UK Staycation Ideas

Summer holidays are usually synonymous with escapism that involves hopping on a plane to somewhere abroad and ultimately end up basking in the sun on a beach somewhere far away, piña colada in hand without a care in the world. Doesn't that just sound glorious? Unfortunately for many, that is a distant dream that has been pushed out of reach by the pandemic and the vision of sandy beaches and blazing heat has slowly slipped into oblivion. Going on holiday isn't entirely possible this summer and although an extremely frustrating prospect (especially for those of us who have had to cancel holidays that we have been anticipating for months, the disappointment is real), it isn't impossible to still enjoy the summer months; the enjoyment will just have to come from a different way.

Staycationing hasn't always been somewhat of a priority for me. I am a total travel bug and I think airports are the most exciting places in the entire world. However, being confined by borders and travel restrictions has broadened my perspective on the wonders that the UK has to offer as a holiday destination (fellow Brits, bare with me here). We are lucky enough to have a country so full of beautiful landscape, both cosmopolitan and rural, and what's even better, Wales and Scotland are a mere road trip away! Staycations tend to be slightly easier on the pursestrings so if, like me, you're a student trying to budget, staying in the UK may actually be a great way to save some dollar this year. If you're looking for some UK travel inspiration, here are a few ideas of how you can spend your summer without hopping on a plane:

England:

Cornwall

I've never actually been to Cornwall myself, but I've heard nothing but positive things. From St Ives to Kynance Cove, Cornwall's beaches and coastal towns are nothing short of beautiful and full of life. With a plethora of different seaside towns to choose from, you're guaranteed to witness some spectacular views of the sea and you can even channel your inner Californian surfer dude vibes there too.

Suffolk

Over in East Anglia, Suffolk boasts many coastlines that are very popular with tourists due to the sandy beaches, colourful beach houses and friendly atmosphere. Southwold (pictured below) beach is a particularly well-known beach, but you can also choose from Aldeburgh, Dunwich and Covehithe beaches. If you prefer the countryside, Suffolk also is home to Bury St Edmunds, a charming town full of character and history.

Bath

Although I am very bias as Bath is my second hometown, there's no denying that it is a beautiful city, so full of charm and history that you can't not visit it at least once in your lifetime. With Georgian architecture that is grand enough for royalty, every street you explore is lined with the most beautiful buildings, making it one of England's most picturesque cities. From discovering the Roman Baths to taking a river cruise on the Avon, having a picnic on the Royal Crescent or enjoying the traditional Bath Bun at the Sally Lunn teahouse, you cannot get bored whilst in Bath as there are so many fun things you can occupy yourself with.

Stratford-Upon-Avon

Birthplace of Shakespeare, Stratford-Upon-Avon is perfect for literature lovers and the hopeless romantics among us. A medieval market town, this staycation destination is steeped in rich history is a traditionally British location, where you can truly appreciate the culture. The river Avon flows directly through the town, so you can hop aboard a river cruise to appreciate the sights from a peaceful boat.

The Cotswolds

Probably the most quaint area of England, The Cotswolds boast rolling hills and countryside that spans for miles. Named an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the hiking, walking and cycling opportunities are endless and you'll really be able to connect with Mother Nature after being stuck inside for lockdown. Perfect for nature-lovers and those who appreciate quaint little villages, The Cotswolds cannot go amiss.

The Lake District

Although slightly scarred by my trip to the Lake District (it was for my Gold DofE practise so you can imagine the hell I'm referring to), there's no denying it is a place so full of natural beauty and stunning landscape. If you're a hiking enthusiast, this is a perfect place to satisfy your inner athlete whilst being able to enjoy some of Endland's most breathtaking scenery. With villages such as Keswick, Ambleside and Coniston dotted about the area, you can enjoy a rural retreat surrounded by rolling hills and glassy lakes, perfect for the ultimate escape.

Wales:

Portmeirion

A little slice of Italy tucked away in North Wales, Portmeirion is a truly special place that's been on my bucket list for a while now. The aim of the architect who created this beautiful resort was to demonstrate that a location with such natural beauty could be developed without spoiling it. If you'd planned to go to Italy this summer, this is potentially the next best alternative - you'll feel like you're in the depths of Italian culture here.

Snowdonia

Again, a destination best suited to the avid walkers and hikers among us, Snowdonia is a national park filled with mountainous landscape and glacial landforms enough to make an A Level geography class go nuts. 

Barafundle Bay

Now, I have to admit that this place is only on my list because the pictures look incredible. It's important to be wary of photographs you see on the web, just because most of the time they're so heavily edited that it doesn't show real life whatsoever. However, Barafundle Bay has been listed hundreds of times on many prestigious travel blog sites, so I have put my trust into these and am including this in my own list. A beautiful stretch of sand bordered by lush green trees and a turquoise sea, it does seem like a truly magical place to spend a hot summer's day.

Scotland:

Edinburgh

If you're after more of a city-break type getaway, Edinburgh should be at the top of your list. I've heard such magnificent things about this enchanting city and let me tell you it's been on my bucket list for an absolute age. Charming buildings and cobbled streets surrounded by rolling hills, it's a picture-perfect way to spend your summer holidays. Don't forget to try the Scottish delicacies, too!

The Outer Hebrides

This chain of islands, situated off the West coast of Scotland, are perfect for a road-trip exploring the many, beautiful coasts the islands have. With Gaelic as the most widely-spoken language, your ears will be in for a nice surprise and you'll experience a culture so different that you wouldn't think you were in Scottish territory!

Islands:

Isle of Wight

Famous for its sandy stretches complete with promenades and fossil-rich cliffs, the Isle of Wight is England's second most populous island and also the perfect holiday destination. The island is also home to the UK's oldest theme park, Blackgang Chine, which is perfect for the thrill-seekers out there.

Isles of Scilly

Wanted to go to The Maldives this summer? Don't be Scilly! The beaches on the Isles of Scilly are the UK's take on The Maldives, with flour-like sand and crystal-clear waters, making the perfect paradise. These islands are also relatively easy to travel to and are also relatively unspoiled. Care to travel to unchartered territory? This one's for you.