AFTER almost 18 months in and out of lockdown restrictions, the UK is finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel when it comes to travel.

Holidays and travel are back on the cards for many Brits, with self-catering accommodation including campsites and AirBnbs now available to book and stay in. 

When factoring in holidaymakers' list of requirements for a place to stay at their chosen destination, a 2019 survey found that ‘fantastic views’ came in third in the top 10 factors of a memorable holiday, clearly making it something that’s high on the priority list for many travellers. 

If you’re looking for some inspiration, Cloudy2Clear have scoured the web to find some of their favourite Airbnbs that offer dramatic and breath-taking views, stretching all corners of the UK. Take a look at the top accommodations with the most stunning views and see where your post-lockdown staycation will take you next.

Lodge on the Lake in Windermere, Lake District

If you’re looking for an active holiday in a rural setting, look no further than the Lake District. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to 16 lakes in total, with each one surrounded by rugged, dramatic mountain ranges that are ideal for rambles and hiking, as well as opening the area up to a wide range of water activities on a number of the lakes. The biggest lake in the area is Lake Windermere, which takes us to our next AirBnB on the list.

For those who love the great outdoors, but like to enjoy it in a comfortable, luxurious setting will love this five star lodge situated on the waterfront of Lake Windermere. It provides occupants with spectacular, uninterrupted views of the lake as you walk into the living quarters. Slide the floor to ceiling windows and walk directly onto your private decking that stretches right to the water's edge, perfect for appreciating the fresh air and the tranquility that the Lake District offers.

The Westmorland Gazette:

Secluded Treehouse in Elham, Kent

The small village of Elham in Kent is the kind of place you’d see on the front of a chocolate box, a typical old English setting that includes the usual country pub, village hall and village store. This town is also home to a very unique Airbnb, where travellers can be at one with nature. This is your opportunity to stay in your very own private treehouse! 

The Elham Treehouse is constructed from recycled timbers to create a sustainable masterpiece. This cosy, peaceful accommodation is nestled 20ft up between three sturdy oak trees and has plenty of space for a couple. The treehouse has uninterrupted views across the glorious north downs from a quiet, secluded location. If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, there is a village with two pubs and a restaurant just over a mile away.

The Westmorland Gazette:

Stunning Quayside Views in St Ives, Cornwall

St Ives is a picturesque fishing harbour and seaside town, often described as the dazzling jewel in the crown of Cornwall. This stunning town has been voted best family holiday destination by Coast magazine and has one of TripAdvisor’s top 10 European beaches.

This is a beautiful apartment with the most amazing views of the ocean from the windows and balcony. It is perfectly located within a minute walk of the town centre and beaches, so you can wander through the gorgeous cobbled streets, browse the independent shops and experience the hustle and bustle of the harbour.

The Westmorland Gazette:

Countryside Cottage in Ingleton, North Yorkshire

The village of Ingleton is an ideal holiday destination for outdoor activities or just relaxing in tranquil countryside. Surrounded by magnificent countryside filled with luscious sights such as the famous Ingleton Waterfalls Trail. Ingleton is a fantastic location for walking, climbing, potholing, cycling and caving.

Laburnum Cottage is a spacious, traditional Yorkshire cottage in a stunning central location. The cottage is a one minute walk to the village centre, and a stone’s throw from the beautiful Ingleton Waterfalls walk.

The Westmorland Gazette:

Stargazing in the Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is the largest island in the Inner Hebrides and well known for its dramatic, mountainous landscapes and beautiful stretches of coastline. Skye offers plenty for the active traveller amongst us, including fly fishing, watersports and a vast amount. of hiking trails to suit all types of walkers. These walks are ideal for anyone looking to take in the scenery and spot some of the local wildlife, which include red deer, puffins and the golden eagle.

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in the Isle of Skye that’s as equally spectacular as the landscape, take a look at this timber-framed bungalow, recently built in 2020. Situated in a quaint little village of Dunan, this home is situated just above the shoreline and provides jaw dropping views of the neighbouring Island of Scalpay and the mountains of mainland Scotland. This place is ideal for those who love their creature comforts, but still want to be at one with nature.

The Westmorland Gazette:

A Boutique Narrowboat in Manchester city centre 

If you’re thinking about a UK city break, Manchester should be towards the top of your list for places to visit this year. Manchester has just about everything a thriving city should offer, from a fantastic shopping district, hundreds of bars and restaurants and a vast history stretching back 100s of years. If you’re looking for somewhere a little quirky to stay whilst in Manchester, how about booking you and a guest on a boutique narrowboat floating on the city's famous waterways?

Moored in the Castlefield Locks area of the city centre, this beautiful barge has recently been renovated and includes all the creature comforts you’d expect from a hotel, including it’s own pub-themed bar! The real reason why you’d choose this as a place to lay your head is the cracking views of the city it has to offer, where old mills and industrial structures meet the glamorous, glass skyscrapers of the 21st century.

The Westmorland Gazette:

Lochside Hostel in Loch Ness, Scotland

Probably the most famous lake in the UK, if not the world, Loch Ness is both incredibly beautiful, and shrouded in mystery. Every year, visitors travel to the area to take in the dramatic scenery, and see if they can spot the legendary Loch Ness Monster.

Perched right on the riverbank, The Lochside Hostel offers unrivalled views of the water, and the surrounding forest. Perfect for walks, monster spotting and even a dip into the magical waters.

The Westmorland Gazette:

Stay in the Heart of the City, London

The city of London is the UK’s most popular destination for a city break, and it’s not hard to see why. Everything you could possibly want to do or need is right here on your doorstep! Whether you’re visiting to do all the famous tourist attractions like Buckingham Palace, Natural History Museum and the London Eye, a shopping spree on the renowned highstreets or just here to soak in the culture and atmosphere of the capital, you’re sure to have a full itinerary for the duration. 

And after a busy day of exploring, why not retire to your very own private penthouse, complete with breathtaking views of the London skyline. The floor to ceiling windows in this top floor flat perfectly frames the city skyline from every angle, with views of the famous landmarks like the Gherkin, Walkie Talkie and the Shard Buildings in front of your very eyes. 

The Westmorland Gazette: