of “Leave No Trace.” Check weather conditions, inform someone of your plans, and be prepared for all eventualities.

Want to know more? Leave no trace

• Pack Accordingly: For historic buildings, think layers as temperatures can vary. For stargazing and wild camping, warm clothing, headlamps, and appropriate gear are essential.

• Keep an Open Mind: You might not encounter a full-blown apparition, but the true magic of these places often lies in the feeling they evoke – a connection to a deeper, more mysterious past.  You might not even have a conversation with a ghost, but that’s okay. The real magic often lies in the feeling, the sense of connection to something ancient and profound. It’s about letting your senses open to the subtle whispers of time, the beauty of the landscape, and the enduring spirit of the UK.

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The UK is a treasure trove of places that blend history, beauty, and a touch of the unexplained. From the ancient stones that have witnessed centuries of human drama to the vast, star-dusted skies that humble us with their immensity, these accommodations offer more than just a bed for the night. They offer a journey into the soul of the UK and a chance to touch the past, and perhaps, to glimpse something truly extraordinary.

So, where will your next historic and haunting adventure take you? Share your own experiences and recommendations in the comments below! I’m always eager to discover more hidden gems.

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The UK’s Accommodation Story – A Journey Through Time

The story of accommodation in the UK is as rich and layered as its landscape, evolving from humble shelters to the grand establishments we see today. For millennia, human habitation was largely about survival. Think back to the Neolithic era – early Britons lived in simple wooden structures, roundhouses, or even in natural caves. These were the very first homes, deeply tied to the land and local resources.

A reconstructed Celtic Iron-age Roundhouse

Fast forward to the Roman era (43 AD onwards), and we start to see the glimmer of something more organised. Along their famous roads, “mansiones” – basic roadside inns – began to appear, offering weary travellers a place to rest and change horses. This was arguably the birth of the public lodging concept in Britain, I think they were actually quite friendly, these Romans!

The Anglo-Saxon period saw the rise of village life, and hospitality often meant a bed by the hearth in a local chieftain’s hall or the generosity of a stranger. Monasteries, too, became crucial havens for pilgrims and travellers, offering shelter and sustenance rooted in Christian charity.

Side note – Walsingham in Norfolk 

This beautiful little village is still a key Pilgrimage area. It is a very special area for Catholic people. Here though you will find The Shrine of Our Lady Of Walsingham which is a welcoming Christian hospitality shrine, offering as well an Anglican Shrine and an Orthodox Shrine. Everyone is welcome still. You can arrange your own pilgrimage HERE

And

Be safe in the knowledge a warm welcome awaits the casual traveller, visitor and tourist alike in Walsingham, Norfolk.

There is even accommodation to be had locally.

Want to know more? Walsingham, Norfolk/facilities

Gandalf – Lord of the Rings – was the ultimate traveller – spending 2000 years wandering the lands. While his favourite haunt was the Shires, he was constantly guiding and counselling fellow travellers throughout the land.

By the Medieval period, with increasing trade and pilgrims, the need for dedicated lodgings grew. This is when the classic “Inn” truly emerged. Often built around a courtyard, these inns provided stabling for horses, food, drink, and simple sleeping quarters for merchants, knights, and ordinary folk. Many of the UK’s oldest pubs and hotels, like the Old Bell Hotel or The Mermaid Inn, trace their origins directly back to these medieval coaching inns. They were bustling hubs, the social media of their day, where news, gossip, and business deals were exchanged.

The Tudor and Elizabethan eras brought more sophistication, with grand manor houses and country estates beginning to take shape. While not typically open to the public as “hotels,” the gentry would often host guests, and their sprawling houses, sometimes later converted, form the backbone of many of today’s historic hotels. 

Think of the intricate timber frames and hidden passages – vestiges of a time of intrigue and changing allegiances. Queen Elizabeth l (reign 1558-1603) was a one! She would love to stay/lodge at someone’s grand house, oftentimes she would expect to stay months on end, not only to have accommodation for free for her and her entourage (which could at times be 100 people) but all meals provided too!

The Georgian and Victorian eras marked a golden age for hospitality. With the rise of the Grand Tour, Spa Towns, and Seaside Resorts, purpose-built hotels began to appear, offering more luxurious amenities. The advent of railways made travel accessible to more people, spurring a boom in hotel construction. It’s during this time that many of the grand, elegant hotels, like The Langham in London, were built, reflecting the growing prosperity and social changes of the industrial age.

And so, we arrive at today, where the UK offers an incredible spectrum of places to rest your head – from the most luxurious city hotels to the wild freedom of a hillside tent, from ancient castles echoing with history to the modern architectural marvels like The Shard, which offer their own unique perspective on the continuum of time.

The London Bridge Quarter is the land on which The Shard is built. It has a history going back further than the Romans who built the first bridge here crossing The Thames for the then area to become a major commercial and trading settlement known then as Londinium. So who knows even today staying at the Shard you may encounter a Roman soldier if you’re tuned in right.

Now all this isn’t just about finding a place to sleep; it’s about connecting with the human story that has unfolded on this island for millennia. It’s about feeling the weight of the past, whether it’s through a chilling ghost story, the peace of a star-filled night, or simply the solid permanence of ancient or even modern stone standing on ancient land.

So, where will your personal journey through time take you next? The UK awaits, ready to share its secrets, its beauty, and perhaps, a whisper from beyond the veil. What stories will you uncover?

Uncover 5 Great Reasons to Stay in a Haunting or even Haunted Accommodation in the UK

Staying in a haunted place isn’t for everyone, but for those with an adventurous spirit, it can be an incredibly rewarding and memorable experience. Here are 5 compelling reasons why you should consider booking a night in a haunted location:

1. Forget dry textbooks – staying in a haunted place is history brought vividly to life. These locations are often ancient, with centuries of stories etched into their very walls. Every creak, every shadow, every cold spot adds to the narrative of real people who lived, loved, and perhaps met their end within those very confines. You’re not just reading about history; you’re stepping into it, experiencing the atmosphere and legends firsthand. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with the past in a way a museum visit simply can’t offer, often revealing lesser-known local tales and folklore. Which I too will do my best for you – in this blog whenever I discover something new and exciting, you can be sure I will be the first to share it with you.

2. A Unique Adrenaline Rush & Thrill – Let’s be honest, part of the appeal is the sheer excitement! For many, the thrill of potentially encountering the unknown is an exhilarating experience that breaks from the mundane. It’s like stepping onto a real-life horror movie set, but you’re the star. That delicious frisson of fear, the heightened senses, and the “what if?” factor can make for an unforgettable, heart-pumping night that you’ll be recounting to friends for years to come. It’s a safe way to flirt with the supernatural and test your own nerves. This happened to me when visiting Highgate Cemetery in London, the guide announced something new and special on the tour for the first time that day – ‘Who would like to see a dead body?” he said quite casually.

(MORE OF THAT AT THE END)

3. Unforgettable Memories & Bragging Rights: How many people can say they spent a night in a castle with a resident ghost, or an Inn where highwaymen once plotted? Staying in a haunted location guarantees a unique story and truly memorable experience. Even if you don’t encounter anything overtly supernatural, the distinct atmosphere, the architectural beauty, and the knowledge of its eerie reputation will set it apart from any other hotel stay. It’s a fantastic conversation starter and gives you those all-important bragging rights!

Dick Turpin An English Highway Man who was caught and executed for his part in being a horse thief and robber.

4. A Dive into Local Culture & Folklore: Haunted places are often deeply intertwined with local legends, myths, and folklore. By staying in one, you gain a richer understanding of the area’s cultural heritage. Innkeepers and locals are often keen to share tales, providing insights into the superstitions, historical events, and enduring beliefs that have shaped the community over time. It’s a way to peel back the layers of a place and discover its more mysterious, intriguing side, far beyond the typical tourist attractions.

5. Gain a deeply personal and unconventional perspective on human experience: The stories of ghosts often speak to universal themes of love, loss, betrayal, triumph, or tragedy. Experiencing a “haunting” can provide a profoundly intimate and unique lens through which to contemplate these aspects of the human condition, often from the perspective of those who lived—and perhaps died— in less documented circumstances. Mystery and its allure is something everyone loves, the most popular TV shows today are about detectives solving crimes. Everyone is gripped by the suspense of unravelling the secret. 

When I was a kid my sisters and I spent a long time wondering what was behind the locked door in my Aunties house. “No one is allowed in there!” she would bellow if our little gang of nosey sleuths got anywhere near the door. Terrified we were of her and the image of what was behind the door.

We later found out as grown ups; it was the ‘posh’ room, kept only for laying out dead relatives, funerals and the rare marked occasions when ‘special’ (only seen once in a blue moon) family were visiting.

5 Good Reasons the UK do Hotel Stays and Other Accommodation Better Than Anyone Else

The UK’s accommodation scene really does have a special charm and several unique strengths, and here are my six good reasons why the UK often does hotel stays and other accommodation better than anyone else:

1. Unrivalled Historical Character & Diversity: The UK boasts an unparalleled range of truly historic accommodations that aren’t just old, but alive with centuries of stories. From medieval coaching Inns with wonky beams and secret passages to grand Victorian country estates and authentic castles, you can literally sleep in history here.

While other countries have old buildings, the sheer density and accessibility of these varied historical properties – often still operating as hotels or B&B’s – is exceptional. You can find everything from a 12th-century Inn to a quirky themed hotel in a converted lighthouse, offering a unique sense of place and narrative that’s hard to replicate.

Want to know more? See the Landmark Trust

2. The “Full English” & Beyond: A Culinary Commitment: While not every stay will be a Michelin-starred experience, the UK generally takes its breakfast very seriously. The “Full English” (or Scottish, Welsh, Irish) breakfast is a national institution, and many accommodations, from humble B&Bs to luxury hotels, pride themselves on offering a hearty, locally sourced start to your day.

Side note – I won’t name them here in case I get your expectations up and they now, do not do this – but staying at a beautiful refurbished castle in the Scottish lowlands, I was introduced to whiskey on my porridge – This was waiting for me at the buffet breakfast in a largish jug just ready for pouring onto my bowl of porridge along the double cream of course! Now that’s what I call getting set-up for the day!

3. Beyond breakfast, the pub-with-rooms tradition means you often have fantastic, authentic food and drink right on your doorstep, fostering a convivial atmosphere that’s quintessentially British and deeply comforting after a day of exploring.

The roots of the ‘Full English’ likely go back to the early middle ages, symbolising hospitality and generosity, when eating was a shared experience. Breakfast was an important meal, and meats, bread, and eggs would have been a good way of getting your calories and setting you up for a full day’s work. When shared with travellers or others, the kindness and welcome would have been gratefully received. 

4. The Art of the B&B and Guesthouse: While hotels are great, the UK truly shines in its Bed & Breakfast and guesthouse sector. These aren’t just budget options; they often offer a wonderfully personal and warm hospitality experience that larger hotels struggle to match. Run by passionate owners who often provide insider tips, homemade treats, and a genuine interest in your stay, B&Bs provide a ‘home away from home’ feeling. It’s a chance to connect with local life and receive a level of individual care and attention that makes a huge difference to the overall experience.

5. Exceptional Access to Nature & Dark Skies (and often, a Pub!): The UK offers a remarkable balance between urban vibrancy and accessible natural beauty, and its accommodation reflects this. You can be in a bustling city one day and, within a short train or car ride, find yourself in a national park or an AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). Many UK accommodations are strategically located to maximise access to stunning landscapes, coastal paths, and, increasingly, incredible dark sky reserves. 

Crucially, many of these rural gems – be they boutique hotels, traditional Inns, or even glamping sites – are often within walking distance of a welcoming pub, cafe or restaurant, meaning you can enjoy breathtaking scenery during the day and a cosy pint by a roaring fire in the evening. 

This seamless blend of nature, comfort, and local culture is a standout feature of UK stays. History, mystery and either elegance or a more simple stay in this green and pleasant country can get you to your perfect destination.

Finding Your Perfect Historic Haunt:5 Mini Spotlights

For the Group Getaway: Look for – Large properties, multiple rooms, communal spaces.

Want to Know More?  Large Properties

For the Family Adventure: Kid-friendly history, space to explore, activities nearby.

Want to Know More? Family Fun in Wales

For the Solo Explorer: Cosy B&B’s, boutique hotels, safe and welcoming environments.

Want to Know More? Fine places to stay

Budget Considerations: From luxury to affordable B&B’s and self-catering.

Want to Know More? Independent Holiday Cottages in the UK

Things to Consider: Amenities, location (rural vs. city), pet-friendly options, accessibility.

Want to Know More? Take your pooch Dog Friendly accommodation

Want to Know More? Accessible unusual locations UK  – HERE

And a bit more? Accessibility under the stars

Something for The Grown-ups: Highgate Cemetery London

Of course kids can visit Highgate Cemetery but I’m guessing not all of them would enjoy it. I took the tour and it was full of interesting facts but with content designed for adults some kids might find walking around and over dead people just not all that fun. The Tour is open to children however. The Tour can be booked in advance or on the day.

Who would think that just six miles from the middle of London you would find the most spectacular cemetery ever? Once coined the Disney World of Cemeteries this glorious wonder where famous people want to rest forever is just within a short car, tube or bus ride from the hustle and bustle of the noisy activity of such a big city. 

I’m going back to my story earlier where I said I would finish my tale about our Guide who asked any of us on the tour of the cemetery if they would like to “SEE A DEAD BODY?” Well I was the first to put my hand up! “Okay” he said, “Come this way”. And we all followed.

A certain Stephen Geary we were told founded the London Cemetery Company in 1836, it was his dream as an entrepreneur and businessman to provide something special to the well-to-do folk of the time. He built from what was then, a mixture of private land, some dwellings, and the Ashurst Estate, a place where one could promenade (think stately home style landscape 19th century genteel walking) along the terraces looking at the elaborate and varied tombstones and as they did so. 

The vistas would have been awe inspiring, a calm, reflected walk around a peaceful, clean, but entertaining gently sweeping and sloping landscape.

From the top of the hill you’d have been able to look back down onto London, and feel comforted both by the fact you were not in one the graves about you, and also pleased you were able to afford the Disney style experience; as London City itself at this time would have been a very smelly, over populated heap of stink. 

Here you could walk in your beautiful clothes in the clear, fresh air. The trees, shrubs, and wild garlic (surely planted in the 1970’s to keep the vampires away?!) ferns, and undergrowth would not have been here at all, this all comes after a more relaxed attitude of maintenance – inevitably having to be taken, as plots get increasingly tighter.

Side note – Ashurst Estate and House– Belonging to the Lord Mayor of London in 1693, the house was demolished in about 1830 and St Michael’s church was built on the spot.

We were told all about the famous catacombs and Supernatural activity at Highgate Cemetery in the 70’s when young people and those of the occult persuasion both vandalised and performed regular meetings, digging up the dead and dismantling bodies either for the fun of it or seriously trying to contact the devil. BUT MORE OF THAT IN ANOTHER POST.

So our guide showed us over to an open coffin, not fully open of course, just cracked open, “take a look inside” he said “what can you see?” “A nose” “ I see a nose!” announced one of the group, “A hip bone!” said another. When I had taken a look – as I was the first to the scene – and I did linger – likely making the others impatient – but this sort of thing doesn’t happen every day and it was dark in there; squinting hard I could make out the shape of what really did look like a very decomposed body of 150 years ago.

I guess there are no relatives to worry about the deceased now, the engraving of the headstone long worn away, and I hope she or he didn’t mind us, all this time later, being part of the visitor experience. Not everyone in the group was that keen to take a look but I didn’t get any bad vibes from it, and in any case, I don’t think I was followed home!

Highgate Cemetery is easy to get to from London and there are many places to stay as you can imagine. The entry fee is reasonable, there is not much parking on side streets and they have timing restrictions. No real cafe to speak of but some vendors available.

Want to Know More? HERE

Looking for a hotel near to Highgate? The Arch Hotel in Pemberton Gardens Islington has a nice feel and an executive studio, it is a 2 minute ride on the Northern Line to Highgate; follow the train to High Barnet when you exit the station walk towards Archway or Priory Gardens.

Until next time dear friends x