Holidays are going to be a little different heading forwards. While we all love a good trip abroad, the recent outbreak of coronavirus has meant it’s going to be far less likely we’ll be getting overseas any time soon.
But don’t let that put you off taking a break away. Staycations exist for a reason, and it’s likely we’ll be able to have one much sooner than a foreign holiday. There are hundreds of amazing spots worth checking out in the UK, with varying levels of fun, culture, adventure and intrigue.
And let’s be honest, we’re all a bit sick of the queues associated with some of the world’s more famous tourist spots. In fact, as Postcard Travel highlighted, Tripadvisor’s most popular deals last year were largely those which helped you jump a line.
Finding a remote locale to visit in the UK could be the perfect solution to both your COVID-19 and tourist trap nightmares. Let’s take a look at four of the best.
- The Lake District
For those looking for sites and sounds which you won’t find anywhere else on the British Isles, a trip to the Lake District is a must. If you love to hike you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to spots to check out. Our personal favourite definitely comes in the form of the walk between Patterdale and St Sunday Crag.
Every mountain you’ll find here has its own legend and mystique. Arguably the most famous is Grisedale Tarn, where it’s said the crown of King Dunamil was thrown 100ft into the icy cold waters below. All this in an attempt to stop the Romans getting their hands on it.
- The Cotswolds
People often imagine rural England as a quaint collection of little villages, all of which are self-sufficient and teeming with archaic traditions. Nowhere is that more accurate than the Cotswolds.
For anyone looking for a charming escape to the British countryside, the region is a must-see. You’ll be able to visit the sustainable farm of Daylesford in Chipping North, or indulge in a few more contemporary pursuits at the Soho Farmhouse. What’s more, there are thousands of acres of beautiful land to explore all throughout the area.
- Cornwall
The Cornish sense of nationalism speaks volumes about why you should visit this beautiful south-western county. There’s a real unique sense of identity in the region, with foods and traditions you simply won’t find anywhere else in the UK.
As well as sampling the Cornish pasty in it’s home locale, you can also enjoy some of the UK’s most incredible scenery. Rugged coves and hidden beaches, sleepy fishing villages and rolling moors make this easily one of the UK’s best staycation destinations. Highlights for us include the towns of Falmouth, Polzeath and Newquay, or beaches such as Porthleven, Whitsand Bay and Watergate Bay.
When the weather is good, Cornwall can easily match the Mediterranean for beauty.
- Scotland
And while we’re on the subject of national pride, it’s hard to look past Scotland when it comes to a UK staycation. The capital city of Edinburgh is one of the prettiest spots in the whole country. With a famous castle at the top of a steep hill right in the middle of the city and the daunting task of scaling Arthur’s Seat, active travellers will definitely have enough to sink their teeth into.
Scotland isn’t short of beautiful scenery either, with the UK’s highest mountain range, the Lochs of the highlands and plenty of islands to explore. The Hebrides and the Orkney’s are perfect to escape the crowds and enjoy some scenic social distancing.
- North Wales
The rugged mountainous landscapes of North Wales are made for exploring on foot or with a campervan. Snowdon is the second highest peak in the UK, but is a relatively easy hike.
Seaside towns like Rhyl and Prestatyn might have a reputation as faded resorts, but in fact they’re a great place to enjoy the sea air and even some traditional British amusements. Anglesey too is dotted with beaches and hidden gems, so a week or two in North Wales has a lot to offer the staycation visitor.
- Devon
Back in the West of England, and Devon has as much to offer as neighbouring Cornwall. In fact, it’s a hard choice between the two. Dartmoor is a huge expanse of wilderness that dominates the heart of the county, but the coast has some of the UK’s most beautiful beaches.
The best beaches in Devon include Burgh Island in the south, or Croyde in the north. Our home town of Plymouth is worth a visit we reckon (as you can find our in our 48 hour guide) or discover towns like Totnes, Tavistock, Exeter and Paignton.
- Norfolk
Famous for pancake flat scenery such as the Norfolk Broads, in fact the county is rich is heritage and nature. Towns like Great Yarmouth are regular draws for tourists, for good reason, or head to places like Huntstanton and Cromer for beautiful beaches.
If you’re after a social distancing holiday idea then hiring a narrowboat and exploring the canals of the Norfolk Broads is perfect. Sipping beers on deck as the sun sets, barbecues by the side of the canal and a moving hotel room. What could be better?
- Yorkshire
The UK’s biggest county offers something for everyone. From quaint valley villages and gentle walks along rivers and canals, to moorland hikes and fun packed seaside towns.
Whitby and Scarborough are probably the best known of the UK’s northern beach resorts. Both are full of cultural attractions and make a good base for exploring the coast on foot. Or, the counties of North, West and East Yorkshire are dotted with pretty towns such as Hebden Bridge or Harrogate to explore the Yorkshire Dales.
- Beautiful historic towns and cities
There are a long list of historic towns which would make excellent staycation ideas in the UK – some of which might be just down the road from you. Keep it local for your summer holiday in 2020 and discover some of the gems in your own back yard…
Many smaller towns make great locations to explore the local scenery, or even to discover historic sites. Towns like Canterbury, Bath, York and Chester are beautiful and packed full of fascinating history.
If you live in the UK, you probably have some great places to explore less than an hour from your front door. So a staycation in the UK offers plenty of choice, whatever your holiday style.
Inspired to stay on British shores for your next holiday? Remember, while it might not seem like an exciting place if you’re a resident, the UK is seen as a must-visit destination throughout the rest of the world. Make the most of your proximity this year, and save yourself the worry of catching a flight in these very uncertain times.
One Response
Hello there; Tim Smith here. I am a paddler and I paddle all sorts of boats,: kayaks, canoes, SUPs. I paddle in great places and make short videos to post on You tube. No profit, no commercial angle just enjoyment. I am very happy to share these if you think your readers / subscribers might like them.
I am a water-sports coach and coach the GB Dragon boat team but I have 85+ athletes already so am not looking for any others :-). Please take a look: PL4kwz0FoQQX1HergFXofleqUb6VD1FrJH
If people enjoy watching as much as I enjoy making them then I am happy. Tell me what you think. We do love feedback. Thanks. TWS