We all love a good summer holiday. In fact, us Brits spend an incredible 10% of our salaries on holidaying – and it’s little wonder why. Granted, we’re currently in the middle of a heatwave, but we’re usually subjected to poor weather conditions, so getting away from the everyday stress of our lives and going somewhere a little warmer and more inviting is often a sensible idea.
However, staying put here in the UK is a good idea, too, and millions of us do so. Staycations are increasingly popular; we spent £13 billion on staycation holidays last year, and that figure is set to rise as air travel becomes more expensive and the Brexit vote makes European travel less certain. If you’re thinking of scrapping your annual summer holiday and want to stay right here in the UK, then fear not; we’ve put together five of the best summer holiday destinations!
Blackpool
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing family holiday or you want to go and chase some thrills with your friends, Blackpool is the destination of choice. Millions of us flock to the town every year for its candyfloss, tourist attractions and theme park, and while it has had a bad reputation for being tacky and full of drunken people, the council has done lots to improve its image. The Pleasure Beach’s new rollercoaster, Icon, was a £16 million investment, and gives thrillseekers two impressive launches and some serious airtime. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the summer.
Somerset
Another stunning destination to consider this summer is Somerset. With lots of country houses to rent, you can find accommodation that feels like home and helps you relax with comforts like Wi-Fi, hot tubs, and much more. There’s so much to do in Somerset, from the stunning Cheddar Gorge, Glastonbury Tor, and Mendip Hills, right through to the Wells Cathedral, West Somerset Railway and Brean Leisure Park. It’s a destination that offers something special for everyone.
Edinburgh
Scotland’s hilly capital of Edinburgh is another popular summer holiday destination for families, couples and groups wanting to explore a new city and take in the sights and sounds of Scotland. The spectacular Edinburgh Castle is a must, while the Old Town can be great fun for fans of history. If you’re looking to do some retail therapy, then Princes Street will be perfect for you; if you’re more into exploring and hiking, then Arthur’s Seat should be at the top of your list.
London
A capital city like London might not be the first place you think of when you’re planning a summer holiday in the UK, but with so much to do, you’d be silly not to consider. Aside from the obvious tourist spots like Big Ben, the London Eye, Tower of London and Buckingham Palace, you can spend hours in Hyde Park and Covent Garden, while the National History Museum and Tate Modern are the ultimate spots for art lovers who want to see something new.
London is also known as a food paradise; be it a classic British restaurant or a lavish Indian restaurant in London, food will allure you to visit London again and again for sure.
Snowdonia
The final UK destination on our list is Snowdonia – a stunning 823-square-mile National Park that includes remote villages and lakes that can be the backdrop to the perfect Instagram pictures. As well as the panoramic Snowdon mountain, Snowdonia has a Mountain Railway, its Conwy Castle and is close to the Llechwedd Slate Caverns, open every day of the week.
Wherever you choose to spend your summer, stick with the UK. There are so many places of natural beauty in our nation – overlooking them to spend a week on a beach is a silly idea!