I Have High-Quality Preferences; Here Are the Stylish Essentials I Need for a Weekend Getaway.

      One of the greatest aspects of spring in the UK is the chance for weekend getaways. While it’s certainly possible to enjoy a staycation or a European city break at any time, there’s truly nothing more fulfilling, relaxing, and joyous than loading up the car and heading somewhere within the country during one of the first weekends of the year with pleasant weather. For me, that's the essence of April, May, and June. Just before high summer arrives, when I start planning a larger vacation, I prefer to take a couple of nights away with my husband to explore a new area of the UK. Over the years, we’ve explored various locations, particularly those picturesque rural or coastal towns that exude classic British charm and feature the gently rolling English hills. Destinations like Cornwall, the Cotswolds, and more recently, Whitby, have been on our list. While some may prefer the train, I am a dedicated driver. The convenience is one factor, but ultimately, it’s about the experience itself. My vehicle brand of choice is always Volvo. For this particular weekend in Whitby, we rented the new ES90, which was both delightful and wonderful. Working in the fashion industry has given me an appreciation for quality craftsmanship, which extends beyond just clothing. With its safety features, superior comfort, and technological amenities, driving the ES90 transforms from a chore into a pleasure. They say it’s the journey, not the destination, that matters; in the ES90, that couldn’t be more accurate. From our accommodations to our meals and the stylish details of the car, here’s everything you need to know about my weekend in Whitby.

      What to Drive: Volvo ES90

      (Image credit: @rebeccarhysevans)

      I’ve driven several Volvo vehicles, but never a sedan, which is what the ES90 model is. It’s sleek, sophisticated, and stylish, embodying both luxury and comfort—just what we expect from Volvo. The drive from London took 5 hours, really testing the fully electric battery, and I was impressed by how quickly it charged. At the superchargers, we left it plugged in for about 15-20 minutes, achieving an 80% charge—amazing! The car features a large 14.5 inch screen that makes using the tech very user-friendly, and the sound system (which I thoroughly tested) is loud enough that you can sing along without hearing yourself. The Bowers & Wilkins speakers deliver exceptional sound quality, so whether you're into rock, bass, or '80s electronic music, you’ll feel like you have your own moving disco.

      Where to Stay: Saltmoore

      (Image credit: @rebeccarhysevans)

      Staying at Saltmoore is not just an afterthought if you’re in the area; it’s a destination worth the trip. Located in North Yorkshire, just off the Whitby coast and across the Moors, this Michelin Key-awarded hotel offers a luxury spa, beautiful grounds, and outstanding service. The stylish, neutral décor provides a modern country feel that’s elegant but not pretentious. In addition to spacious rooms with freestanding roll-top baths, Saltmoore boasts excellent facilities, including a spa that makes relaxing effortless. It’s truly the best place to stay in the region, if not the surrounding area!

      What to Experience, Eat & Drink

      (Image credit: @rebeccarhysevans)

      Being so close to Whitby town (just a few miles away and easy to reach by car), a visit here is essential. With its arcades, rock shops, and ice cream parlors, Whitby exemplifies an authentic British seaside town, with a unique charm. Don’t miss the Whitby Abbey, a great spot for families or history enthusiasts. Literature lovers will appreciate the numerous Dracula references, as Bram Stoker famously wrote his novel here, making it an unofficial goth haven. Sandsend beach is breathtaking and perfect for a stroll regardless of the weather. Looking for any excuse to drive our Volvo along the coast, we also stopped by Robin Hood's Bay, a picturesque old fishing village about a 15-minute drive south. When it comes to food, I highly recommend the restaurant at Saltmoore. Every dish on the menu—ranging from outstanding British meat mains with vegetables sourced locally (some even grown on-site) to decadent desserts (the sticky toffee pudding is the best I've ever tasted) and warm sourdough bread with olives—was exceptional. No dish was too small not to impress. For a more casual meal, I suggest grabbing fish and chips at Trencher's, because you can’t visit the northern coast without indulging in this classic!

      What to Pack

      (Image credit: @rebeccarhysevans)

      While Saltmoore is a stylish hotel, it maintains a laid-back vibe. While dressing up for dinner is an option, smart