Short breaks

‘The most important thing about weekends away is to maximise the amount of time you have to relax,' says travel expert Rob Arrow. ‘Don't spend time queuing for attractions. Choose a city where you can see history and culture without having to queue or pre-arrange anything – a place where if you didn't set foot in a museum you wouldn't miss out.'

Here are Rob's favourite places for a short break this season. Call us to put together packages to any of the below, or for more suggestions tailored to your tastes.

The Cotswolds

There are few destinations that embody the romance and charm of old Albion than the Cotswolds. Rob says: ‘The Cotswolds, with its thatched roof cottages and gentle landscape, is an ideal destination for a relaxing holiday, and there's also plenty to do for those members who want to explore.' Food lovers can browse fresh produce in village markets, historic towns and cities are scattered throughout the area, and there are miles of countryside through which to amble. ‘I recommend a stay in Calcot Manor for some laid-back luxury,' says Rob. This secluded farmhouse, parts of which date to the 1300s, is surrounded by meadowland and has an award-winning restaurant, spa and a cosy country pub. ‘It's a beautiful, family-friendly property, and it's only three hours from London.' Ask us to book a room at Calcot Manor or its sister property, Barnsley House.

Northeast England

The northeast is heaving with history and culture. Northumberland has some of the best-preserved sections of Hadrian's Wall and is home to Alnwick Castle, a grand fortress that features in the Harry Potter films. Whitby in South Yorkshire, with the imposing ruins of its ancient abbey, is where Count Dracula sailed into England, and where legendary explorer Captain Cook found his sea legs. And then there's the thrum of Newcastle, the imposing beauty of the Yorkshire Moors and the refined gardens of majestic stately homes, two of which are among our favourite hotels in the region. Slaley Hall and Seaham Hall are both family-friendly hotels that are as steeped in history as their surroundings, with easy access to the region's sights and a short drive from Newcastle for shopping and nightlife. Rob says: ‘Members can use them as a base to explore the northeast, or just spend the weekend relaxing in their spas and gardens without leaving the grounds.'

Glasgow

Scotland's second city is our first choice for a UK city break this season. Rob says: ‘Glasgow's famed for its nightlife, museums and shopping. There's the Science Centre on the River Clyde, designer boutiques and high street stores, and Loch Lomond is nearby for some out-of-town relaxation.' We can book hotels to suit all budgets and tastes. The Malmaison on West George Street is close to the city's nightlife, and Hotel du Vin at One Devonshire Gardens is our choice for a romantic break. Rob says: ‘One of my favourites is Mar Hall, a 10-minute drive from the centre. It's a golf resort with a baronial Scottish feel and amazing Aveda Spa.'

Paris

‘Paris is a classic short-break destination because it's so easy to get to on the Eurostar, and in spring time there's no other place like it,' says Rob. ‘Stroll down the Boulevard Haussmann or the Rue du Faubourg and stop off for an al fresco lunch, or get lost on the streets of St Germain, with its cafés, boutiques and restaurants.' The Esprit St Germain is, according to Rob, one of the city's best-kept hotel secrets. Rob says: ‘It's such a different experience to big, impersonal hotels. The bar is complimentary and you decide what to have for breakfast, when you have it and where you have it, rather than having to adhere to a set timetable.' Rob also recommends the Castille, which offers luxury without a hefty price tag and has a special draw for fashionistas. ‘It's opposite the Coco Chanel atelier, so guests can look across the street and see Coco staff making next season's collection,' Rob says.

Florence

The streets of Florence are so rich with art, history and culture that there's no need to join a queue during a stay in the Renaissance city. ‘We can put together a bespoke walking tour that will take in everything from Michelangelo's David in the Piazza della Signora, to the jewellers on the Ponte Vecchio and the gothic Campanile di Giotto,' says Rob. The Relais Santa Croce is Rob's favourite hotel, offering a ‘contemporary take on the Italian Renaissance': ceilings have huge frescoes, the walls are adorned with oil paintings, but the furniture is by contemporary designers. Ask us to book room 201 or 206 for the best examples of this singular style, or 304 for a romantic break. Rob says: ‘Room 304 is in the roof. You can lie in bed and gaze across the rooftops of Florence.' The Santa Croce is also home to Enoteca Pinchiorri, the city's only three-Michelin-starred restaurant. Ask us to book a table, and to arrange after-work flights directly to Florence on Friday and late flights back on Sunday to make the most of the weekend.