Are you relaxing? Making the most of your staycation

The weather is warming up, and getting pretty seriously hot, kids are breaking up from school and you are feeling overdue for a break. Summer in the city can be difficult to enjoy, with no sea, swimming pool, or garden paddling pool to cool off in, and little opportunity to get away from hustle and bustle. 

Are you making the most of the weather, and if you’ve booked a getaway, are you getting the right relaxation to really let you recharge your batteries? 

Our guide on how to plan the most relaxing trip, and the best ways to relax in and around Gladwins Farm, will help you properly kick back! 

 

Make sure your staycation is perfect for you

• Consider what you (and others on the trip) need from a break. What does relaxation mean to you, what activities and environments are a dream come true? Whether an adrenaline-heavy activity holiday is your thing, or peaceful river cruising is more your speed, Gladwins farm provides the perfect base camp. 
• If you are a fitness enthusiast that never misses a workout and follows a strict regime year-round, why not try to treat yourself to slower speeds on a break? You can still stay active with adventures that’ll make great memories, but treating yourself to a three-course meal or local ice cream will put you in holiday mode. And if the gym isn’t your thing, getting your blood pumping and experiencing new parts of the world will leave you sleeping well and feeling accomplished. 
• Building in time to relax, the way you prefer, is essential. Between countryside walks and river kayaking, your body will be thankful for rest. This can range from visiting the beach with a good book to hosting a movie night, or just taking a late-night soak in the hot tub. 
• Depending on your job, you might have to be easily contactable, even on a well-deserved break. Take some time to work out the work/holiday balance for you, which could mean a complete shut-off from work emails, or a dedicated hour in the day where you respond to queries. 

 

Follow these tips, and you’ll be sure to return from your break feeling rested and ready to perform at your best. 

 

So, what do I do to relax at Gladwins Farm?

Luckily, the team at Gladwins Farm are full of ideas on how to take the relaxation further during your staycation. Essentially, we believe that getting into nature, and exploring our beautiful countryside is the key. 

We’ve gathered some of the best places to get involved with nature around Gladwins Farm, as well as activities that’ll let you see even more. 

Walking in and around Gladwins Farm is a great place to start, early morning, or midday, with a break for lunch at a local restaurant, or a sunset walk on the grounds. If you’d like to get there faster, cycle hire is popular in the area, and there are lots of options to explore. 

The River Stour, running through Dedham, and its surrounding countryside is often called Constable Country for the inspiration it offered to the artist. Visit the River Stour Trust page for river cruise schedules, or hire a kayak and explore on your own terms!

There are various parks, nature reserves and estates to experience, some of which are also important historical sites. Try:

• Abberton Reservoir Nature Reserve
• River Stour
• Bourne Mill
• High Woods Country Park
• Flatford Wildlife Garden
• Hedingham Castle
• Sutton Hoo

Each have unique activities, experiences and sights to see, so don’t forget to include a few on your trip bucket list. 

If you and your family are in need of a place to relax and explore, take a look at our holiday cottages and book your stay today.