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Local breaks at local rates

28th May 2009 Print
Been to Bratislava, but never strolled along Brighton pier? Seen the sunrise in Lahore but never lived it up in Leeds? Fix your discerning eye on the United Kingdom and sample the delights of our enchanting isle by discovering treasures right here on our doorstep.

From historic Belfast to vibrant Edinburgh, Preferred Hotel Group proves that staying within the UK can help you stretch your sterling, so leave your passport at home in favour of a great British escape. Enjoy six fantastic breaks, each for under £160:

Beside the Seaside – myhotel Brighton, Brighton (preferredboutique.com)

Hark back to a more relaxed era with a 21st century twist on the traditional British seaside break. Iconic Brighton offers sea, shopping and stunning heritage. Visit the majestic Brighton Pavilion, stroll along the beach or meander the maze of twisting alleyways for funky fashion.

Want lavish for less? Live it up at myhotel Brighton in the coveted North Laine area. A member of Preferred Boutique, it’s a stylish blend of cutting edge design and serene spirituality. Relax in the Jinga spa or sip a cocktail in Merkaba as the sun sets over this cosmopolitan city. Prices start from £89 for a double room including buffet breakfast.

Summer in the City - The Mandeville, London (summithotels.com)

The capital truly has something for everyone – fashionistas should check out the latest collections at Selfridges (currently celebrating its 100th anniversary with myriad events) and new looks at Liberty’s, whilst foodies can head to Regents Park, home to the London Taste Festival between 18th - 21st June. Famous chefs from the capital’s finest restaurants will be sharing their best kept secrets, while 150 top notch food and drink producers dish up finger licking delicacies.

For hot times in the city, check into The Mandeville, a member of Summit Hotels & Resorts. Perfectly located, it’s a chic retreat just steps from Bond Street and boasts an award winning restaurant and striking destination bar, De Vigne. Prices start from £160 for a superior double room.

Love Leeds - 42 The Calls, Leeds (summithotels.com)

Yorkshire’s largest city, Leeds, is rich with culture and personality as a buzzing centre for music, history and art. Music fans should head to Leeds Festival (28th – 31st August) and with a hot line up from Radiohead to The Kings of Leon, it’s set to rock the Bank Holiday weekend.

For something a little more serene, discover sculpture at the Henry Moore Institute (admission is free) or meander along the wide avenues of nearby Harrogate for the very best in Northern boutiques. To sleep soundly in the city – make a beeline for 42 The Calls, a member of Summit Hotels & Resorts. With views of the River Aire, rooms boast beamed ceilings with their original Mill mechanism, handmade beds, and an extensive collection of original paintings and drawings - combining to create a beautiful hotel offering comfort and style. Prices start from £89 for a double room.

Carnival Queen - The Fitzwilliam, Belfast (preferredhotels.com)

Pulsing with an irrepressible optimism and energy, Belfast’s attractions include the Ulster Folk Museum, the famed Cathedral and the Belfast Wheel where you can view the city spread beneath your feet. To see this vibrant city in full swing check out Belfast City Carnival on 27th June, a colourful parade through the city centre.

Check in to the city’s first boutique hotel, The Fitzwilliam Belfast, a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts. which opened earlier this year to rave reviews. Cocoon yourself in the sumptuous five star surroundings. Dine at Menu, Michelin-starred restaurateur Kevin Thornton’s newest venue, or sit back in the bar – one of the city’s most popular watering holes. Prices start from £120 for a superior room.

Culture Vulture - The Glasshouse, Edinburgh (preferredboutique.com)

The perfect weekend city break, Scotland’s cultural capital offers more than just tinned shortbread and tam o' shanters. Home to Europe’s acclaimed arts festival (14th August – 5th September), Edinburgh is a honey pot of creativity. Navigate the winding cobbled streets, visit art galleries and museums and learn about the city’s royal ancestry at Edinburgh Castle.

Best of all, you can afford five-star with a stay at The Glasshouse. A member of Preferred Boutique, this intimate hotel boasts magnificent features such as its contemporary lavender-scented rooftop garden with exceptional city views. Hailed ‘Most Stylish Hotel’ by the Scottish Style Awards, the hotel exudes a real ‘VIP’ atmosphere. Prices start from £125 for a deluxe double room.

Want to venture a little further afield, where you can spend some spare euros? Cross the water to Eire, where you can be in Dublin in as little as 40 minutes, with no jet lag to deal with when you land.

Emerald Isle – The Morrison, Dublin (preferredboutique.com)

Filled with fairytale architecture, boutiques and concept restaurants, Dublin offers more than just the chance to enjoy a strong Irish tipple or two. If you love to shop check out luxe department store Brown Thomas, take a literary tour of the city or explore Dublin’s scenic coastal route which offers breathtaking scenery. As dusk falls head to Temple Bar and join in the craic with the locals in an authentic Irish traditional music session at Oliver St. John Gogartys.

Stay at one of Dublin’s coolest hotels - The Morrison, a member of Preferred Boutique. Located on the banks of the River Liffey, interiors are styled by world famous designer John Rocha and combine a mix of high ceilings, original art, stone floors and beautiful grey hand crafted Irish carpets. Sip a cocktail in the Morrison bar or dine at Halo, the chic restaurant boasting an eclectic theme with antique tables and velvet upholstered dining chairs in an array of vibrant colours. Prices start from £135 for a superior double room.