4 ideas for a UK getaway

If you need a break, you may well turn your attention to far-flung, exotic haunts. Imagine sitting on a beach in the middle of the Pacific or Atlantic Oceans. Bliss! But it’s easy to forget that the UK has several incredible beauty spots that are right on your doorstep. 

Britain is often seen as undesirable because the weather isn’t always great, and you can reach destinations in less than one hour. Of course, that doesn’t mean there aren’t stunning beaches and cultural cities. What’s more, the price is often lower since accommodation can be cheaper and affordable train tickets are available from the likes of Omio. 

Now you’re sold on the idea, the only thing left to do is pick a location. Here are four that have our stamp of approval. 

Keswick, Lake District

To be honest, you can go anywhere in the Lake District and have an amazing time if you’re into walking, good pub grub, and a couple of beverages to relax. The smaller towns and villages, like Coniston and Buttermere, are cosy and well worth experiencing if you don’t like the hustle and bustle of Bowness. If you want a combination of the two, then Keswick is the perfect spot. Set in the heart of the Lakes, you’ll find some of the best trails are at your feet. Plus, the cobbled town centre has enough pubs, fancy bars, and restaurants to keep you busy at night-time. 

Braemar, Cairngorms

The Cairngorms is the largest National Park in the United Kingdom, but it’s probably one of the least visited as it’s not as well-known as Dartmoor and the Lake District. Travelling to the Highlands can be tricky, too, yet it’s well worth the effort when you twist and turn through the picturesque glens. Braemar is a small village with plenty of activities, so you can enjoy the small-town vibe without the boredom. Royalists can head to Balmoral for the day, for instance, whereas adventure junkies will enjoy the sheer pistes of Aviemore and Glenshee ski resorts. 

York, North Yorkshire

York is famed for its ruinous walls that surround the city. The white remnants of Viking invasions are free, too, making its main attraction a no-brainer. The former capital of England has lots to offer visitors, other than nice walks around the walls and the Knavesmire. Food-wise, Roots has just earned a Michelin star and is relatively cheap compared to its peers. York City FC has moved into a brand new, all-purpose stadium if you like the rawness of non-league football. Moreover, it’s an excellent base for days out in the North York Moors, Yorkshire Dales, or West Yorkshire. Leeds is a 20-minute train journey, while Harrogate is just 35 minutes away. 

St Ives, Cornwall

Cornwall has a reputation as the most loved destination for a getaway in the UK for a reason. Yes, it’s never quiet, and 2021 isn’t going to be an exception. Still, once you reach your digs, you’ll fall in love with a community based around fishing, eating, and soaking up the sun. St Ives is as good a place as any to stay because it’s a hub of boat trips, cliff walking, castles, and World Heritage sites. Farther afield, you can experience life at the end of the country in Land’s End or head north to the Eden Project where star-gazing is a must. 

The key is to recognise that the UK is a brilliant place for a holiday. When you do that, you won’t look at European getaway destinations the same again!