With the government\u2019s travel \u201cgreen list\u201d still looking pretty slim, self-catering properties across the country are booking up fast, with prices surging as a result.<\/p>\n
For those who don\u2019t want to check into a hotel, there is a budget-friendly alternative \u2013 the aparthotel.<\/p>\n
Long seen as the boring but functional alternative to traditional hotels for business travellers, stylish versions more akin to boutique boltholes have been popping up all over the country in recent years.<\/p>\n
They come with their own private kitchens, and sometimes even a lounge, which post-lockdown will provide couples and even families with much-needed space in which to bubble. And unlike cottages or Airbnbs, there\u2019s generally much better availability, flexibility and facilities, just like hotels.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re looking for the best of both worlds, here are some of the best options around England to check into.<\/p>\n
Your Apartment\u2019s new outpost is in the heart of leafy Clifton Village, where cute coffee shops and gourmet delis are just a stroll away. Each of the 34 studio apartments come with a double or king size bed, kitchenette, dining tables and chairs. Everything is contactless \u2013 you can check yourself in via your mobile phone. And if you stay for a week or more, for a workation (there\u2019s a co-working space in the building), for example, they\u2019ll even give you a discount.<\/p>\n
Locke has a small empire of design-led aparthotels in London and the latest to open is Kingsland Locke in the heart of Dalston. Upstairs there are 124 apartments, subtly attired in mossy green, each with a full-sized kitchen. But perhaps the best bits are found elsewhere in the building where, aside from a gym and co-working space, you\u2019ll find KRAFT Dalston, a gin distillery and microbrewery in one. And yes, you can get those drinks to go with the kebabs from Le Bab.<\/p>\n
Just two minutes\u2019 walk from Manchester Piccadilly train station is Native Manchester: 166 smart apartments housed in a warehouse that once stored bales of cotton imported from the US. There are seven different styles of room to choose from, including bijoux studios all the way up to a two-bed penthouse duplex. Every apartment has its own fully equipped kitchen, lounge space and king-size beds. There\u2019s plenty to keep you busy in the building, including a restaurant, cinema and even a studio offering fitness classes.<\/p>\n
A short walk from Tate Liverpool is IHG\u2019s pet-friendly Staybridge Suites. You have the option of two different sized apartments \u2013 a smaller studio suite or a one-bedroom suite with a lounge spacious enough for a sofa bed for guests. If you\u2019re in one of the 132 guest suites that offer stunning views of the Royal Albert Dock then you may well be tempted to stay in and enjoy the view. But otherwise the city\u2019s waterfront bar scene is ready to be soaked up. Oh, and they\u2019ll treat you to breakfast the morning after.<\/p>\n
Hiding Space have a few boutique-style aparthotels in Bath but the most centrally located is Westgate Apartments, just a few paces from the city\u2019s celebrated Thermae Spa. While perfect for a couple, you also have the option of adding sofa beds to the airy, Scandi-inspired living rooms for bigger groups. There\u2019s no on-site gym or restaurant here, but with the city\u2019s gorgeous, honeyed architecture and vibrant food scene right on the doorstep, you\u2019re unlikely to spend much time indoors.<\/p>\n
Perched on the edge of the River Stour in Christchurch is the Captain\u2019s Club Hotel & Spa, which has a set of 12 self-catering apartments designed for groups. It\u2019s all about the views here \u2013 the floor-to-ceiling windows in the lounge area look out over the river and across to the Hengistbury Head nature reserve. And to welcome you to Dorset, a hamper of local treats, including a bottle of the award-winning sparkling wine from nearby English Oak vineyard, awaits.<\/p>\n
Hyatt House Manchester\u2019s 116 studios and one-bedroom suites sit snugly between the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University. The Laureate restaurant and The Graduate bar pay homage to its location but it\u2019s the 18th floor lounge, with high-flying views of the city, that\u2019s the real star here. Breakfast is included \u2013 right now you can order ingredients to cook in your own kitchen or get it ready-made\u2026 just like room service.<\/p>\n
Stay Camden is made for workations \u2013 downstairs is hip co-working space LABS Collective while upstairs you\u2019ll find 169 apartments ranging from an airy one-bed to a spacious three-bed. Regardless of size, each of the Scandi-inspired apartments offers a fully-kitted kitchen and lounge area as well as a balcony to enjoy the London skyline. Pootle along the towpaths of Regent\u2019s Canal to access the bars and restaurants on Camden High Street.<\/p>\n