It's almost time to close the final chapter of 2024. And, as with all periods of reflection, we look ahead to what's next. From trips incorporating natural spectacles so phenomenal they'll take your breath away, to cultural pilgrimages that connect us with the places from page and picture we hold so dear, here we showcase our travel trend predictions for 2025. 

 

Natural phenomena trips

In a world where it’s becoming increasingly more challenging to trust if what one sees is real, we anticipate trips that incorporate natural phenomena sightings will see a sharp rise in popularity next year. Whether it’s the sky aglow with the aurora borealis in Scotland, rare humpback whale encounters in Cornwall, or an island off the Pembrokeshire coast turning snow-white with the annual arrival of thousands of gannets, the UK is fast becoming recognised for its natural wonders. Because even the most advanced of computers can’t compete with Mother Nature herself.

Northern lights

 

Redefining all-inclusive

We’re making way for a new wave of country home owners; the movers and shakers redefining the perception of “all-inclusive.” Instead of bursting-at-the-seams hotels whose pools lie chock-a-block with splashing infants, we serve you luxury homes with private pools entirely yours to dip in (in peace) when you please. Swap lukewarm buffet suppers serving every nation’s cuisine all on one plate for homes with private chefs whipping up everything from homemade pizzas to ten-course banquets. And instead of group water aerobics after one too many bored hours on the sunbed, we present you homes bursting at the seams with facilities—from tennis courts to outdoor kitchens; yoga studios to skate ramps. This is the all-improved all-inclusive.

The Aviary in the Cotswolds

 

Cultural pilgrimages

As we’ve seen with the likes of Bridgerton, Saltburn and Rivals, tourism and TV have somewhat of a blossoming romance—and next year we expect to see this love affair go one step further. Destinations cropping up in big screen favourites will no doubt continue to inspire (hello Bridget Jones, Frankenstein, and The Salt Path!) with beloved locations spanning literature, art and music joining in on the party too. From Daphne du Maurier’s Cornwall to John Constable’s Suffolk; Beatrix Potter’s Lake District to John Lennon’s Scotland, trips that incorporate important cultural pilgrimages might be 2025’s most wholesome way to holiday.

The Tapestry in the Lake District

 

Child’s play

Life is stressful enough—so, to us, a holiday should embody the total joy and freedom often only experienced in youth. We are talking about places that give you the space to completely switch off, destress, and have fun. Destinations that encourage guests to become “big kids” and tap into that state of mind through playfulness, creativity and hobby-making are integral to our wellbeing whilst on holiday—whether that be a Lake District glasshouse complete with Steinway grand piano, a New Forest lodge with its own garden zip-wire, or a chocolate box Cotswold cottage with dedicated art room.

The art room at Inkwell Cottage in Cotswolds

 

Au naturale

With concerns around health and the environment increasingly key to many, it’s clear that conscious decision-making is being extended into the world of travel too. Holiday providers are needing to take this into account, whilst ensuring that luxury isn’t scrimped on. In recognition of this, we are noticing a palpable shift towards natural swimming pools against their chlorine contenders—both in terms of guests’  attraction to this offering, and property owners’ desire to have them; as seen at Mirana, Castle Trematonia and Morwell. The “au natural” approach to at-home wellness is a clever choice to effectively create a luxury spa quality for guests, where Mother Nature replaces man-made chemicals.

The natural swimming pool at The Walled Garden in the Cotswolds

 Feeling inspired? Peruse our full collection of luxury UK holiday homes to book your 2025 escape.