Spring and Summer are supposedly on their way and although today looks glorious looking outside through the office window (hope the boss doesn’t spot me), the latest weather report tells me it won’t last long, so lets think about where to take our outdoor clothing and equipment when the weather does finally improve. However, let’s see if we can come up with something different, as well as old favourites. Here are a couple of ideas I have found, what do you think?

Why not treat yourself to a weekend of walking in Gloucestershire, based at The Three Ways House Hotel, with guided walks around the local area varying between 10 and twelve miles, but what is unusual about that I hear you cry? Well this particular hotel is also home to The Pudding Club, which holds regularly Friday evening meetings where you are treated to seven, yes seven puddings so a chance to absolutely pig out and then walk it off over the rest of the weekend. This has gone to the top of list for a long weekend away!!

One company has come up with a great idea of getting you off the well worn beaten track and experiencing the real rural England. Self guided tours taking between three and five days covering areas such as exploring the smuggling history of Dorset’s Coast, based around leisurely walks of just five to ten miles, which leaves lots of time to enjoy leisurely pub lunches. What a great idea.

Based in The Lakes, but want a different experience, why not explore the lakelands footpaths, Bridle paths and trials with the help of a Pack Pony. Relive this routes that originated as pack pony trails in the 12th and 13th century. Enjoy the surroundings more as the pony takes the strain of carrying your kit. Organised routes last up to three days with camping out overnight included, this is a great experience for families, as children of all ages enjoy walking with a pony, and soon forget they are going for a long walk. Enjoy the Lakes and make a new four-legged friend along the way.

How about combining walking with a spot of luxury in walking from Henley to central London? This trip takes through various landscapes, from rural meadows with kissing gates, to royal palaces, from tiny hamlets to historic towns and cities. The itinerary is designed to show The Thames to its best, from Henley and Marlow, to the centre of London and its historic monuments, discover an England most do not see, and with the bonus option of stopping at a 5 star hotel at the end.

I hope this has given you some ideas of where to have a staycation with a difference, so make sure you have all the outdoor clothing and equipment you require by visiting the website and get outside and experience something new.