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Five Stunning UK Staycation Ideas
Five Stunning UK Staycation Ideas
Going abroad might be the dream for us Brits, but sometimes it's easy to forget how many beautiful places and brilliant staycation ideas we have right on our own doorstep. For a place that's so tiny, there's a surprising amount of variety in the UK, from rugged mountains to rolling hills. If you are into history, read our round-up of the top UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the UK, couples should check out our Top 10 Romantic Getaways in the UK and for the Muggles - you'll love our guide to the best Harry Potter Filming Locations in the UK. On that note, we've whittled it down to the five UK destinations that are definitely worthy of a staycation or two.
Our Top 5 Picks for a UK Staycation
Cornwall
Cornwall has long been a classic Brit holiday destination, the original staycation destination, and so has developed into a thriving tourist hotspot over the years. As well as some of the best beaches in the country, there are also scores of surf schools for those wanting a more active trip away. Cornwall has a unique seaside charm, and each year, hoards of people enjoy the classic Cornish pasties and cream teas.
Where to visit?
For stunning views and lush greenery, Penzance is a popular choice - mainly visited for nearby Land's End. For watersports enthusiasts, Newquay is a thriving town filled with surfer-types and great swell. The Eden Project in St Austell is a domed haven for botanists, with stunning gardens and unusual plants. The Lost Gardens of Heligan are also close by, and are perfect for those who want to see the countryside.
The Peak District
The Peak District National Park is ideal for outdoors-y types, and offer views to rival overseas competitors. Located in northern Derbyshire, its rambling trails, winding rivers and breath-taking views make it a popular choice for UK tourists. It's a great place to hike, cycle and camp, and feels a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the cities.
Where to visit?
One of the things that makes the Peak district so popular is its ability to entertain people of all ages. The Go Ape course is perfect for kids, and the cable cars at the Heights of Abraham offer sweeping views across the land. For a hint of history, visit Chatsworth House, home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, or Bolsover Castle, a gorgeous 12th century castle in Derbyshire.
Snowdonia
Snowdonia National Park, in north Wales, has a landscape like no other, making it a popular travel spot for climbers and tourists alike and ideal for a stay cation. It's generally known for containing Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales - but Snowdonia has so much more to offer. Snowdonia has a beautiful mixture of mountains, forest and sandy beaches - a great mixed bag for a family holiday. While it may be a staycation, Snowdonia can feel like a distant destination and true escape.
Where to visit?
Aside from climbing Snowdon, the 3560 ft mountain, there's also a wealth of other places to go and things to see here. Cycling, fishing and a variety of watersports are popular here for those looking to get stuck in on the outdoor action. Other popular attractions include Sygun Copper Mine and Harlech Castle.
The Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands are known for their astonishing views, with a landscape filled with both natural beauty and fascinating wildlife. Scotland is filled to the brim with rich culture and history, and so makes a fantastic holiday destination. From beautiful national parks to thriving towns and villages, the Scottish Highlands for a staycation won't disappoint.
Where to visit?
If you can't bear to tear yourself away from the city, Inverness is a good compromise, with great shopping and its own castle. The Northwest Highlands Geopark offers views worth writing home about, and the Knoydart Peninsula offers a wealth of wildlife, including herons, deer and seals.
The Lake District
The Lake District is England's largest national park, and is often argued to be one of the most beautiful. Located in Northwest England and within easy reach of Manchester, it's a great choice for those not wanting to splash out on overseas flights.Where to visit?
The Lake District has some great things to see and do, and of course, some of the best views in the UK. Romantic poet William Wordsworth's house is a popular tourist attraction here, as is Beatrix Potter's house. For something a little less literary and a little more action-packed, walking, cycling, windsurfing and kayaking are particularly popular here.
We love travelling abroad, but for a trip that's lighter on the pocket (and on the travel time!), why not look to a UK staycation for your next trip? It's too good not to.
If you found this post on the best UK staycation ideas helpful, you may want to read more of our Wanderlust articles. Also check out our travel blog for additional inspiration and travel tips to make your holidays hassle-free!
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