The year of the staycation

Had to change your holiday plans? Make the most of the wonderful destinations on your doorstep

- Paul Mackenzie

Lockdown meant changes to all our lives – more people worked from home, dining tables became school desks and lives were put on hold. But as restrictions ease and we emerge, blinking, into the new world, we can once again start to plan for the future.

Holiday plans for many have been torn up and it may be sometime before travel by air and train return to anything like pre-lockdown levels, but Lancashire and the Lake District are perfect for short breaks and weekends away.

Whatever you want from a holiday, you’re likely to find it right here on your doorstep. Whether your dream holiday involves beaches and gentle strolls through glorious countryside or sight-seeing and good food, we’ve got it all.

Tourism brings in billions of pounds to the region’s economy and supports thousands of jobs but not all the hotels, guest houses, holiday parks and self-catering accommodation providers will survive this pandemic. And those that do may not be back to how you remember them for quite some time.

Some of the more forward-thinking destinations spent the lockdown planning for the future and making changes to ensure guests will feel safe when they return.

Andy Brown, the managing director of Burnley’s Crow Wood Hotel and Spa, said they have used the lockdown to complete some major maintenance jobs in public areas, kitchens and offices, and he added : ‘We’ve been trying to make plans for all eventualities but it’s difficult because there is no clarity. We are very fortunate that we have very good facilities and a lot of space, inside and outside, including walks around our private parkland.