The daycation is the hottest new travel trend to reach our shores, giving time-stretched travel fans an opportunity to enjoy all the best bits of a hotel stay, without the time commitment of an actual holiday.
Whether you want to make use of the great hotel facilities on your doorstep without paying full price for an overnight stay; or want somewhere beautiful to hang out, use the gym, steam in the spa and sip on a cocktail, the ‘daycay’ is your answer.
The UK’s leading day use hotel platform DayBreakHotels, which allows guests to book into some of the world’s top hotels for just a few hours at a time, have noticed a 173% surge in bookings over the last year, as staycationers look closer to home for some R+R and a slice of the travel pie.
So if you’re looking to get away for the day, check out some of the best hotels in the capital where a daycay will unlock some seriously beautiful outdoor spaces.
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Pestana Chelsea Bridge Hotel & Spa, Chelsea Wharf
Nestled between scenic Battersea Park, the River Thames and the iconic Battersea Power Station, Pestana Chelsea Bridge offers beautiful rooms and swanky suites which provide the perfect setting for a relaxing daycation. Day use rooms start at £109, with access to a tranquil relaxation area, heated indoor pool, sauna and steam room included.
10am – 6pm, from £109 / more details
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San Domenico House, Chelsea
This hotel is a true hidden gem in the heart of Chelsea. Whether you’re after a room or a suite, you’ll be charmed by the hotel’s historic beauty and a spacious rooftop terrace with fantastic views across the borough. The perfect setting to wile away the hours and relax in a stunning home from home. Get a room for a day for £189, or splash out on a suite (it’s totally worth it).
9am – 4pm, from £189 / more details
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The Trafalgar St James, St James’s
If you’re after a stylish sanctuary in the heart of bustling West London, look no further than The Trafalgar St James. Work out in the gym, put your feet up in your room, or head to the famous rooftop bar to catch some rays, a cocktail, and breathtaking views of London. Finish off your day with a walk along the Thames, or a picnic in St James’s Park.
10am – 4pm, from £299 / more details
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The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences, Mayfair
With Michelin-starred chefs at the culinary helm, and newly launched rooms offering a beautiful sanctuary in which to rest and relax, the Athenaeum is a tranquil slice of luxury right in between Hyde and Green Park. Head to the spa to unwind, or live like a king for the day in one of the hotel’s beautiful suites, before feasting at Galvin’s. We wouldn’t blame you.
10am – 6pm, from £199 / more details
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St Ermin’s Hotel, Westminster
At the end of a tree-lined courtyard in the heart of Westminster, you’ll find St. Ermin’s – a haven of style, fun and frivolity. From on-demand yoga classes that stream to your room, to bespoke beekeeping taster sessions, this hotel is a veritable adult playground. If you fancy a tipple after all that activity, head to St Ermin’s outdoor terrace.
9am – 5pm, from £149 / more details
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Novotel London Paddington
For daycationers on a budget, Novotel London Paddington offers fantastic leisure centre facilities and bright and airy rooms for a fun, fulfilling, and affordable daycay. Order room service and a bottle of champagne if you really want to treat yourself, or make the most of the hotel’s facilities with a refreshing swim, steam and sauna. If you want to get outdoors, Hyde Park is just a short walk away.
9am – 5pm, from £99 / more details
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Great Fosters Hotel, Egham
If you fancy heading out of the city, a 55-minute train journey will take you to Egham, where 50 acres of landscaped gardens and parkland are ready and waiting at Great Fosters Hotel. The hotel boasts a Michelin starred restaurant for a lunchtime treat and a beautiful bar and terrace which overlook the gardens. If it’s a real scorcher, go for a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool.
8am – 4pm, from £109 / more details
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Alexander House Hotel & Utopia Spa, West Sussex
This beautiful 5* hotel is also just a short distance from London but boasts acres of green space and great facilities for daycationers to enjoy. With a relaxing and invigorating spa, tennis courts, indoor and outdoor heated pools, and a sprawling estate ripe for exploration, this is the ideal daycation destination if you’re after ‘house in the country’ luxury for half the cost.
9am – 4pm, £129 / more details
Top image credit: Alexander House Hotel & Utopia Spa/DayBreakHotels
*Prices subject to change
