If the first hint of spring sunshine makes you want to book a getaway, you’re not alone. Holiday planning is in full swing, and while some people are looking to lesser-known beach destinations or LA hotspots, others are embracing the staycation. Because you needn’t clock up air miles to find unique hotels, cool cabins and alternative accommodation – the UK is home to some of the best escapes around.

If you’re trying to be more eco-conscious – or want to support companies who are – then we’re here to tell you about some of the best luxury eco stays. And we’re going to kick it off with the tried-and-tested Aller Dorset: the lakeside huts owned by a husband and wife duo in the heart of leafy Dorset. Trust us, it’s a 10/10, and this is why we recommend you try it out for yourself. 

Often, the most charming and memorable places to visit are the ones that go the extra mile. You know, those finishing touches that make you feel like it’s a home from home, and Aller Dorset does just that. Owners Ant and Cat have made their family-run farmland into the dreamiest spot for an escape to the countryside. When you arrive, you will be greeted by the duo and shown to your chosen luxury shepherd’s hut. With four to choose between (from £185 per night), each has a spectacular view of the surrounding lake and outdoor space – perfect for summer BBQs. We stayed in ‘Kittylands’, which has both an indoor and outdoor shower along with an al fresco standalone bath. Yes, it is as incredible as it looks.

The first thing we noticed upon stepping into the hut is the interiors – wow, oh wow. Co-owner Cat’s passion for interior design means each hut is incredibly Instagram-worthy, with a luxury countryside cottage feel.  Eagle-eyed homeware fans will instantly spot the Pooky lights and Alice Palmer lampshades. When it comes to dining, expect to eat with Matilda Goad cutlery on Hot Pottery crockery. And if you fall completely in love with the tasselled cushions, wavy printed headboards and quirky striped and splattered tableware, Aller Dorset has an online shop – yes, really. 

Making you want to instantly unwind, the owners (having previously lived in London) know exactly how to create the most wholesome trip. Taking away city stresses, the fire pits can be stoked up ready for the local produce hampers. Ahead of the trip, we ordered the ‘special fire pit supper’ (£120 for two people), which includes organic produce such as steaks, lobster tails, corn, mini jacket potatoes and even comes with dessert. You can also pre-book breakfast hampers, and from £20 you can choose between Cat’s homemade granola and fruit or a full English with free-range eggs and meat from the local butchers. The attention to detail is second to none, and we also took full advantage of the local sparkling wine from Langham’s as a sundowner with some roasted marshmallows – heaven. 

If you plan on leaving the vicinity of your tranquil hut (it’s a tricky task), you can go for a wild swim in the nearby lake (we wore wetsuits but it was still quite chilly), book a lakeside yoga class, use the farm’s tennis courts or even arrange a relaxing reflexology session from the comfort of your own room. 

We also used the in-hut brochure to navigate our way around the local area, this included going for Friday fizz night at the Langham wine estate. The booklet also lists all the great local restaurants and beaches around (Burton Bradstock is the closest), although we chose to stay in our cosy hut for a home-cooked curry night. The famous Newt hotel is also very close, so if (read: when) we revisit, we’ll be sure to pay it a visit. 

If you’re keen on a spot of shopping, we visited the neighbouring town of Semley, where we found a whole host of antique shops – perfect for the thrifty interior hunters. 

Aller Dorset puts you at one with nature, encourages you to be more conscious with your food choices by supporting local brands and even opts for smaller brands throughout its interiors. To visit the eco-friendly farm, we found it only fitting to get there via a more sustainable mode of transport: the fully electric Polestar 2 car. 

If you’re prone to over-packing, you’ll be pleased to know the boot holds a generously sized XL case (we used an Away style, for reference). And while it may seem excessive for a few nights, we had to pack the essentials: wet suits, Scrabble, Jenga, etc.

We set off with a full charge, and en route to Aller, we were surprised to see so many charging points along the way – so no need to worry about topping up. When it comes to the ride, it’s smooth and stress-free thanks to the clever sat nav, which even tells you which lane to get in ahead of your next turn. Add to this a choice of podcasts and heated seats, and it was one of the most relaxing journeys we’ve had – much better than a squished flight to somewhere further afield. 

Book Aller Dorset stays at allerdorset.com from £185 per night for two people.

For more eco-luxury stays to choose from in the UK, here are some on our must-go list for 2023. 

More UK luxury eco stays

Set in 15 acres of land, Glebe House in East Devon has been the ultimate retreat for foodies since 2021. With its own restaurant, the farm-to-table Italian-influenced kitchen is a treasure trove of breakfast treats, picnic packages, lunch experiences (from £30 a head) and dinner sample menus (from £55 a head). 

To stay, there’s a guest house with a six different rooms (from £139 per night), but it’s the new Southleigh Wood Cabin (from £212.50 per night) we have our eye on. The standalone cabin has a boho feel with artwork by co-owner Olive on the walls, maximalist clashing printed interiors and a colourful kitchen. Outside, you’ll find a bathtub, fire pit and private terrace – ideal for those long summer nights. 

Also the destination for creatives, on site you can make pasta with co-owner Hugo, make bread, printmaking and collaging or venture out for mackerel fishing complete with a twilight dinner on the beach. 

Book Glebe House stays at glebehousedevon.co.uk from £139 per night for two people.

Nestled in the mountains of the Scottish Highlands, this Scandi-style hideaway is perfect for minimalists. With 360-degree views of the scenery from large windows, you can book either the Sky House or Hill House (both sleep two people) for a relaxing break away from civilisation. 

Guests get a welcome hamper on arrival with locally made treats – with sourdough bread from Manuela’s Wee Bakery and creel-caught langoustine from local fisherman Duncan. 

Ideal for the outdoorsy types, you can enjoy one of the highest drives in the UK to see the breathtaking views, go on walking trails to see the coastlines or plan in some water activities. If you want to just relax, take a breath of fresh air with your morning coffee or soak up the sunsets – you’re in a prime spot. 

Book 57 Nord stays at 57nord.co.uk from £1,295 for three nights for two people.

Everyone knows the Cotswolds is a go-to for staycations, and if you haven’t heard of The Fish, then allow us to introduce you. With a mix of luxury hotel rooms, huts and treehouses on a 400-acre estate, you can choose your stay depending on your style. 

When it comes to food, there’s everything from specialist seafood, outdoor dining and cabin dinners to traditional Sunday lunches.

The back-to-nature ethos also included so many outdoor activities: axe throwing, clay pigeon shooting, archery, falconry and yoga, to name a few. No doubt you’ll also want to take a cross-country stroll to the nearest village of Broadway. 

Book The Fish stays at thefishhotel.co.uk from £220 per night for two people. 

Images: Polly Knight; courtesy of resorts