The Best Digital Detox Retreats in the UK

In a world where scrolling through social media is the norm, and notifications pepper our every waking moment, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the barrage of information at our fingertips. The constant ding of a message, the unrelenting urge to check emails, and the pressure to stay connected can turn our beautiful tech into an energy-draining monster. This is where the staycation concept comes into play—a chance to step away from our screens and savour some much-needed peace and quiet without the hassle of extensive travel. So grab your comfiest PJs and let’s dive into how you can log out and chill out in style!

The Importance of a Digital Detox

With 4,400 average monthly searches for ‘digital detox’, it seems many are seeking an escape to disconnect. Whether it's swapping notifications for nature walks, emails for spa days, or social media for stargazing, a family staycation in the UK offers the perfect chance to slow down and reconnect with what truly matters—each other.

From Ambleside to Whitby, these are the top 10 locations to go for a family staycation and enjoy all that nature has to offer, uninterrupted.

1. Ambleside, Lake District

2. Salisbury, Hampshire

3. St Ives, Cornwall

4. Bakewell, Peak District

5. Carmarthenshire, Wales

6. Buxton, Derbyshire

7. Matlock, Peak District

8. Bude, Cornwall

9. Whitby, Yorkshire

10. Great Yarmouth, Norfolk

Ambleside, Lake District crowned as the best disconnect destination

Ambleside in the Lake District is the ultimate destination for a family digital detox. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, it offers 390 walking routes and 427 cycling routes, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore Loughrigg Fell, a popular hiking spot, or take a peaceful boat ride on Lake Windermere. With 97 attractions and seven yoga studios, Ambleside provides plenty of ways to unwind and enjoy nature without digital distractions.

Salisbury, Hampshire named second place

Salisbury in Hampshire secures second place. Known for its rich history and stunning architecture, this charming city boasts 195 walking routes and 343 cycling routes. The iconic Salisbury Cathedral, home to the Magna Carta, is a must-visit attraction for families, while Old Sarum offers a glimpse into the region’s medieval past. Salisbury also features 175 attractions and 11 spas, making it an excellent location for relaxation and cultural exploration.

Two Cornwall towns feature in the top 10 rankings

St Ives– Known for its charming, narrow cobblestone streets, bordered by galleries, boutiques, and cosy cafés, St Ives is a fantastic spot for a peaceful retreat. Landing in third place, the town has 29 walking routes and 219 cycling routes. Families can walk along the Southwest Coast Path, explore the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, or enjoy a swim at Porthminster Beach.

Bude– A quieter coastal town, Bude sits in eight place and is perfect for a low-key digital detox. With 51 cycling routes and 96 attractions, visitors can enjoy the Bude Sea Pool, take a stroll along Summerleaze Beach, or explore the rugged beauty of Hartland Cornwall Heritage Coast.

With these benefits in mind, let’s explore some staycation ideas that'll help you disconnect and unwind.

Shark Fin, Sennen, Cornwall Sleeps 6. 3 bed. 7 nights from £1,289.

Imagine waking up to the sunrise overlooking two of England’s best beaches at Sennen and towards Cape Cornwall, and in the evening having sunsets from the terrace overlooking the Land’s End Lighthouse and the Scilly Isles. All this from a 270-degree living room (40ft across) designed in the round with seven sets of sliding patio doors leading out onto a huge decked terrace. This house is in the most stunning location nestling high on the headland at Mayon Cliff surrounded by National Trust land and the dramatic coastline towards Land’s End. Shark Fin is the ultimate architect-designed house with all the very latest hi-tech eco features. Use of the natural environment has been paramount to harness the earth’s energy. With no WiFi, you’re free to focus on the sound of the waves.

Shepherd's Belle Croft Hut, Messing, Essex Sleeps 2. 1 bed. 7 nights from £475.

A great choice for those looking to disconnect and enjoy the simple joys of outdoor living. A bohemian shepherd’s hut in the heart of the countryside, perfect for an intimate retreat. No WiFi, just cosy nights by the fire. Shepherds Belle & Croft Hut can be booked with Ryeland Hut to accommodate up to 4 guests. A luxurious glamping experience with no WiFi and plenty of stargazing opportunities. Nestled in peaceful woodlands.

The Coach House, near Saxmundham, Suffolk Sleeps 2. 1 bed. 2 dogs welcome. 7 nights from £425.

Romantic hideaway for couples (and their pets!) with wood burning stove, beams and its very own 2-acre woodland walk. This beautifully restored Coach House invites guests to embrace slower living. Located near the heritage Suffolk Coast, it’s perfect for coastal walks, exploring quaint villages, or unwinding with a good book in complete peace. With no Wifi this is the ultimate digital getaway.

Breidden Lodge, Nr Oswestry, Shropshire Sleeps 8. 4 bed. 7 nights from £1,229.

Enjoy a unique glamping experience set among woodland and meadows on an organic dairy farm in North Shropshire at Sweeney Farm Glamping. A secluded safari-style lodge offering panoramic views of the Shropshire countryside, perfect for full immersion in nature, complete with private hot tub for soaking in the surrounding tranquillity.

Lapwing Hut, near Salisbury, Hampshire Sleeps 2. 1 bed. 1 dog welcome. 7 nights from £892.

A luxurious shepherd’s hut tucked away in Hampshire. With no WiFi, it’s the ultimate off-grid experience where you can instead cosy up in luxury surroundings by the wood burner and stargaze beneath unpolluted skies from the embrace of you own wood-fired hot tub.

Tent 2, Tanglewood, near Beaminster, Dorset Sleeps 4. 2 bed. 1 dog welcome. 7 nights from £575

A serene glamping experience nestled in peaceful woodlands. Disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature in this charming safari tent. With limited connection to the outside world, instead spend your days exploring the Dorset countryside and your evenings around the campfire with this ultimate family-friendly outdoor escape.

Looking for more inspiration?

In an era where staying connected seems mandatory, taking the time to log out and chill out has become more crucial than ever. A staycation, whether glamping or a cosy cottage can provide the perfect escape from the digital noise that fills our lives, allowing us to indulge in relaxation, creativity, and the beauty of our surroundings.

So, why not plan your next staycation, stash your devices away, and give yourself the gift of peace? Dive into a book, indulge in a spa day, or embrace the beauty of nature—your mental wellness deserves it! So, go ahead and make that digital detox happen; you’ll be glad you did!

*Prices accurate at the time of writing and subject to availability. Short breaks of 2+ nights are also available.

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