30 Best Weekend Getaways In The UK

 

The is more to Britain than just London, that’s why in this post I will run you through some of the best weekend getaways in UK. From exploring the beautiful and charming villages of Oxford to exploring the stunning hike trails in Dorset to city breaks in London, Newcastle and Edinburgh.

 

Whether you are arranging a weekend break for your girlfriend or boyfriend, maybe husband or wife, below are 30 of the best romantic getaways in the UK to help you plan the best weekend with your partner.

The UK is blessed with some of the most stunning locations in the world. I feel lucky that I get to explore a lot of them and have lived in many of them due to work so you will get to have first-hand account of some of UK’s top city breaks.

 

Whether you are want to experience nature, beaches, city breaks and everything in between, this list is sure to inspire you to explore every corner of the UK. Check out Attraction Tix for ticket discounts on attractions around the UK. For great resorts around the UK check out Away resorts. There are plenty of ways to travel the UK on a budget so does have to cost an arm and a leg.

 

Also See:

• Summer Romance – Top Romantic Things To Do In London
• The Best Hostels In London
• Exploring Portsmouth
• Top 10 Things To Do In Edinburgh
• A Weekend In Lulworth Cove

 

Top 30 UK Weekend Break Destinations

Whether you already live in the UK or are heading over to the UK, there are plenty of cities in the UK that will appeal to everyone. Whether you are looking for inspiration for weekends away for couples or family getaway.

The UK has so much to offer, from pretty cool coastal towns to amazing historical cities perfect for relaxing weekend breaks in the UK or even cheap weekend breaks to keep the burn out at bay. Below are 30 of our favorite weekend break ideas to inspire to explore more of the UK whether by train or air. 

 

1. London

A city that really needs no introductions, London offers one of the best weekend getaways in UK with an endless list of things to do in London. There is something for everyone.

From Shoreditch, an area rich with creative and filled with colourful street art, cool cafes, and restaurants including markets. Then you have the Westend, treat for all those that love theatres and a little retail therapy and nearby you also have the colourful Neals Yard which I showed you recently.

 

I have covered a lot on London on the blog so if you are looking for ideas also check out my recent post with ideas for romantic things to do on London Southbank and if you want to top that with a luxury stay then check out my post on a luxury stay at the Shard. For more hotels in London check out Booking.com. I have also covered some of the best hostels in London here.

 

Top London Tours:

 

2. The Isle of Scilly

The Isles of Scilly are an archipelago off the Cornish coast, in southwest England. Known for its relaxed pace of life and beautiful scenery. Its another great choice on the top weekend breaks in UK.

The archipelago islands have stunning fringed sandy beaches such as Great Bay on St. Martin’s. On Tresco, one of the 5 inhabited islands,  is home the Valhalla Museum, displaying shipwrecked figureheads and the tower of 17th-century Cromwell’s Castle stands at the north of Tresco.

 

 

Visitors on the islands love the scenery, the peace, the tranquillity. There’s plenty of reason of kick back, relax and do very little, but plenty to enjoy too. You can hop from island to island, breathe in the exquisite flora, visit artists and galleries, and immerse yourself in our history and heritage.

For more on the Isle of Scilly check out the tourism board site. To book a hotel on the Isle of Scilly compare reviews and prices on Booking.com and Hotels.com.

 

 

3. Edinburgh

 

Scotland’s beautiful and hilly capital; Edinburgh is one of the best romantic getaways in the UK. With plenty to see and do in the city. There is a medieval Old Town, a looming Edinburgh Castle in the middle of the city, and Holyrood Palace nearby which is the official royal residence. There  are plenty of gorgeous gardens and galleries to visit in addition to Arthur’s Seat, an imposing peak in Holyrood Park with sweeping views, and Calton Hill is topped with monuments and memorials.

 

To help you plan your visit also check out my post on the top 1o things to do in Edinburgh. If you want to impress your partner during your visit to Edinburgh, definitely include a romantic dinner at The Witchery By The Castle which does amazing food and is a must experience.

For shopping head to The Royal Mile, lined with shops selling souvenirs, clan tartans and whiskey and for more high street stores and department stores, head to Princes Street, the main shopping area, home to 19th-century Jenners Department Store and its skylit grand hall.

To book a hotel in Edinburgh you compare reviews and prices on Booking.com and Hotels.com.

 

Top Edinburgh Tours:

 

4. Belfast

 

Belfast a name that means ‘rivermouth of the sandbanks’ is the capital of Northern Ireland and gateway to many stunning locations perfect for some the best romantic getaways in UK. Just look at the video below. Check out the weekend guide to Belfast from Visit Belfast. 

 

There is plenty to see in Northern Ireland, from Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Titanic Belfast, Dunluce Castle, Mussenden Temple, Belfast Castle, Dark Hedges and all so much more. To book a hotel in Belfast and beyond compare reviews and prices on Booking.com and Hotels.com.

 

 

Belfast Tours:

 

5. York

 

York is said to have more attractions per square mile than any other UK city. It’s an English historical town where you’ll be spoilt for choice with fun things to do in York.  Quaint, pretty and filled with medieval streets, charming York shops, centuries-old fortifications and one behemoth of a cathedral. There are also many day trips from York you can go exploring nearby and surrounding towns.

 

Whether you want to take in the majesty of the iconic York Minster, marvel at masterpieces at York Art Gallery, experience the thunder of galloping hooves at York Racecourse or discover the city’s grisly past at the York Dungeon, there’s an attraction to suit everyone. For additional tips and must-see attractions in York check out this guide. To Book a place to stay in York check out Booking.com and Hotels.com.

 

 

6. Cornwall

Beautiful beaches, secluded coves, outdoor theatres with sea view, great scenery, Cornwall has it all! Cornwall is one of the best places for weekend getaway in UK. The choices of towns and villages to visit in this region are endless. You will not believe just how beautiful Cornwall is. From St Ives, Newquay, Penzance, Holywell, Porthcurno. This part of the UK is a must-visit. For tips on other things to do in Cornwall check out The Globe Trotter.

 

You will be spoilt for choice in amazing beaches available. To find the perfect stay, check out Travel To Recovery’s review of Scarlet hotel and for more hotels on Cornwall check out Booking.com and Hotels.com.

 

Top Cornwall Tours:

 

7. Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is famed for having the quintessentially English villages of honey-coloured stone village homes. The Cotswolds  covers a huge area – almost 800 square miles, running through five counties (Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire and Worcestershire). One of the delights of visiting the Cotswolds is exploring the different areas, each with its own identity, yet all with those defining Cotswold features: golden stone and rolling hills, the ‘wolds’.

 

Take in splendid, lively market towns; visit some of the country’s greatest palaces, the amazing castles in the Cotswolds and country houses; marvel at the natural world in acclaimed reserves and at some of the most famous arboretas in on best weekend getaways in UK . The Cotswolds is famed for having some of the coolest B&Bs in the UK. To find a place to stay in The Cotswolds compare prices and reviews on Booking.com and Hotels.com.

 

 

8. Snowdonia

 

If you love outdoor activities then Snowdonia National Park is a must visit. With plenty of walking path both easy and for the more adventurous types. It’s great for walking holidays. Mount Snowdon is the highest mountain in Wales and England. Here you can also experience the worlds fastest zip wire at Zip World or ride the perfect wave at Surf Snowdonia in a 300-meter lagoon.

 

There are plenty of adventures to be had here. I have written about some of my adventures, which you can read about our hike in Snowdonia National Park. There are cute little towns and villages to explore in addition to many camping sites, countryside homes and B&Bs to rent during your stay to compare prices and reviews on Booking.com and Hotels.com.

 

 

 

9. Bath

Bath, in my opinion, is built for a little R&R. Beautiful spas that are towering above rooftops, plenty of places to eat and drink, plus some of the finest independent shops in Britain, making it the ideal city break. With a weekend in Bath, you immerse yourself in Bath’s remarkable collection of museums and galleries, and enjoy year-round festivals, theatre, music and sports.

 

Bath’s stunning honey-coloured Georgian architecture is straight from a Jane Austen novel – highlights include the iconic Royal Crescent and the majestic Circus. Its also perfect as part of an itinerary that includes Somerset, Stonehenge and Bristol. You can also check out my posts for inspiration on Bath and surrounding towns. 

 

With so much to see, it’s worth treating yourself to an overnight stay – choose from luxury hotels and grand Georgian guesthouses, or cosy country cottages and chic central apartments to compare prices and reviews on Booking.com and Hotels.com. For more on Bath tours from London check out this review by Chandrima at Travel Stories Untold.

 

 

Top Bath Tours:

 

 

10. Llandudno In Wales

I had never heard of Llandudno until we decided to explore this part of Wales on a road trip. Llandudno is a coastal town in north Wales. It’s known for North Shore Beach and 19th-century Llandudno Pier. Northwest of town, the cliffs of Great Orme headland jut into the sea. Ancient tunnels lead to a cavern at Great Orme Mines. A 1902 tramway has an upper and lower section and travels to the headland’s summit.

 

Llandudno is another great example of the best weekend getaway destinations UK has to offer. If you are thinking of a unique getaway for your partner definitely include The Great Orme Lighthouse Hotel and for more hotels and B&Bs in Llandudno check out  Booking.com and Hotels.com.

 

 

11. Seven Sisters & Beachy Head

 

If you love walking holidays or outdoor breaks then this is another part of the UK that is just up your alley.  There are walking trails that go on for 100s of miles here. The whole region is stunning with beautiful little towns and villages. We explored Newhaven, Eastbourne and a few other places.

 

You can check out my posts on our exploration and hikes in East Sussex. For more on things to do in the region, check out the East Sussex tourism board. For places to stay head to Booking.com and Hotels.com to compare prices.

 

Top Tours:

 

12. Gloucester

 

If you love a bit history then Gloucester is one you will enjoy. The county is filled with many interesting stately homes, museums and galleries, as well as Batsford Arboretum where you’ll find the country’s largest collection of trees and shrubs. Also, the Cotswolds are just a stone’s through away where you have cute towns and cities and pretty Cotswold countryside that rolls towards bordering counties and the Forest of Dean.

If you want a bit of R&R with your partner or with family, Gloucester also offers one of the best holidays in UK for families. There are plenty of options to choose from. There beautiful rental cottages ideal for getaways in addition to camping sites with options of camping or yurts.

 

You can read about one of our experiences in Gloucester. The county has a wealth of things to do such as shopping, eating out or even bartering at the wonderful farmers’ markets. You also have Cheltenham nearby, a spa town in Gloucestershire, on the edge of the Cotswolds. It lies above the vale of the River Severn and at the base of Cleeve Hill, the Cotswolds’ highest point.

As you explore the town centre’s elegant architecture, theatres, independent shops and sophisticated restaurants, it’s easy to see why it was named one of the best places to live in the UK by The Times. You can grab yourself a spot to stay in Gloucester on Booking.com or Hotels.com

 

 

13. Bristol

Although anytime is a great time to visit, for me Bristol is one of the best places to be when summer comes. This city of festivals and events really comes into its own at this time of year, so if you are looking for a short break with a loved-one, a day out with the kids or something a little bit longer this is one city worth checking out.

 

Events like the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, Gromit Unleashed 2 and Upfest to smaller festivals, exhibitions and festivals, there really is something going on every day to keep you entertained. You can see some of the Gromits we spotted during our visit to Bristol. If family fun is what you are after, then Bristol has more than enough to keep the kids from getting bored this summer.

 

Award-winning attractions such as Brunel’s SS Great Britain, MShed and We The Curious offer hands-on experiences, whereas Bristol Aquarium and Bristol Zoo Gardens are well-placed for those cute animal fixes. Click here for tips on where to stay in Bristol or check out Booking.com and Hotels.com to compare prices.

 

Top Bristol Tours:

 

14. Gower Peninsula

 

If you haven’t heard of Gower Peninsula then bookmark or pin this post so you don’t forget.  It was designated as the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty back in 1956 and that hasn’t changed much. Just a short drive from Swansea, the Gower Peninsula is more than just a pretty face.

 

From wild moors and limestone cliffs to golden, sandy beaches. Gower is a geological goldmine with inspiring landscapes.  Stay on dry land, and you will be missing out! It gets some of the most awesome waves in Britain, and sandy Llangennith has been popular amongst surfers for decades. Rhossili Bay has also been enjoying some limelight on the world stage too.

It has been voted in the top four beaches in Britain for the last four years. True adrenaline junkies can try a spot of coasteering – climb the cliffs and leap into the waves below, not for the faint-hearted!

 

Make sure you’re always accompanied by a professional though – there are a number of activity providers who would be delighted to hear from you. Check out Gower’s breathtaking beaches in the video below and see what all the fuss is about. To find a spot to stay and experience the beautiful Gower Peninsula check out Booking.com and Hotels.com to compare prices and reviews.

 

 

 

15. Portsmouth and The Forts

 

This beautiful city that sits on a little hidden island. There is plenty to do in this seaside city that it’s had to fit it into one weekend. Whether you’re after a cultural break, the chance to take in some seaside strolls, or something else entirely, you’re certain to be spoilt for choice. Places to visit include the Emirates Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Southsea Castle and Charles Dickens’ Birthplace Museum.

If it’s some retail therapy you want, this is also the place to seek out info on all the big shopping areas, from the designer outlets of Gunwharf Quays to the Commercial Road High Street and independent Albert Road.

 

Use the Visit Portsmouth itinerary planner to create your perfect fun-filled trip and share it with family and friends. Portsmouth is alive with history, and our Step Back in Time section will help you discover the story of Portsmouth. It details Southsea Castle, from which Henry VIII watched his beloved Mary Rose sink to the bottom of the Solent.

 

Also on the Solent are some of the UK’s best weekend breaks in England for couples; the unique Solent Forts which are perfect for a couple’s getaway, you can read about our experience on the blog. For more cool and unique stays in Portsmouth head to Booking.com and Hotels.com to compare prices and reviews.

 

 

Top Tours:

 

16. Isle of Wight

 

Situated just off England’s South coast and less than 2 hours from London via the Isle of Wight Ferry, the UK’s Holiday Island and Dinosaur Capital of Great Britain, the Isle of Wight is the perfect destination at any time of year. 

 

There are lots of things to do on the Island, such as visiting our amazing beaches, getting involved in the festival atmosphere and taking part in many other family orientated activities. With plenty of options for Hotels, B&B’s, Holiday Cottages, Camping & Campsites, Holiday Parks and other Accommodation, Attractions and Restaurants.

 

 

17. Harris In Stornoway

 

Discover the culture and traditions of Hebridean island communities at museums and attractions. See Harris Tweed, a woollen fabric which is as luxurious as it is hardwearing, being made in a time-honoured method. Days can be filled with quiet strolls along deserted beaches of pristine white sands, standing in awe of ancient standing stones, taking a boat trip, or heading out with an island guide to see and learn more about the remarkable geography and stories of these islands.

 

Perhaps you’ll fancy trying a few coastal activities, such as kayaking and surfing, or discover whisky and gin-making secrets at the new Isle of Harris Distillery? For more on Harris and the beautiful surrounding villages and towns in Stornoway check out the Scotland tourism board. For hotels and country side cottages check out  Booking.com and Hotels.com to compare prices and reviews

 

Top Tours:

 

18. Blackpool

 

With an abundance of award-winning attractions, Blackpool has something for everyone, you don’t need to travel far to have an amazing experience. Thrill-seekers can enjoy the thrills and spills of the white-knuckle rides at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, or why not visit the world famous Blackpool Tower, one of the most loved and recognisable landmarks in the world and home to the famous Tower Ballroom, The Tower Circus, The Blackpool Tower Dungeons, The Blackpool Tower Circus and The Blackpool Tower Eye.

 

Those looking for an animal-mad adventure, visit Blackpool Zoo, or swim with sharks at SEA LIFE Blackpool. You can meet the stars at Madame Tussauds or chill out in 84-degree sub-tropical paradise at Sandcastle Waterpark. You can also get Blackpool Big Ticket which gives you entrance to all the above.

This this the perfect weekend getaway not only for families but the city comes alive in the evening as its also popular for those looking for a great night out on the town. For a place to stay in the city, check out  Booking.com and Hotels.com to compare prices and reviews.

 

 

19. Newcastle

 

Newcastle and Gateshead are such diverse places to visit that you’ll never find yourself short of things to do in the North East. It’s one of best weekend city breaks in UK, with so much to see, it’s easy to see why it was voted favourite UK city by the Guardian and Observer Travel Awards. With its unique culture, modern attractions and countless historic sights, both Newcastle and Gateshead have a number of must-see attractions for first-time tourists or seasoned residents alike. 

 

‘Must See’ sights and locations in Newcastle and Gateshead include the world-renowned modern art gallery to a cosmopolitan shopping mall, our region has something for everybody. You can read about some of our explorations of Newcastle on the blog. For more cool and unique stays in Newcastle head to Booking.com and Hotels.com to compare prices and reviews.

 

 

20. Liverpool

 

Liverpool is a north-west port city may be best known for birthing The Beatles, but it has much more to (twist and) shout about than that. The Beatles and the Mersey are probably the first things to pop into your head when you think of Liverpool. This maybe one of top weekend breaks in UK, but did you know that it’s also a Unesco World Heritage City, home to the oldest Chinese community in Europe and that Liverpool FC is the only British football club to win five European Cups? Not to mention all the fantastic attractions, museums, restaurants and bars.

 

You certainly won’t be short of things to do in Liverpool. Look out for a couple more post on Liverpool on the blog. One of my favourite hotels in the city is Marriott hotel which is right in the town centre and walking distance to the train station too. For places to stay head to Booking.com and Hotels.com to compare prices.

 

 

21. Oxford

 

Oxford may be popular for the university but don’t forget to check out the many beautiful villages in Oxfordshire with cool and unique little pubs. There is plenty to do in Oxford, from the hop on hop off tours, walking tours, the university to punting and shopping. In addition you also have the beautiful Blenheim Palace close by.  The University is made up of 38 independent colleges, including the magnificent Christ Church and Wadham College, and their quads and buildings can be found all over the city. Take a walking tour to explore and find out more about Oxford University’s history, architecture and traditions.

 

There are many historical museums to visit in Oxford, including the world famous Ashmolean Museum founded in 1683, the Pitt Rivers Museum, The Museum of Natural History, Museum of Oxford, Museum of the History of Science – home to Charles Dodgson’s camera and a blackboard used by Albert Einstein during a lecture in Oxford in 1931, and the beautiful Weston Library exhibiting some of the Bodleian Library’s greatest treasures, from ancient Magna Carta and Jane Austen manuscripts, Shakespeare’s first folio to a letter from Albert Einstein! If you are looking for contemporary art, Modern Art Oxford is the place for you!

 

Punting – a truly timeless tradition in Oxford. Cherwell Boathouse is Oxford’s biggest punt station and has over 80 handmade punts for hire to take on the River Cherwell where you will pass Parsons Pleasure where University Dons used to sunbathe in the nude or go down the River Thames – home to the University of Oxford rowing clubs, with Salter’s Steamers who offer chauffeured punts if booked in advance. When in Oxford, one must climb a tower to enjoy the beautiful views over the city’s famous dreaming spires.

 

The historical Saxon Tower at St Michael at the North Gate is an easy climb to the top which will reward you with a view of bustling Cornmarket Street and the spires and rooftops of Oxford ancient and modern. The University Church of St Mary the Virgin gives the visitor a beautiful view of the colleges and city or climb the Saxon St George’s Tower at the Oxford Castle Unlocked, one of Oxford’s oldest building, and enjoy the stunning 360° views.

 

Oxford is packed with beautiful independent shops and a cluster of these can be found in the famous Oxford Covered Market. The University of Oxford Shop makes sure visitors find their perfect Oxford-themed souvenir, Alice’s Shop sells a wide range of Alice in Wonderland souvenirs and the new Westgate Oxford in the city centre boasts an exciting mix of shops and restaurants. Jericho is another popular place for shopping and if you head down there, pop into Demijohn for a unique experience at this liquid deli. For places to stay in Oxford and surrounding villages head to Booking.com and Hotels.com to compare prices.

 

 

Top Oxford Tours:

 

 

 

 

22. Isle of Skye

 

The Storr, Quiraing, Dunvegan Castle, Neist Point, there are so many beautiful locations to explore in the Isle of Skye. One such place is Portree, a colour little coastal town. Skye is one of the top locations in Scotland to visit. It is famous for its scenery and landscapes that will take your breath away. The Island of Skye is 50 miles long and the largest of the Inner Hebrides.

 

The capital is Portree. Villages in the north of the Island include Dunvegan, Edinbane, Uig and Staffin. Notable villages in the south of Skye include Broadford, Armadale, Carbost, Elgol and Kyleakin. The Island has a rich History covering many topics, such as: Dinosaur Fossils, Clan Warfare, Highland Clearances and the infamous ‘Bonnie Prince Charlie’ and the Jacobite Rebellion. Both Clan MacDonald and Clan MacLeod have their Clan Castles on the Island and should be on your list of places to visit.

 

Skye is one of the best weekend getaways in UK and a world-class destination for walkers and climbers. ‘The Cuillin Range’ and ‘The Trotternish Ridge’ offer challenging climbs and interesting scrambles. There are many great walks on Skye to be enjoyed by the less experienced. For a place to stay in Isle of Skye head to Booking.com and Hotels.com to compare prices.

 

Top Tours:

 

23. Cambridge

 

There’s something for everyone in Cambridge. You can go punting on the River Cam, enjoy a picnic in the park, join a walking tour of the city or explore further afield from the seat of a bicycle following the excellent network of cycle paths in and around the city. Spend the day enjoying one of Cambridge and Beyond’s fantastic Experience Days – perfect for group days out, stag and hen parties, gift ideas or treating yourself to an experience you’ll never forget.

 

King’s College Chapel is celebrated for its choral services including the famous A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, broadcast live by the BBC to the nation and across the globe on Christmas Eve. If you have a chance to hear the sublime Choir of King’s College, you will be enchanted. Choral Evensong is sung here most days during term time, as it is in many other college chapels – all free and open to everyone.

 

As well as the free-to-enter University of Cambridge’s Fitzwilliam Museum, which houses world-class collections of art and antiquities spanning centuries and civilisations, and Kettle’s Yard, one of the country’s finest galleries and a major centre for 20th century and contemporary art, visitors will find a wide range of artworks, sculpture trail walks and galleries to appreciate. For places to stay in Cambridge head to Booking.com and Hotels.com to compare prices and reviews.

 

Top Cambridge Tours:

 

 

24. Thorpeness in Suffolk

 

This is a great seaside village to visit for both couples and those visiting as part of a family. It’s a place where children can enjoy the magic and innocence of a traditional seaside holiday. The small village of Thorpeness is dominated by the Mere, which is popular all year round and bears witness to the village’s fantastical past. In 1910 Stuart Ogilvie bought the hamlet and set to transform it into a private fantasy holiday village.

 

Today the village is just how Ogilvie envisaged it with pretty mock Tudor houses and the fairy-tale ‘House in the Clouds’.  Thorpeness is surrounded by glorious countryside which is a mixture of heathland, and forest. There is an abundance of wildlife to admire and landscapes to explore; excellent for walking, cycling and birdwatching. You can read about my visit to Thorpeness on the blog. For places to stay in Thorpeness head to Booking.com and Hotels.com to compare prices and reviews.

 

 

25. The Isle of Man

 

From Castle Rushen and Peel Castle, Isle of Man is blessed with a rich heritage, impressive natural landscapes and action-packed escapades, the Isle of Man makes a perfect holiday destination. Come rain or shine, the Isle of Man is full of interesting and exciting things to do. Throughout the year you’ll find the Island the perfect adventure playground for those who love to explore the great outdoors.

 

Surrounded by a diverse terrain of beaches, glens and beautiful countryside, you’ll be amazed by the vast number of activities available for the whole family to enjoy.  And if you’re feeling particularly energetic, you may wish to indulge in the Isle of Man’s stunning coastline from the sea with a day of water sports, including kayaking and snorkeling. Here you can experience some of the Island’s best-loved beauty spots and discover the local wildlife.

 

If you prefer to be on land, you can view the Isle of Man’s scenic highlights by foot or by wheels with a number of different tours and sightseeing ventures suitable for all ages. With fascinating heritage sites, historic monuments and interactive museums, you can discover more than 100,000 years of Manx history as you tour around the Island’s attractions.  For places to stay on Isle of Man head to Booking.com and Hotels.com to compare prices and reviews.

 

 

26. Bournemouth

 

Nestled in the South Coast of England in the picturesque county of Dorset and one of the best weekend getaways in UK, there is plenty of things to do in Bournemouth and seven miles of sandy beaches for you to enjoy. There’s plenty to do in the resort or you can use the town as a base – stay and eat here while exploring the rest of Dorset’s history, heritage and picture-postcard scenery.

 

Here are some of the best things to do in Bournemouth.  There are museums, galleries, amusement arcades, crazy golf, play parks and an oceanarium. You can bring friends and family of all ages too – there’ll be something for everyone to enjoy. If you are an adrenaline junkie or if you prefer a more relaxed pace, you can hike on the clifftops or freewheel gently along the prom.

 

If you’d rather slow your pulse than get the blood pumping, you can spend your time just being pampered in one of many spas in Bournemouth.

 

In Bournemouth you can take to your surfboard, kayak or paddleboard and get straight out onto the open water. You can bring your own equipment or hire it while you’re here. For shopping there is a fabulous mix of shops in Bournemouth – there are boutiques, department stores, designer brands and high street favourites. Shops are close to the beach and surrounded by cafés and coffee shops. So, you can shop ‘til you drop or just pop in for holiday essentials.

 

Looking for accommodation, Bournemouth is well known for its great variety of hotels, guest houses, B&Bs and self-catering options situated along our stunning coastline. You’ll find luxury international hotel groups, national chains, beautiful boutique hotels, independent and family-friendly hotels and guest houses, budget-friendly hotels, a great choice of self catering options and caravan and camping parks along our neighbouring coastline and countryside. Head to Booking.com and Hotels.com to compare prices and reviews.

 

 

 

27. Brighton

 

The city of Brighton & Hove is nestled in between the sea and the countryside providing a wealth of things to do in Brighton & beyond. Iconic Attractions include the exotic Royal Pavilion and the new British Airways i360.  Brighton has a wealth of attractions to enthrall all ages, its also popular with LBGT crowd.

 

For a rundown of the fabulously gay scene in Brighton, check out the Queer in the World blog for things to do The Royal Pavilion is a palace like no other with an Indian styled exterior and a Chinese inspired interior. From Regency splendour to 21st Century wonder as British Airways i360 is a feat of modern engineering gliding visitors 450 feet into the air.

 

A day at the seaside is not complete without a visit to Brighton Palace Pier with its rides and activities as well as plenty of food & drink options and free deckchairs to relax & enjoy the view in. Next door is the Victorian aquarium, Sea Life Brighton where you can learn about the creatures of the deep and watch a shark swimming over your head in the underwater tunnel.

 

While there are plenty of things to do in Brighton why not extend your stay and explore Sussex as well? The county is establishing itself as the top wine producer in the UK to visit a vineyard and discover why English Sparkling wine is rivalling Champagne. There are stunning country houses, a fort and lots of animals to visit too!

 

For nightlife, it doesn’t end when the sun goes down as there are lots of things to do in Brighton to entertain you in the evening. From theatre and comedy to live music and nightclubs, there will be something to satisfy all night owls! Head to Booking.com and Hotels.com to compare prices and reviews.

 

Top Tours:

 

 

28. Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door

The beautiful white pebble beach of Lulworth Cove, with its blue waters and easy access make it a popular destination. Low tide reveals wonderful rock pools teeming with sea creatures.  The Cove offers a variety of places to eat and there is a large car park.

 

Make sure you visit the Heritage Centre next to the car park for all kinds of information about the area and the Jurassic Coast. There are toilets with disabled and baby changing facilities at the Heritage Centre. Boat trips are available during the summer. You can read about my exploration of Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove on the blog.

 

 

29. Canterbury

 

This is another one of the UK’s cities offering an astonishing amount of history and culture, Canterbury proudly boasts a variety of popular tourist attractions. Check out Canterbury Historic River Tours with the aim intriguing and relaxing visitors, Canterbury Historic River Tours gives tourists the opportunity to discover the wonderful views that the city has to offer through boat trips, which also educate visitors on the rich and exciting history of the city.

 

Another must in Canterbury is Canterbury Cathedral, described as the home of a community of people seeking to make the cathedral a welcoming place comprised of beauty and holiness, Canterbury Cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury. With spectacular views of the city, this magnificent building is also part of a world heritage site.

 

With an incredible choir and a long stretch of history, Canterbury Cathedral creates a peaceful and harmonious environment. Admission is free. For places to stay while visiting this historical city, head to Booking.com and Hotels.com to compare prices and reviews.

 

 

30. Lake District

 

Lake District is perfect for those wanting a relaxing holiday or those into the outdoors but there is something for everyone. From rock climbing and parascending to making use of the Lake Windermere boat hire options. Boasting Scafell Pike – England’s highest mountain, and Wastwater – England’s deepest lake, ‘The Lakes’ offers some of the UK’s most stunning scenery, inspiring artists such as Turner and Ruskin to some of the country’s best-loved writers, such as William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter. If you are short on time you can also work your way through this one day Lake District itinerary.

 

Enjoying the lake is one of the best and most common ways to pass the time. Hop onto one of the Lake Windermere boat cruises, or go kayaking or canoeing for a more adventurous thrill. With such a wealth of beauty, culture and hospitality it isn’t hard to see why the Lake District remains the perfect setting to explore and enjoy with many things to see and do in Lake District.

 

Windermere Lake Cruises offer a fleet of Steamers and launch sail daily throughout the year. There are a wide range of activities and things to do in the Lake District, and with more than 3,100 kilometers of rights of way, you can walk, cycle and ride around our countryside to your heart’s content.

For places to stay while visiting Lake District, head to Booking.com and Hotels.com to compare prices and reviews.

 

 

Top Tours:

 

UK guides books

 

 

 

 

Also See:

• Top Things To Do In Dubai
• Ultimate Guide On Accommodation In Bali
• The Best Beaches In Santorini
• Why You Need To Visit Tel Aviv
• The Best Day Trips In London

 

 

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