Staycation

Staycations in the UK 

If you're looking for nightlife, entertainment and culture all wrapped up in one convenient package, then there's nothing like spending a few days in one of the UK's great cities.

London is constantly reinventing itself, with always something new to discover, as well as popular sights like The Shard, Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge, and cultural hotspots like the Tate Modern, V&A Museum and National Gallery. In fact, with so much to see and do, it’s perfect for repeat visits.

Just as vibrant in its own way, Manchester has sprawling shopping malls like the Arndale and Trafford Centre, and an unrivalled music scene. And let's not forget Birmingham. With Michelin- starred restaurants and a wide choice of accommodation, from stately homes to cosy hostels, England's second largest city has a lot to offer.  You could try a romantic getaway in a guesthouse in Edinburgh's Old Town, a short stroll from the craggy splendours of Castle Rock? Cardiff, meanwhile, is equally-steeped in history and heritage, while also featuring modern attractions like the buzzing waterfront.

London is constantly reinventing itself, with always something new to discover, as well as popular sights like The Shard, Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge, and cultural hotspots like the Tate Modern, V&A Museum and National Gallery. In fact, with so much to see and do, it’s perfect for repeat visits.

Beach staycation ideas

Whether you prefer breezy, wave-lashed winters or the colours and sounds of high summer, British seaside resorts have their own distinctive appeal.  Bournemouth enjoys some of the balmiest temperatures in the UK, plus seven miles of award-winning coastline. The town offers a wide choice of hotels full of period character, and for the full seaside experience, you can even rent a cosy beach hut for the day.  True to its welcoming spirit, Brighton's well-known for its LGBTQ clubs, bars and accommodation. It also has dog-friendly hotels and pubs, so you needn't leave your four-legged pals at home.  A time-honoured family favourite, Blackpool remains as popular as ever, thanks to its affordable camping and caravan sites and its ever-growing roster of attractions, ranging from escape rooms and trampoline parks to wax museums and fairground rides.

Nature lover staycation ideas

An inspiration for generations of poets and artists, the British countryside makes a great getaway. Consider staying a few nights in one of the Lake District's grand hotels, conveniently located for highlights such as Morecambe Bay and Lake Windermere

Taking up 800sq miles of rolling hills between Bristol and Oxford, the Cotswolds is packed full of quaint villages and market towns, country houses and castles. 

Book yourself into a country inn before having a flutter at Cheltenham Racecourse, checking out the art treasures of Buscot Park or marvelling at the glories of Blenheim Palace. 
With its abundance of national parks and areas of outstanding natural beauty, Devon is a prime draw for anyone craving fresh air. Alternatively, head to Cornwall for a tour of Poldark country. From Tintagel castle to Bodmin Moor, the landscape exudes a powerful sense of romance.

Famed for landmarks such as Loch Ness and Ben Nevis, the Highlands of Scotland cater to a wide range of interests. Where else can you go rock climbing, play a round of golf and visit some of the world's most renowned whisky distilleries?

Top countryside staycations

Island staycation ideas

You don't have to go abroad to get away from the mainland UK. Not when there's so many fascinating holiday spots around the British Isles.  With natural landmarks like the Needles and events like the Cowes Week regatta, the Isle of Wight is a favourite for lovers of sailing and the sea. Look out for half term deals on attractions such as Blackgang Chine and Robin Hill Country Park.  Home to seals, puffins and the TT motorbike race, the Isle of Man has lots of cosy pubs, inns and farm stays as well as hotels and self-catering options.  The largest of the Hebrides islands, the Isle of Skye draws visitors with ancient clan castles, 3000 feet hikes and whale watching opportunities. Boat trips and flying tours are the perfect way to take in the island’s impressive scenery and wildlife.

Luxury staycation ideas

In the mood for some pampering? lastminute.com is your go-to for opulent spa hotels across the UK, with features such as tanning beds, jacuzzis, heated pools, saunas and treatments.  Looking for a staycation with a difference? Whether it's staying in a wigwam in the Forest of Dean or sharing a yurt in Snowdonia, glamping has grown increasingly popular as a fun, affordable way of getting back to nature.  At the other extreme, fans of the Tudors might want to sleep in a four-poster bed in Hever Castle in Kent, home to Anne Boleyn and Anne of Cleves. This is just one of many castles around Britain offering staycation holidays accompanied by attractions such as jousting, archery, banquets and murder mysteries.

Best places for a UK staycation 

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