Every summer, London develops something of a one-track mind for tennis. And if you're not a big fan (hello!) it can all feel a bit overwhelming. Seeding? What's that? The scoring system? No idea. Strawberries? Ok, those I understand.
But as the city slips into its annual Wimbledon obsession - and oh, I do love the crisp white outfits - not everyone wants to spend their weekends debating backhands.
© Getty ImagesFortunately, July is also one of the best months to make a stylish exit. The weather is warm (or warm-ish, this is Britain after all), the countryside is in full bloom, and there are so many charming cities that are just a short hop away. Or, if you're after something a bit more exotic, a quick flight can have you soaking up sunshine in no time.
So whether you're craving a seaside reset, a long lunch that turns into sunset drinks, or simply a change of scenery that doesn't involve Centre Court, there are plenty of ways to escape.
Read on for our favourite easy July getaways for when Wimbledon just isn't serving what you're after....
Puglia, Italy
There's peace and quiet, and then there's the sanctuary that is Trullo Dei Pini, sitting neatly among century-old olive groves. Sat within 10,000 square metres of private grounds, the bleached limestone villa marries old Italian charm with slick modernity. The perfect spot to get stuck into a fantastic book, you won't find peace quite like this sunny slice of heaven. (A discount available for our lovely H! Fashion readers if you email directly and mention this article.)
© UnsplashPuglia is a sun-drenched region in the south of Italy that offers the perfect escape, with a flight time of just under three hours from London. Swap city smog for olive groves and crystal-clear waters. From the iconic trulli houses of Alberobello to the baroque beauty of Lecce and the stunning beaches of the Adriatic and Ionian coasts, Puglia offers a slower, more authentic side of Italy. Don't skip dinner at Il Bastione (expect mouthwatering seafood) and drinks at Picci Bar (where it feels like you've travelled back in time.)
Whitstable, England
© Andrew Hayes-WatkinsJust an hour and a half outside of London, Whitstable is a stretch of gorgeous Kentish coastline for those wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of big city life. Keller Wine Bar & Restaurant is the new cool kid on the block that should be your first port of call. Enjoy dishes such as Roasted Scallop with Vadouvan spices and Sea bass with fennel lyonnaise and vermouth sauce, courtesy of Michelin starred Chef Daniel Smith. All washed down with a delicious wine from the eclectic wine list, courtesy of sommelier Elliott Ashton-Konig.
Whitstable is full of hidden gems and is a delight for culinary connoisseurs who want to enjoy some fine British food. Hit up Ossies for traditional fish and chips, or Samphire for creative concoctions featuring a plethora of fantastic fresh seafood. The Crescent Turner Hotel is a boutique hotspot that was originally built in the early 19th century. The house has welcomed many to the fresh sea air and sweeping coastal views the Kent coast offers and its charming rooms ooze relaxation and respite. Larder is fantastic for late-night cocktails, and the bar upstairs at the Whitstable Oyster Company is the perfect place to drink in sea views
Sussex, England
If switching off is what you're after, we can't think of a better place to do so than while nestled within 93 acres of stunning Sussex countryside. At South Lodge (just an hour and a half from London), there is plenty to keep you distracted from the hum-drum of real life - thanks to the hidden rockery and wildflower meadow, the natural swimming pool and vast spa.
© Angela Ward Brown
© Angela Ward BrownStay in one of the lakeside lodges for panoramic views of the seriously impressive landscape (preferably with a glass of local sparkling wine in hand). Scoff yourself silly in one of the brilliant on-site restaurants - including the impressive Michelin-starred The Pass, and don't skip the utterly serene spa. Don't skip visiting one of the brilliant Sussex vineyards (Ridgeview Wine Estate is just around the corner) for a glass of English sparkling.
Comporta, Portugal
© CopyrightedFancy a bit more sunshine than the British climate can promise? Well, JncQUOI is an idyllic retreat situated just 40 minutes south of Lisbon in Comporta, and this unsung hero of Portugal is the perfect spot for a sunny weekend getaway. Relax in the impeccable rooms before heading to the Beach Club - designed by architect Vincent Van Duysen and nestled into the stunning landscape of Praia do Pego. Chow down on mouthwatering seafood while surrounded by white dunes and incredible views.
© Henrique Isidoro
Do a spot of shopping at Fashion Clinic Comporta, a carefully curated boutique stocking luxurious labels such as Zimmermann, Pucci and Brunello Cucinelli. End the day with dinner at JncQUOI Deli Comporta - a bold reinterpretation of a traditional Alentejo tavern before collapsing into a seriously sumptuous bed for the night. You won't want to come home...
Barcelona, Spain
Where else in the world can you combine famous architecture, a seriously vibrant nightlife and mouth-watering food you'll be thinking about for months to come. Why Barcelona, of course! Just a two-hour flight from London, visit the finally finished Sagrada Familia (it only took 144 years). Stay at the Hotel Pulitzer in one of the dreamy, tranquil rooms designed by Lázaro Rosa-Violán - the perfect place to get away from the hustling, bustling city below.
© UnsplashYou're spoiled for choice when it comes to wining and dining in Catalonia, but Gala Restaurant serves sumptuous Italian cuisine and descend downstairs post-meal for a secret DJ set hidden behind some bookshelves. If a secret club is your thing, hit up Cohete Restaurant and end the night at cocktail bar Dr. Stravinsky - one of the world's 50 best bars.
