For all the appeal of distant destinations, sometimes the most memorable holidays can be found on our doorstep. Across the UK there is an abundance of staycations worth shouting about.
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a city break or a countryside retreat, there are plenty of holidays to enjoy, without the need to board a flight.
Cornwall: the best staycation for beach lovers
At the UK’s southwestern tip, the characterful county of Cornwall boasts some of Europe’s best beaches. Cornwall’s coastline has something for everyone from world-class surf spots, such as Newquay and Sennen, and remote sandy stretches to charming fishing villages.
The harbour towns of Penzance, Padstow and Port Isaac have all become first-class foodie destinations with an emphasis on fresh seafood, while in St. Ives, I never miss a chance to visit the Tate St Ives and Barbara Hepworth Museum.
I’d recommend booking into the refined Harbour Hotel, whose sophisticated decor and bay views make it a great base for exploring the county’s standout beauty spots.
“From experience, it’s worth booking a Cornish break in the shoulder seasons of May to June and September to October, when temperatures are warm yet the beaches are not as crowded as the summer.”
Edinburgh: the wise decision for history buffs
Scotland’s capital Edinburgh is steeped in heritage, with its angular castles and spires framed between dramatic slopes.
While a saunter down the Royal Mile is a must, where a wealth of historic monuments vie for your attention, a trip to the waterfront Leith neighbourhood is also recommended. Here you’ll find former industrial warehouses converted into some of the city’s best bars and restaurants – and don’t miss sunset from the summit of Calton Hill.
Just a short walk from the historic centre, one of Edinburgh’s hottest new hotels is Gleneagles Townhouse, an effortlessly elegant spot for a luxury staycation. The rooftop Lamplighters bar offers some of the best city views.
Liverpool: for sports and music fans
Liverpool is one of the UK’s most charismatic cities. This former European capital of culture is a compelling blend of old and new, with an independent spirit and a thriving nightlife. As well as charting the Beatles legacy across the Fab Four’s hometown or witnessing footballing legends at Anfield, expect to find inspiring street art in the Baltic Triangle, a buzzing food scene – best experienced on Bold Street – and world-class museums at the revitalised Albert Docks.
A great budget-friendly UK staycation, many of Liverpool’s leading galleries are free to enter, while food and accommodation tend to offer better value than other UK cities. One of the first boutique boltholes within the city, the Hope Street Hotel, with its chic, minimal rooms in the heart of the city’s Georgian quarter, remains one of its most inviting staycation ideas.
Brighton: the winning decision for sun worshippers
Just an hour south of London by train, Brighton is a vibrant seaside city that comes alive over summer, when its south-facing beachfront, lined with bars, restaurants and elegant Regency architecture, embodies the great British seaside holiday.
Elsewhere, its long-standing reputation as a counter-cultural capital plays out across the Lanes – its characterful network of cobbled alleys that house antique shops, vintage boutiques, record stores and jewellers. There’s
also excellent hiking on the South Downs.
My favourite base for exploring the city is Hotel du Vin, a sophisticated boutique hotel with a smart French-inspired bistro. I’d recommend a deluxe room, complete with a roll-top bath and a super-king-size bed.
Scottish Highlands: for mountain lovers
Few views compare to the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Here, among a rugged vista of towering peaks and forest-lined lochs, you can immerse yourself in a world of outdoor pursuits, and it’s long been my go-to UK destination for hiking, climbing and camping.
The area is also defined by its historic castles, storied whisky distilleries and welcoming lodgings – expect to find cosy inns and rustic pubs alongside luxurious rural retreats.
Among my favourite Highland retreats is the 19th-century Inverlochy Castle, whose immaculately presented afternoon teas and views of Ben Nevis from its ornate rooms can’t be beaten.
“Plan your visit with the arrival of the Highland Games, which – from May to September each year at various locations across the Highlands – deliver a compelling combination of sporting endeavour, music, arts and crafts.”
Oxford: for urban explorers
With its rich history of scholars and poets, iconic architecture and top-class cultural institutions, Oxford is a sophisticated city that has always figured among the UK’s best staycation breaks.
Spend time walking Oxford’s compact city centre, among the storied colleges and soaring spires of its world-famous university, embracing its cafe culture and dropping into the awe-inspiring Ashmolean Museum.
Elsewhere, tap into the city’s live music scene, centred around Cowley Road, or try punting on its waterways. Easily walkable from Oxford’s star attractions, the Randolph Hotel is a smart choice thanks to its dramatic design, which has formed the backdrop of various film and TV shows. Its restaurant, The Alice serves clever takes on traditional British fare and is among the city’s best.
Isle of Wight: for a family staycation
If you’re looking for a memorable family staycation in the UK, the Isle of Wight is a great option. As well as areas of outstanding natural beauty, long sandy shores and lively towns such as Ventnor and Cowes, there’s also the opportunity for fossil hunting, forest hiking and visits to working farms.
Elsewhere, surf breaks on the south coast, historic homes – including Queen Victoria’s former residence – and annual music festivals bring major global acts to the island.
For an affordable place to stay, I love Ventnor’s Hambrough Hotel, which offers an elevated B&B experience at excellent value.
“Check out the Ventnor Fringe each July, which sees music, theatre and comedy performances take over multiple venues, indoors and out, across the town.”
Keep the staycation ideas going all year
The UK has an incredible diversity of landscapes and cultures that provides excellent options for memorable staycation holidays. Whether you’re seeking an immersion in the great outdoors, a summer beach break or an inspiring city break, you’ll find this within a surprisingly short distance from home.
For information and inspiration about travelling in the UK, KAYAK has you covered.
Frequent questions about staycations in the UK
Across the UK, a rapidly diversifying hotel scene means there’s a wider spectrum of options than ever, from traditional B&Bs, which tend to offer good value, through to mid-priced boutique boltholes and luxurious grand dames. Alternatively, consider booking into an aparthotel or serviced apartment so you can save money by dining at home.
A long history of hotels catering for the aristocracy means the UK’s major cities have always excelled at high-end accommodation, Even in some of the UK’s more remote regions, it’s easy to find refined retreats to suit all tastes, whether country estates with sumptuous spas, hip hangouts in upmarket addresses or reimagined heritage hotels.
