From floating cabins to luxe hotels, enjoy an immersion into marina living with our pick of perfectly positioned waterside accommodation

Words Jenny Oldaker

For a Group Get-Together
The Houseboat, Liverpool

This stylish moored houseboat on Liverpool’s Coburg Dock makes for a base that combines a peaceful setting with easy access to the city’s amenities. With views of the water from every room and space for eight people, it’s ideal for anyone seeking an unusual getaway for a group of friends or extended family. At its heart is a light-filled open-plan lounge, though in good weather the private patio deck is the only place you’ll want to be – it’s a tip-top spot for lounging with a drink and watching the world go by. A seven-night stay costs from £1,796 in high season and £1,346 in low season (hostunusual.com).

For a Dog-Friendly Stay
The Salt Lodge, Troon

Opened in 2020, The Salt Lodge at Troon Yacht Haven is a scenic choice for exploring the Ayrshire coast, with Scandi/Scottish-inspired interiors that pay tribute to Troon’s maritime heritage, and exquisite sea views at every turn. Rooms have kitchenettes, but dining options abound, including the adjacent Scotts bar and restaurant. Four-legged guests will also feel at home, with dog-friendly rooms and doggy welcome packs. Rooms start from about £440 for two nights in high season and about £315 in low season (saltlodgehotel.com).

For a Romantic Bolthole
The Inspiration, Brixham

With an open-plan bedroom, sitting area and kitchenette, plus a shower room, this cleverly designed bijou cabin is invitingly cosy. Hunker down for a soothing night’s sleep, lulled by lapping waves, savour breakfast with a marina view on the deck, then enjoy the delights of South Devon. Prices from £140 per night year-round (oneoffplaces.co.uk).

For Pre-Cruise Luxury
Harbour Hotel, Southampton

From its superyacht-inspired architecture to sophisticated, maritime-influenced interiors and expansive outdoor terraces, guests at this hotel on Southampton’s Ocean Village Marina are in for a life of luxe. Relax at the HarSPA, or dine at The Jetty – seafood-focused, with floor-to-ceiling windows that maximise the light and marina views – or the rooftop HarBAR. The Cruise & Stay package is for people embarking on or returning from a cruise in Southampton, and includes up to 21 nights’ parking. Room-only prices per night start from £221 in high season and £195 in low season (harbourhotels.co.uk).

For Historic Charm
Royal Castle, Dartmouth

With roots dating back to the 17th century, the Royal Castle offers a characterful stay right in the heart of Dartmouth, in Devon. Its rich heritage blends seamlessly with contemporary style in the 24 comfortable, individually designed bedrooms – opt for a Premium View room for a delectable outlook over the River Dart. The restaurant here has a tasty seasonal menu which champions local produce – dishes include a roster of popular pub classics. Prices per night are from about £156 in high season and £91 in low season B&B (royalcastle.co.uk).

For Nautical Opulence
Fingal Hotel, Leith

Fancy boarding a five-star floating hotel that’s steeped in history? Fingal Hotel in Edinburgh’s Leith district is just the place. Once a Northern Lighthouse Board vessel, it has been transformed into a luxury hotel and restaurant that offers all the glamour of a superyacht without ever leaving shore. The 23 cabins are inspired by the ship’s heritage and combine modern comfort with nautical details and opulent fittings. Cabins from £387 per night in high season and £282 in low season (fingal.co.uk).

For a Family Retreat
The Boat Shed, Lymington

Just moments away from the marina, yet enjoying perfect peace from its secluded location in Lymington Yacht Club’s dinghy yard, this compact coastal retreat is a quirky getaway that sleeps up to five people. Its design, by acclaimed architect Henning Stummell, is simple and functional yet eminently stylish, while outside a shady private garden and veranda set the scene for morning coffees or evening drinks while listening to the soundscape of tinkling boat masts and exuberant seabirds. Prices for seven nights start from £1,166 in high season and £954 in low season (newforestescapes.com).

For a Harbourside Spa Break
The Quay Hotel & Spa, Deganwy

Whether you’re gazing across the water to Conwy Castle or stepping out to soak up the rhythms of Deganwy Marina, a stay at The Quay Hotel is well placed for a restorative getaway
in north Wales. Complete the feeling of total relaxation at its on-site spa; the space includes a wellness thermal area, infrared sauna, steam room and more. Float back to your room, then sample the seasonal dishes at the Ebb & Flow restaurant. Rooms start from £199 in high season and £179 in low season on a B&B basis (quayhotel.co.uk).