When the weight of the world is on your shoulders, you might find the tranquil allure of the great outdoors drawing you in.
Existing in the modern world can be a stressful task to say the least. With looming deadlines and overflowing emails, there can be a million and one things to get on top of at any given time, meaning mounting pressures can feel overwhelming very quickly.
When it isn’t feasible to book a month off work and flee the country for an extended period of time, escaping the city for a weekend is a wonderful way to recharge and reset — and what better place to do so, than amongst nature?
Off-grid escapes have been growing in popularity for some time now, providing weary travellers with the chance to disconnect from the real world (even if only for a night) and experience the myriad benefits that come from spending time amongst rolling hills and tranquil lakes.
Look to Unyoked, the company building off-grid cabins across Australia, New Zealand and most recently, the UK. The brands’ fierce championing of the outdoors is backed by scientific research, which found that spending time in nature can reduce cortisol levels. Inspired by this, their entire ethos centres around encouraging people to slow down and switch off only ones who have clocked onto the benefits of a distraction-free getaway, below, find seven of the best off-grid escapes across the UK to unwind and recharge.
West Cawthorne, North Yorkshire
There's something incredibly rural about an teepee-shaped property, particularly one located in the middle of a breathtaking wildflower meadow. Still, despite its rustic appearance, you can expect a range of high-end amenities, from underfloor heating to a king-sized bed.
Surrounded by an abundance of nature walks and cycling routes, there are plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs throughout the day before retreating to the deck for a nightly wine. And, for those a little worried about committing to a completely off-grid experience, Malton (the food capital of Yorkshire) is a stone’s throw away.
Having launched in the UK last year, Unyoked offers 14 memorable locations spanning Wales to North Norfolk. Each cabin features large windows, providing expansive views of the surrounding countryside, giving a full 360 experience which allows you to rise with the morning sun.
Chosen for their remoteness, these locations have been picked specifically for their physical distance from the rest of civilization (read: relaxation is mandatory). With fully-equipped kitchens, luxurious bedding, and a range of screen-free activities awaiting, you’ll have all the comforts for a home away from home.Sleeps: Two
Sleeps: Two
Price: Prices from £154 on weeknights and £179 on weekends
Boasting stunning views of West Dorset, this cosy Shepherds Hut is the perfect place to get away from the bustle of the city. Wake up each morning to panoramic views of the lake, before basking in the glow of the Milky Way by night.
Despite being small in size, there's an undeniably luxurious feel to this property, which has been kitted out with everything from a fully-stocked drinks trolley to an outdoor bathtub. Choose from a range of books on offer, or pick up a board game to pass the time peacefully —however you choose to spend your time here, it is guaranteed to be tranquil.
Sleeps: Two
Price: From £185-£245 per night
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Hulder Cabin, Devon
Minimalism and earthy tones set the scene at Hulder Cabin. Its Scandi-style interiors instantly put you at ease, with crisp lines and an indoor layout which seamlessly flows into the properties’ outdoor deck.
Here, your days will be spent lazing in the copper bathtub and reading by candlelight once dusk falls, before later being enveloped by the warm glow of the firepit. Sound dreamy? We thought so, too.
Sleeps: Two
Price: From £170-£220 per night
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Larch Cabin, Lake District
For an off-grid escape with the family in tow, Larch Cabin offers a wonderful child-friendly experience. With a strong focus on forest bathing, this is the perfect backdrop to reconnect with nature and recentre yourself.
Nestled deep within ancient woodland, toasted marshmallows by the fire and a glass of wine in the hot tub are high on the priority list. And, if you’re looking to boose your step count, , an endless array of outdoor trails await. Sleeps: Two adults and two children
Price: From £150-£200 per night
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With an abundance of opportunities to escape reality and plunge headfirst into an expansive oasis, why wouldn't you indulge?
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