The sun’s been shining, the skies are blue, and let’s be honest – there’s nowhere you’d rather be than outdoors. So why not make the most of it, with a staycation in the part of the country that regularly enjoys some of the best weather in the UK?
From coast to countryside, Kent and East Sussex are full of incredible places to explore: think salty sea air, rolling hills, vineyard visits, and towns brimming with character. Whether you’re planning a last-minute break or setting your sights on a sunny long weekend, these UK staycation ideas showcase the best of the South East – each with a beautiful Bloom Stays holiday home at its heart.
1. Kent Downs National Landscape
A pause in nature
Stay at: The Hayloft
Stretching from the Surrey border to the White Cliffs of Dover, the Kent Downs National Landscape is a sanctuary of green space, panoramic views, and ancient pathways. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty invites visitors to slow down, whether it’s by walking part of the North Downs Way, picnicking in a hidden valley, or spotting wildlife in one of its many nature reserves. From chalk grasslands to quiet woodlands and characterful villages, it’s the perfect setting for a restorative countryside break.
Tucked within the North Downs (which are accessible directly through the property’s garden gate), The Hayloft is the epitome of tranquility. Newly renovated, the home features cosy Scandinavian-inspired interiors, modern touches, and a bright open-plan layout that benefits from a wraparound terrace, providing a dreamy retreat for up to eight guests. Pour a glass of wine and enjoy the private garden and hot tub after a day of exploring – as it’s ideally located in the centre of the county, the very best attractions of Kent are all just a short drive away.
2. Dungeness
Wild beauty by the sea
Stay at: Sunray
A place like no other, Dungeness is where bleak becomes beautiful, its landscape almost dystopian. With its hauntingly flat horizon, stark beaches, architectural gems, and surprising biodiversity, this seaside resort has long attracted artists, creatives, nature lovers, and those seeking solitude. Visit the lighthouse, explore Derek Jarman’s garden, and walk along the sea wall, all while enjoying the sea breeze in your hair.
Stay at Sunray, and you’ll witness the full, incredible experience of living within Dungeness’ dramatic landscape. This contemporary hideaway is the closest to both the sea and the power station, and benefits from all the sunrises, sunsets, and stargazing the peninsula has to offer. Plump beds promise a great night’s sleep, and there’s lots of space, too – perfect for allowing little ones to play while you relax amid the property’s unique vintage railway-inspired interiors.
3. Whitstable
Coastal cool (and oysters on tap)
Stay at: Oyster Shore
Whitstable has long been a favourite for those in the know. Just 90 minutes from London, it offers a dreamy combination of beachside calm and boutique cool to your UK staycation. We recommend taking some time to slurp oysters by the sea, mooch around its independent shops, or dozily gaze at paddleboarders drifting across the horizon at the beach.
Nestled moments from Whitstable’s bustling high street, Oyster Shore puts you right in the heart of the action, with an abundance of independent eateries and shops within a minute’s walk, while the pretty stretch of pebble beach lies just 5-minutes away. As well as its prime location for wandering to the best fish and chips (and oysters!) in town, this recently-renovated home features bright airy interiors, a games-filled living space, and an open-plan kitchen and dining area, culminating in the perfect base for a laid-back, sun-soaked escape.
4. Folkestone
The South Coast’s creative comeback
Stay at: Hockley House or Channel View
Over the last few years, Folkestone has quietly become one of the South Coast’s most exciting seaside towns. With its Creative Quarter, open-air artworks, pop-up food stalls and the revived Harbour Arm, it’s brimming with energy and originality. Dip in the sea, browse vintage shops, or enjoy a beachside cocktail with live music – there’s more than enough to do here.
Hockley House is an elegant, spacious home just outside Folkestone to the northeast, and is ideal for a group getaway with style and comfort in mind. Encompassing an entire wing of a country manor, the property is beautifully finished with a blend of antique and contemporary furnishings, as well as a glorious hot tub – ideal for soaking up the views of the surrounding countryside. If you’re craving hilltop sea views and romantic vibes, the two-sleeper property Channel View offers remarkable vistas along the Kent coast, complemented by beautiful contemporary interiors and complimentary bubbles – from both the hot tub and the bottle!
5. Sandwich Bay
For a stylish seaside escape
Stay at: The Willows
This stretch of the Kent coast is quietly exclusive, home to sweeping dunes, golf courses, and a beautifully preserved town centre. Sandwich itself is a delight, with medieval buildings, riverside pubs, and leafy walks in nature reserves all within easy reach. Even better, the beach at Sandwich Bay feels like a private paradise – peaceful, natural, and often empty.
Found down a peaceful country lane, The Willows (sleeps 8) sits in unspoilt countryside with easy access to the coast, historic Sandwich, and other local attractions. Characterful interiors, a wood burner, and a large kitchen combine to contribute to a memorable stay – and did we mention there’s also a hot tub?
6. The High Weald
Unspoilt countryside and cosy pubs
Stay at: Springhill
The High Weald is one of England’s most celebrated landscapes, a patchwork of ancient woodland, rolling farmland, and tucked-away villages. It’s a place for long rambles, pub lunches, and reconnecting with nature, where visitors can wander through gardens and castles, or simply immerse themselves in the joys of nature.
Looking for a UK staycation idea with loads to do? Springhill makes the most of its ample space by filling it with a pool, gym, sauna, games room, wraparound gardens, and breathtaking views – all added to a fun and thoughtful interiors style that’s guaranteed to ‘wow’ its guests. An extended oast house, Springhill site beautifully amid the High Weald National Landscape, with stunning countryside strolls accessible straight from its door.
7. Romney Marsh
Peaceful, pastoral, perfect
Stay at: Craythornes
Wide open skies, grazing sheep, and quiet lanes make Romney Marsh feel a world away from modern life – no wonder it’s one of our most popular UK staycation ideas! This flat, open landscape is rich in wildlife and history – ideal for birdwatching, cycling, and discovering hidden medieval churches along winding country roads.
Craythornes is a proper countryside retreat: cosy, characterful and undoubtedly charming. A glorious Georgian home, this large property sleeps up to 20 guests, providing an ideal place for families, friends and couples to come together for a memorable stay. Relax in the orangery, have a splash in the pool, enjoy a few rounds in the games room, or retreat to the cinema room – here, anything is possible.
