Designed for Delight: An Architectural Tour of 6 UK Stays by Rail

For those with an eye for design, a holiday is a chance to be inspired by beautiful and innovative architecture. This tour of six train-accessible UK stays showcases a fascinating range of architectural styles, from sleek modernism and clever conversions to historic restorations.
The architectural highlight is undoubtedly the collection of sustainable bothies in Scotland. These are not traditional stone huts but contemporary, architect-designed cabins. With their clean lines, clever use of space, and focus on sustainable materials, they are a masterclass in modern rural architecture, designed to sit harmoniously within their woodland environment.
In Cornwall, the story is one of ingenious adaptive reuse. The beautiful, glass-fronted cabin known as Little Pembroke was once a simple, rundown garage. Its transformation into a light-filled, stylish living space with a mezzanine level is a testament to clever design and a vision for seeing the potential in the overlooked.
The Berkshire hotel, The Retreat at Elcot Park, showcases the art of renovating and modernizing a historic building. The project has respected the elegant proportions of the original 18th-century country house while injecting a funky, contemporary style into the interiors. The new-build spa and wellness areas are also a great example of modern, functional design.
In the Lake District, the hotel is housed in a classic 19th-century stone house, a beautiful example of Victorian vernacular architecture. The Essex cabin sits on the site of a 15th-century lodge, creating a dialogue between the old and the new. The Northumberland cottage, a traditional coastal dwelling, has been updated for modern comfort while retaining its original charm.