We’ve pulled through one national lockdown already and seen numerous holiday destinations removed from the safe-to-fly list, so it seems like a fair assumption that we are going to have to adapt the way we take time off, for the foreseeable future.
Domestic holidays are nothing to be frowned at, especially when you consider some of the naturally stunning spots in the UK, but how many do you know about? In this article, we take a look at the destinations that you should consider for your next holiday.
Yorkshire
Offering a glimpse back in time, Yorkshire is a heavenly part of the world, particularly one of its most famous cities, York. York combines medieval streets with contemporary shopping experiences. Widely known as a culturally rich and diverse city, you can enjoy a huge array of activities here, from architectural appreciation through to traditional afternoon teas and even walking ghost tours. The people are very friendly and you can’t look into a York holiday without staying in a heritage hotel. If National Trust holiday reviews are anything to go by, then Middlethorpe Hall & Spa is the place to be for open fires, plush decor and amazing food.
Cotswolds
Cotswold villages are some of the prettiest and most charming around, but don’t be fooled into thinking that you’d have a quiet or boring stay. There is a vibrant and dynamic arts scene within the area, offering plenty of galleries and museums to investigate. You’ll also have your pick of scenic spots, as the Cotswolds covers an 800-mile stretch of rolling hills and chocolate-box villages. We heartily recommend a winter visit, to enjoy chilly walks and fireside meals as a reward.
Bourton-on-the-Water is not to be missed. Always featured in the prettiest village lists, it is dotted with beautiful little bridges over the River Windrush and has an ambience all of its own.
North Norfolk
Forget what you think you know about Norfolk, because the northern part of the county has a wide variety of destinations that are all within easy distance of each other. Peaceful beach walks are easy to come by, as are the array of quaint villages. If you don’t fancy staying in a standard hotel, this is your opportunity to rent a boat and really travel the UK in style, along the Norfolk Broads. This could be a fantastic option for staying socially distanced as well.
Visit Holt for a dose of North Norfolk hospitality, while Cley has a fabulous pebble beach that is dog-friendly and always atmospheric.
London
We can’t discuss UK holidays without mentioning London. Drawing tourists from the world over, you might be overlooking the cosmopolitan and frankly fascinating city, just because you’ve been before. That would be a mistake. It’s ever-evolving, offers a heady combination of museums, galleries and interactive exhibits and in terms of food — you can find just about anything.
Why not try a long weekend in London, staying at a boutique hotel? Pick some experiences that you’ve always wanted to try and actually make them happen.
Cornwall
Everyone knows that Cornwall is a surfer’s paradise but it can be a history buff’s dream too. Tintagel is particularly interesting for anyone with a penchant for heritage, as there is a castle, Merlin’s Cave and the Old Post Office to explore. Found in north Cornwall, it’s only a short drive from Boscastle too, a pretty little port with a natural harbour, dug deep into a ravine. The hills are steep, so be aware of that, but traditional pasties and friendly locals await those that can muster the energy for a spot of cardio. While in Cornwall you may want to visit some attractions in Newquay. Newquay has been voted in the past as One of the Nation’s Favourite Seaside Towns and also for Best Family Holiday destination.
Brighton
For a UK holiday that can be as unpredictable as the weather, Brighton is the place to head to. An eclectic city that makes light work of being inclusive, fun and unforgettable, you can easily tailor your stay here to cater to any and all tastes. Walks on the beach followed by fish and chips and afternoon tea? Easy. Or how about beach yoga, followed by thrift shopping and cocktails? Just as simple to find.
The best advice, according to locals, is to simply go with the Brighton flow.
Isle of Arran
If you normally book a holiday to get away from everything for a while, consider the often blustery but always beautiful Isle of Arran. A ferry journey away from the Scottish mainland, what awaits you is tranquillity. The roads, though hilly, are ideal for cycling and with a pretty coastline to walk, you‘ll feel all your cares melt away within the first day. Take a few days to explore the mountain views and if your tastes run to whisky, don’t miss a distillery tour. You’ll be looking at house prices in Arran before you leave, we almost guarantee it!
The UK benefits from such a vibrant and diverse range of holiday destinations that you might start to wonder if you even need to go abroad again.
Anna Marikar, mum of four and seasoned blogger, has spent over a decade sharing her parenting journey and passion for kid-friendly crafts and free printables.
Her easy-to-follow craft ideas and practical parenting advice have transformed In The Playroom into a cherished resource for parents.
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