Top UK staycation ideas this summer
I think it’s safe to say, we all know more about staycations than we ever thought we would!
After the recent travel announcements by the UK government, more people are looking for a short break without flying away. This short blog will cover some of the top travel locations that the UK has to offer, after all, it is an opportunity to rediscover the beauty waiting for us, right around the corner.
1. Lake District
Starting up north, we have the stunning Lake District. This is one of the most popular UK staycation ideas in the North of England and is the most beautiful place to visit if you like experiencing true nature.
There are sixteen lakes in the Lake District, the largest being Windermere. Only one, Bassenthwaite Lake, is officially a lake by name, the others are meres or waters. Windermere is the most popular with tourists and is located in the centre of the district. If, however, you are planning on visiting this summer then Ullswater Lake is a great alternative, as it’s not as crowded during busy periods.
Aside, from the stunning views, the town of Keswick has a lively atmosphere, whichever day of the week you choose to visit. A traditional market is held on Saturday. There is a large range of independent shops stocking gifts, specialty foods, toys, shoes, clothing, and outdoor wear, and has a charming little arcade called Packhouse Court.
2. Bath
With its famous Georgian terraces, thermal spa waters, cream teas, and Jane Austen – you can’t say Bath isn’t on the UK tourist trail. Its English charms pull in visitors from around the world and it has so many historic buildings that the entire city’s been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known as one of the UK’s most historic cities.
Bath isn’t just about its Roman history - it had its prime as a flourishing city during the Georgian Era. Just walking around the city, you’ll be able to see the grandeur of this period and how much it influenced the place today.
There’s also Bath Abbey – a historic church in the centre of the city, where the first king of all of England was crowned.
You could probably complete Bath over two days. But if you fancied something longer, then you could visit some of the surrounding areas. Other close cities include Bristol as well as the Mendip Hills and the famous Cheddar Gorge.
3. Dorset
Located on the south coast of the UK, Dorset is a beautifully picturesque county with quaint villages, historic castles, seaside towns, and the dramatic Jurassic Coast.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its remarkable rock formations, is one of the best places to visit in Dorset. Aside from glorious beaches, impressive fossils, and dinosaur tracks, it offers mouthwatering seafront restaurants and opportunities to enjoy coasteering, hiking, and water sports.
Aside from the glorious Jurassic Coast and the marine-protected Fleet Lagoon, Dorset homes wildlife spots for dragonflies, butterflies, squirrels, and seabirds.
4. Cotswolds
The Cotswolds spans an area of 800 square miles and 6 counties of England. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is an easy 2 hours drive to the west of London and even closer to Oxford.
The picturesque villages in the Cotswolds look like they are straight out of a Constable painting or a movie. So many villages describe themselves as “the prettiest in England”.
Truth be told they are all remarkably beautiful. As are the bustling market towns located on the crossroads of ancient trading routes.
There is so much to do for both yourself and the kids. It has the UK’s only crocodile zoo, one of Britain’s smallest theatres, and lovely country pubs for those cozy evenings.
5. Eastbourne – East Sussex
A short journey along the coast, 24 miles to be precise, and you’ll find Eastbourne, Brighton’s calmer and more refined coastal cousin. Eastbourne sits right next to the South Downs National Park and has an altogether more genteel feel to it. It is an excellent family holiday destination.
Eastbourne has a gorgeous promenade that stretches four miles along the coast, a Victorian pier with the usual chippy, tea rooms, and a penny arcade. There’s also a perfectly preserved Napoleonic fort to visit, a miniature steam railway, and a harbor for boat trips and sailing.
Nearby you’ll find Seven Sisters Country Park where you can kayak on the Cuckmere River or hike the Seven Sisters cliffs to Birling Gap.
Eastbourne hosts some top events including the Eastbourne International Tennis Tournament, and Airbourne, the International Air Show.
That’s it for our top staycation holiday locations across the UK. Be sure to follow any government guidelines when traveling.
Happy holidays! 🏖
