When I was a child, a holiday didn't really feel like a holiday unless I got on a plane. However since reaching adulthood I've become partial to what is know as a 'staycation': a holiday spent in your own country. Living and working in London means my life is pretty fast paced, I'm always on the go - and as such have come to appreciate time away, no matter where that may be.

My family moved to east Devon nearly ten years ago - our house sits on the border of east Devon and Dorset which is a quintessential part of the world with quaint seaside towns and vast rolling hills at every turn. Admittedly the weather is temperamental in the UK no matter the season, but this doesn't put me off as there's something heart-warming about running through English streets dodging the rain and finding solace in a warm pub.

Parkedean Holidays recently ran a survey that showed that up to 41% of Devon and Cornwall residents choose to holiday right on their own doorsteps. Being lucky to have my very own escape to the country in the form of my parent's house means I can see why. I have such fond memories of holidaying in the UK as a child, from crab fishing, tucking into hot fish & chips and homemade picnics after a long country walk - all things I'd still enjoy now.

Branscombe is one particular area that I love - it's a small village nestled in a valley that reaches down to the sea on east Devon's dramatic Jurassic Coast and is surrounded by picturesque countryside. I recommend the Mason Arm's pub for great food and gorgeous outdoor seating. With staycations being a fraction of the cost of a regular vacation and a great opportunity to explore your own country better, they're something I'm actively trying to do more of this year.

Parkdean recently sent me this delicious hamper* full to the brim with Devon themed afternoon tea delights to help me reminisce on my favourite UK staycation memories. They also invited me to get involved in the scone debate between Cornwall and Devon as to whether the jam goes on first or the cream - turn's out I'm obviously a Devon girl through and through as I strongly side with their angle on this, clotted cream first, jam second.

Parkdean Holidays are also currently running a competition where you can test out your knowledge of Devon and Cornwall and be entered into a prize draw to win a holiday at one of their resorts.

Will you be going on a staycation or a vacation this year?