UK Destinations That Are Perfect For A Staycation
GUEST POST.
Image Photo by Samuel Hagger on Unsplash
If you want to explore some of the most inspiring scenery in the world, along with a series of towns, cities and villages that are rich in history and culture, then you don’t have to travel far. The UK offers an amazing amount to the average tourist; small wonder that so many travellers make their way to these islands every year.
A staycation offers a fantastic way to appreciate what the UK has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a city break, a weekend on the coast, or an escape to a national park, there’s no shortage of amazing experiences on offer.
Coastal Escapes: Discovering the UK's Seaside Towns
There are a number of gorgeous seaside towns in the UK, each of which offers something slightly different. In Cornwall, Penzance and St Ives have long been the destinations of choice. The former offers a wonderful seafront promenade, as well as the famous Jubilee Pool. There are also a variety of gardens to explore, and why not make a visit to the Minack Theatre and enjoy a performance under the stars in this cliffside garden theatre?
The fishing town of St Ives has four main beaches to choose from and is popular with surfers, while for those who love the arts there is a branch of the Tate Gallery there. A little further down the coast you’ll find the beaches of Devon, and then the port cities of Portsmouth, with its historic dockyard, Southampton, with a variety of museums, and Brighton, ideal for shopping, eating out, hitting the beach or taking a wander on the pier.
Meanwhile Kent offers a variety of locations for a great UK staycation. Seaside charm can be found at Broadstairs which has popular beaches including Viking Bay and Joss Bay, while it also provides historic interests such as Dickens House Museum. While Ramsgate is ideal for keen cyclists with its Viking Coastal Trail taking in stunning views of the coast – or for history buffs Ramsgate is home to the UK’s largest network of civilian wartime tunnels.
Other key spots to put on your list in the county are Margate with the family favourite Dreamland, Herne Bay with its long promenade and iconic pier, and Whitstable which offers a charming castle to explore and the chance to try some of its famous oysters.
For a quieter break, head to Dymchurch with its mainly sandy beach or Dungeness which has a shingle beach where you will be able to enjoy some stunning landscapes – a place which draws photographers from far and wide.
Neighbouring Sussex also has plenty to offer with National Trust favourites such as Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters providing a lovely location to enjoy the seaside with coastal walks and stunning views. The historic town of Arundel has a lovely castle and cathedral to explore as well as riverside walks, and you will find traditional seaside charm in spades at Bognor Regis with its historic pier.
There is something for all the family in Hastings with its castle, art galleries, the chance to head to Smugglers Adventure or find out more grisly stories at the True Crime Museum and you can also enjoy all the fun of the seaside at the pier. Or pop along to Eastbourne home to the famous Beachy Head and cliff top walks, marina with boat tours, shops and restaurants or soak up some culture at the Towner gallery.
Of course, it isn’t just the south coast that’s worth visiting. The UK is an island nation, and it’s filled with amazing beach resorts. From Scarborough with its sandy beaches and castle ruins to Skegness with its amusement park, aquarium and nature reserve, there’s plenty to see and do – especially if you’re bringing the family along.
Countryside Retreats: Exploring National Parks and Rural Landscapes
If you’re looking for a dose of peace and quiet, then a break to the countryside is an obvious choice. In the UK’s national parks, you’ll find opportunities for every kind of outdoor activity. You can go hiking, stargazing, or even boating in the Lake District – and you’ll be surrounded by some of the most breathtaking scenery the country has to offer.
Cultural City Breaks: Immersing in History and Heritage
A city break is an obvious choice for those interested in history and culture. You can pay a visit to a museum, a theatre, or one of the country’s many cathedrals. The UK’s long history means that just about every city has a character that’s distinct from the rest.
Canterbury, with its famous cathedral, offers the chance to explore medieval streets, delve into the past in a museum or take to the river to see the sights by boat. Meanwhile Chichester has a variety of museums for all tastes, from aviation to life in Roman times, or why not take in a show at the theatre or visit Goodwood with its classic cars?
A walk along the ancient walls of York (the most complete and longest in England) or strolling around the castle in Edinburgh – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is sure to provide a vantage point from which to appreciate the surrounding architecture. Once you’re done, you can head out to eat – and there are plenty of high-quality restaurants in just about every city in the UK.
Family-Friendly Adventures: Attractions and Activities for All Ages
Those looking to entertain children might be tempted by one of the many family-friendly destinations on offer. There are adventure parks in Cornwall, such as the famous Eden Project, where you can trek through one of the world's largest indoor rainforests, see contemporary artworks and enjoy storytelling and performaces. Just a short drive from there is the famous Jurassic Coast, where young people will be able to marvel at fossils in the museum – or on the beach.
Hidden Gems: Uncovering Lesser-Known Villages and Towns
If you’re heading into rural England, then you need not always favour the more popular spots. There are a number of smaller villages and towns worthy of your attention, including Hay-on-Wye in Wales, with its array of small bookshops, and Robin Hood’s Bay in Yorkshire, with its spectacular seafront views.
During your staycation, you might plan a stay at one of the UK’s many holiday parks, which offer a range of accommodations and amenities. They’re an obvious choice for groups seeking both comfort and adventure.
The UK is home to a tremendous diversity of coastline, countryside and city destinations. There truly is something for everyone – you just have to be willing to explore!
This is a guest post and therefore these are not necessarily the views of Index Digital.
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