Flightless luxury travel: Seven of the best experiences in the UK and Ireland

6. Cruising in the UK

Explore the white cliffs and rocky coastlines that make up the UK’s 7,723-mile coastline, from the Scottish Isles in the north to the Jurassic Coast in the south. It is home to a rich variety of animals and plants, with turtles, whales and sharks occasionally sighted. Puffins are often seen nesting on some of the islands that surround Wales and Scotland, while seals dot the coasts of northern England and dolphins are spotted to the south and north. Exploring the seas around the island can yield a different perspective, from the yellow and purple moors that blanket the cliffs of the Isles of Scilly to the stone castles on the shores of Scotland’s Sound of Mull.

How to do: Hurtigruten Expeditions runs a series of cruises across the UK. For a more unique experience, reach its British Isles – remote islands, natural wonders and a diverse coastal drive. Departing from Dover, the 13-day trip takes in the Pembrokeshire Coast, Rathlin, Inner Hebrides, St Kilda, Stornoway, Isle of Man, Isles of Scilly and more. The cruise includes onboard and shore activities, with departure dates between April and August. From £3,040 per person. www.hurtigruten.com

7. Take a wellness break in the Lake District

Need some inner peace? It’s closer than you think. The UK has beefed up its wellness offerings, making it more necessary to travel to a tropical retreat all around the world to get a proper break from the stresses of modern life. Whether it’s a yoga retreat in Bedfordshire or immersive CBD treatments at the Coniston Hotel in Yorkshire, there’s sure to be something a train or car away. The Lake District is home to some of the best spa lodges in the country – the ‘Brimstone Spa’ at the Langdale Hotel is a treat with its wealth of spa experiences. The lakes themselves offer peaceful places for swimming and kayaking, while the surrounding mountains are ideal for restorative walks, meditation and reconnecting with nature.

How to do: Overlooking Lake Windermere, The Gilpin Hotel and Lakehouse offers a picturesque and peaceful setting for a wellness retreat. It is spread over two buildings, including a private spa and 100 acres of private land. Health Travel runs a three-night stay at Gilpin Lakehouse, with each suite having its own private hot tub. The stay begins with a private consultation at the spa to develop personalized treatments, as well as massages and salt scrubs. Guests can access the boathouse, spa and swimming pool. Meals are served at the Michelin-starred HYiSHi restaurant. Three nights with accommodation, meals and wellness program from £1,850 pp. health.travel