A holiday homeowner is celebrating after her seaside getaway was named the best in the country for its beachside location.

The Hideout in Selsey has been named the best staycation location for beaches in the UK after Carol Howard turned the small outbuilding into a cozy seaside studio let.

Carol said the national recognition was “really rewarding” after launching the site as a passion project during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Hideout in SelseyThe Hideout in Selsey (Image: Sykes Holiday Cottages)

The holiday-let owner, who also works as a stylist for Strictly Come Dancing’s Aljaž Škorjanec and Janette Manrara, said two couples who had stayed at The Hideout had loved the area so much that they permanently moved to Selsey shortly after.

She added: “I’ve worked hard over the years to make The Hideout a success, and I really enjoy meeting all the lovely guests that come through its doors. I’m fortunate to receive great feedback from our visitors, with two couples even falling so much in love with the area that they’ve moved to Selsey, but an award like this really does mean a lot.

Interior decor in The HideoutInterior decor in The Hideout (Image: Sykes Holiday Cottages)

“Being just a stone’s throw from the beach, The Hideout offers a tranquil escape, giving holidaymakers the chance to recharge. It’s really rewarding to see them embrace the simplistic lifestyle that the area has to offer and leave feeling refreshed.”

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The Hideout was recognised as the best staycation location for beaches in the Sykes Gems Awards 2024, run by Sykes Holiday Cottages.

Interior decor in The HideoutInterior decor in The Hideout (Image: Sykes Holiday Cottages)

The beachside getaway is just a stone’s throw from Selsey and The Witterings.

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Carol’s property was given the award after judges were impressed by its style and facilities as well as guest feedback on its cleanliness, comfort and value for money.

Prices for a two-night stay sit at around £350.

Inside the studio letInside the studio let (Image: Sykes Holiday Cottages)

James Shaw, managing director at Sykes Holiday Cottages, added: “It has been brilliant to see so many fantastic properties recognised in this year’s Sykes Gems Awards.

“We know how hard our owners work to ensure their properties remain at a high standard year-round and it is great to be able to reward their efforts. While it was difficult to choose winners after receiving so many wonderful entries, The Hideout was a clear front runner that delivers unforgettable breaks for guests.”