I Have a Luxurious Taste; 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 year-round staycations or short breaks to European cities are certainly enjoyable, there's nothing quite as fulfilling and refreshing as throwing together a bag and heading off somewhere in the UK during one of the first sunny weekends of the year. For me, that essence captures April, May, and June. Just before the peak summer months, when I usually plan a significant holiday, I love to load up the car with my husband for a couple of nights and explore a new corner of the UK. Over the years, we’ve traveled to many regions, particularly those quaint rural or coastal towns that embody the classic British charm and picturesque rolling hills. Places like Cornwall, the Cotswolds, and most recently, Whitby. While some prefer the train, I’m an enthusiastic driver. The convenience of it is one reason, but it’s really about the experience. My preferred car brand is always Volvo. For our trip to Whitby, we rented the new ES90, which was an absolute delight. Working in fashion gives you an appreciation for craftsmanship, not just in clothing. From its safety features to the unparalleled comfort and technological accessories, driving the ES90 is a pleasurable experience, not a chore. They say the journey matters more than the destination, and in the ES90, this couldn’t be truer. From our accommodation to dining experiences and the stylish details of the car, here’s everything you need to know about my weekend in Whitby.

      **What to Drive: Volvo ES90**

      I've driven several Volvo models, but never a saloon, which is what the ES90 is. It's sleek, sophisticated, and incredibly stylish; luxurious alongside being safe and comfortable, which is what we've come to expect from Volvo. The five-hour drive from London truly tested the fully electric car’s battery, and I was amazed at how quickly it charged. At the superchargers, we only needed to leave it for about 15-20 minutes to get an 80% charge—quite impressive! The large 14.5-inch screen simplifies using the technology, and the acoustics of the car (which I certainly tested) provide sound levels so loud that you won't even hear yourself sing. The Bowers & Wilkins speakers not only deliver volume but also superior quality, creating your own moving disco whether you're into heavy guitars, bass, or ‘80s electronic music.

      **Where to Stay: Saltmoore**

      Staying at Saltmoore is not just a casual choice if you're in the area; it’s a destination worth the journey itself. Located in North Yorkshire, just off the Whitby coast and across the Moors, it’s a Michelin award-winning hotel featuring a luxury spa, beautiful grounds, and outstanding service. With stylish, neutral decor that gives off a contemporary countryside vibe, it strikes a perfect balance of elegance without being pretentious. Along with spacious rooms that feature roll-top freestanding baths, Saltmoore offers fantastic amenities, including the spa, which helps guests relax effortlessly. There's truly no better place to stay in the region!

      **What to Experience, Eat & Drink**

      Being so close to Whitby town (just a few miles, making it an easy drive), a visit there is essential. With its arcades, rock shops, and ice cream parlors, it’s an authentic British seaside town but with even more charm. Whitby Abbey is also a worthwhile visit if you enjoy history or are with family. For literary enthusiasts, the numerous Dracula references, given Bram Stoker famously wrote Dracula here, add an interesting twist (making it an unofficial goth haven). Sandsend beach is breathtaking, ideal for walks in any weather. Eager to drive our Volvo along the coastline, we also explored Robin Hood’s Bay, an older charming fishing village just about 15 minutes south. When it comes to dining, the restaurant at Saltmoore comes highly recommended. Everything on the menu—from the exceptionally British mains made with locally sourced vegetables (some even grown on-site) to the indulgent desserts (the sticky toffee pudding was the best I've ever tasted), and even the warm sourdough bread served with olives—was top-notch. No dish was too small to impress. For something more casual, don’t miss out on fish and chips from Trencher's; you can't visit the northern coast without enjoying them!

      **What to Pack**

      While Saltmoore is a stylish venue, it maintains a casual ambiance. You can opt to dress up for dinner, but jeans and a smart top are perfectly acceptable. If you wish to pack light, bring along a pair of jeans and trousers, and reserve space for shoes: I wore trainers throughout the day and swapped them for elegant mid-heels and a nice top for dinner. I also made sure to pack some nice jewelry (which is a great way to elevate a simple outfit) and a jacket, as Whitby can