New year, new adventures: 22 locations to discover in the UK in 2022
The year might be 2022, but we’re not giving up our staycations. With so much to see and do up and down the country, the best way to escape the daily grind can actually be right here on home turf. So as most of us continue to swap our European city breaks and luxury beach holidays for UK adventures, get inspired for your next trip with our round-up of the most popular locations to book this year.
1. Whitby
Location: North Yorkshire
Best for: Quirky seaside town
Place to stay: Cliff Cottage
With its famous connections to Count Dracula, cottages in Whitby aren’t in your typical seaside town . If its quirky cobbled streets, Gothic architecture and tales of witchcraft aren’t enough to tempt you, there are also independent shops, a medieval abbey and the dramatic North Yorkshire Coastline to explore too.
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2. Windermere
Location: Cumbria
Best for: Tranquil lake cruises
Place to stay: Lake View
As the largest natural lake in England with the magnificent Lake District fells as its backdrop, it’s really no wonder that Windermere is one of the most popular places in Cumbria. But don’t let that put you off, a picturesque cruise on these waters is perfect no matter the season.
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3. Keswick
Location: Cumbria
Best for: A base to explore the Lakes
Place to stay: Thirlmere Cottage
Surrounded by some of Cumbria’s most beautiful locations – including Derwentwater and the majestic Blencathra Fell – Keswick is a pretty market town with a rich history. It’s also the perfect spot for exploring this northerly part of the Lake District.
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4. Ambleside
Location: Cumbria
Best for: Walking and cycling routes galore
Place to stay: Dovecot Cottage
On our list is another of Cumbria’s quaint towns. Located north of Lake Windermere, wander Ambleside’s narrow streets filled with locally-owned shops and cafes. Or step off the beaten track and discover endless scenic walking and cycling routes for all abilities.
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5. Bideford
Location: North Devon
Best for: A vibrant culture
Place to stay: Diesel’s Den
Once Britain’s third-largest port, Bideford has become a popular holiday destination thanks to its bustling high street, local produce restaurants and some of the best pubs for a pint in North Devon. Soak up its cultural atmosphere or venture further out and explore the stunning Devonshire coastline.
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6. Shrewsbury
Location: Shropshire
Best for: Exploring a historic market town
Place to stay: Vitula Cottage
Nestled in the gorgeous countryside of Shropshire, Shrewsbury is a medieval market town on the Wales-England border. Wander down its streets lined with Tudor houses, visit Shrewsbury Castle or take in the sights on the River Severn by boat on a sunny afternoon.
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7. Scarborough
Location: North Yorkshire
Best for: Hunting for fossils
Place to stay: Owl View
Scarborough holidays are the perfect spot for some traditional seaside fun that all the family will enjoy. As Britain’s first-ever seaside resort, you never need to look too far for things to do in this North Yorkshire town. Soak up the sun on the beach, hunt for fossils along the Jurassic Coastline, or watch seal colonies lazing off shore.
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8. Richmond
Location: North Yorkshire
Best for: Exploring the stunning Yorkshire Dales
Place to stay: Mill Cottage
Richmond has long-inspired poets and artists with its Georgian architecture, Norman castle and enchanting riverside setting. It’s completely surrounded by the breathtaking North Yorkshire countryside, too. Said to be the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, you’ll have walking and cycling routes a-plenty on your doorstep.
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9. Brecon
Location: Powys
Best for: Outdoor activities
Place to stay: Kooky Cottage
Nestled right in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park, this scenic market town is perfect for anyone craving outdoor adventures. Brecon offers endless activities, including walking, water sports and even horse riding. Its location is ideal for exploring the surrounding countryside of Powys too.
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10. Barnstaple
Location: North Devon
Best for: A base to explore the Devonshire coastline
Place to stay: The Shippon
Whether you want to soak up the culture, uncover a fascinating history or simply wander medieval streets, Barnstaple’s vibrant energy will not disappoint. As the buzzing capital of North Devon, it’s got great links to other counties as well as award-winning beaches like Woolacombe and Saunton Sands.
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11. Looe
Location: Cornwall
Best for: A picturesque coastal break
Place to stay: Amber
Perfect for families and couples alike, Looe is a unique fishing harbour set on the backdrop of pretty white-washed cottages. Its coastal location means you can sample some of the best seafood in Cornwall, and explore its scenic coastal paths. Then there’s the Looe Museum, The Wild Futures Monkey Sanctuary, and Looe Island to see too.
Find more properties in Looe here >
12. Corwen
Location: Denbighshire
Best for: Hiking routes with pubs
Place to stay: Woodland Pod
Nestled at the foot of the iconic Berwyn Mountains, Corwen is a small Welsh town with a steeped history. This hiker’s haven boasts a rugged, unspoilt landscape with views of Denbighshire for miles around. You’ll find walks suitable for all abilities to enjoy, and plenty of Welsh pubs and restaurants to please your palate after a busy day of exploring.
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13. York
Location: North Yorkshire
Best for: Uncovering history from the Middle Ages
Place to stay: Sunflower Cottage
Voted as the best place to live in the UK, York has a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. Your trip isn’t complete without a wander down The Shambles – a historic street from the Middle Ages – and a visit to the majestic York Minster. And with the green landscapes of North Yorkshire on your doorstep, even countryside lovers will feel right at home here!
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14. Matlock
Location: Derbyshire
Best for: Tranquility in the countryside
Place to stay: 1885 The Retreat
This beautiful spa town is an ideal base for exploring the Peak District National Park. Famed for the discovery of its healing medicinal springs, Matlock has been a popular travel destination since the 17th-century. Take a tour of Derbyshire from above at the Heights of Abraham, hop on a steam train at Peak Rail or take the whole family for a fun-filled day at Gulliver’s Kingdom.
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15. Liskeard
Location: Cornwall
Best for: Character and charm
Place to stay: Orchard Chalet
Liskeard is a Victorian market town that has retained its 19th-century character to this day. Quirky, narrow streets are lined with traditional shopfronts and its rich history is displayed by the majestic town centre buildings. Close by are seaside towns Looe and Polperro for more adventures in South Cornwall.
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16. Buxton
Location: Derbyshire
Best for: Thermal spas
Place to stay: The Loft
A spa town with an impressive backdrop, Buxton is nestled in the heart of the Peak District. This town in Derbyshire has much to offer its visitors, from relaxing spas and its eclectic mix of shops to thrilling adventures at Go Ape and admiring its world-famous Victorian and Georgian architecture.
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17. Aberystwyth
Location: Ceredigion
Best for: A cultural hub
Place to stay: Bryncrwn Cottage
Aberystwyth, the perfect balance of a vibrant city-like town and a tranquil coastal escape. Located on the Ceredigion coastline, you’ll be spoilt for choice for things to do. Take a wander down the Victorian promenade or visit the 13th century Aberystwyth Castle.
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18. Carlisle
Location: Cumbria
Best for: Lots of attractions and countryside
Place to stay: Honeysuckle Cottage
The capital city of Cumbria has much to offer its tourists, with its eclectic food and drink scene, as well as museums and heritage centres. Hadrian’s Wall is just a stone’s throw away too. Carlisle is also home to one of the most impressive castles in the country. Originally built in AD 72, it protected the city from multiple invasions and is well worth a visit.
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19. Weymouth
Location: Dorset
Best for: Watersports and sandcastle-making
Place to stay: Ocean Wave
Craving golden sands and blue waters? Head to Weymouth for a tranquil coastal escape. Soak up the sun on the Blue Flag winning beach or kayak in its shallow waters. The town is surrounded by the countryside of Dorset too, so you can spend a day rambling on scenic walks.
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20. Hereford
Location: Herefordshire
Best for: Countryside and cider
Place to stay: Fred’s Shed
Famous for the medieval Wye Bridge, Hereford is a historic city with some incredibly preserved architecture dating back to the 12th century – an absolute haven for history buffs! They make amazing cider in Herefordshire too, so a trip to the Cider Museum & Distillery should definitely be at the top of your list.
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21. Newquay
Location: Cornwall
Best for: A Meditteranean holiday without the flight
Place to stay: The Beach House
Newquay’s subtropical climate and white sand beaches mean you needn’t travel to the Caribbean for your next beach holiday. This bustling town in Cornwall is home to some of the finest beaches in Europe! Whether you want a holiday filled with adrenaline-fuelled watersports or to simply relax on a sun lounger, Newquay truly has it all.
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22. Norwich
Location: Norfolk
Best for: A vibrant city centre
Place to stay: Corner Cottage
Independent shops, award-winning restaurants and an incredible muscle scene are at the very heart of Norwich’s lively atmosphere. This compact city of Norfolk has so much to see and is super easy to explore on foot too, so you can go from museum-hopping to cocktails in a matter of footsteps!
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