Holidays at home are on the rise again, and more Britons are choosing to stay at home during their holidays. But where in the UK should you go if you’ve never had a staycation holiday before or fancy trying something new? Here is my vacation guide that is here to help.
The UK is a dynamic place full of history, natural beauty, spectacular coastlines and historic cities. Each corner has such a particular identity that no two places are the same. Some UK destinations might even give you a little taste of Europe! Here is how:
Do you love the Algarve? Test Devon
Dubbed ‘the English Riviera’, Devon is fantastic for families and beach holidays. It is also home to five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, UNESCO sites, and nature parks.
For a cultural city break, try Plymouth or Exeter, both rich in Roman history. It’s laid back seaside living you want, try South Devon. For surfing go to North Devon and Exmoor. And for the true Riviera experience, try Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. There are also many smaller towns and villages worth exploring if you fancy a walk.
Do you love Tuscany? Try Lancashire, Yorkshire and Cumbria
The North West of England and the Tuscany region of Italy share two things in common: beautiful green panoramic views and food to the max.
Famous for their artisan food, locally sourced produce and niche restaurants, the counties of Lancashire, Yorkshire and Cumbria will appeal to any foodie traveler with their food festivals and abundance of farm shops. To whet your appetite, you can visit the castles, museums, theaters or coastal towns or you can go for walks and admire scenery so beautiful that Queen Elizabeth reportedly said she would like to retire here.
For the more active traveller, the highlights are the Yorkshire Dales, Pennines and the Lake District, where you can try all kinds of sports, from golf to sailing and paragliding. For those looking for a quiet hideaway try smaller market towns like Kirby Lansdale, Hebden Bridge or Clitheroe. And if it’s a sea you’re after, try Whitby, Scarborough or Lytham St Annes.
Do you love Switzerland? Try Scotland
If you like mountain ranges, lochs and a pair of skis, then Scotland is the perfect stay for you. With beautiful scenery, imposing castles and interesting cities thrown in for good measure, both Switzerland and Scotland will provide you with jaw-dropping sights. Switzerland has some of the most famous ski resorts in the world, Scotland has the best ski resorts in the UK. The Swiss have the alpine horn and Schnapps; the Scots have the bagpipes and their world famous scotch. Hell, the Scottish accent might even make you feel like you’re abroad!
Jokes aside, Scotland is indeed a beautiful country, with a great intriguing history, beautiful landscapes and amazing nature reserves. Even her Majesty has a residence here, Balmoral Castle. For a city break, both Glasgow and Edinburgh are famous for their nightlife and culture. And if you like to drive, we highly recommend going from Glasgow to Dundee. The views are to die for.
Do you love Rome? test york
The Italian city of Rome is one of the most famous destinations in Europe, known worldwide for its rich history and vibrant culture. In the UK we have our little version thanks to the Romans themselves.
Although York existed as a settlement before the Roman invasion, it was during this period that it was declared a city of importance. Constantine the Great was proclaimed Roman Emperor here. Even going out for a pint will give a history lesson in pubs that used to be churches or monasteries. In recent years, York has become famous for its shopping and nightlife, as well as its history, and although it’s much smaller than Rome, there’s plenty to see and do.
Do you love Berlin? Try Liverpool
Berlin and Liverpool share a lot in common. Both have witnessed their fair share of political and social changes, but today they are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and European Capitals of Culture.
In the United Kingdom, Liverpool is the city with the most national galleries and museums outside of London. The birthplace of the Beatles, it also has a very strong arts scene. On a more outrageous note, the Liverpudlian velor tracksuit has been said to be as infamous as the German beach thong. Liverpool is a vibrant and dynamic city, ideal for any lover of art, fashion or music.