Nine de-stress holidays: The best locations to reduce stress and anxiety
When life starts to feel stressful or overwhelming, a change of scenery helps you to relax and reset. Discover our favourite places in the UK for a de-stress holiday, including coastal towns, country villages and city breaks. Whether you prefer to unwind by taking a long walk in nature, enjoying some delicious food or being pampered, these locations offer everything you need to get back to feeling at your best.
1. Bath
Location: Somerset
Best for: Spa lovers
Bath is surrounded by beautiful countryside and is the ideal location for a relaxing break. Experience the geothermal pools and treat yourself to a massage or facial at Bath Thermae Spa. You can also explore historical attractions including the 2,000-year-old Roman Baths and refuel at one of the many cafes, pubs and restaurants in the area.
Place to stay: Murphy’s Place is located in the heart of Bath and has everything you need for a relaxing break including a fireplace, two luxury bathrooms, and an enclosed garden.
2. Kendal
Location: Cumbria
Best for: Exploring the Lake District
Whether you prefer to de-stress with a long walk in nature or would rather be pampered, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Kendal. It’s the perfect base to explore the Lake District and you can treat yourself to a manicure or spa treatment at Rejuvenate beauty salon. There are also several independent cafes where you can enjoy some delicious locally sourced food.
Place to stay: The romantically named Valentines’s Cottage has a comfy king sized bed and a private patio area to relax in after a day of exploring.
3. Polperro
Location: North Cornwall
Best for: Stunning scenery
Polperro is a picturesque village and fishing harbour with plenty of beautiful views. It is a lovely destination for when you feel like getting away from daily life, reducing your stress levels, and experiencing a change of scenery. Enjoy a peaceful coastal walk followed by some delicious food and drink in The Three Pilchards.
Place to stay: This former artist’s studio has stunning sea views and a private garden.
4. Conwy
Location: North Wales
Best for: Day trips
The town of Conwy makes the ideal base for exploring surrounding locations including Snowdonia and Anglesey. Despite being small it can get fairly lively during the holiday season. Refuel with a pot of tea and a slice of cake in the cosy L’s Coffee & Bookshop or cook your own steak at LAVA Hot Stone kitchen. The seaside town of Llandudno is also just a short drive away and you can also visit Conwy Castle and the smallest house in Great Britain.
Place to stay: Relax in front of the fire or enjoy some sun in your own private garden at Plas Mawr Cottage.
5. Cheddar
Location: Somerset
Best for: Adventure
There is plenty to see and do in Cheddar. Explore the caves, take in the stunning gorge and enjoy a bracing walk in the Mendip Hills or a gentler stroll around the reservoir. Discover beautiful villages just a short bike ride away and refuel at one of the many tearooms, restaurants, and cafes. Don’t forget to stock up on plenty of authentic Cheddar cheese.
Place to stay: Soak in a hot tub while enjoying beautiful countryside views at Whileaway Lodge.
6. Bakewell
Location: Derbyshire
Best for: Exploring the Peak District
Bakewell is a pretty market town to explore the Peak District. You can also stroll around the shops and markets and enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea. Walking is excellent for weight loss, so forget about calories and enjoy a hearty meal in The Red Lion (followed by some sticky toffee pudding!) after a day hiking over the peaks.
Place to stay: This Cottage in Derbyshire has a log burner and lots of original features including an original Victorian fireplace and a quarry tiled floor.
7. Torquay
Location: Devon
Best for: Beaches
Torquay is located along the ‘English Riviera’ and is known for its warm climate and sandy beaches. Take a walk past the marina and tuck into fresh seafood at one of the many local restaurants. Paignton Zoo is a short drive away and there are plenty of coastal walks to enjoy here too.
Place to stay: The Marina Beach House has spectacular views and is a short walk away from the town centre.
8. Edinburgh
Location: Scotland
Best for: Culture
Soak up Edinburgh’s rich history and culture including Edinburgh Castle, the National Museum of Scotland and The Scottish National Gallery. Experience stunning views at the top of Arthur’s Seat and after a busy day of sightseeing, have some delicious food and a glass or two of whisky at the Whiski Rooms. If you fancy something a little less active, relax your body and mind at One Spa.
Place to stay: Grassmarket is located right next to Edinburgh Castle and has a fireplace and an extra deep bath, making it a great relaxation spot.
9. Tenby
Location: West Wales
Best for: Coastal Walks
Tenby is the ideal location for a peaceful break. Relaxing on the beach or taking a scenic coastal walk is perfect for stress management, and you can refuel in one of the many delicious restaurants and cosy pubs including The Stables, The Lifeboat Tavern or The Harbwr Brewery. Complete your anti-stress break with a visit to an authentic Tudor house or take a short boat trip to Caldey Island.
Place to stay: Enjoy tranquil sea views at Crwys, Hafod y Mor.
