As much as a foreign holiday is lovely, sometimes there’s nothing better than a getaway in the UK, is there? There’s no need to pay huge amounts for parking at the airport, and nor will you have to endure the stress of airport security or the boredom of the departure lounge. Instead, you could enjoy one of these perfect UK getaways this summer…
Devon
Devon is a truly beautiful corner of the UK to explore. Not only are there miles of beaches to enjoy with pebbled coves and windswept bays, but there are also expansive national parks with blankets of fields and forests. Take a trip to Devon and you’ll get to explore the ‘English Riviera’, the Jurassic coast, Dartmoor and Exmoor, hidden villages with whitewashed seaside cottages, and Roman cities such as Exeter.
If you’re swayed by the idea of all that beautiful scenery (not to mention the scones, clotted cream and cider), book yourself into a beautiful little holiday cottage and make sure you have a car to make the most of this county. You’ll want to be able to see as much of it as possible, and having a vehicle so you can access some of remote bays for surfing, sunbathing and paddling in the sea is a good idea.
Edinburgh
At the opposite end of the country is a truly memorable city to explore: Edinburgh. This getaway destination is rich with history, architecture, art, music and culture, and you’ll certainly need a few days to see the best of it. Visitors often head straight for the tour-guide buses to get an overview of the city before making their way up to Edinburgh Castle (the city’s most popular and famous attraction).
But, it’s a good idea to get off the beaten track if you really want the perfect getaway this summer. Start by exploring the West End Village (a cobblestone area of the city offering independent stores and quirky boutiques), before smelling the flowers in the Royal Botanic Gardens. And, if you’re brave enough, book yourself onto the Mercat Tour where you’ll be taken into the haunted underground vaults beneath Edinburgh’s streets – what you’ll see down there is anyone’s guess!
Lake District
The Lake District is an incredibly beautiful area, and there’s a huge amount to do if it’s somewhere you want to visit. Of course, there are different activities on offer depending where you specifically want to head to, but places such as Coniston Water, Windermere and Ullswater are always popular with tourists. These locations are perfect if you fancy trying activities such as sailing, kayaking or rock climbing, and there are lots of shops, pubs and other amenities close by too.
The North Lakes is often the most peaceful part of the Lake District given that it’s harder to get to, but it’s Wastwater in the West (surrounded by Kirk Fell, Scafell Pike, Great Gable and Red Pike) that’s the most awe inspiring. If you go on holiday here, watch the sun rising or setting over the screes and shores of Wastwater: you won’t regret it.
Brighton
For something a lot less rural, how about heading to Brighton? Brighton is one of Britain’s coolest seaside resorts (if not the coolest seaside resort), somehow balancing the nostalgia of piers, arcades and fish and chips with a vibrant nightlife and a youthful culture. Take a stroll down Brighton Pavilion, hunt down Banksy’s graffiti art, dip in and out of independent shops and boutiques, marvel at the creations of Choccywoccydoodah and book tickets for Brighton’s comedy club.
