Best staycations in the UK: Top 10 staycations
Why bother with long flights when you can have a lovely break right here in the UK? Whether you prefer dreamy coastlines, the peaceful countryside or bustling cities, we’ve got it all here. If you’re planning on a busy city break or a few days in the more rural corners of old Blighty, here’s our guide to the best staycations in the UK.
1. Cornwall
Best for: Sunning yourself on Cornwall’s golden beaches with a family holiday
Cornwall is the ultimate staycation destination for those who love nothing more than being beside the coast. With plenty of gorgeous seaside towns and stunning coastal paths, there’s more than enough to keep you busy down in the South West. Be sure to spend at least one of your days by the beach, with a fresh Cornish pasty in hand. They really do taste their best here!
Featured property: Westerly Cottage
Star feature: Its proximity to the popular town of Penzance
Westerly Cottage is a cosy one bedroom home close to the town of Penzance. A lovely retreat for couples looking to explore some of the most popular locations in Cornwall, you are just a stone’s throw away from the picturesque fishing port of Mousehole.
Best thing to do: A unique day out for families, the Geevor Tin Mine in the nearby village of Pendeen offers tours, workshops, and activity days. Kids will love panning for gold and gems!
Best place to eat and drink: Visit the cosy Trewellard Meadery in Penzance for delicious pub grub in a fantastic atmosphere.
2. Devon
Best for: A holiday of adventure with your four-legged friend
If you’re planning on booking a holiday with your four-legged friend in tow, why not try Devon? With its miles of dog-friendly beaches and gorgeous country walking routes, it’s the perfect location to spend a few days away with your pup! With over 120 miles of unspoiled coastline, you’ll be completely spoiled for choice…
Featured property: St Julien
Star feature: The gorgeous sea views from the cottage
St Julien is a contemporary one-bedroom apartment in Dawlish, offering spectacular views across the coast. Less than half a mile from the town centre of Dawlish, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained in this picturesque seaside town.
Best thing to do: Make your way over to the golden sands of Exmouth Beach. Stretching across two miles, this is a great place for trying out windsurfing and kayaking.
Best place to eat and drink: Treat yourselves to a delicious plate of traditional fish and chips at Krispies, in the port town of Exmouth.
3. Norfolk
Best for: Recharging your batteries in the scenic countryside of Norfolk
In need of a quiet break without the distractions of everyday life? When it comes to natural attractions, Norfolk is probably best known for The Broads. A gorgeous national park set along the coast, this area is perfect for family walks. There’s a good chance you’ll see swans, seals, and a whole host of other wildlife along the way.
Featured property: Oak Lodge
Star feature: The Edwardian character of the property
Oak Lodge is a stylish two-bedroom home in the peaceful village of East Runton. Retaining much of its Edwardian charm, you’ll find hints of traditional architecture throughout. With a choice of great National Trust and RSPB reserves just a few miles away, there’s plenty to see and do here. It’s also just a short drive from the seaside town of Cromer.
Best thing to do: Visit Amazona Zoo in Cromer for the chance to see a variety of beautiful animals, including jaguarundi, marmosets and capuchins.
Best place to eat and drink: Visit the cute Hatter’s Tea Shop for a tasty afternoon tea or a light lunch.
4. Isle of Skye
Best for: A romantic weekend away in the Scottish wilderness
If the sight of dramatic mountain landscapes often leaves you yearning to get away from it all, you might want to try a break in the Scottish Highlands. The Isle of Skye is a beautiful island just off Scotland’s northwest coast, home to rugged cliffs, wild countryside and quaint fishing villages.
Featured property: Grouse Cottage
Star feature: The peaceful garden and barbecue area
The quaint Grouse Cottage in Newtonmore has everything you need for a comfortable stay in the highlands. Ideal for a romantic break, this two-bedroom cottage is close to the beautiful Cairngorms National Park, where you can enjoy a wealth of scenic walks together.
Best thing to do: Make a trip to the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, one of the most scenic locations in the area.
Best place to eat and drink: Head over to the quirky Manuela’s Wee Bakery in Ardelve to pick up some freshly baked treats,
5. Isle of Wight
Best for: Discovering the prehistoric history of this picturesque island
Just off England’s South coast sits the lovely Isle of Wight. Famed for its scenic blend of stunning coastline and verdant countryside, this small but mighty island has everything you need for a relaxing break away. Millions of visitors flock to its golden beaches year upon year, especially during the much-loved Isle of Wight Music Festival.
Featured property: The Farmhouse
Star feature: The massive three-acre garden – perfect for those staying with dogs
Originally built in 1780, The Farmhouse is a pretty five-bedroom home in the scenic surroundings of Wroxall. Surrounded by acres of lush green fields and valleys, including your own three acre garden, this is the ultimate location to completely relax and unwind.
Best thing to do: Enjoy a day trip to Appuldurcombe House, a majestic 17th century manor with beautiful grounds to wander through.
Best place to eat and drink: The Royal is an elegant hotel in Ventnor, best-known for serving up award winning afternoon teas.
6. The Peak District
Best for: A weekend of hiking and conquering the peaks
For those seeking adventure, we’d recommend taking a look at the very lovely Peak District. With its varied landscape of rugged peaks, pretty meadows, and rolling countryside, every inch of this popular national park is drenched in natural beauty. Remember to pack your walking boots, you’ll be needing them!
Featured property: The Lodge
Star feature: The gorgeous wood-fired hot tub on your private deck
Looking for something a little different? The Lodge is a cosy one-bedroom hut near the town of Leek. Boasting panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, this peaceful retreat is the perfect base for walkers looking to take on the challenge of the peaks. After a long day, you can soak in that delightful hot tub!
Best thing to do: The peaceful Ladderedge Country Park just outside of Leek has over 70 acres of pretty meadows and woodlands to explore.
Best place to eat and drink: The Street Restaurant and Grill in Leek offers up a tasty infusion of South American and Eastern cuisine.
7. Pembrokeshire
Best for: Exploring the rich history of Mid Wales – there’s castles galore!
Pembrokeshire is a picturesque county on the South West coast of Wales. Once rated by National Geographic as the second best coastline in the World, this wonderful region boasts 186 miles of stunning coastline, as well as over 50 beaches. Fun fact: Part of The Deathly Hallows was filmed in Pembrokeshire’s National Park!
Featured property: The Farmhouse at East Hook
Star feature: The delightful patio overlooking the dramatic bay below
The Farmhouse at East Hook is a beautifully restored farmhouse in Haverfordwest. Overlooking the glittering St. Brides Bay, this four-bedroom home is ideal for relaxed family breaks. With the popular beach of Marloes Sands less than a five-minute drive away, you can enjoy plenty of opportunities for diving, swimming, and surfing.
Best thing to do: Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Pembrokeshire’s coastlines from the gorgeous Deer Park near the village of Marloes.
Best place to eat and drink: After a day by the coast, pop into The Clock House for a delicious cafe and warming cup of coffee.
8. Yorkshire
Best for: Experiencing the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales or North York Moors
Yet another county absolutely brimming with beauty spots, Yorkshire has so much to offer its guests. History buffs will be in awe of its rich Roman and Viking history, while hill walkers will find plenty to keep them entertained in the Yorkshire Dales. Even if you just fancy a weekend of complete relaxation and tranquillity, you’ll find it here.
Featured property: The Old Windmill
Star feature: The overall quirkiness of this cute former windmill!
If you like places with a little extra charm and character, then this might just be the location for you! The Old Windmill is nestled in the popular market town of Kirkbymoorside, and sleeps up to four guests.
Best thing to do: Meet some friendly owls and other rescued birds at the National Centre for Birds of Prey in Helmsley.
Best place to eat and drink: Those with a sweet tooth will want to make a visit to Thomas The Baker in the centre of Kirkbymoorside.
9. Dorset
Best for: Trying your hand at windsurfing, sailing or diving by the Jurassic coast
With over 100 miles of stunning coastline, Dorset is another foolproof option for a relaxed seaside break. However, you’ll also get to enjoy the best of both worlds as it boasts acres and acres of bucolic countryside, too. Famed for its historic Jurassic Coast, you won’t want to miss the breathtaking views from this incredible World Heritage Site.
Featured property: Cove Cottage Hideaway
Star feature: The five-minute walk to the beach!
Cove Cottage Hideaway is a bright and welcoming cottage for two in Fortuneswell. The ideal destination for thrill-seekers and water sport enthusiasts, this gorgeous area offers plenty of excellent windsurfing, diving, and rock climbing opportunities – including excursions for those who are less experienced.
Best thing to do: Have a go at paragliding from Portland Harbour with expert lessons from Paracademy – no prior experience required!
Best place to eat and drink: Try out fresh, local seafood dishes at The Lobster Pot in Portland.
10. The Lake District
Best for: Trying out Grasmere Gingerbread and authentic sticky toffee pudding. Oh, and visiting the lakes, of course!
The Lake District has something for everyone to enjoy. From relaxed boat tours on Windermere to hiking excursions up to Scafell Pike’s peak, there’s every opportunity to rest, explore, and fall in love with this picture-postcard region.
Latrigg Cottage
Star feature: The stunning countryside views from every window of the home
Tucked away in the hills of Blencathra, Latrigg Cottage is an absolutely dreamy home. With its breathtaking views across Cumbria’s dramatic countryside, you’ll find yourself enchanted from the moment you arrive. This lovely three-bedroom home is also dog-friendly – great if you’re planning on bringing your furry friends for the adventure.
Best thing to do: For a different kind of day out, head over to Puzzling Place in Keswick – an interesting museum full of optical illusions and holograms.
Best place to eat and drink: Be sure to stop by The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop in Ambleside to sample this world-renowned treat.
