If you are looking at options for your. next break away, the United Kingdom is one of the best places to go in Europe.
Or even if you live in the UK and are looking to plan a holiday why not consider a trip closer to home? Rather than flying off overseas you can save yourself a lot of hassle and also enjoy some amazing destinations which you might never have considered visiting before.
There are short and long breaks away throughout England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. So whether you fancy city sightseeing, a beach break, an escape to the country or doing something more wild, you will be sure to find a location to match your interests.
Check out our list of top rated holiday destinations in the UK below.
1. Jurassic Coast
The Jurassic Coast is a World Heritage Site which begins in Exmouth, East Devon, and continues for 95 miles to Old Harry Rocks, near Swanage, Dorset.
It was add to the World Heritage List in mid-December 2001 and it is easy to see why, this area has breathtaking scenery, rocks, fossils and landforms. The are lots of walks with really spectacular scenery, beaches and also lots of places to stay, from AirBnb’s, campsites and hotels.
One of the most iconic places to see here is Durdle Door which is the main feature photo from this article. Spending a day relaxing on the beach here then watching sunset is a magical experience.
2. Bournemouth
The south coast of the UK is beautiful in summer and it is easy to see why thousands of people head to Dorset every summer.
There are lots of tourist attractions in Bournemouth and it is one of the best to visit due to the beautiful white sandy beach, affordable places to stay and day trips. Recently a new wooden beach cabin accommodation has opened allowing tourists to literally stay infront of the beach!
During summer there are free firework displays on the beach on Friday nights, and the famous Bournemouth airshow which takes place in August or September is another highlight.
There are also lots of great day trips from Bournemouth. You could explore more of Dorset and see places like Weymouth, Swanage, the New Forest, Isle of Purbeck and the Studland which are some of the best summertime family days out in the UK. Popular activities include sunbathing, surfing, fossil hunting at Chesil Beach and checking out the local National Trust and English Heritage sites.
3. London
London is a world famous destination and one of the most visited cities in the world. You can never get bored or visiting London and there is so much to do here including sightseeing, dining, shopping, relaxing, arts and culture and more.
If it is your first time in the city must do things include seeing Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. Other popular things to do include visiting Hyde Park, exploring Soho and central London or heading to one of the boroughs like Camden.
If you have a big budget or would like to treat yourself there are so many amazing luxury hotels in London. There are also more affordable options for all type of travellers.
4. Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight is a popular island located off the south coast of England and easily accessible by ferry from Southampton. The Isle of Wight is a great destination for families due to the beaches, campsites, seafront promenades and quiet little villages.
Enjoy the relaxed way of island life with a weekend break on the picturesque Isle of Wight. Well known for its iconic white chalk rocks and its 19th century lighthouse, the Isle of Wight is the perfect place to unwind in a cosy cottage. Ideal for a romantic break or a holiday with the family, there’s plenty to do. Take longs walks over the hills, paddle in the waves at one of the diverse beaches and visit the traditional seafront promenade.
Popular things to do here include heading to the sandy Shanklin or Ventnor beaches, or seeing ancient dinosaur remains and fossils in Compton Bay and Yaverland Beach. There are photo opportunities around every corner, don’t leave before seeing ‘The Needles’ on the island’s western point, these 3 huge, white chalk rocks, guarded by a 19th-century lighthouse are spectacular.
5. Yorkshire
Keen for an escape to experience the rural side of England? Not much is more enjoyable than taking a rural break in Yorkshire in the English countryside. Explore those unspoiled woodlands and lush landscapes.
There are quaint market towns and English villages that await you. You could take a luxurious train ride through picturesque moorlands on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. Spend some time near the waterfalls in the Durham Dales, or have a picnic in the Hidcote Manor Garden on the edge of the Cotswold hills.
At the Yorkshire Dales Falconry Centre you can watch graceful feathered predators from very close. All you need to do is take your family to the Yorkshire Dales Falconry Centre to get -close and personal with those Falcons. Just see for yourself how those fast and furious birds can reach an amazing speed of 200mph while diving for their prey.
Apart from falcons, you will also spot other birds like hawks, buzzards, eagles, and owls. So, go ahead and book a falconry experience this summer in the UK and enjoy watching those magnificent creatures.
6. Snowdonia
North Wales is spectacular and Snowdonia is one of the most underrated destinations in Europe. With Mt Snowden looming high above, and beaches for miles around, you won’t regret visiting here.
Families love this region due to the activities like swimming, surfing, zip lining, biking and more. This is one of the best adventure destinations in the United Kingdom and if you are feeling like a challenge you could climb Mt Snowden, or for something more relaxing go beach hopping along the coast.
There are breath-taking vistas and also lots of castles to visit. You could explore the golden-sandy beaches of South Shields, and you can relax here the whole day, reading a book or making sand castles with your family. Enjoy seafood and gaze at those fishing boats sail in and out throughout the day.
7. Scottish Highlands
If you are looking to take a much-needed break and want to discover an off the beaten track destinations then you can’t go wrong with a trip to Scottish Highlands.
Scotland has spectacular nature with scenery to rival New Zealand and in summer time it is a great place to spend a holiday. For a few days or weeks, you will simply forget about the outside world!
There is a lot to do and see here, you could book day tours, or explore independently taking in famous sights like Loch Ness which is definately an unusual UK holiday idea. There are lots of family friendly fun spots, castles, wildlife and accommodation throughout the region.
8. Eastbourne
Eastbourne is a resort town on England’s southeast coast and although this is a popular retirement destination, you can have a lot of fun here on a holiday break.
On the seafront are good value Victorian hotels, the 19th-century Eastbourne Pier and a 1930s bandstand. Towner Art Gallery includes modern British works. Nearby, Redoubt Fortress, built during the Napoleonic Wars, has a military museum.
Eastbourne’s seafront is a great place to visit during summer due to the concerts which take place on the Eastbourne Bandstand. You can enjoy a wide range of rock and pop tributes right from Abba, Blondie and many more. Families with kids will love the musicals and kids party nights.
There are some great day trips available top, if you travel southwest along the coast, to the South Downs National Park, there are the tall chalk cliffs of Beachy Head and its striped 1902 lighthouse.
9. Cornwall
Looking for incredible scenery, beaches and pretty towns? Head to Cornwall as this is one of the top destinations in the UK. Although on a map Cornwall is far from everywhere, well it is, but the trip here and the memories you will make are worth it.
Families love Cornwall and the weather is perfect during summer. Children can have loads of fun without disturbing anyone and watch those squirrels and wild rabbits. There is fun to be had for the whole family with the Camel Trail cycle route and the on-site adventure playground.
One of the favorite spots Cornwall for families is the Trelissick Gardens. You can pack a picnic basket and spend a lazy day enjoying the great outdoors. Enjoy gazing at the gorgeous Cornish countryside and watch boats going up and down the water.
There are lots of hotels, b&bs and also unusual places to stay like the wooded cabins at Ruthern valley. Tucked away in a secluded spot, the family-friendly site is inhabited with squirrels and wild rabbits.
10. Cotswolds
The English countryside is spectacular and the Cotswolds is one of the best summer destinations. You can take peaceful walks and enjoy a really relaxing holiday here seeing pretty little cottages and houses.
There are local farmers’ markets that sell local delicacies and mouth-watering produce. You can also find lots of old pubs that are child friendly, quirky restaurants that offer traditional English food. The Cotswolds Distillery is renowned not just for foodie delights but for outstanding natural spirits for the adults.
11. Brighton
Brighton is an excellent city break summer destination for solo travellers, groups and families. There is always a lot going on in the city and nothing is more fun than visiting Brighton Pier and taking the thrilling rides and games.
You could get a fighter pilot experience, get wet on the Wild River flume, have fun in the penny arcade, try to win a prize at the bandstand. You must taste the traditional fish and chips and enjoy the atmosphere of sunset over Brighton beach.
There are lots of things to do in this city and the surrounding areas when the weather is good and you will love visiting especially if you have never been here before.
12. Mendip Hills
Mendip Hills is located south of Bristol and Bath in Somerset. Running east to west between Weston-super-Mare and Frome, the hills overlook the Somerset Levels to the south and the Chew Valley and other tributaries of the Avon to the north.
This is an underrated relaxation spot for families that are keen to be outdoors and see an area of outstanding natural Beaty. You can choose to stay in cottages or holiday rentals located in areas of outstanding natural beauty.
There are plenty of family and group activities here to explore in the Mendip Hills and if you have never tried frisbee golf before, you can play here as there is a 10-hole disc course.
13. Lake District
The Lake District, is the UK’s largest national park located in North West England. This is one of the most popular summer destinations in the UK and an area is famous for its lakes, forests and mountains – perfect if you fancy a walking holiday.
This area is built for tourism and there are lots of trails, things to do and also visitor centres with friendly staff helping you to make the most of your visit. You can choose a relaxing break or go for something more adventurous like mountain biking, climbing, walking, kayaking and canoeing. Cruises on the Derentwater are also available.
When visiting the Lake District you will also get to Beatrix Potter’s home in Ambleside and learn about William Wordsworth and other Lake Poets and also with Beatrix Potter and John Ruskin.
So, the fun of the festive period is now firmly in the distance, leaving icy mornings and chilly weather as its parting gift. However, this is also the perfect time to look forward to the arrival of spring and plan a weekend break to cherish. Here are just five places in the UK well worth a visit this spring.
14. Historic Bath
For a relaxing weekend break that’s perfect no matter what the weather, visit the historic city of Bath. There’s plenty to see in Bath from visiting the Roman Baths, The Holburne Museum and the Museum of Architecture, and even just wandering around to admire the Georgian architecture is enjoyable.
Visit the Thermae Bath Spa to relax in the warm, natural waters in the open air on a rooftop. Take a unique cycle ride underground in the dramatically lit, Combe Down Tunnel. Formerly used for trains, it’s Britain’s longest cycle tunnel at 13-miles long.
With the pleasant spring weather, take the time to stroll around the pretty landscape gardens at the Prior Park mansion.
15. Edinburgh
Discover Culture in Scotland For a cultural trip, visit Edinburgh for whisky tours, trendy bars and dramatic castles. Scotland’s vibrant capital has it all, from floral gardens and stunning sweeping scenic views, to fantastic shopping opportunities and a lively nightlife. With more investment supporting Edinburgh’s culture, there’s plenty to see and do.
16. Peak District
The rolling hills of the Peak District National Park make for a great break away. Visit in the spring to see nature in bloom in the 555 square miles of greenery. With a range of quaint villages, there is lots of adventure in the Peak District to enjoy. Relax in the picturesque Matlock area or head further inland to wander through the stunning Hope Valley. Be in awe of the Ladybower Reservoir or challenge yourself to hike to the highest point, Kinder Scout.
17. Liverpool
Liverpool is an amazing city full of culture, music and live entertainment. There are lots of attractions in Liverpool, you could try to visit and see a live football game which is one of the local passions or just enjoy your time by visiting the museums, galleries, shops or finding out more about the Beatles on a guided tour. Liverpool also has a really vibrant nightlife scene, there are so many bars, restaurants and clubs located in places like Concert Square.
18. Gower, Wales
The Gower Peninsula is a goldmine for picturesque beaches, medieval ruins and rugged landscapes. It was the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty back in 1956 and it’s still as beautiful as ever. Spend the weekend in Wales walking along the waterfront and you’ll come across lush greenery and over 1200 archaeological sites from different time periods. These include caves, medieval castles, churches and 19th Century parks.
Hopefully our list of the best UK holiday destinations has shown there is lots to do here, and made you think twice before booking your next break.
So what are you waiting for, start researching our featured destinations and plan an amazing UK holiday break today. You might also like to view our essential packing list for the United Kingdom.
