The trend of staycations and exploring closer to home was certainly relevant when I visited Wotton House Country Estate Hotel in Dorking, Surrey. Just 45-minutes from my door to their stately entrance was a winding and verdant drive through the Surrey Hills, an area of outstanding natural beauty. In 2026 more Brits are choosing home-based holidays, favouring private homes for big family reunions and multi-generation breaks. Staycations have shifted from once being a necessity to preference.