10 of the best luxury shepherd's huts to retreat to for socially-distanced staycations

If you're anything like us, you could really do with a change of scene right now - a sweet escape from the same four walls.

As Boris Johnson unveils his roadmap out of lockdown 3.0, leaving home for a few nights feels more appealing than ever.

And while we're all still trying to keep a Covid-safe distance from one another, a minibreak in the middle of nowhere, designed just for two, couldn't sound more idyllic.

This past year has reignited our love for the humble British staycation and since we can't guarantee that hot international beach breaks will make a comeback just yet, we're seeking some variety from our next UK holiday, with campsite and self-catering holiday open on April 12 and hotels can reopen on May 17.

We're talking unique, quirky and stylish little hideaways that are just as 'grammable as any of the jet-set vacations of yore.

So why not make shepherd's huts top of your post-lockdown bucket list? It's the contemporary alternative to glamping where idyllic self-contained sanctuaries are poised in the great outdoors for any-weather getaways that deliver optimal escapism.

From rustic and quaint to modern and kooky, shepherd's huts come in all shapes and sizes, meaning no two minibreaks will ever be the same. Plus, there are options up and down the country from Cumbria to Sussex so you never have to travel far to feel like you're a million miles from home.

Even better, these quaint little retreats often come decked out with plenty to keep you entertained during a romantic rural escape. (So no more puzzles and board games.) Imagine spending lazy afternoons reclining in a roll-top bath with nothing but countryside on the horizon, or enjoying never-ending evenings roasting marshmallows on a fire pit or rustling up your own dinner on a wood-fired outdoor pizza oven.

Did we mention that there's usually a hot tub sitting on the deck? That can only mean one thing: bubble baths under the stars.

Want a hot tip? The newly-opened huts at Burley Manor are one of the UK's best-kept secrets - and you'll want to book in ASAP. If you prefer the buzz of a hotel but still want a secluded night's sleep, the Deer View Hut is ideal as you can dine in the hut or in the hotel. It's pure rustic luxury from the moment you step foot inside where you'll be greeted by the chef’s homemade welcome cake, with a freshly brewed tea or coffee from your kitchenette. There's also a locally-made treat box and a wood-burning stove for you to cosy up by as you order a tipple from your in-hut digital concierge.

The real highlight (and 'gram worthy fodder) is the free-standing William Holland roll-top copper bathtub smack bang in the middle of the hut that makes for the perfect relaxation spot before rolling into bed. It's also an absolute treat to wake up to the leafy-strewn skylight above your plush bed before meandering through the local forest to dust off the cobwebs. Book it before all your friends do because it's memories of these long and blissful weekends that will live rent-free in our minds when we're dealing with whatever 2021 has in store. So, discover 10 of the best socially-distanced shepherd's huts to book up now... before they become this year's hottest holiday option.