best friend trips uk

35 of the Worst Best Weekends Away in the UK for Friends!

Explore the UK’s most ‘unbearably’ beautiful spots for weekend getaways with friends, all wrapped in a layer of delicious British sarcasm. Discover top destinations that are so good, you’ll wish you never knew they existed. Perfect for mates who love to loathe!

We, Darek and Gosia, have braved it all, from London’s bustling chaos to Europe’s hidden corners. Yet nothing could prepare us for the ‘horrors’ of the UK’s most ‘unimpressive’ weekend spots. We ventured out, sacrificing our taste for the sake of this guide.

In this guide, we’ve listed 35 destinations that will make you rethink your weekend plans with friends. If an overload of tiresome beauty is your idea of fun, then you’ve hit the jackpot.

Expect an ironic voyage through the UK’s worst-best locales. From awe-inspiringly awful natural wonders to towns that are crimes against enthusiasm, we’re about to dive into travel spots that will make you yearn for a rainy day indoors. Ready?

What is a weekend getaway?

A weekend getaway is a quick escape from your usual routine, lasting typically from Friday to Sunday. It’s a low-maintenance break designed to recharge your batteries or, in the spirit of our guide, to give you a good laugh at the expense of ‘picture-perfect’ locations.

For us, it’s a way to sample new places without committing to a lengthy stay. In short, a weekend away is your mini-holiday without the fuss. Sound good?

Fun weekends away for adults UK

1. cotswolds.

If you’re thinking of a weekend getaway for adults in the Cotswolds , prepare to be agonisingly overwhelmed. Cobblestone streets, thatched cottages, and acres of untouched wilderness – it’s as if someone took all the worst elements of a Jane Austen novel and scattered them about. Ideal for when you want your friendship to be tested by an overdose of charm and serenity.

Top places to visit in Cotswolds for a weekend trip:

• Castle Combe
• Bourton-on-the-Water
• Lower Slaughter
• Broadway tower

Where to stay for a weekend in the Cotswolds?

• The Manor House Hotel
• Heath Farm Holiday Cottages
• Lords Of The Manor
• Kings Head Hotel

2. Cornwall

Cornwall – a cruel trick Mother Nature played on us, taunting us with its picturesque villages and heart-stopping coastal views. Perfect for a weekend away with friends who collectively share a disdain for pasties and pirates. You’ll be clifftop-walking your friendships right off the edge here.

Best places to visit on a weekend escape to Cornwall:

• The Minack Theatre

Where to stay for a weekend in Cornwall?

• The Old Carriage Works
• The Waterwheel
• St Moritz Hotel
• The Carlyon Bay Hotel and Spa

3. Buckinghamshire

Now, imagine a weekend away for friends in Buckinghamshire . Yes, you and your mates could be traipsing through the hellishly idyllic Chiltern Hills , breathing the unreasonably fresh air. You’ll question your life choices as you’re accosted by cultural landmarks like Waddesdon Manor. Perfect for when you want to assault your friendship with opulent rooms and manicured gardens.

Top places to visit in Buckinghamshire for a weekend trip:

• Chiltern Open Air Museum

Where to stay for a weekend in Buckinghamshire?

• Kings Arms Hotel in Amersham
• The Stag and Huntsman at Hambleden
• Red Lion Wendover
• Missenden Abbey

4. Jurassic Coast

A coastline so magnificent it’s often confused for a Spielberg movie set. Terrible for friends seeking a humdrum weekend away, as the fossils and beaches will likely ruin their mood for mediocrity. Ready to escape to the Jurassic Coast ?

Best attractions on a weekend trip to the Jurassic Coast:

• Durdle Door
• Lulworth Cove
• Old Harry Rocks

Where to stay for a weekend on the Jurassic Coast?

• Crabbers’ Wharf
• Bradle Farmhouse
• Wynards Farm

Oh, Surrey , where every weekend getaway for adults turns into a lifetime of memories you wish you could forget. With its vilely picturesque villages and heinous swathes of Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you’re bound to feel you’re in a surreal nightmare of English splendour. Great for when you want to expose your friends to the ghastly side of the Home Counties.

Where to stay for a weekend in Surrey?

• Guildford Harbour Hotel
• Mandolay The Boutique Hotel
• Barnett Hill Hotel

6. Hertfordshire

A weekend away in Hertfordshire ? Prepare for an ambush of green space and history. Your friends will thank you for the ceaseless boredom as you wander through St Albans Cathedral and Hatfield House. Nothing says “I value our friendship” like subjecting your pals to so much untamed beauty and heritage.

What to see on a long weekend away to Hertfordshire?

• Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
• National Trust Ashridge Estate
• Harry Potter Family Package

Where to stay for a weekend in Hertfordshire?

• Baileys Farm
• King William
• Old Hunters Lodge

7. Edinburgh

The audacity of Edinburgh to offer a rich tapestry of historical landmarks and cultural sights. A weekend away here with friends will ensure you’re burdened with experiences neither of you asked for. From Edinburgh Castle to Arthur’s Seat, you’ll wish you’d never left the comfort of your homes.

Where to stay for a weekend in Edinburgh?

• The Scotsman Hotel
• Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile
• Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh City Centre
• Cityroomz Edinburgh
• Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City Centre

Ah, Bristol, the city that dares to combine maritime history with contemporary culture. How could anyone endure such a vibrant confluence of eras? Surely, a weekend getaway here will make you question why you ever liked your friends to begin with.

Top attraction for a weekend away in Bristol:

• The Clifton Suspension Bridge
• Bristol Balloon Fiesta
• Banksy Guided Walking Tour
• Brunel’s SS Great Britain

Where to stay for a weekend in Bristol?

• Future Inn Bristol
• Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel
• Novotel Bristol Centre
• Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel

Oxford – because nothing screams “weekend away with friends” like wandering through colleges that have produced prime ministers and novelists. Perfect for groups who find wisdom abhorrent and would rather not run the risk of accidentally learning something.

What to see one a weekend trip to Oxford?

• Radcliffe Camera
• Making of Harry Potter Tour
• Oxford Castle
• Oxford Experience Cruise
• Bridge of Sighs

Where to stay for a weekend in Oxford?

• Jurys Inn Oxford
• Malmaison Oxford
• Vanbrugh House Hotel
• voco – Oxford Thames

10. Oxfordshire

If Oxford wasn’t gruelling enough, extend your suffering with a weekend in Oxfordshire . Trust us, the further you go, the more agonisingly splendid it gets. Ideal for friendships strong enough to survive an onslaught of the English countryside.

What to do/see on a weekend trip to Oxfordshire?

• Long Crendon
• Goring on Thames

Where to stay for a weekend in Oxfordshire?

• Long Crendon Manor B&B
• The Spread Eagle Hotel in Thame
• The Manor Country House Hotel

11. New Forest

Considering a weekend away for friends in the New Forest ? Perfect if you’re keen on forcing your mates to navigate a labyrinth of walking paths, historic sites, and coastal areas. After all, nothing says friendship like mutual resentment amid scenic beauty.

Where to stay for a weekend in New Forest?

• Forest Park Country Hotel
• The White Buck
• The Huntsman of Brockenhurst
• Rhinefield House Hotel

Ah, Kent – the “Garden of England.” If that doesn’t send shivers down your spine, I don’t know what will. Perfect for a weekend away with friends who have an aversion to blossoming orchards and historic castles. It’s the epitome of places you never knew you didn’t want to see.

Kent’s top attractions for a weekend away:

• White Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury
• Scotney Castle
• Leeds Castle

Where to stay for a weekend in Kent?

• Donnington Manor Hotel
• The White Horse Inn
• The Sands Hotel
• ABode Canterbury

13. Manchester

A weekend away in Manchester for friends with a distaste for progress and an eye for the drearily modern. From iconic music venues to a hipster’s paradise in the Northern Quarter, this city serves up your worst cultural nightmares on a platter.

Where to stay for a weekend in Manchester?

• The Edwardian Manchester, A Radisson Collection Hotel
• The Midland
• ibis Styles Manchester Portland
• Motel One Manchester-Piccadilly

14. Channel Islands

Weekend getaways for adults who fantasise about escaping the UK but not really. French influence, English allegiance, and an identity crisis to match. Perfect for friends who strive for geographical confusion and culinary contradiction.

Where to stay for a weekend in the Channel Islands?

• Grand Jersey Hotel and Spa
• The Club Hotel & Spa Jersey
• Old Court House Inn
• Fermain Valley Hotel

15. Cardiff

Who wouldn’t want to spend a weekend in a place where rugby is considered a religion and leeks are worn with pride? Ideal for pals who enjoy questioning each other’s life choices as they meander through a city that dares to be both modern and steeped in history.

Where to stay for a weekend in Cardiff?

• Restaurant James Sommerin with Rooms
• The Exchange Hotel
• Jurys Inn Cardiff
• Cardiff Marriott Hotel

16. Berkshire

Weekend trips to Berkshire are like diving headfirst into a pool filled with royal jelly. Windsor Castle , Ascot – these are the heights of mediocrity that friendships should aim to steer clear of. Perfect for friends who want to avoid becoming too posh for their own good.

Where to stay for a weekend in Berkshire?

• The Great House At Sonning
• Crowne Plaza Reading
• Beech House Hotel

17. The Yorkshire Dales

Ah, the Yorkshire Dales. Rolling hills and endless moors make this a weekend away for friends who detest tranquillity and natural splendour. From abbeys to cheese factories, there’s plenty to not see here.

Where to stay for a weekend in the Yorkshire Dales?

• The Dalesman Country Inn
• The Craven Heifer
• Aysgarth Falls Hotel
• Tennant Arms Hotel

Fancy an adult weekend in London with pals? Brace yourselves for an onslaught of choice. The Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, the British Museum – each more intolerable than the last. Good luck navigating centuries of history and art without letting it improve your life. A thrilling challenge for friendships that thrive on monotony and disdain for all things enriching.

What to see in London during a weekend getaway?

• Richmond Park (or other parks in London )
• One of the romantic places in London
• Top landmarks in London
• Tower Bridge – one of the most famous bridges in Europe !
• Thames cruise

Where to stay for a weekend in London?

• Hilton London Wembley
• citizenM Tower of London
• The Tower A Guoman Hotel
• DoubleTree By Hilton London Excel

19. Brighton

Brighton offers the worst weekend escapes from London for adults who despise fresh air and beachside frolics. From the Pier to the Lanes, it’s an assault on the senses that any rational group of friends would want to avoid.

Where to stay for a weekend in Brighton?

• The Grand Brighton
• My Brighton
• Brunswick Square Hotel

With its medieval city walls and antiquated charm, York is where you go to destroy friendships one cobblestone at a time. A weekend getaway that risks making history buffs out of even the most avid of anti-intellectuals.

Where to stay for a weekend in York?

• The Grand, York
• Park Inn by Radisson York City Centre
• Staycity Aparthotels Barbican Centre
• Novotel York Centre

21. Somerset

Somerset, the county that asks you to ponder deeply why cider and cheese are not recognised as food groups. A weekend away for friends with a deep-seated dislike for bucolic landscapes and gastronomic joy.

Best places to visit on a weekend away in Somerset:

• Cheddar Gorge
• Glastonbury Tor
• Brean Beach

Where to stay for a weekend in Somerset?

• The Old Stables
• Dorian House Boutique B&B
• Bath Circle

22. Norfolk

Picture this: A weekend away in Norfolk, trudging through the Broads and recoiling at the sight of windmills and marsh harriers. Ideal for friends who feel their lives are lacking in the sort of dread that only endless flat landscapes can induce.

Where to stay for a weekend in Norfolk?

• Dunston Hall
• The Georgian Townhouse
• Cromer Country Club By Diamond Resorts
• Cliff Hotel

There we go, the next chapter in your guide to avoidable splendours for a UK weekend away with mates. Choose wisely, or better yet, don’t choose at all.

23. Pembrokeshire Coast

The Pembrokeshire Coast is a heartbreakingly cruel option for a weekend away with friends. Gorgeous beaches, craggy cliffs, and a maritime climate – what a terrible ordeal for anyone yearning for a concrete jungle.

What to do/see on a weekend trip to Pembrokeshire Coast?

• Pembrokeshire Coast Path
• Strumble Head Lighthouse
• Blue Lagoon

Where to stay for a weekend in Pembrokeshire Coast?

• Roch Castle
• Victoria Inn Brewhouse B&B
• Boulston Manor

24. The Lake District

The Lake District, where Wordsworth found inspiration and you’ll find regret. Fabled to make poets out of anyone, which should already sound the alarm bells. Just imagine enduring the sight of those misty lakes and rolling hills during a weekend getaway with mates.

Best location to visit during the Lake District weekend trip:

• Honister Pass

Where to stay for a weekend in the Lake District?

• Hill Of Oaks
• Moss Grove Organic
• Duke of Portland Boathouse

If you fancy risking your friendships, then Devon’s your spot . With its seaside towns and Dartmoor National Park, you’ll end up asking why you ever left London. Ideal for friends who want to challenge their group dynamics amid an onslaught of too-much-pretty.

Best to visit on a weekend getaway to Devon:

• Dartmoor National Park
• Woolacombe beach
• Valley of the Rocks

Where to stay for a weekend in Devon?

• Higher Weddicott Barn
• The Three Crowns
• Exeter Castle

26. Suffolk

Ah, Suffolk, where the sky meets the earth and your eyes meet an abyss of beauty. Quite frankly, too much beauty. Perfect for a weekend away for friends who enjoy complaining about how good they’ve got it.

Where to stay for a weekend in Suffolk?

• Penta Hotel Ipswich
• The Brudenell
• Seckford Hall Hotel & Spa

27. The Scottish Highlands

Think endless rugged landscapes and not enough mobile signal. A weekend away for friends who have grown tired of civilization and want to swap it for overwhelming wilderness. An endurance test of the highest order.

What to see on a long weekend away to the Scottish Highlands?

• Fairy Pools

Where to stay for a weekend in the Scottish Highlands?

• Muthu Newton Hotel
• Braeside Retreats
• Rosemount Bothy – Highland Cottage
• Woodland Cabins, Glencoe

28. The Gower Peninsula

Ah, the first “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty” in the UK. Obviously, nobody told it that beauty is subjective. A weekend in Gower is ideal for friends who share a mutual disdain for stunning coastal views and dramatic cliffs.

Where to stay for a weekend on the Gower Peninsula?

• Norton House Hotel – Mumbles
• Hael Farm Cottage
• Clyne Farm Centre

29. Snowdonia

Snowdonia, a land so heart-stoppingly striking that even the sheep look up from their grazing. A weekend away for friends who wish to engage in mutual loathing for the natural world. The mountains here offer a perfect backdrop for friends to debate why they subjected themselves to such a dreadful experience.

Top places to visit during outdoor weekend trip to Snowdonia:

• Conwy Castle
• Snowdon Mountain

Where to stay for a weekend in Snowdonia?

• Beautiful Wales
• Bryn Teg Barn
• Ty Derw Country House

30. Northumberland National Park

Too many starry skies and not enough pollution – that’s Northumberland for you. Perfect for pals who prefer the glow of their smartphone screens to the Milky Way. Take a weekend away from your busy lives to see Hadrian’s Wall and question why the Romans ever left.

Where to stay for a weekend near Northumberland National Park?

• Country Getaway – Tosson Tower Farm
• The Pheasant Inn
• Le Petit Chateau & William de Percy

31. Isle of Wight

Last but certainly least, the Isle of Wight . It’s like mainland UK but surrounded by water and devoid of urgency. Ideal for a weekend away for friends who find British life too stressful and long for the torment of an even more relaxed environment.

Weekend getaway to the Isle of Wight – top attractions:

• The Needles
• The Garlic Farm

Where to stay for a weekend on the Isle of Wight?

• The Lakes Rookley
• Haven Hall Hotel
• Newclose Farm

32. Shropshire Hills

Prepare to have your friendships tested in the Shropshire Hills, where “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty” is apparently a challenge and not a designation. Walk the hills with your mates and wonder aloud why anyone would want so much natural beauty in one place. It’s practically overwhelming.

Where to stay for a weekend near Shropshire Hills?

• Little Drift
• The Charlton Arms
• The Clive Arms

33. East Sussex

Visit East Sussex for rolling countryside that’s so nauseatingly delightful it might just turn your stomach. Bring your friends for a weekend and find out how many chalk cliffs and historic towns it takes to put your friendship on the rocks.

Top attractions to see in East Sussex for a weekend trip:

• Seven Sisters
• Camber Sands

Where to stay for a weekend in East Sussex?

• The Bell in Ticehurst
• Deans Place Hotel
• Hotel Du Vin & Bistro Brighton

The Roman’s built spas, and we built resentment. A weekend away in Bath is sure to rub your friendships the wrong way as you explore the cursed beauty of Georgian architecture. Also, too much relaxation is a thing, and the thermal baths are just overkill.

Where to stay for a weekend in Bath?

• Apex City of Bath Hotel
• Z Hotel Bath
• The Gainsborough Bath Spa
• Francis Hotel Bath

35. Harrogate

Last and most certainly least, Harrogate. Famous for its Turkish baths and public gardens, it’s a weekend getaway that screams “let’s question all of our life choices.” The kind of place where you bring friends to realize that perhaps spending weekends in London isn’t such a bad idea after all. Alternatively, there are also many great things to do in York if you fancy a trip to this stunning city.

Weekend escape in Harrogate top attractions:

• Turkish Baths Harrogate
• Mother Shipton’s Cave
• Ripley Castle

Where to stay for a weekend in Harrogate?

• Cold Cotes Guest House
• Harrogate Barn
• Hazel Manor

Where can I go this weekend?

Looking for a painfully scenic weekend? The Cotswolds and its overly idyllic villages are a must-see for any glutton for punishment. Surrey’s infuriatingly picturesque landscapes are another option that will leave you dreaming of concrete jungles.

Oxford offers all the architectural ‘eyesores’ you could wish for, with the added risk of bumping into someone smarter than you. New Forest will assault your senses with open moors and far too many cute animals. We can assure you, these spots will make your weekend so ‘awful,’ you’ll be yearning for Monday.

Are weekends away for adults in the UK worth it?

Oh, absolutely, if you fancy being bombarded by scenery so breathtaking, it’s suffocating. A walk through the ‘ghastly’ Cotswolds or an ‘interminable’ night in Edinburgh is every masochist’s dream, really.

Darek and Gosia find these short escapes to be downright essential, albeit for the ironic pleasure of being underwhelmed by over-the-top beauty. They’re the perfect opportunities to subject ourselves – and our friends – to locales so stunning, you’d wish you were back in a London Tube during rush hour.

So, if your idea of fun is marvelling at landscapes so aggressively gorgeous they make you question your own existence, then, by all means, waste your weekends away in the UK. You’ll come back with a camera roll so full of splendour, you’ll need therapy to process it all.

Further reading

27 Cotswolds Places So Ugly, Even the Birds Refuse to Sing

Dive into Darek and Gosia’s wickedly humorous guide to the Cotswolds’ most ‘ghastly’ places. Discover why the unbearable beauty of these top locations might just be too much for any sensible traveller to handle. Welcome to...

Looking for Magic? 30 Most Magical Places to Visit in the UK!

Discover the UK’s most “magical” destinations like you’ve never seen them before. We guide you through stunning places with a unique twist of British humour. Expect the unexpected! Welcome to the magical world of the UK...

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The best weekend breaks in the UK and Ireland

By Sarah James

We often cast our gaze to hazy tropics and far-flung cities when planning our getaways. But it’s easy to forget that weekend breaks in the UK and Ireland can mean white-sand beaches , stirring metropoles, dramatic landscapes and pretty villages . With unspoilt stretches of coast just a few hours from London, towns of honey-stone scattered among rolling hills and interesting cities in every corner of the country, a full-on escape can be undertaken with a simple few days away from home. So we’ve rounded up the best weekend breaks in the UK – with ideas on what to do and a handful of smart places to stay – to make the most of what’s on our doorstep.

For more inspiration, see our UK guides:

• The best hotels in the UK
• The best holiday homes to rent in the UK
• The best Airbnbs in the UK
• The best holiday cottages in the UK
• The best log cabins in the UK

Where can I go for a weekend break in the UK?

1. Peak District, England

Stretching across the Pennines, this national park edges into five counties: Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Staffordshire, West Yorkshire and South Yorkshire. This was England's first national park, when the UK government started to carve out protected landscapes in the aftermath of World War II. These days, its home to chocolate box villages and craggy hills in the same breath as industrial towns, quarries and stately piles. A weekend break here is best spent outdoors and with a plan so check our guide to the best walks in the Peak District for inspiration.

Where to stay for the weekend in the Peak District:

We love this charming 200-year-old cottage in Castleton, one of the loveliest villages in all of the Peaks. For a countryside stay, this modern brick barn retreat is surrounded by rolling hills. For more, see our guide to the best Airbnbs in the Peak District . 

2. Isle of Skye, Scotland

Of all of Scotland’s islands, Skye is the best-known and loved. And for good reason – with a craggy landscape dominated by the Cuillin mountains, the scenery here is as otherworldly as anything you’ll find further afield. Much of the isle remains almost deserted, but there’s a distinct culture to be found here, too – The Three Chimneys restaurant opened in the 1980s and still draws travellers from across the world.

Where to stay for the weekend in Isle of Skye:

Kinloch Lodge has had a serious makeover, but the historic portraits on the walls belie its 16th-century past. For something more low-key, The Black Shed is one of the best log cabins in the UK , with oversized windows overlooking Loch Dunvegan.

3. Cornwall, England

This corner of England’s south-west looks the least British of any part of the UK. The best beaches in Cornwall are made up of sugar-sand bays buffeted by the brightest blue sea along the wild coastline. These stretches, with their deserted coves and buzzing surf scenes, are made all the more appealing as Cornwall has the warmest climate in the country. Plus, the county has some of the tastiest food in the world, with some of the region’s best restaurants – such as Rick Stein’s Padstow seafood spot – being joined by outposts from London’s top chefs. Plus, there’s a buzzing art crowd – such as in Penzance, where indie shops and art galleries are drawing visitors.

Where to stay for the weekend in Cornwall:

A stone’s throw from Padstow, one of Cornwall’s most charming towns , lies the sleepy village of Trevone. While many travellers unknowingly amble past this turning, in-the-know staycationers have been booking up this area’s holiday homes for many years, aware of its prime location on the Atlantic coast (when you have a car, that is) and the charm of its sheltered beach. A relatively new addition to the area is Atlanta Trevone , a collection of charming self-catering properties claiming the village’s most sought-after spot. Curtains open to sweeping views of the ocean, board games are piled high for rainy days, and the beach and cafe are so close you can make out faces from bedroom windows.

4. The Cotswolds, England

The quintessential British weekender. The Cotswolds’ butter-hued villages have long been drawing city dwellers in need of brisk country air. Areas are packed out with clever homeware and antique shops, with old pubs and historic houses the pinnacle of rural life here. A string of towns spans five counties, with quiet corners to be found among the bustling riverbanks and cobbled streets – see our guide to the prettiest Cotswolds villages . For things to do in the Cotswolds , head to beautiful gardens attached to extraordinary manor houses and seek out smart-as-can-be independent stores.

Where to stay for the weekend in the Cotswolds:

Our guide to the best hotels in the Cotswolds includes our favourite stylish pubs with rooms and country piles. Thyme in Southrop is a grand house turned hotel, cookery school, restaurant and spa. For large groups, you can take over this historic Gloucestershire major house that sleeps 36. Set within 14.5 acres of countryside, it's one of our favourite Airbnbs in the UK . For more, see our pick of the best Airbnbs in the Cotswolds .

5. Donegal, Ireland

If you have longer than a weekend, a trip along Ireland’s coast, flitting from town to town, is a brilliant getaway. But for those with limited time looking for one spot to hunker down, wide-skyed Donegal in the remote north-west corner of the country has brilliant beaches and is known for its music and soft landscapes. The county is also part of the Wild Atlantic Way, a road that clings to the ragged coast of western Ireland.

Where to stay for the weekend in Donegal:

Danny Minnie’s is easily the best table to book in the area and has a handful of rooms to tumble into after supper. Or take over one of the Donegal Thatched Cottages as your own – they sit right on the Atlantic Ocean.

6. New Forest, England

Ponies and wild horses roam the New Forest, the largest unenclosed forest in southern England. It's now a national park, roaming over 220 square miles of pastureland and heathland. Travellers come here to hike, cycle and spot wildlife – but it's also one of the foodiest national parks in England. Hartnett Holder & Co at Lime Wood is overseen by Angela Hartnett and Luke Holder, while The Terrace in Beaulieu leans into a hyper-local, hyper-seasonal menu. 

Where to stay for the weekend in the New Forest:

The rooms at The Montagu Arms Hotel have been recently refreshed while its Beaulieu location – sandwiched between the high street and the river – is regarded as one of the best in the New Forest. For something grander, book a stay at Chewton Glen , one of the ultimate English grand dames. See our guide to the best New Forest hotels for more. 

7. Somerset, England

Home to the quietly charming city of Bath and bordering boundary-pushing, indie Bristol, Somerset has a diverse landscape that includes countryside, international art spaces, some of the most talked about places to stay in Britain and the site of one of the world’s largest festivals. In the wake of the Hauser & Wirth gallery arriving in once-sleepy Bruton , the town quickly became the creative epicentre of the West Country. And the resulting ripples have drawn smart hotels and some of the UK’s top tables to the area – the best restaurants in Somerset rival Cornwall and London.

Where to stay for the weekend in Somerset:

For a stay in the city, The Royal Crescent Hotel in Bath is set in a pair of Grade I-listed Georgian townhouses. For a village stay, Bruton is the most talked about corner in Somerset, home to half hotel, half wonderful restaurant Number One Bruton, as well as the much buzzed about The Newt in Somerset . See our guide to the best hotels in Somerset for more.

8. Wye Valley, England and Wales

On the border of England and Wales, the Wye Valley ’s exceedingly pretty towns are scattered throughout the countryside carved by the River Wye. The most famous of the villages, Hay-on-Wye, is known for its annual literary festival, but there’s a string of market towns to visit, too. Walking is a big draw here: hike up the Black Mountains or along some of the Wales Coast Path’s 870-mile route.

Where to stay for the weekend in Wye Valley:

The Bear Hotel in Crickhowell is a charming little coaching inn in the middle of the Brecon Beacons National Park. Nearby in the village of Mitchel Troy, we love the look of this converted stone barn , particularly for families – there are climbing ropes and tree swings in the garden. 

Sophie Heawood

Sophie Prideaux

CNT Editors

Connor Sturges

9. Dorset, England

Less shouted about than neighbouring Devon, Dorset’s coast is made up of some of Britain’s loveliest beaches. The Jurassic Coast, a 95-mile stretch of shoreline that rolls across most of the county, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, named for its 185 million years of geological history. Durdle Door, the famous limestone arch that extends into the inky water, sits near two quiet coves, St Oswald's Bay and Man O' War. Meanwhile, the inland countryside inspired Thomas Hardy’s best-loved novels.

Where to stay for the weekend in Dorset:

Foodies should make a note of Yalbury Cottage , a laidback and topsy-turvy farmhouse with a knockout fine-dining restaurant by ex-Four Seasons chef Jamie Jones. The Eastbury is another standout stay, a Georgian townhouse with a warren of traditional rooms and renovated potting sheds tucked along a secret garden.

10. Kent, England

It’s close enough to the capital to make it one of our favourite day trips from London , but this diverse corner of the country deserves an overnight stay to explore it properly. Along the coast, a string of Kentish beach towns range from hipster – Margate ’s Shoreditch-on-Sea reputation is backed up by its natural wine bars and cool record stores – to quaint (Whitstable has a pretty main street and a penchant for oysters on the beach). For foodies, there’s a clutch of interesting vineyards – Hush Heath Estate, where Balfour wines are made, is set in 400 acres of orchards which are open to the public – while the best restaurants in Kent include Michelin-starred pubs and a pizza shack right on the beach.

Where to stay for the weekend in Kent:

The Rose in dinky Deal is the beach town’s first boutique hotel, with bold wallpaper to make you smile and a restaurant overseen by Rachel O’Sullivan, formerly of London’s Polpo and Towpath Café. 

11. Pembrokeshire, Wales

Spend 48 hours driving and diving around Wales ’s most stunning stretch of coastline: 186 miles of volcanic-rock stacks, limestone cliffs and gorsy headland that gives way to white sandy beaches and coves carved into horseshoes by the tide. Surfers in the 1980s invented coasteering here, so thrillseekers should head west to St David’s peninsula, where TYF Adventure organises adrenalin-pumping escapades (it also operates beach cleans, bodyboarding and kayaking). Whitesands is a popular surf destination, and Gianni’s Ice Cream parlour sources its dairy from Caerfai Farm down the road. Local ingredients are a big part of any menu here – forage for seaweed, sea purslane, mussels, winkles, razor clams and rock samphire, or join chef Matt Powell for an afternoon of expertly guided fishing, foraging and fine dining. There are plenty of pretty villages to potter around – touristy Tenby gets busy in the summer months but has a buzzing harbour; Solva’s multicoloured houses are home to art galleries and independent shops – and even more wildlife to witness. Take a boat to Skomer island, where you can see porpoises, dolphins and seals on the journey and a thriving puffin colony on arrival.

Where to stay for the weekend in Pembrokeshire:

The Grove is a five-minute drive from Narberth and comes with countryside staples such as squishy sofas and giant rolltop bathtubs, while Llys Meddyg is a brilliant base for exploring Newport. For a contemporary stay, we like the look of Carren Bach Cottage , with its minimalism and new-wave rustic interiors and serene location tucked in a wooded valley a pebble’s throw from Nolton Haven.

12. York, England

With nearly 2,000 years of history weaving together the rich tapestry of the city, you are never far from traces of bygone eras as you explore York's cobbled alleyways, and medieval architecture, not forgetting the revamped tearooms.

However, if you thought that this historic walled city,perched at the confluence of the rivers Ouse and Foss in North Yorkshire was all about Roman and Viking heritage, you'd be wrong. This spirited hub also has cutting-edge art galleries (as well as a vibrant annual Open Studios showcase), chocolate factories and a whole host of interactive activities for children and adults alike to bring its past to life.

Where to stay for the weekend in York:

The Grand , set within the walled city, is York's only five-star hotel and is perfectly placed in the middle of town but just out of reach of the busy Shambles and Minster crowds.

13. Hebrides, Scotland

Sometimes there’s nothing better than going completely off grid. Scotland’s wild, Western isles may take some time to get to – driving from London would take around 13 hours – but it’s worth the journey. More than 136 islands are scattered around this coastline, underpopulated landmasses with carpets of forest streaked with rivers and dotted with bothies, colourful fishing villages and vast lochs. But what draws most eagle-eyed travellers is the wildlife. On the ground, red deer, otters and hares lay claim to the land, while skies are home to golden eagles, white-tailed sea eagles, hen harriers, gannets and even adorable, bright-beaked puffins. Head for the coast where pristine beaches melt into translucent waters, reminiscent of Caribbean shores. Turquoise waves roll over to reveal shoals of fish; friendly seals bob along the horizon; inquisitive bottlenose dolphins breach the waters to say hello – and if you’re lucky, the occasional killer whale has been known to surface.

Where to stay for the weekend in the Hebrides:

Whether you’re up for some Hebridean island-hopping or searching for somewhere to settle down and hibernate for a while, this Scottish archipelago has plenty of options. On Lewis and Harris in the Outer Hebrides , opt for 19th-century elegance at Lews Castle . Or for something less traditional, hole up in this futuristic pod with glass ceilings to stargaze when the sun goes down. 

14. Lake District, England

With its dramatic, undulating landscape, the Lake District is one of the most famous national parks in Cumbria (and the UK). Distinguished by its glacial ribbon lakes, rugged fell mountains and historic literary associations from Beatrix Potter to Wordsworth and Coleridge, the area has world-famous walking routes, while the picturesque market towns (Kendal, Ambleside and Keswick, to name a few) provide cosy, traditional inns for warming up after a day scaling the mountain ranges.

The brave might want to climb Scafell Pike, the region’s highest point, while those after a less bracing pace can head to Derwentwater, popping into the independent art galleries that dot the landscape just inland from the shore.

Where to stay for the weekend in the Lake District:

Another Place is a smart country-house crash pad – and one of our best hotels in the UK for 2021 , and it isn't hard to see why. From the sleek indoor pool that seamlessly merges with the surrounding landscape to the modernist interiors, Georgian grandeur has been given a contemporary spin on the edge of Ullswater.

15. Devon, England

Sail, surf, hike, climb, fish, farm, forage… The outdoors is where it’s at in Devon . A major chunk of its Jurassic coast is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to sheltered bays, shingle beaches , sandy stretches and clear, clean waters that lap against prehistoric rock formations. Hike along the loop of the South West Coast Path and find hidden swimming spots and sea views. The Salt Path , the moving memoir by Raynor Winn, traces the length of the trail, revealing its history and healing nature with every chapter.

Inland, Dartmoor National Park’s wild-heather moorland and rolling landscape draw walkers up, over and in between gorges, tors and steep hilltops, while Liberty Trails invites riders to explore the area on horseback. Some of the UK’s best climbing and bouldering takes place on Lundy island , or you can find adventurous sea cliffs to conquer on the Culm coast. Cobbled Clovelly is the West Country’s answer to medieval Rye in East Sussex and looks out over Bideford Bay with views of secluded Burgh Island (only accessed by foot at low tide). Kayak across the estuary from Appledore to Instow and feast on lobster at The Glorious Oyster, or work up an appetite on your longboard at Bantham beach before a cream tea at the Gastrobus.

Where to stay for the weekend in Devon:

Gara Rock’s sensational sea views give way to an uncluttered hotel with a restaurant that the locals love. For a steps-from-the-sand stay, it's hard to beach Harbour Beach Club . For more, see our edit of the best hotels in Devon . 

16. Scottish Borders, England and Scotland

As much as we love exploring bonnie Scotland, you don’t have to go far beyond the border to stumble upon wonderful landscapes, chocolate-box villages and ancient ruins. The region stretches between some of the country’s most popular destinations yet remains surprisingly quiet and crowd-free. It’s just south of Edinburgh , between the fringed edges of the Pentland Hills and Northumberland National Park, with plenty of medieval villages, crumbling castles and quiet hamlets.

Start with Melrose, a quaint spot with a rich history, from its 12th-century abbey to the panoramic Harmony Garden. Rumour has it King Arthur is buried in the hills overlooking the town, and the sprawling countryside inspired Sir Walter Scott, who bought a house nearby. On the north bank of the River Tweed, Peebles is a handsome town with an old Parish church, party-style bunting on the high street and lots of pretty cafés and restaurants. Wander around its galleries – Tweeddale is housed in a building dating back to the 16th century – or head out for long hikes and to visit historic castles.

Where to stay for the weekend in the Scottish Borders:

Head to Barns Bothy near Kirkton Manor for a cute country retreat for two, or take over the cottage and tower next door for larger groups. Or for something cosier, try this barn conversion where sheep roam freely outside, with a roaring log fire and plenty of hiking trails nearby.

17. East Sussex, England

An hour on the train from London, East Sussex has coast, countryside and creative communities to connect with. It’s a great call for those dashing out of the city: leave on Friday night, commute in on Monday morning and enjoy three nights away without taking any time off work. In the south, Brighton is best known for its late nights and live music, plus its pebbly beach and lanes of vintage shops. Further along the coast, you can find the vertical drops of Cuckmere Haven and Birling Gap, where bone-white cliffs look over the English Channel. Go during high tide if you want to swim, and then head inland to the South Downs for a walk through meandering waterways, poppy fields and ancient woodland.

Rye and Lewes are lovely old market towns with antiques shops and quirky bookstores, Firle Beacon has the most breathtaking hilltop views around and historic village Alfriston has been put back on the map with the 2021 renovation of The Star by hotelier Olga Polizzi. Wear out little ones on Ashdown Forest, with family-friendly walks and Pooh sticks at Pooh Sticks Bridge. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to some of our favourite country pubs – The Hatch Inn and The Coach and Horses both have lovely beer gardens and chunky, triple-cooked chips, plus local ales.

Where to stay for the weekend in East Sussex:

Hove has The Ginger Pig (make sure you book a room with a bathtub). The Star in Alfriston is the place to book for the coast, and The Gallivant on Camber Sands has a breezy Hamptons feel. There are also some beautiful Airbnbs for ultimate privacy such as this romantic woodland log shed and this gorgeous beach house .

18. Manchester, England

Is Manchester the best UK city break ? There is a vibrant restaurant scene – spanning next-level bakeries, seasonal pasta places, and humming food halls – and excellent bars, as well as a crop of new hotels that have opened over the past few years. Art lovers make tracks for The Lowry Gallery, and there's a flurry of vintage shops across Ancoats and the Northern Quarter for indulgent shopping sprees.

Where to stay for the weekend in Manchester:

Pastel-hued Whitworth Locke is one of the best hotels in Manchester – more your own apartment than a traditional place to stay, with kitchens in each of the suites, an adjoining coffee shop and restaurant, and a co-working space.

19. Connemara, Ireland

“The west of Ireland ’s most beautiful region, Connemara is a country unto itself, centred on blue mountains, open to colossal skies, buffeted on three sides by the Atlantic, and crisscrossed by narrow, meandering roads,” says Stanley Stewart in his 2023 love letter to this corner. This is a place of shimmering waters and craggy mountain backdrops, of wild boglands and grand houses. Days are spent following trails that take in epic landscapes such as across the tidal island Omey, visiting centuries-old estates such as Ballynahinch or braving the blustery weather on one of the handsome beaches.

Connemara National Park covers 2,000 hectares of rugged countryside, with yet more hiking trails over the mountains. Or root down in one of the area's fine, cosy hotels and be thoroughly looked after for the weekend.

Where to stay for the weekend in Connemara:

On the shores of Lough Inagh, former fishing lodge Lough Inagh Lodge Hotel dates from the 1880s and is a gloriously Victorian spot to bed down. Elsewhere, Delphi Lodge in Leenaun is a grand Georgian house with crackling fires.

20. Wester Ross, Scotland

So much more than a jumping-off point to reach the Isle of Skye, Wester Ross – made up of the western parts of Ross and Cromarty in Scotland ’s Northwest Highlands – is like a fantasy landscape. “Mountains of sandstone (many of them Munros: Scottish peaks above 3,000 feet) topple into screes of quartzite, ranges broadening until the sea disappears from view,” Antonia Quirke writes of Wester Ross .

The area has one of the lowest population densities in Europe, giving the feeling that you have the place all to yourself. Don't miss a trip to Applecross Pass, nearly 2,000 feet high, which peeks over the Minch to Skye and Rassay.

Where to stay for the weekend in Wester Ross:

The Glenelg Inn is high-spirited sort of place, with brilliant pub food. The Torridon , meanwhile, was built in the late 19th century; a grand but cosy hotel with a covetable whisky bar.

22 best weekend getaways and breaks in the UK

From coastal retreats in Cornwall to country walks and the chocolate-box charm of the Cotswolds

To help you find the right holiday for you, we've picked the best weekend breaks to experience Britain's wonders, whether you fancy getting away from it all at a country house hotel in Yorkshire , or experiencing fell walking and Michelin-starred dining in the Lake District .

You could hit the sweeping stretches of the best sandy beaches on coastal weekend breaks in the likes of Cornwall, Devon or Norfolk ; head out on a horse ride in the heathlands and trails of the New Forest ; or soak up the history and culture on a spa-spangled city break in Bath and enjoy art galleries, punting and iconic college buildings in Oxford .

There's so much to experience on a weekend break in the UK that reducing your carbon footprint by staycationing at home will feel like a breeze.

A weekend getaway is also the perfect way to explore Britain's beauty - whether you like to discover a new place on a solo trip, with family, a partner, friends or even on a dog-friendly holiday .

With this in mind, you'll want to check out Country Living's favourite weekend getaways to experience this year.

For a quintessentially English weekend getaway, the chocolate-box villages of the Cotswolds are always a delight, while walkers will never be disappointed with the dramatic fells and landscapes of the Lake District . And the rolling countryside of Hampshire and Yorkshire offers a country house hotel fix.

From the best weekend getaways in Brighton to excellent weekend breaks in Pembrokeshire, these ideas offer a breath of fresh country, cultural and coastal air for your 2024 staycation.

A gastronomic glamping break in Cornwall

Tucked away in peaceful St Merryn, a ten-minute drive from Padstow, these luxury shepherd's huts owned by Rick Stein are perfect for a salt-whipped, seafood-themed weekend on the north Cornwall coast. Set in the grounds of The Cornish Arms, a country gastro pub also owned by the Stein empire, there's certainly no roughing it in the five huts, all of which have underfloor heating, Nespresso machines and bouji boutique kitchens.

And you don't need to go far for a legendary Stein meal. The Cornish Arms – awash with low-slung oak beams, roaring log fires and topnotch local beers – serves a treasure chest of delights, including grilled scallops, baked sea bream and Stein's signature Pondicherry hake curry for two. There's plenty of opportunity to walk it all off along the Camel Trail, a scenic 18-mile path along the estuary.

Country and coastal beauty in Norfolk

Dune-backed stretches of golden sands, marshes that are havens for birdwatchers, and pretty villages with antique shops and delectable tea rooms, Norfolk is a wonderful spot for a weekend getaway.

Stay at The Dial House in the sleepy village of Reepham for delicious dining, chic interiors, and in-room spa treatments. The beautiful beaches of Cromer and Sheringham are just 35 minutes away.

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A swish spa and fossil-hunting in Dorset

Enjoy a country house getaway in the heart of Hardy Country in rural Dorset, just half an hour from the Jurassic Coast. Summer Lodge Country House Hotel is a grand yet informal five-star spot with a luxurious spa, all-weather tennis court, and a drawing room designed by Thomas Hardy himself.

There are bikes to borrow to explore the bucolic surrounding countryside, or you can head further afield to the famous coastline, where hunting for fossils is a must.

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A Zen-style spa escape in the New Forest

Packed with chocolate box villages, thatched pubs and scenic walks through gorse-strewn heath and giant redwood forests, the New Forest merges the bucolic best of Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire countryside in one neat national park. Once a royal hunting ground for William the Conqueror, it's still home to wild ponies, cattle, deer and donkeys, and is the perfect spot for a country escape.

On the leafy fringes of Brockenhurst village, stay at Careys Manor , a grand manor house with wood-panelled walls, exposed brick and vast stone fireplaces. Behind its austere Victorian façade hides SenSpa, a beautiful Southeast Asian-inspired spa with an impressive hydrotherapy suite, a Thai restaurant and a Zen garden to relax in.

Country walks and honey-hued villages in the Cotswolds

Weekend getaways in the UK don't get much more charming than the Cotswolds . Countryside ambles, picturesque villages and a burgeoning foodie scene make this a sought-after spot for a mini breaks.

The Slaughters Manor House offers the quintessential honey-coloured appeal, boasting olde-world beauty on the outside and a cool, contemporary interior.

Expect roaring fires and squishy sofas alongside a sleek cocktail bar, games room and Hunter wellies. Take the walk from Lower Slaughter to Upper Slaughter for a super-pretty stroll.

Vineyard views in the South Downs at a West Sussex retreat

It’s no secret that the south is where it's at for the UK’s best wine. But while it's usually English fizz that attracts most of the buzz, the South Downs is also home to England’s first pinotage vineyard at the picture-perfect Leonardslee Estate.

Wake with a view over the vines when you check in to the decadent Leonardslee House , an 1855 Italianate-style mansion revamped in 2019 with impressive results. The extra time and attention spent perfecting the 10 high-ceilinged guest rooms with British-designed furnishings and carefully curated collections of books and illustrations really pays off, giving a stylish elegance to your weekend getaway.

Don’t miss the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Interlude, where an 18-course tasting menu championing estate-foraged ingredients can be paired with wines from Leonardslee’s sister vineyard in South Africa.

Lounge in luxury at a destination spa in Leicestershire

The beauty of doing nothing is highly underrated in these modern, connected times. And sometimes we need to really dial it down to reconnect and reenergise ourselves. And there's nowhere nicer to lounge about in luxury than at Ragdale Hall Spa , an indulgent spa hotel in a leafy corner of Leicestershire.

With six pools, including a glorious rooftop infinity pool and a thermal spa with no less than 12 heat and water experiences, plus more than a hundred spa professionals to cater to your every whim, it's the perfect place for a pampering weekend. Of course, it's important to nurture our taste buds as well and Ragdale's grand dining room and elegant cocktail bar does it impeccably well.

Head west for a leafy London city break

A London city break is as exciting as it comes – famous sights, endless shopping, West End shows – it's fun but exhausting. Just nine miles west of Trafalgar Square, Richmond-on-Thames is a perfect alternative for a relaxing London city break. Home to London's largest royal park, spot the resident deer in Duchess Wood, enjoy a stroll along the Thames Path, stopping for a pint in a riverside pub, while Kew Gardens, Petersham Nurseries and Ham House are all within easy reach.

A stones' throw from Richmond Park and the River Thames, The Richmond Hill Hotel is a Georgian beauty and a relaxing base for exploring this leafy corner of the capital. Behind its Regency façade is a elegant and contemporary interior with a swanky, seasonally inspired restaurant and a chic cocktail bar.

An underground spa and city break in Bath

Combine a city break with a stay in a luxury hotel at The Gainsborough Bath Spa , which has a unique selling point - thermal mineral waters pump directly into its underground spa and spa suites.

The opulent hotel is tucked down a quiet side street in the centre of Bath, so you're perfectly placed to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site city from your indulgent base. Take in the Roman Baths, the Georgian terraces at the Royal Crescent, and climb the Bath Abbey tower.

Don't forget to grab a Sally Lunn bun (cakes at the oldest house in Bath, now a tea room, are legendary).

Horse riding and boutique chic in the New Forest

With the kind of trendy interiors you might expect in a funky London hotel, The Huntsman of Brockenhurst is a boutique bolthole smack-bang in the middle of the New Forest.

You can go horse riding at the local stables, see wild ponies roaming around the streets, or enjoy plenty of pretty country walks in the heathland and forest trails.

A foodie staycation at an idyllic country house in Kent

Tucked away on the leafy outskirts of Ashford – a 10-minute taxi ride from Ashford International – Boys Hall is a beautiful boutique hotel in a Jacobean manor house. Set in three acres of wild English gardens, this country house invites you to sit back with a glass of local fizz on the sun-drenched terrace or cosy down over a game of Scrabble and a warming cocktail in the oak-panelled lounge.

The main draw is the food. Championing the best of small local Kent producers – it's not called the Garden of England for nothing – dine out on dishes such as grilled Romney Marsh lamb, rosemary potato and pickled morels, hot smoked salmon with avocado and sushi rice or sticky braun crumpet with kholrabi and pickled chilli, while the menu's local Kent wines shine. After dinner, hunker down in one of the nine plush, beamed suites.

Outdoor swimming and countryside tramping in Hampshire

Pull in and park up for a weekend getaway at Tylney Hall in Hampshire. There's a lovely spa and indoor pool for relaxing and, when the weather plays ball, the huge outdoor pool becomes wildly inviting.

There are 66 acres of grounds to explore (dogs and children welcome) croquet, and bikes for hire, and the Victorian mansion offers the sort of splendour reminiscent of a bygone era.

And, if you're a historical literary fan, you can drive 20 minutes to visit Jane Austen's Grade I-listed home in Chawton, where she wrote many of her novels.

Seaside pampering on a wellness weekend in Cornwall

With stunning views across sub-tropical gardens to Gyllyngvase Beach, St Michaels Resort is the perfect place for a relaxing (or active) weekend getaway.

With a super-swish spa and fitness programme, you can choose how much you want to get involved with, whether it's a yoga class or simply relaxing in the cedarwood hot tub and the south west's largest hydra pool.

Walk the Coastal Path before enjoying scrumptious food in the stylish restaurant with a sea-facing deck.

A regal country retreat in Yorkshire

There could be worse weekend getaways than tucking into cream tea at one of the finest stately homes in the country. Goldsborough Hall is a 400-year-old upscale country retreat that was once the home of Princess Mary, the aunt of Queen Elizabeth II.

It features beautiful period features throughout, luxurious four-poster beds and Chesterfield sofas, plus a three AA rosette fine dining restaurant.

The upmarket spa town of Harrogate, with its posh eateries, boutique shops, pretty parks, and art galleries, is just 20 minutes away. And there's ample opportunity for tramping the Yorkshire Moors, visiting historic buildings (Bolton Abbey and Knaresborough Castle), while Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, Yorkshire's finest Cistercian Abbey ruin, is half an hour away.

History, culture and a stylish hotel in Oxford

Arguably the trendiest hotel in Oxford, The Old Bank is a modern and stylish place to make your base for exploring this historically-rich city. As well as The Botanic Garden, Magdalen Bridge and the River Cherwell all being within five minutes of the hotel, there's also views over iconic college buildings like University Church of St Mary and Radcliffe Camera.

You'll enjoy how the period features sit next to impressive modern art as well as the buzzy brasserie. You can also head down the river towpath on two wheels on the hotel's bikes.

Beachside bliss and a rooftop terrace in Devon

Soak up the sun and the coastal views at Salcombe Harbour Hotel , a nautical-chic hotel on the shores of the Salcombe Estuary. The location is sublime, and you'll feel instantly relaxed sipping cocktails on a sun lounger on the rooftop terrace.

Enjoy walks on the coast path, and the freshest catch of the day at the waterside restaurant. Situated in the South Devon AONB, you're also just half an hour from Dartmoor National Park.

Fell-walking and Michelin-starred dining in the Lake District

Foodies and walkers will be in heaven on this weekend getaway in the Lake District. Check into the Forest Side Hotel on the edge of picturesque Grasmere for a weekend full of epic walks and equally impressive dishes.

The Victorian mansion is home to a Michelin-starred restaurant in a cosy and relaxed atmosphere. And when you can't eat another morsel, you can be at the top of the Helm Crag fell in 90 minutes.

Soak up the heritage in Henley-on-Thames

Escape for a riverside staycation in 12th-century market town Henley-on-Thames, which sits beside the River Thames and is overlooked by the gorgeous Chilterns. Known for its annual Royal Regatta, Henley attracts the world’s finest rowers and is an excellent place to enjoy your own boat trip down the river during a weekend getaway.

You'll want to check into the Hotel Du Vin , housed in a building that spent centuries as a brewery, which is ironic when you see the length of the wine list! The hotel has retained its heritage while boasting warm and inviting spaces. It blends Georgian details with modern furnishings. Alfresco meals in the courtyard are also a highlight.

Weekend champers at a rooftop bar in Edinburgh

The Market Street Hotel forms part of Edinburgh's historic city skyline, and boasts a wonderful rooftop lounge and champagne bar. It's also perfectly located for taking in all the sights, being just minutes on foot from the Royal Mile.

Sleek, contemporary interiors are complemented by thoughtful touches like freshly roasted coffee and milk frothers in the stylish bedrooms. The food is also sublime, and always washed down with champagne.

Must-visits like Camera Obscura, the National Museum of Scotland, and Edinburgh Castle are a hop, skip and jump away.

Be in the buzz of London at one of the finest hotels near Piccadilly

Want to live the vibrancy of London while enjoying the relaxation of a luxury hotel? Step inside the Sofitel London St James and you'll forget that buzzing Pall Mall and Piccadilly are just metres away. The beautiful address from French hotel brand Sofitel boasts all the things we love about our European neighbour, from the style and sophistication to the exquisite food you can experience at its restaurant Wild Honey.

The bedrooms are fresh and modern in style, with bright carpets and contemporary art, alongside classic luxuries, such as Hermes toiletries in the elegant bathrooms. When it comes to dining, you'll adore the fine British flavours combined with French techniques at Wild Honey.

From the slow-cooked Denbighshire Welsh lamb to the wild mushroom tart, the dishes here are unforgettable. Meanwhile, the spa oozes French flair and indulgence, with detoxifying HydraFacials and Crème de Rassoul body wraps to stimulates blood circulation.

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Best Friend Travel Bucket List: 12 Trips to Take With Your BFF

After years of exploring the world with my best friend, I thought what a great idea it’d be to pull together the best friend bucket list. I wanted to recommend any places that me and my best friend have been on, but also let you know what destinations are on our best friend travel bucket list.

In this post, I have included the places we’ve been and those we’d like to go to. Travelling with Katie is one of my favourite things to do, and despite being in a relationship, I love spending quality time with my best friend, in far-flung corners of the world.

Me and Katie are not new to exploring the world together, having been on countless trips together over the years since we became besties on the first day of University over seven years ago.

Our Best Friend Travel Bucket List has included Dublin for a weekend, spent four months travelling down the coast in New Zealand and Australia, we’ve been to Iceland to visit the waterfalls, took a trip to Malmo for the weekend, spent five days in Switzerland, headed off on a cruise and this year we are hoping to head to Eastern Europe together!

It’s the greatest escape, being out of your element, with your number one by your side.

Travelling with your best friend will bond you in a way nothing else can, while still inspiring and motivating you to gain confidence in your own skin. And don’t worry about taking all of these trips – even just one is sure to cement memories for a lifetime…

Here is the ultimate best friend bucket list…

Read more: dorset holiday cottages: 5 amazing cottages to rent in dorset.

Best Friend Travel Bucket List

Me and Katie ventured to Iceland back in March 2018 and we fell in love with love incredible country. I couldn’t think of anyone else when the trip came up – the idea of a road trip around this wonderful island with my best friend was just up my street. 

We spent four wonderful days in Iceland, exploring the south of the island, as well as all the tourist hot spots along the way. In order to help you guys with planning your own trip (after I spent hours and hours researching the best places to go and where to stop) I decided to throw together another of my ’48 Hours’ guides, but this time it was for Iceland. Read the full post here .

If Denmark wasn’t on your travel radar before, then now’s the perfect time to keep an eye out for deals and plan a last-minute “YOLO” trip with your BFF. Copenhagen is the perfect city for a break with your BFF, as they have lots of things to do, as well as some very hygge cafes, Christmas markets and of course the famous Tivoli Gardens. Read the full post here .

SWITZERLAND

At the end of last year me and my best friend Katie jumped on a plane from London and off on a five day Switzerland adventure exploring some of the countries best cities. I had never been to Switzerland so I was super excited to explore the country, visiting three cities over five days, including Basel, Lucerne and Zurich.

All three cities were amazing and had so much to offer, check out my blog posts on 12 places to visit in Zurich , and  48 Hour Guide to Basel . But for now, here’s my guide to 5 days in Switzerland… 

While Switzerland is geographically quite small and people might think they can do a lot in five days in Switzerland. And to be honest, I wouldn’t recommend any less than five days in this magical country, as we felt like we hardly scratched the surface, and next time I visit Switzerland I plan on going to the east of the country to Interlaken and the mountains.

UNITED KINGDOM

We may live in the United Kingdom but that doesn’t stop us exploring our very own country. We love taking a staycation, although often we end up in a bar in a city, we also love the weekends spent relaxing in a country manor.

Who would you rather tour Downton Abbey Highclere Castle or Pride and Prejudice  Chatsworth House  with besides the one who probably watched them all with you? Best spent here at Christmas when the Christmas markets are in full swing up and down the country.

Some go to Dublin for the stunning Georgian architectural and long history, others, like me and my girls visit Dublin for it’s robust pub culture, wonderful museums and good-looking Irish men (joking obviously).  Last year me and the girls went to Dublin for a weekend exploring this wonderful city.

We spent the weekend drinking, walking, eating and drinking some more.  We flew with British Airways, but you can also fly with Aer Lingus, Ryanair and FlyBe to Dublin Airport from the UK. Read the full post from our trip here .

NEW ZEALAND

Before arriving in New Zealand, we had no idea where to start. All we knew was that we had two weeks in New Zealand to explore both the South Island and the north island. We had no idea what we would do, but we knew that two weeks in New Zealand would not be enough time to see this magical country.

But like many others, we only had two weeks annual leave to spare so we booked two weeks in New Zealand made the most of our time to experience this magical country.

New Zealand top the lists of my favourite countries in the world, alongside Sweden and The Netherlands.

And it’s a favourite among tourists too… it’s a country to opposites, calm relaxed bays, alongside bungy jumping into a canyon, weather that varies from hour to hour, and food so indulgent alongside juice bars and health retreats. Make sure you add a holiday to New Zealand to your bucket list now…

I visited Malmo last month with Katie and we loved this quaint city. Located only half an hour from Copenhagen, Malmo functions at a much slower pace, with cafes dotted around the city, boats for hire along the river and wild swimming from the harbour.

We loved everything about this city and especially the emerging food scene – we stopped off for lunch one day at the Instagram famous Avokado, and their food was bloody brilliant. I’d happily spend my weekends in Malmo, eating tasty food, and people watching!

Whether you’re of the  Sex and the City  class or a  Girls  recent graduate, no doubt the Big Apple has shown you some depiction of friendship over the years, either good or bad. It’s time to make it your own – after all, life is best lived first-hand. So grab your real-life best friend and take the city by storm. 

With four distinct seasons and many parades and festivals throughout the year, New York City offers a holiday as diverse as its residents. In ‘the city that never sleeps’, tourists can have the best in food and entertainment at their fingertips. The largest city in the U.S. is also one of the world’s most energetic.

From a night in a museum to a street-food festival, this metropolis has it all. I’ve never been to New York but I’ve heard it’s immense – GO GO GO!

When you think about Australia, you think campervan. Well that’s what I did when I was planning my trip down the east coast. It made sense to hire a campervan for some of the way at least, so that you could really get a feel of Australia and see things that being on a bus just doesn’t give you.

Being on the Greyhound bus is great! Free wifi, no-hassle, they drive you and sometimes you can even get a sleeper bus and arrive at your destination however you don’t have freedom.

You can’t however nip to the shop 5km away without a car or go to the zoo 29 km away without jumping on public transport, however with a campervan you can!

So we decided to hire a campervan from Brisbane to Sydney for 10 days with campervan company Travellers’ Autobarn. I had previously clocked the company when trailing through travel websites and in STA Travel, however it wasn’t until I contacted head office and asked for a quote that I was delighted with my choice and decided to go with them.

I was in regular contact with a lady at head office who was amazing and answered all my questions about the hiring of the campervan and the admin side of it as well. Read the full post here .

What’s on your best friend bucket list? Let me know in the comments

What’s the best trip you and your best friend have taken together use my  best friend travel bucket list for inspiration.

BOOK TRAVEL INSURANCE BEFORE YOU FLY Picking travel insurance that covers you in all eventualities is an essential part of planning a trip for every single person. If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. You never know what’s around the corner. World Nomads is an affordable option that I personally recommend. BOOK HERE

Other posts that may help you:

10 Hygge Things to do in Copenhagen

Ultimate Guide to a Weekend Break in York

10 of the Best places to eat Brunch in London

The Best Weekend Trips in the UK

10 Things to do in Aberdeen

Log cabins with hot tubs in the UK

Thank you for reading and as always happy adventuring! 

If you’ve enjoyed this post, please share it for me with all your friends and family!

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That’s given me some great ideas for my nect trips. Thank you.

JANET storey

Must try Malmo.

Lovely city!!

Helen Moulden

Oh my god I’d love to go to Iceland with my BFF!

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19 Of The Best Weekend Breaks In The UK

By Hayley Maitland

One of the surprise blessings of the pandemic has been a renewed appreciation for the best weekend breaks in the UK, from the Isles of Scilly to the Isle of Skye , and with sustainability at the forefront of everyone’s minds right now, trading holidays in far-flung destinations for escapes to lesser-known regions in Britain seems increasingly like a win-win. Fortunately, sumptuous destination hotels have opened everywhere from Kent to Aberdeen over the last few years, and all of them are a delight to visit in any season.

Art lovers should head north to Braemar, where the founders of Hauser & Wirth opened the Fife Arms just nine miles down the road from Balmoral , while serious gourmands will be enamoured with The Newt in Somerset, the sister property to the Eden-like Babylonstoren in South Africa’s Stellenbosch. As for the best UK breaks for couples? The Pig at Harlyn Bay offers romantic seclusion, while Hampshire’s Heckfield Place is hard to beat when it comes to pampering. Read on for the best weekend breaks in the UK.

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Best weekend break in the UK for: a European-style city break.

Where to stay: You’re spoiled for choice in terms of Edinburgh hotels, but the soon-to-open Gleneagles Townhouse is at the top of our must-visit list this year. Set within the old Bank of Scotland headquarters on St Andrew’s Square, the first city outpost from the much-loved Perthshire estate features 33 distinctive rooms in the Scots Baronial style, featuring decorative mouldings, original fireplaces, and canopy beds. As you would expect from the founders of Gleneagles, there’s also a world-class spa – with the former bank vault now housing an infrared sauna. You can even indulge in some cryotherapy, if the nippy Scottish weather isn’t cold enough for you.

Where to eat: Hidden away in industrial Leith, Roberta Hall-McCarron’s The Little Chartroom is the most exciting restaurant in Edinburgh, with a menu inspired by her childhood sailing along the Scottish coastline. Reserve a table well in advance for the chance to try the likes of curried mussel sauce with finger lime near the waterfront. The same team recently launched a sister establishment, Eleanore , nearby, too, which is an ideal pit-stop for a glass of wine and some fresh oysters.

Where to go: All of the major national galleries in Edinburgh are top-notch (the Gallery of Modern Art just acquired Salvador Dalí’s infamous lobster telephone), but you should also make a beeline for the Fruitmarket Gallery , which has hosted thought-provoking exhibitions by everyone from Louise Bourgeois to Jean-Michel Basquiat through the years.

The Peak District

Best weekend break in the UK for… Stately homes, ancient villages and rugged landscapes.

Where to stay… Historically, the best places to stay in the Peak District have been cosy pubs with roaring log fires (ideal for drying off after being caught in the rain while tramping around the National Park). As of 2021, however, the converted Victorian pile Callow Hall is the most elegant place to lay your head after a day of rambling. Guests can choose between understated rooms in the main house – which feature standalone copper baths – or fully immerse themselves in the landscape in either a “treehouse” or “hive” room designed by the team behind Chewton Glen. But, the grounds are so beautiful, you would be hard pressed to stay in your room for more than a few hours, lovely as it is: Callow Hall’s 35 acres include ancient forests, wild streams, and fruit orchards – not to mention rolling lawns where guests can play croquet.

Where to eat… While the tempting menu at Callow Hall’s on-site restaurant is based around seasonal British produce (including grouse from the 12th of August), you cannot visit the Peak District without having a picnic atop a limestone cliff. Combine a visit to Chatsworth with a trip to its Estate Farm Shop, where you can stock up on local meats, cheeses, and breads.

Where to go… Follow the Lathkill Dale, a narrow, rocky gorge, to the 900-year-old Haddon Hall , one of the finest surviving medieval homes in Britain, complete with a rose-filled Elizabethan garden.

Northumberland

Best weekend break in the UK for… Breathtaking Roman and medieval ruins.

Where to stay… Nestled within the honey-stoned village of Blanchland, the Lord Crewe Arms started out life as a 12th-century priory before becoming one of the most stylish hotels in Northumberland. Relics of its past are still everywhere, including the stained-glass windows and giant fireplaces. Spread across the main building, a former pub across the way, and several miners’ cottages, the rooms themselves are wonderfully cosy – filled with worn paperbacks, hot-water bottles, and novelty fudge. Guests are able to borrow everything needed to take advantage of the surrounding countryside, including Wellington boots and fishing gear for use on the hotel’s stretch of the River Derwent. Make a point of having Sunday lunch at the on-site restaurant, including a glass of the Crewe Brew Ale.

Where to eat… Head to King Edward’s Bay, where Riley’s Fish Shack has enamoured foodies since it first launched as a portable stall in 2012. Set directly on the beach, its specialty is (of course) the catch of the day, which varies from lobster to monkfish, with crispy potatoes so good you might just break into song. Oh, and there’s hot buttered rum made on site.

Where to go… Catch a boat to the Farne Islands to watch seals, puffins, and dolphins in their natural habitat, or make a pilgrimage to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne .

Best weekend break in the UK for…  combining a rural retreat with a city break.

Where to stay:  Despite being set within 20 acres of glorious gardens and parkland – encompassing croquet lawns, rolling meadows, 200 year-old oak trees and an expansive lake – the National Trust’s Middlethorpe Hall is still, remarkably, less than a 10-minute drive from York. As a result, it offers the best of both worlds: you can explore every inch of the historic city  and while away many an hour in perfect solitude, strolling through the grounds of the hotel, soaking in the indoor swimming pool at the well-appointed spa, and curling up by the fire in the grand, lemon-coloured drawing room surrounded by oil paintings and rare antiques. Each of the 29 bedrooms, whether in the main house (which dates back to 1699) or off the picturesque 18th-century courtyard, is thoughtfully decorated, with four-poster beds, polished writing desks and cushioned reading nooks. Keep an eye out for a portrait of Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, too – the poet and essayist is just one of the manor’s illustrious former residents.

Where to eat: Middlethorpe’s culinary offerings are exemplary – don’t leave without trying the scrumptious afternoon tea, and sampling head chef Ashley Binder’s spectacular dinner menu in the oak-panelled, candlelit dining room – but it’s also worth venturing into town for the startlingly innovative, Michelin-starred, nine-course tasting menu at Roots . Designed by Tommy Banks and overseen by Will Lockwood, it focuses on locally sourced, seasonal produce and emerges as a love letter to the region. You might begin with a selection of Oldstead charcuterie, followed by a crab, parsley and caviar broth; glazed lobster, carrot and sea buckthorn; or roast duck served with plum and cabbages. Somehow, the desserts are even more astounding, including an unbelievably creamy, deliciously sweet dish made with chicory root and potato (yes, really) that is truly exceptional.    

Where to go:  Scale the medieval city walls for panoramic views of York, climb down to wander along the serene bank of the river Ouse, duck into York Minster to admire the cathedral’s extraordinary stained glass windows, and end the day in Shambles, a cobblestoned thoroughfare home to quaint taverns and tea rooms.

Best weekend break in the UK for… Reliving your halcyon student days.

Where to stay: Set on the corner of Parker’s Piece (where the rules of football were first established), former coaching inn The University Arms has been whimsically refurbished by interior designer Martin Brudnizki – perhaps best known as the man behind Annabel’s latest revamp. The Edwardian-style rooms (many of which are painted in Cambridge blue) are cosy and filled with sweet details (each one has a copy of The Wind in the Willows , for example). Fittingly, there’s also an on-site library filled with books chosen by the Heywood Hill team, and hotel bicycles to rent in order to cruise around this most beautiful of university towns.

Where to eat: Parker’s Tavern within The University Arms is always a good choice. Built to recall a student dining hall, its menu is all about British produce: saltwater crust meat pies with homemade chutneys; Dover sole with coastal herbs; and classic roast dinners with all the trimmings. You’re also morally obligated to try one of the Chelsea buns at Fitzbillies .

Where to go: Browse the wonderfully eclectic collection in Kettle’s Yard , which was carefully restored in 2018. Originally a private house belonging to Tate curator Jim Ede and his wife Helen, the gallery features works by everyone from Joan Miró to Barbara Hepworth.

Pembrokeshire

Best weekend break in the UK for… Great British beaches without the Cornwall crowds.

Where to stay: Surrounded by 26 acres of woodlands and meadows, with the Preseli Hills just visible in the distance on clear days, The Grove in Narbeth is without doubt one of Wales’s most charming hotels. Its Arts & Crafts-inflected rooms are cosy yet luxurious, with deep roll-top baths in many of the suites. Also deeply charming: the upstairs sitting room with a roaring log fire (and plenty of novels to work your way through if it rains), and the fragrant walled gardens on the property.

Where to eat: The menu at the Grove’s much-lauded restaurant The Fernery utilises hyper-local produce to showcase Welsh cuisine at its best: Per Las; fermented leeks in onion broth; Eccles cake… For a much less formal but still distinctly special meal, head to the delightfully quirky Cafe Môr , which dishes out lobster rolls with Welsh Sea butter and Welshman’s caviar.

Where to go: Pembrokeshire has a strong claim to the most glorious beaches in the UK , from Prescipe Bay, with its fossil-studded sandstone cliffs, to Church Doors Cove, formerly the province of smugglers. For a taste of the local wildlife, catch a boat to Ramsey Islands, home to peregrines, seals and more.

Best weekend break in the UK for… Quirky, retro design.

Where to stay: A short distance from Deal’s pebbled seafront, the former design editor of Wallpaper* gutted and revamped former Victorian pub The Rose , transforming it into an eight-bedroom haven, complete with a Tracey Emin painting hanging above the bar. Room 4, with its roll-top bath, is a favourite, but whichever room you choose, expect sweet touches, like Austin Austin products and vintage record players. Also of note: Nuno Mendez – best known for overseeing the kitchen at Chiltern Firehouse – now leads the culinary offering here.

Where to eat: It would be a mistake to spend a weekend in Kent without making a reservation at The Sportsman in Seasalter. The menu is a paean to the Southeast coast of the UK, with the team taking their cues from the sea and the marshlands around it in the same way that the monks who farmed the area for Canterbury’s religious elite in the 12th century did. The house-made seaweed butter alone more than justifies the trip.

Where to go: When it comes to art in Kent, you cannot beat the Turner Contemporary , a stone’s throw away from No.42 by GuestHouse, Margate , which takes its design cues from its quirky location and also boasts a wellness café and treatment rooms .

Best weekend break in the UK for… Anyone with a period drama obsession .

Where to stay: There’s no question that Heckfield Place is the most spectacular hotel in Hampshire. The only difficulty with staying there is that you may be tempted never to leave its 400 acres of grounds, complete with a biodynamic farm; an ornamental lake for wild swimming; a walled garden; and seemingly endless woodlands and meadows to tramp through. The former Georgian home owes its refreshingly modern interiors to designer Ben Thompson, a protégé of Ilse Crawford, who filled its rooms with a mix of delicate antiques and contemporary pieces by the likes of Rose Uniacke. Heavenly flower arrangements by Kitten Grayson only add to the charm. Make sure to pay a visit to the Little Bothy Spa, where treatments feature products derived from Heckfield Place’s own apothecary garden.

Where to eat: The food offering at Heckfield Place is built around the produce from its biodynamic farm, and includes two separate restaurants: Hearth , where all of the dishes are prepared over an open fire, and Marle , where the food is, quite simply, a joy. Think sharing platters of baby vegetables with herb crème fraîche; scallops with fennel puree and beurre blanc; and roasted quail with soubise and poached red wine figs.

Where to go: It is a truth universally acknowledged that any trip to Hampshire should include a detour to Jane Austen’s Grade I-listed cottage in Chawton , where she wrote the majority of her classic novels, including Pride & Prejudice .

By Liam Hess

By Monica Mendal

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The top 10 weekend breaks in the UK and where to stay

If anything defines downtime in the UK, it’s the great British weekend away. Get in the car , hop on the train or bus and treat yourself to a hotel , B&B or spa weekend break.

The UK is alive with a lifetime’s worth of short breaks, city trips, luxury getaways and family favourites that celebrate the four corners of the British Isles. The result? A golden age for weekends away in the UK, with everything you ever fancied catered for, plus plenty more.

These days, there’s also a big interest in getting close to nature and supporting local start-ups and independent operators. And every chance I get, I’m on the road to somewhere new. Let’s dive into my top 10 UK weekend breaks.

The top 10 weekend breaks in the UK

• The Lake District
• Yorkshire Dales
• Northumberland
• North Coast 500
• The English Riviera
• The Causeway Coast

1. The Lake District

• Best for: a weekend family adventure

It’s the countryside break you always hope for your family: lake activities on tap, cute towns and chugging boats, rough-and-tumble forests and kid-friendly boozers, plus lashings of sticky toffee pudding (the dessert was invented in a hotel kitchen on Ullswater).

The Lake District feels wilder and less manicured than other parts of the English countryside, but it’s also terrific for little ones: Beatrix Potter was inspired by its vividly evocative landscapes and locations, including Wray Castle . Now, who could argue with her?

Where to stay: Holbeck Ghyll Country House

An enchanting place, with rambling gardens and an outdoor hot tub, this is a half-forgotten place away from the lakeshore crowds and blessed with Langdale Fells views. Renée Zellweger stayed while filming Miss Potter, so if it’s good enough for a Hollywood A-lister, it’ll do for you.

2. Edinburgh

• Best for: a couples’ weekend away in the UK

Get the train to Edinburgh’s Waverley Station and find yourself mole-blinking as you look out at the most beautiful city skyline in the UK. Wonky steeples, steampunk tolbooths and heavenly spires crowd beneath Edinburgh Castle . If that’s not a romantic setting to explore for a weekend, I don’t know what is.

It’s the Gothicism of Edinburgh that’s so special. Make the most of it and dine at The Witchery , low-lit with candles and serving steaks and seafood towers. Then seek out the boutiques and bars on the cobblestoned William Street.

Where to stay: Prestonfield House

A sibling to The Witchery, Prestonfield House comes armed to the teeth with stag antler armchairs and gilded mirrors. Echoing the Highlands, there are shaggy-haired cows and peacocks in the grounds too.

3. Yorkshire Dales

• Best for: an outdoorsy weekend

They call it God’s Own Country for a reason, you know. There are ballooning hills to hike, snaky roads to cycle, spooky castles for kids to explore, abbeys for pilgrimage and waterfall trails to potter along. Put Aysgarth Falls , Malham Cove’s outdoor amphitheatre, the cheese dairies of Wensleydale and the pubs of Swaledale and Masham on your itinerary, then fall for the myths of Jervaulx and Bolton Castle and get planning for your return weekend trip.

Where to stay: Simonston Hall Hotel

In the thick of things in Hawes, and close to the Wensleydale Creamery , this country house hotel is a time capsule of costume drama decor, with ornate rooms and beautiful gardens married with here-and-now hospitality.

4. Northumberland

• Best for: a stargazing adventure

An inescapable fact about northeast England is life ticks by at a slower pace and the skies are clearer than anywhere else in the UK. The best address is light pollution-free Kielder Water and Forest Park , home to the Kielder Observatory and International Dark Sky Park, the second largest protected celestial swathe in Europe.

There’s plenty of daytime activity too, from mountain biking to canoeing and kayaking, but my money is on late nights scoping out nocturnal creatures like barn owls, foxes and badgers, plus marvelling at all manner of moons and the Milky Way.

Where to stay: The Pheasant Inn

A proper family-run country inn in a building dating back to the 17th-century, The Pheasant Inn is all about old-fashioned hospitality and hearty pub grub.

5. North Coast 500

• Best for: a bucket-list road trip

Inverness certainly isn’t Chicago, nor is Caithness like California. But the North Coast 500 , which loops around mainland Britain’s north, is equally worthy of US type hyperbole. Simply put, it’s terrific. Tackled anti-clockwise, the 500-mile touring route first climbs north from Inverness over the Moray Firth and through Sutherland and Wester Ross, past a greatest hits of grand Scottish icons.

Filling the windscreen are gleaming silver seas, one-of-a-kind castles , peat-smoked whisky distilleries (my favourite is Old Pulteney in Wick), fishing villages and undulating golf fairways. All the totems of the Highlands are present and correct, in fact, with stylistically diverse hotels seemingly at every turn. Buckle up for the most scenic long weekend break in the UK.

Where to stay: Royal Marine Hotel, Brora

A stay at this beachfront bolthole is a little like visiting the sort of wonderfully eccentric uncle we all wish we had. In addition to the hotel’s Highland trimmings (a roaring fire, local’s bar, bespoke tartans, tatty scones and smoked steelhead trout for breakfast), South African manager Billy McKechnie whips out his bagpipes to soundtrack breakfast and dinner.

6. The English Riviera

• Best for: a weekend break by the seaside

All set for a best-of-British trip to the seaside ? South Devon (Torbay, Paignton and Brixham, for the uninitiated) is your destination for a UK weekend break with all the good stuff. Spend your weekend pottering around the towns, road tripping from Babbacombe Bay to Brixham , or exploring the Agatha Christie connection; Torquay’s best known resident.

This stretch of coast is also marketed as England’s Seafood Coast , so it’d be rude to not dig into plates of Brixham crab and lemon sole. For that wind in your hair look, it’s also true ice cream and fish ’n’ chips taste better when sat on a pier.

Where to stay: Cary Arms & Spa

Riviera chic is on point at this lovely coastal English inn overlooking Babbacombe Bay. There are suites and beach huts, plus an indoor spa for rainy days and a sandy beach for cold water swims when the sky is blue.

7. The Causeway Coast

• Best for: an outdoorsy long weekend

The intersection between land and sea is where you find the 120-mile coastal road from Belfast to Londonderry and it tumbles past landscapes primed for lung-filling adventures. Drag yourself along the Gobbins Cliff Path sculpted out of volcanic rock; hike over Antrim’s sands and bluffs towards the higgedly-piggedly columns of the Giant’s Causeway . Then reward yourself with Irish whiskey at Old Bushmills Distillery . A blissful way to spend a weekend away in the UK.

Where to stay: The Bushmills Inn

Slap bang in Bushmills, this 17th-century-era coaching inn is at the centre of your travel compass for visits to the Giant’s Causeway and, if swinging’s your thing, Royal Portrush Golf Club .

• Best for: a spa and sports weekend

There’s no need to hit the Highlands to feel like a laird or lady. A spa break in a chilled-out swathe of countryside is at your fingertips in the market town of Kelso .

This is River Tweed country and world-class fly-fishing for catch-and-release salmon and trout is your good fortune here. Plus the country sports Schloss Roxburghe Hotel & Golf Course is blessed with a landmark new spa, with an outdoor lap pool, hot tub, steam room and treatment areas.

Where to stay: Schloss Roxburghe Hotel & Golf Course

Once owned by the Duke of Roxburghe, this estate hotel is now overseen by Hyatt, yet thrills with some of the country’s finest spa and sports facilities.

9. Anglesey

• Best for: a wildlife-filled weekend break

Anglesey is tiny by British standards. It takes only half an hour to drive or catch public transport across, but it almost feels untouchable across the water from the rest of North Wales.

Dolphins carousel along the Menai Strait off Beaumaris. Cormorants circle above the Irish Sea. The cliffs of Holy Island fill with curlews, gannets and puffins, and gaining a foothold on Anglesey’s outlying islands are grey seals. Hop on an engine-revving RIB from a blue flag beach to see them in all their blubbery glory.

Where to stay: Château Rhianfa

Part mid-Victorian pile, part fairy tale French château, this hotel overlooks the Menai Strait and Snowdon, and is full of nooks, making it the perfect hideaway for a quiet weekend break in the UK.

• Best for: a luxury city break

Where else for a classic weekend away? For starters, stay at Raffles London at the OWO in Whitehall’s Old War Office; polished to the tune of £1.4 billion over eight years, it’s now the UK’s flashiest new hotel.

Then it’s time to explore. For a no-expenses spared weekend take the private chopper tour from the London Heliport opposite Chelsea Harbour then indulge in a destination restaurant tasting menu.

Book ahead in the nearby Restaurant Gordon Ramsay or Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester on Park Lane , or try my favourite – The Lecture Room & Library inside sketch on the fringes of Mayfair. Such swank and sparkle is worthy of any big spender.

Where to stay: Great Scotland Yard Hotel

If you can’t afford the Raffles price tag (up to £25,000 a night), then Great Scotland Yard Hotel is another great option. A stone’s throw from Westminster Abbey and the political theatre of Downing Street, it’s a hideaway of elegant suites and parlours for cream teas and cocktails..

Looking for more staycation inspiration ? Check out the best romantic getaways and the best castle stays in the UK , all equally great weekend breaks in the UK.

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18 of the best UK city breaks for a weekend getaway

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Here are 18 of (in my opinion) the best UK city breaks for a weekend getaway when you don’t want to venture further afield. And as well as sharing my own favourite UK city breaks, I thought I’d rope in some other travel bloggers as well so that I could cover more of the country and include tips on UK cities that I’ve never visited or have visited but don’t know well enough to write about in any detail.

I asked around and some fellow travel bloggers obliged me with their own UK city break ideas. So I’ve included them below after my ones. It’s all in no particular order either. I’m not ‘ranking’ my ones and the others are just in the order other bloggers sent them to me!

You’ll notice that London is not listed. Before anyone asks why, it’s because a) I don’t like it, b) it’s already been done to death online and c) I wanted to write about great UK cities that don’t get as much attention.

So, get comfy with a cup of tea while you decide which of the best UK city breaks you fancy booking for your next weekend away. It might take you a while to read this one…

1. Liverpool: my ultimate pick of the best UK city breaks

I couldn’t not kick off with the city I grew up near. Although I moved away 10 years ago, I still visit regularly and try to keep a hand in with what’s going on there. Every time I visit, I can’t believe how much Liverpool is improving and changing. It’s definitely one of the best UK city breaks, especially for tourists from abroad who want to see the ‘real’ UK rather than just the capital.

Things to see and do in Liverpool

Liverpool’s Albert Dock is a good starting point for your trip. You’ll find incredible architecture, views across the River Mersey, and some brilliant free museums/galleries. Tate Liverpool (free) is here, as well as the Museum of Liverpool (free), the Merseyside Maritime Museum (free), and the International Slavery Museum (free).

It’s then a short walk over to the Three Graces (a trio of gorgeous buildings – the Royal Liver Building, the Cunard Building and the Port of Liverpool Building), where you’ll be able to spot the famous Liver Birds on the roof. Liverpool’s skyline is unbeatable (better than New York’s in my opinion, soz) and it’s best viewed from the famous ferry rid e (as in the one ‘cross the Mersey). And yes, they play the song while you’re on it (£10 on the day or £9 advance).

Hope Street stretches from the Roman Catholic Cathedral (free) to the Anglican Cathedral (free) and beyond. If you’re in the latter, look out for the little mouse on one of the coffins (caskets?). The name ‘Hope Street’ is all about linking the two faiths. Also on Hope Street, keep an eye out for the excellent art installation ‘A case history’, a set of suitcases piled on the pavement. I couldn’t leave this out given my blog’s name, could I?!

If you’re into the Beatles, there’s obviously loads of Beatles-themed stuff to do and you could probably plan your entire trip around just that.

Where to eat in Liverpool

Liverpool has a big foodie scene and an even bigger drinking scene. My favourite place for combining the two activities has to be the Baltic Market , an industrial-style (ahem, hipster) food court featuring picnic benches and more street food pop-ups than you can shake a stick at, which reminds me – it’s also dog friendly.

Other places I like eating include Maray (try the disco cauliflower), Down the Hatch (dirty vegan burgers!), East Avenue Bakehouse (perfect for brunch), Salt House Tapas (good if you’re shopping in Liverpool One and need somewhere nearby), and last but by no means least the little hidden gem on Rodney Street, Cafe Porto (not actually a cafe but a delicious Portuguese restaurant). [ Side note: everyone I know who has been to Neon Jamon raves about it, but I’ve not been yet. I feel obliged to include it here.]

Where to drink in Liverpool

Some bars I’d recommend…

• For cocktails/fancier drinks: Leaf (also nice for a cuppa/afternoon tea in the day), Alma de Cuba (it’s in an old church and they drop rose petals from the ceiling at midnight, which is quite a unique thing to see), The Florist (the most Instagram-tastic place I have ever seen), Alhambra in the Baltic Triangle (for some outdoor summer wine-sipping).
• For beer: Ship & Mitre (seriously huge selection), Kazimier Garden (a little oasis in the city), and Fly in the Loaf (owned by Okell’s of Isle of Man fame!), The Dead Crafty Beer Company (if you only go to one beer place, it should be this).

Where to stay in Liverpool

While I normally stay at my parents’ when I visit Liverpool, I’ve stayed in a few city centre hotels for weddings over the years and I’d recommend the Lock and Key Hotel (a boutique-style hotel in a beautiful Georgian building with very quirky rooms), Hotel Indigo or The Nadler .

If you’re after a splurge, the Signature Living Hotel or Hope Street Hotel are good choices (and often not that expensive). For an affordable chain hotel, you can’t go wrong with an Ibis Styles , and Liverpool’s one is on Dale Street, which is dead central.

2. Manchester

Manchester is the city I know best in the UK. I’ve worked here for most of my adult life and have lived in apartments all over the city centre. Some years ago, I moved out into the Cheshire/ Stockport area, but I still know Manchester like the back of my hand. Not gonna lie, we have a love/hate relationship… but I still think I’d make a decent tour guide. I’ve directed countless friends to my top tips when they’ve visited, and as much as it annoys me sometimes I can’t deny that Manchester is one of the best UK city breaks. Here’s why…

Side note: I’ve just put a few snippets of tips here as I actually have a MASSIVE   guide to Manchester post that lists everything, so go and read that for more info.

Things to see and do in Manchester

For me, Manchester is about wandering around, taking in the architecture, doing a bit of shopping and spotting the city’s famous symbol, the Manchester worker bee, on everything.

You should see the two libraries: The John Rylands Library (for Hogwarts vibes) and Manchester Central Library . Between the Whitworth Art Gallery and Manchester Art Gallery , you can pass an artsy morning easily. Discover more about Britain’s history of democracy at the People’s History Museum . This is my favourite thing in Manchester: it’s a million times better than it sounds. If you like equality, social justice and women’s suffrage, you’re going to be in your element. Also, the gift shop is next level.

Make sure you don’t miss Victoria Baths , a Grade II listed Victorian bathhouse. It’s restored and now hosts vintage fairs, art exhibitions and cinema/music festivals inside the actual swimming pools. I’ve put some more brilliant things to do in my full guide to Manchester post

If you’re after some shopping, wander over to the Northern Quarter. It’s the hipster alternative part of town, full of quirky independents. Oldham Street is a good place to start, home to Retro Rehab , which sells very affordable vintage dresses/clothing. I’ve listed loads more shops to check out in my full guide to Manchester post.

Where to eat in Manchester

I could (and probably should) write a whole post on this – I eat out in Manchester a LOT. But these are my most trusted favourites…

• Mackie Mayor – Manchester’s answer to Liverpool’s Baltic Market. It’s a converted Grade II listed building that’s now a large, two-storey space for food and drink stalls.
• Evelyn’s Cafe Bar – I go here every couple of weeks, to the point it’s becoming embarrassing. I LOVE it. They do brilliant veggie/vegan options, brunch, lunch, tea and cocktails. The selling point though is the frankly outstanding family of houseplants that adorns all the walls.
• Shoryu Ramen or Cocktail Beer Ramen + Bun – Ramen is my go-to meal. Either of these is a safe bet.
• The Allotment Vegan Restaurant – They do vegan tasting menus that will change your life. Michelin-quality but without the stupid price tag (an unreal 10-course tasting menu is only £65pp). I’m going for my very belated birthday meal soon so will report back…
• Try Thai – The best Thai, located in Chinatown.
• The Marble Arch – A cosy, down-to-earth pub. It does Sunday roast and other traditional pub grub to an excellent standard.
• Sugar Junction – The best afternoon tea. I’ve been going here for years (in fact, I added them to TripAdvisor and wrote their first review and now they are HUGE on there #justsayin). One to take your mum to.
• Bundobust – For vegan Indian street food.

Where to drink in Manchester

Again, this could be a whole post in itself, but here are some of my favourites:

• Cloudwater Brew Company ‘s Unit 9. If you only go for one drink, make it here. Cloudwater has won countless awards for its craft beer, including being named the second-best in the world at the RateBeer Awards. As well the beer being amazing, the artwork on their cans is always beautiful, including their distinctive logo (a cloud with waves under it – cloud, water – of course).
• Track Brewing Company ‘s Taproom – this is a fairly new one to me and is probably the most hipster of the list but I had one of the best sours I’ve ever had here so I will be becoming a regular.
• The Marble Arch – I’ve already mentioned this cosy, down-to-earth pub in the food section, but it’s well worth popping in just for a drink. It’s much more traditional than any of the others in this list.
• Seven Brothers Brewery ‘s BeerHouse – The best place for a drink if you’re in Ancoats.
• Bundobust – I’ve already mentioned this in the food bit too, but it has some excellent local beers and it’s fine just to have a drink without food.

Where to stay in Manchester

While I live close enough to get home easily so don’t need to stay over, I’ve stayed in a few city centre hotels over the years. I’d recommend as my top pick the German chain Motel One , which has a hotel by the Royal Exchange theatre. This couldn’t be more convenient and is a decent price. Manchester is weirdly expensive for hotels compared with a lot of other northern cities. Another affordable chain hotel is the Ibis Styles (Manchester’s is themed around rain, naturally), but the location isn’t as good as the Motel One one.

If you want to splash out, there’s the beautiful (but expensive) King Street Townhouse for amazing views and an infinity pool or the Great John Street Hotel near Spinningfields, which is not quite as extra but still good.

3. Edinburgh: one of the best UK city breaks to return to

Edinburgh is one of my most-visited UK cities and my favourite city that I’ve never lived in. Of course, it’s an obvious one for all tourists and is probably the cream of the crop of all the best UK city breaks. Despite all its attention and tourism, it never gets boring. You can return again and again and something in Edinburgh will have changed every time.

Things to see and do in Edinburgh

Where to begin? Edinburgh is one of the most jam-packed cities I’ve ever been to. Edinburgh Castle is an obvious place to start – it can get busy so book your tickets ahead, but the views of the city are spectacular on a clear day. Speaking of views, if you have decent weather in Edinburgh then climbing Arthur’s Seat is a must. You’ll naturally walk down the Royal Mile, which although touristy is an essential part of any Edinburgh city break. Grassmarket is another popular spot, especially for a shop and a drink. Victoria Street is my favourite road for browsing shops though – not to mention for taking photos as well, because it is SO photogenic.

You also have to do a ghost walk. I know it sounds cheesy but I’ve done a few and they’re so good. I did the City of the Dead one on my hen do and it was just the right balance between funny and actually weeing yourself with terror. Calm yourself down by going off to find the statue of Greyfriars Bobby . There is just SO much to do, I’m going to have to direct you to the Edinburgh Tourist Board site because I could seriously write an epic novel on the city.

Finally, my top recommendation if you’ve already done all the ‘big sights’ is to explore the Dean Village and the Stockbridge area (more in my post on that, but Dean Village is just out of this world). While you’re in that bit of town, you can easily get to the fantastic Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art , which has a superb selection of modern and contemporary art. And for those of you into getting those Instagram shots, wander over to Edinburgh’s quaint, cobbled Circus Lane . You will not be disappointed.

Oh and if you’re in Edinburgh for a longer stay, I’d really recommend doing a day trip to North Berwick . It’s only 30 minutes away on the train and is the cutest seaside town ever .

Where to eat and drink in Edinburgh

For evening meals, I love the Scran and Scallie , Tom Kitchin’s gastropub. I’m not usually into celebrity chef places at all. It’s not expensive and the food is all locally sourced. Café Andaluz (which isn’t a café) is a brilliant option for tapas in the evening. My favourite for Thai is Passorn . For lunch, we always head to Papii , an incredible café with great window seats for people watching. For other nibbles, if you’re out in the Leith area, afternoon tea or just tea and cake at The Haven café is not to be missed. Also, if you want delicious gelato, try the famous Mary’s Milk Café .

There are plenty of exclusively vegan eateries in Edinburgh too, like Holy Cow , Hendersons and Novapizza .

Finally, drinks! I love cocktails at Dragonfly (I did this on my hen do and barely remember any of it but I have been many times and can confirm it’s great). The craft beer scene is of course thriving in Edinburgh, like it is in all the best cities these days. My personal favourite place for beer is Six Degrees North because of their great sours, but other picks include the Hanging Bat and Salt Horse . If you want a more cosy and traditional pub, I’d go to the Queen’s Arms or The Bailie .

Where to stay in Edinburgh

I’ve mentioned them before in this post and I’ll probably mention them again, but one of my favourite hotel chains for an affordable/mid-range city break is the German chain Motel One. They have a Motel One on the Royal Mile and another on Princes Street . Also, you can’t go wrong with the Stay Central Hotel or an Ibis .

If you want to live like a local, I’d recommend getting an aparthotel or apartment – you can then save money on food/breakfast too. I’ve got my eye on this one for next time , which looks beautiful and isn’t too badly priced at about £85 a night (at the time of writing).

If you want to splash out (over £200 a night but very luxurious!) for a special occasion, try the Balmoral Hotel or The Witchery by the Castle .

I did a heap of York research last year for my friend’s hen do and now feel like I could run my own organised tour company for doing a city break there. I’ve been many times over the years and never fail to love it. There’s something so magical about York’s cobbled streets oozing with history, and it’s definitely one of the best UK city breaks for a girlie weekend.

Things to see and do in York

York is a walled city and if the weather’s good, walking its walls is a nice way to get a sense of the city. To do the whole thing takes about 2 hours, but you can easily just walk a section and then head into the centre. The best section for photos is between the River Ouse and Mickelgate, because you can see York Minster really well. That’s obviously a must-do attraction in itself, too. You can climb up its tower if you’re into exhausting yourself for a great view.

Just wandering around York is the beauty of a visit to the city for me. Harry Potter fans will probably head straight to The Shambles, York’s beautiful 15th-century street of olde-worlde shops. Even if you’re not a fan of HP, you can’t miss this area. It really is unique and it’s a good place to explore (despite the crowds). Like with Edinburgh, York is really into its ghostly side so a ghost walk can be a laugh – they’re also often in the early evening when shops and attractions are shutting but you’re not ready to eat yet so it’s a good use of that time. You can also head to the York Dungeon for more mildly scary fun, and that’s a good shout if it’s raining.

One more tip – there’s the (free) National Railway Museum in York too. I’ve not actually been yet but I really want to. I bloody love a good train. They even have a shinkansen there. And they have a tearoom in a restored railway carriage, so you can combine a love of trains and scones (the dream, surely?!)

Where to eat and drink in York

One of my favourite streets in York is the lovely Fossgate, and that’s where my favourite restaurant Ambiente Tapas is (there’s another branch in the city too but the Fossgate one is my recommendation). If you want a real treat, try Skosh , which is exquisite. For lunch or brunch, try the cosy and cute Brew & Brownie or Osbornes at 68 Gillygate (excellent vegan options here).

A city break to York would be incomplete without afternoon tea. The world-famous Betty’s Tearooms is the obvious choice and it really is good, but if you’re there on a weekend or if you’re in a group of friends, the queues can be ridiculous. I’ve had the Hendrick’s gin themed afternoon tea at The Grand for my friend’s hen do and it was brilliant. I also have my eye on the aforementioned Railway Museum tearoom, the Countess of York , for my next trip.

For drinks, you’re going to be spoiled for choice. York is famous for having a lot of pubs. Two of the most well known are The Guy Fawkes Inn , where Guy Fawkes was born and  The Golden Fleece , which is apparently very haunted. My favourite places to drink though have got to be the Evil Eye Lounge (behind an amazing gin shop) and the wonderful Fossgate Social (I wish this was my local). The latter is brilliant for craft beer too.

Where to stay in York

For about £50 a night, you can get a lovely room in the StayCity Aparthotel , which is the best I’ve stayed in for price and location.

If you want a boutiquey feel and some impressive interior design, I love the Parisi Hotel – and for a stylish little hotel, it’s actually not too bad price-wise (I’ve paid more for a lot less). If you want to stay in a really quirky and historic building, you could splash a bit more cash and go for the Judge’s Lodging , which was once what it says on the tin and is only steps from Betty’s Tearooms. Again, York is dead walkable so the location for all these is good.

Finally, although I’ve not actually stayed there, I’m sure the rooms at The Grand Hotel & Spa would be lovely (it’s where I’ve been for afternoon tea, and can confirm that was excellent).

5. Lancaster

I lived my best student life in Lancaster back in the noughties and it’s still one of my favourite places on earth. Going there feels like going ‘home’, even though it’s been years since I lived there. It might be an unusual entry on a list of the best UK city breaks, but it’s a bit of an underrated gem for a short break – or for a longer one if you want to explore the surrounding countryside.

Things to see and do in Lancaster

If you like dark history, you’re going to love Lancaster. Start with a trip to Lancaster Castle and enjoy all the gory execution stories. The famous Pendle witches were killed here, which is a piece of history I’ve always been fascinated by, and the castle explains it all really well. You can go inside cells (excellent photo opportunities, naturally) and even do a guided tour. It’s £8 to get in but absolutely worth it.

My favourite attraction in Lancaster though has got to be the  Ashton Memorial and Williamson Park. This is a short walk from the centre of Lancaster. The memorial is a beautiful domed building on a hilltop. You can climb to the top for gorgeous views out to the sea in Morecambe Bay. In the park itself, there’s a butterfly house (which Chris was petrified by when we went) and a mini beats centre, which includes some GUINEA PIGS. It’s £4 to get in, which is obviously a bargain for anything involving guinea pigs.

Back in Lancaster city centre itself, visit the Charter Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays. If you’re into ale, do a tour of Lancaster Brewery . There are also some nice shops not to be missed, including  Paper Gallery (an independent card shop); Arteria (a curated art shop); Ashton Hall Garden Centre (it’s a short taxi ride out of the city but it’s worth going as it’s the best garden centre in the world… it has to be experienced to be understood!); and GB Antiques Centre for a rummage.

Finally, Lancaster is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding countryside and cute market towns like my favourite ever place in England, Kirkby Lonsdale .

Where to eat and drink in Lancaster

Lancaster is a foodie destination, being bang in the middle of countryside growing loads of local produce. I enjoyed The Music Room for coffee and cake last time I went, and the building it’s in is gorgeous. Try The Sultan for Indian (this was a popular one when I was a student so has stood the test of time!); Journey Social for brunch; Whale Tail for hearty veggie dishes; and Buccelli’s for Italian. Sun Pizza is just round the corner from the Sun Inn . One is a pizza restaurant and one is a cosy pub. You work it out. Oh and Lancaster now has its own vegan café, The Herbarium , which is a good sign of progress for a small city.

For drinks, Merchants 1688 is a really unique little bar with book-themed wallpaper and a cosy atmosphere. Ye Olde John O’Gaunt is a classic ‘old man’s pub’ in the centre and not to be missed. Finally, you have to go to the Accidental Brewery and Micropub . This is new and just what Lancaster needed! It serves a good sour and I understand it sometimes has selections from my favourite brewery, Cloudwater (see the Manchester section of this post for more on that).

Where to stay in Lancaster

I’d go for The Sun Hotel , which is the same pub I mentioned in the eating section – this is an excellent location and has been a reliable choice for years. A little bit pricier, you’ve got the Toll House Inn , which has views over the canal and quirky rooms.

Probably my top choice for location and cosiness would be The Borough , which was one of my favourite gastropubs back in my student days but now also does rooms.

Finally, the Wagon & Horses is another cosy pub/hotel that has been recommended to me by some friends who stay there every time they go – I’ve not actually tried it myself yet but I trust their standards.

Fellow travel bloggers’ ideas for the best UK city breaks

Right, that’s the end of my bit.

Onto the best UK city breaks suggested by other travel bloggers …

6. Newcastle

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Melis from Melis Living .

Things to see and do in Newcastle

There is a common misconception that Newcastle is all about the nightlife. While we do have some of the best bars and clubs in the UK, there is so much more to see in ‘the toon’ as locals call it! The main area to head to for lovely views is the Quayside (pictured). On a nice day, it is perfect to walk along the river, taking in the view and stopping at some of my favourite places for food and drink.

Whilst on the Quayside I would recommend taking in some culture at the Baltic Art Gallery . It is a modern gallery with regularly changing exhibitions, which also offers great views of Newcastle from the top floor. For a dining treat, book dinner or Sunday lunch at the top floor restaurant to take in the views as you dine. Heading up the bank towards central Newcastle, you will find the 1838 Grey’s Monument which is a prominent landmark in the centre of the city. It is also worth checking out the castle, which puts the castle into New-castle, and is easy to pass on your way up to the city centre.

Where to eat and drink in Newcastle

Pitcher and Piano is a must: it is a total sun trap and as soon as the sun shows its face, the locals dash there to sit in the beer garden on the river. From here you can watch the famous Millennium Bridge open like a winking eye to let tall ships sail past. If tea and cake is more your thing, Violet’s Café on the Quayside is a beautiful place with delicious cakes to match. Or just across the street is the Instagram haven, Great British Cupcakery which is pink with a flower wall and so many great cakes.

Where to stay in Newcastle

I would recommend staying at the Malmaison on the Quayside for beautiful river views. Alternatively, there are a number of affordable Premier Inn and Holiday Inn options, and an Easyhotel (formerly a Tune Hotel) on the Quayside which has very reasonable prices.

7. Birmingham: one of the best UK city breaks for shopping

With thanks to fellow blogger Carolin from Style Lingua .

Things to see and do in Birmingham

If someone would have suggested visiting Birmingham five years ago to me, I would have given them a look. But the UK’s second-largest city has made a huge transformation in the past few years.

Although the city has always been thriving and busy, the city centre didn’t offer much to explore. Now, the old Birmingham New Street station has been completely renewed and carries the name ‘Grand Central’, which conveys a lot more glamour and style. Once you arrive in Grand Central, you can’t but to be in complete awe over the city’s impressive welcome. And it doesn’t stop there – the city is currently under construction to extend its tram system, which will make going around town more accessible in the years to come.

From Grand Central, you can easily explore the Bullring, the city’s massive shopping centre which has the usual High Street shops. Selfridges, in particular, is one of Birmingham’s most iconic buildings with its futuristic aluminium façade.

Did you know the Bullring has actually been built on Birmingham’s old trade spot? In the 18th century, this area was famous for textile trading. Whilst you’re at the Bullring, you can also admire the centre’s mascot the Bull. The massive 6-tonne bronze statue designed by Laurence Broderick has entertained visitors all over the world since 2003. Once in a while for specific occasions, you’ll see it dressed up which has earned the Bull the title of a trendsetting fashion icon nationwide.

If you prefer vintage shops over the High Street, you should follow the road down the Bullring for a short 10-minute walk to Birmingham’s trendy Digbeth area. The Custard Factory is a thriving hub for vintage lovers and hosts monthly vintage kilo sales. Have a look in Cow as well, which sells beautiful vintage clothing and handbags. Another area worth exploring is the Jewellery Quarter in the North of the city which has stunning independent shops. Up-and-coming local designers sell here and they annually showcase their fashion at Birmingham Fashion Week (usually around February time).

Where to eat and drink in Birmingham

Birmingham is a treasure trove for food and exploring new culinary experiences. For nachos and Mexican street food, I can recommend Bodega at 12 Bennetts Hill. If you’re after a fine dining experience, visit Lost & Found near Victoria Square, or admire the impressive authentic pub The Old Joint Stock in Temple Row.

The Canalhouse is perfect for cocktails and drinks or you can relax in one of the cosy restaurants around Brindley Place. If you prefer a more romantic setting, have a look around the Canal area in Gas Street which is only a short walk away from the city’s stunning new library. There’s more Indian and modern European cuisine to explore on Broad Street, Birmingham’s well-known food mile.

Where to stay in Birmingham

[Hello, it’s Caroline of Pack The Suitcases again. The lovely blogger who contributed this bit on doing a city break in Birmingham didn’t have any tips on hotels, so I thought I would add my own here. I have stayed at the Hampton by Hilton in the Jewellery Quarter twice and it’s been great. My friend who travels to Birmingham a lot also recommended the Clayton , which is a bit pricier but good for more of a treat. Both are nice and central.]

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Bradley from Dream Big, Travel Far .

What to see and do in Glasgow

There’s lots to see and do on a city break in Glasgow, especially if you are a fan of art and culture. Some of the best places we went to include the Kelvingrove Art Gallery , the Riverside Museum and Gallery of Modern Art . I also recommend a trip to the famous Glasgow University. It is here that apparently inspired JK Rowling’s depiction of Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series.

Where to eat and drink in Glasgow

As we visited in December, we made good use of Glasgow’s annual Christmas markets and indulged in all kinds of Christmas favourites. If you are looking or something typically Glaswegian, then dishes to seek out include Scotch Pie, haggis and the good old fried Mars bar!

Where to stay in Glasgow

It’s a good idea to stay as close to the centre of town as possible. That way, we save time by not having to get any public transport in and out to see things. However, it is possible to stay further out in the main urban areas and save a bit of money. There are plenty of bus routes that run all throughout the city at all hours of the day.

9. Brighton

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Danielle from Live in 10 Countries .

What to see and do in Brighton

Famous the world over, Brighton is the place to admire a Royal Pavilion with exotic domes, pull up a comfy deck chair on the seaside and stroll a retro pier. You can buy almost anything in the quirky Lanes , too.

Where to eat and drink in Brighton

As with many places on the seaside, a stick of rock is the icon here and fish and chips taste the best in the fresh air of the pier. Although there are many famous names, the authentic experience is just strolling into one of the sunken eateries that line the seafront and ordering a pile of golden crispy chips with lots of ketchup or vinegar. Upstairs on the pier itself, try delicious pancakes for a change rather than the traditional ice cream.

If it’s the evening and you’d like something fancy, Latinoamerica on Church Road has mouthwatering Argentine steaks with great wine to tempt you. Finish that off with drinks at a proper pub in the Lanes with street art on its walls and real ales in its glasses – try the Prince Albert on Trafalgar Street.

Where to stay in Brighton

If you’re keen for nightlife, a hotel by the beach will suit you to a T, but if it’s something a little quieter you’re seeking there are better zones to explore. A short walk from the Lanes, Kemptown has an eclectic vibe and quirky shops that make it another great option, or Hove ‘s quieter streets are another option – about 15 minutes from the centre.

Further reading on Brighton

Another of my blogger friends also has a brilliant guide to the best things to do in Brighton .

10. Bristol

With thanks to Lyubomira from Bulgarian On The Go .

What to see and do in Bristol

Bristol has many things to offer to its visitors for a great city break in the UK. The Clifton Suspension Bridge is undoubtedly the city’s landmark and one of the most beautiful sights around. There are even free weekly walking tours where you can learn more about the history, construction and maintenance of this iconic structure.

The Bristol harbour is another must-see spot that you can’t miss. The harbour has played a very important role in the city’s development and history. However, today it has turned into a big tourists attraction with a lot of museums, galleries, restaurants, bars.

One of the most important events for Bristolians is the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta – an annual hot air balloon festival where the sky over the city gets filled with colourful balloons. It is usually held in August and lasts for four days. The festival began in 1979 and it has been taking place every year since then, attracting over 100,000 visitors daily.

When wandering around the city, another thing you can’t miss is all the fascinating artwork on the buildings. The world-famous street artist Banksy has left a huge mark on Bristol’s facades, and locals are proud of it.

What to eat and drink in Bristol

Bristol is full of lovely cafes and restaurants to choose from. If you want to try something unique, head to The Clifton Sausage and grab The Clifton Sausage Tasting Plate. Looking for a spot to have a nice drink? Try The Florist – one of the prettiest cafes/bars in town with a lovely floral interior.

Where to stay in Bristol

In order to explore Bristol conveniently on foot, look for accommodation around the city centre or the harbourside area. Anywhere around the Old City , the Bristol Cathedral or the Harbour is a great option.

11. Cardiff: one of the best UK city breaks for foodies

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Victoria from Vic Advisor .

Things to see and do in Cardiff

Visit Cardiff Castle right in the heart of the city and spot the gargoyle animals on the surrounding wall. Then take a walk or bike ride around Bute Park right behind it (you can rent a ‘next bikes’, our public bike-sharing scheme, from only £1 for 30 mins).

Take a guided boat tour from Bute Park behind the castle and travel the short distance down to Cardiff Bay for a selection of waterside eateries, and to see the iconic Millennium Centre building – why not catch a performance while you’re there?

Known as the City of Arcades, you should head to the beautiful historic Victorian arcades (the most in any UK city!) for a boutique shopping experience or to just relax in an array of independent cafes. For a modern shopping complex, the large St. David’s is right across the road.

For sports fans, take a tour of the Principality Stadium (aka Millennium Stadium) right by Cardiff Central Station. It’s host to some of the biggest international rugby events. If you’re not visiting Cardiff for a rugby game, you might want to avoid coming on a matchday when fans take over the city centre and hotel rates will inevitably be higher.

Head out of the centre and learn about Welsh history at St Fagans , an open-air museum in 100-acre parkland. Over 50 original buildings from across Wales have been rebuilt here from different historical periods, and each one offers a glimpse into the past.

Where to eat and drink in Cardiff

Head to Cardiff Market and try a Welsh cake or three, a small, flat, round treat filled with raisins and sprinkled with sugar.

Venture through Castle Arcade to Madame Fromage , a deli and excellent cafe with delicious cheese-based dishes like the traditional Welsh rarebit.

For one of the best Italians in the city centre, try the tiny Cafe Citta (booking recommended); for burgers, you can’t go wrong with independent eatery Grazing Shed ; and for slightly more upmarket dining that also supports a great cause, try the Clink restaurant located next to the Cardiff prison. The restaurant and kitchen are both run by inmates who are working towards hospitality qualifications, and the food is excellent (booking recommended). For the best vegan eats, try Anna Loka .

For tea, there’s Barkers Tea House in High Street Arcade, and for coffee, Coffee Barker , their cocoa-bean counterpart across the road in Castle Arcade!

Cardiff is also home to great nightlife, with clubs, pubs and bars to cater for all tastes.

Where to stay in Cardiff

There are plenty of hotels to choose from to suit all budgets. I’d recommend basing yourself in or near the city centre , but as Cardiff is not a huge city, most places are easily accessible by walking or public transport. The nearest areas to the centre are Canton, Pontcanna and Riverside. Avoid visiting during rugby day events as prices will be inflated as fans flock to the city.

12. Chester

With thanks to fellow blogger Katy from The Lilac Scrapbook .

What to see and do in Chester

There’s so much to see and do on a city break in Chester , but for me the highlights are the Roman Gardens which are SO beautiful, and walking down the River Dee looking at the different boats and spotting all the ducks wandering in and out of people’s gardens. Chester has some great escape rooms, too, notably Escapism Chester – and it’s not too far from Cheshire Oaks and the Coliseum if you want to go further afield and do some shopping or go bowling/to the cinema.

Where to eat and drink in Chester

Chester has so many bars, pubs and restaurants to choose from. Highlights include The Botanist for a nice evening meal in a gorgeous setting and Off The Waffle for delicious loaded waffles. For cosy drinks, head to Big Hand Alehouse !

Where to stay in Chester

Hoole Road is home to a lot of B&Bs, if that’s your sort of thing – and it’s within walking distance of the city centre and the train station. But for something a bit more up to date, check out Roomzzz which is really well located.

13. Belfast

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Anna from My Travel Scrapbook .

What to see and do in Belfast

There are many fantastic things to do and see in and around Belfast. In the city centre, you can go on a mural tour with former political prisoners from both sides of the Troubles, visit the Ulster Museum and explore the Titanic Quarter. Outside of the city, you should hire a car and go on an amazing Northern Irish road trip. Drive along the coastline to see the Giant’s causeway and visit the Dark Hedges .

Where to eat and drink in Belfast

There are many lovely places to eat in Belfast, but the more exciting scene is the nightlife. The pub scene in Belfast is very unique. Most cities tend to have bars for tourists, bars for students and bars for locals. Yet in Belfast everyone seems to mix! You must check out the Duke of York , the Spaniard and the Crown for their incredible interiors, fascinating histories and friendly atmospheres.

Where to stay in Belfast

In terms of where you should stay in Belfast, try and stay as close to the City Hall as you can. The City Hall is the centre and from there it is easy to walk around the centre or hop on a bus to the Titanic quarter. There are many great apartments to stay in as well as fancy hotels. 

Belfast is the perfect place to spend a fantastic UK city break due to the friendly locals, fantastic culture and the beautiful nature around the city.

14. Dundee: one of the best UK city breaks for an arty weekend

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Nicola from FunkyEllas Travel .

What to see and do in Dundee

Dundee , Scotland’s fourth-largest city, was recently named in the top 12 places to live in the UK. It’s certainly changed in recent years to become a vibrant and exciting city. This is partly due to the huge regeneration project taking place along the waterfront, and the addition of the fantastic award-winning V&A Dundee . This spectacular building juts into the Tay and houses amazing design exhibitions and shows off Scotland’s creativity beautifully, making it a great UK city break for anyone into art and design.

Next door to the V&A is the RSS Discovery, the last traditional three-mastered ship to be built in the UK, that was used to explore the Antarctic. Other museums in Dundee include The McManus , Verdant Works and Dundee Contemporary Arts . As you walk the city, you’ll spot quirky statues including the city’s penguins, comic characters Desperate Dan and The Lemmings, both of which were created in Dundee, and colourful street art.

Where to eat and drink in Dundee

If you want a traditional Dundee food to try, opt for a slice of Dundee cake or sample some delicious Dundee orange marmalade, another of the city’s inventions. Dundee has an up-and-coming foodie scene with some brilliant restaurants and cafes opening up, including The Flame Tree Cafe , which serves up scrumptious rainbow bagels and The Parlour Cafe , which has the best salads I’ve tasted.

Where to stay in Dundee

With the emergence of the new Waterfront, it’s no surprise that there are some wonderful new hotels opening in Dundee. My favourite has to be the Apex : it’s classy and the spa is perfect to relax in after a day pounding the streets. Some of the newer hotels include the Sleeperz Hotel and Hotel Indigo .

This city may be small but it’s going through an impressive transformation. It’s great to watch and there is a real buzz which makes it pretty ideal for a UK city break.

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Claire from Tales of a Backpacker .

What to see and do in Leeds

Leeds is renowned for its shopping and is one of the best UK city breaks if you want to treat yourself or buy presents in the lead up to Christmas. A stroll along Briggate, into the Trinity Shopping Centre, the Corn Exchange and the Victoria Quarter will show you why it’s so good for shoppers. Leeds has everything from designer shops to cute boutiques, vintage retro and all the high street names.

However, Leeds is often underestimated as a destination. There is plenty here for culture vultures too, with various live music venues, the theatre and an arena where you can catch some big-name performances. There are also some fascinating museums in Leeds , including the Royal Armouries Museum, which houses a huge collection of armour and weaponry, including a set of armour worn by King Henry VIII, and the most complete set of elephant armour in the world – and it’s free! Leeds Art Gallery and the Leeds Museum are also free, as is the beautiful Kirkstall Abbey , about 15 minutes’ drive from the city centre.

Where to eat and drink in Leeds

The best place to start your city break is Kirkgate Market , where you can find all manner of fresh fruit and veg to cook at home, as well as some fabulous cooked food to eat in the street food area where you can choose from Indian or Thai food, Yorkshire pudding wraps, giant hotdogs and more. Leeds has some fabulous curry houses like Aagrah and Akbar’s , and even Michelin-starred restaurants like The Man Behind the Curtain .

Where to stay in Leeds

Anywhere in the city centre is a great location for convenience as it is close to all the action. Bear in mind you might have some noise from the street so bring some earplugs with you. If you prefer things a little quieter, Oulton Hall Hotel and Thorpe Park Hotel & Spa are both a short drive from the city centre. They’re set in their own grounds with a spa on site for an extra special treat!

16. Derry: one of the best UK city breaks for history lovers

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Teresa from Brogan Abroad .

What to see and do in Derry

The biggest attraction in Derry is the 17th century City Walls that surround the Old Town, and one of the reasons why people visit Derry . The Walls were built by the Irish Society for the English and Scottish settlers, and Derry is the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland. You can walk on top of the Walls and circumnavigate the Old Town. The views from the Double Bastion over the neighbourhood of the Bogside and the Old Town are pretty spectacular.

Visitors mustn’t miss the Museum of Free Derry , located in the Bogside. This working-class neighbourhood was at the centre of what is known as Bloody Sunday, a civil rights march that ended in a massacre where 14 local people lost their lives. The museum has displays about the civil rights era, the Battle of the Bogside and Bloody Sunday, all the way to the healing process that this once-divided city went through to this day. The museum has been set up in a tasteful manner with the aim to educate people about conflict and the peace process they’ve gone through. It is by no means a political museum.

Where to eat and drink in Derry

Derry is a foodie destination and a sustainable one at that. Most of the local restaurants focus on supporting the local farmers and producers and use locally sourced ingredients. My favourite place for food has to be Walled City Brewery . Try their delicious tapas in a relaxed atmosphere. Their beers are brewed onsite too, so make sure you try one or two.

Where to stay in Derry

The best place to stay is in the Old Town within the City Walls, although everything is within walking distance, so anywhere will be convenient. I loved the Bishop’s Gate Hotel , located in the Cathedral Quarter.

17. Sheffield

With thanks to fellow travel blogger Daniel from Layer Culture .

What to see and do in Sheffield

Sheffield, known as one of the greenest cities in Europe, is a perfect UK city break for a weekend getaway. Some of the main sights that are worth visiting are the Winter Gardens – which are one of the largest temperate glasshouses to be built in the UK. Visit one of the local pubs to sample some of the finest British beer and while you’re here check out the interactive galleries at Kelham Island Museum . If doing a bit of shopping, you’ll find the hip boutique fashion stores in the Devonshire Quarter.

Where to eat and drink in Sheffield

As the day settles and you’re ready to hit the nightlife scene in Sheffield, get yourself down to Cubana , located in Leopold Square. It’s a Cuban inspired Tapas restaurant and bar with some great live music. This is the ideal spot for working on your Salsa dance moves whilst you sip on some of Sheffield’s finest exotic cocktails.

Where to stay in Sheffield

Whether you decide to head onto West Street for more party vibes or stay in the square, there is a lovely hotel called the Leopold Hotel situated just a few steps away from the restaurant.

You really can’t go wrong in Sheffield when looking for a weekend break and some local entertainment.

With thanks to Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan.

What to see and do in Bath

Bath has been attracting tourists for centuries, and is always named one of the best UK city breaks with good reason! In ancient Roman times, it became famous for its natural hot springs that bubbled up from the ground. The Romans established a settlement here called Aquae Sulis and constructed a huge bath complex. Yep, that’s why it’s called ‘Bath’!. This complex is still intact today and is among the world’s best-preserved Roman bathhouses.

In addition to the Roman baths , which are a must-visit, you can also admire the grand Georgian architecture at the Circus and the Royal Crescent. These imposing buildings were built hundreds of years later when Bath once again became a sophisticated spa town in the 18th century. Even today, you can still enjoy a luxurious spa treatment at the Thermae Bath Spa .

For literature buffs, the Jane Austen Centre is definitely worth checking out. Austen lived here in the early 1800s and used Bath as the setting for two of her novels. Tour guides dressed in period costumes add to the ambience of the place. Bath is compact and easily walkable, so all of these places can be explored on foot.

Where to eat and drink in Bath

Nourish offers a plant-based menu inspired by cuisines from around the world. Dishes include falafel croquettes and onion pakoras, cauliflower steak and walnut pepper cashew lasagne. Gluten-free options are also available. The food here rivals that of the top vegan restaurants in Brighton , which has long been considered the vegan capital of the UK. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, Acorn Kitchen is a more upscale restaurant that offers seasonal, modern cuisine.

Where to stay in Bath

Most visitors will want to stay in the city centre , near all the attractions. The Abbey Hotel is a charming, historic hotel in a convenient location. Bath is also a popular day trip from London , for anyone visiting there.

Save and share: 18 of the best UK city breaks

If you found this huge post about UK city break ideas for your next holiday useful for a wee bit of inspiration, why not pin it to your Pinterest board?

The best UK city breaks: further reading

If you’d like an email alert when I publish a new post, subscribe using the box at the side (if you’re on a laptop) or at the bottom (if you’re on a mobile or tablet). 

You might also like my other posts on city breaks if you want to venture abroad:

• 36 unusual and alternative European city breaks
• 32 cheap European city breaks
• 20 of the prettiest Greek islands for couples
• 21 of the best winter sun destinations to escape the cold .

If you enjoy my blog, you can also buy me a drink . Cheers. 

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15 comments.

So many wonderful cities to visit. Great blogs

Great post. Missing the Cotswolds though. 🙂

The Cotswolds isn’t a city though! I guess the nearest city would be Gloucester? But it’s on the outskirts.

Thank you 😊

Loving your Lancaster tips! Gorgeous post x

Thank you! People seem very excited by the Lancaster bit, had 2,100 shares on Facebook today and it’s almost all Lancaster-based! x

I love this post! We currently holiday in the UK rather than going abroad and have visted some of these cities listed but have found other s to add to our bucket list. My favourites have to be Bath and York, there’s just so much history in these cities. Down every street there is something new and wonderful to see. xxx

Thank you! I’ve never been to Bath but it’s on my list x

Nice post! I am definitely going to come back to this if I am every going to a city in the UK again, this has nearly everything. I have been to Belfast, London and Edinburgh before so I’d love to explore another city in the UK. Róisín

Glad you enjoyed it Róisín 🙂

This is a great blog Caroline. York, Edinburgh, and Lancaster are my favourite cities-Lancaster is much underrated..(my kids were at Uni there).the centre, Williamson Park, and out to Galgate and Dolphinholme. Water Witch in the summer is great. I too am South Manchester based. Always wanted to visit Kirkby Lonsdale too. North Berwick also, on my to do list. Are the trams/train from Edinburgh reasonable? First time in Edinburgh this year and loved it. Royal Mile, Rose St pubs…Cafe Royal definitely worth a mention.Did Calton Hill but couldn’t get my wife to climb Arthur’s Seat- Dean Village looks great- so much for next time. I agree budget/mid hotels are the best places as you only need a good/clean base. How about Devon/Torbay too? Best Wishes Steve

Hi Steve, glad you enjoyed the blog post! Good taste in favourite cities there. Yes the train from Edinburgh to North Berwick isn’t too bad – can’t remember the cost off the top of my head but takes about 30 mins. Heard good things about Devon/Torbay but it’s just so so far and we don’t drive so not sure about getting around once there! Happy travels.

Where is the photo at the very top of this blog taken please?

Edinburgh’s Victoria Street!

Great recommendations – I live in North Berwick, so thanks for the mention. 😉 Just to note, the aparthotel in Edinburgh you quote as £85 at time of writing, is now £239-269/night! 😳 We’re back to it being too expensive to staycation in our own backyards again..!

Blimey! All prices are at the time of writing so they do go up and down a lot. I have a whole guide to North Berwick too – a great wee town: https://www.packthesuitcases.com/things-to-do-in-north-berwick-scotland/

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A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s 16 Best Weekend Trips in the UK

Last month I wrote about the 15 best day trips from London . The post was so well received that I thought it would be worth expanding on the topic and the timeframe. As such, today I bring you A Lady in London’s guide to the 16 best weekend trips in the UK. Complete with sheep.

Best Weekend Trips in the UK

The best weekend trips in the UK are: 1. Peak District 2. Cornwall 3. Devon 4. Lake District 5. Eden Valley 6. Durham 7. Guernsey and Sark 8. Kent 9. The Cotswolds 10. Cheltenham 11. Harrogate 12. Norfolk 13. Belfast 14. Edinburgh 15. Glasgow 16. St Davids

There’s a lot more about them in 52 Great British Weekends . You can get it here .

Read on for details and my personal experiences from each destination…

The Best Weekend Trips in England

Peak District Home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in England, the Peak District is also known for its beautiful stately homes.

Chatsworth House was used as the residence of Pride and Prejudice ‘s Mr. Darcy in the most recent film adaptation of Jane Austen’s famous novel, and Haddon Hall, a nearby medieval estate, was used as Mr. Rochester’s house in the film and TV versions of Jane Eyre .

Cornwall Way out west, Cornwall is one of my favorite weekend trips in England. Its coastal cliffs and coves offer endless walking trails and sandy beaches, and its towns and villages have great seafood and seaside charm.

Add to that landmarks like the Eden Project and St Michael’s Mount, and towns like St Ives and Padstow, and Cornwall has no shortage of places to visit.

Oh, and you can surf there, too. No wonder my inner Californian loves this place.

Devon I heard about Devon’s beauty for years before I actually made it down to the south coast, but when I got there, I understood what everyone was raving about.

The rugged scenery and wild ponies in Dartmoor National Park are enough to make me feel like I’m living in a fairy tale, and towns like Salcombe, with their colorful boats and cheerful shops, make for the perfect weekend getaway from London.

Lake District The Lake District has always been one of my favorite places in the UK. With its green hills and pretty villages, Cumbria’s beauty is hard to beat.

Spending a weekend exploring is a great way to escape the urban chaos of London—and channel your inner Peter Rabbit.

Eden Valley Not far from the Lake District, the Eden Valley offers all the beauty of its neighbor without any of the crowds.

Sheep, horses, and cows dot the green fields with adorableness, and stone cottages and country pubs round out the pastoral scene. The Eden Valley is by far one of my favorite short breaks in the UK.

Durham With its stunning cathedral and lively student life, Durham is not only lovely to look at, but also fun to explore.

The city’s hill is packed with beautiful historic buildings—there’s even a castle—and the area around it has great coffee shops, restaurants, and pretty woods to wander in.

Guernsey and Sark Although technically not part of the UK, the Channel Islands are still close enough both geographically and politically that I will consider them honorary territories for the purposes of my post.

That’s not least because I had such an amazing time in Guernsey and Sark last May that I can’t stop telling people to visit.

The impossibly blue water, amazing seafood, and gorgeous seascapes won me over, and I kept having to remind myself that I was in the English Channel and not the Caribbean Sea.

Kent Close to London, the Garden of England is one of my favorite places to take a break from city life. Full of lovely coastal towns and historic castles, Kent has something for every type of traveler.

On my most recent trip, I discovered Kent’s wine, beer, and cider trails, which compliment the great food in towns like Whitstable.

The Cotswolds While the Cotswolds made it onto my list of the best day trips from London, they also deserve a place on my list of the best weekend trips in the UK.

That’s not least because there’s so much to see and do that it’s worth spending a bit of extra time in the region.

Lovely villages like Kingham, Painswick, and Upper and Lower Slaughter are the perfect places to relax and soak up the ambiance of the English countryside.

Cheltenham Whether you’re after an energetic day at the races or a relaxing weekend of shopping and fine dining, Cheltenham has a lot to offer.

The historic spa town in Gloucestershire is not only home to one of the country’s famous racecourses, but also has great boutiques, restaurants, and green spaces.

Harrogate Another famous spa town, Harrogate is to the north of England what Cheltenham is to the south.

Lovely from the quaint tearooms to the colorful gardens, Harrogate is worth a weekend break to explore the streets and shopping arcades, and indulge in a cream tea or three.

Norfolk One of my first weekend trips in the UK was to Norfolk. An English friend recommended it as a place with great beaches and pretty towns, and it didn’t disappoint.

Lovely villages like Burnham Market offer good pubs and shopping, and I can’t get enough of the vast expanse of Holkham Beach. Add to that the fact that the royal family spends time in Norfolk regularly, and it has to be worth a visit.

The Best Weekend Trips in Northern Ireland

Belfast Belfast often takes a back seat to Dublin, but Northern Ireland’s capital city is a great place to go in its own right.

Easily accessible on a short flight from London, Belfast has a great cultural scene, lively nightlife—this is Ireland, how could it not?—and beautiful surroundings along the Causeway Coastal Route.

The Best Weekend Trips in Scotland

Edinburgh Edinburgh is one of my favorite cities in the UK, and no list of the best weekend trips in the UK would be complete without it.

The Scottish capital packs so much history, culture, and cuisine into one compact area that it’s sometimes hard to believe there’s so much to do and see.

From the hilltop castle to the Princes Street Gardens, the peak of Arthur’s Seat to the Leith waterfront, Edinburgh has a wealth of sights and an abundance of style. And that’s to say nothing of the festivals.

Glasgow Glasgow used to take a back seat to Edinburgh, but the city has undergone a renaissance in recent years. Today it rivals its neighbor when it comes to art and culture, museums and food.

From the trendy bars and restaurants around Argyle Street in Finnieston to the beautiful historic buildings in Merchant City and the contemporary architecture along the River Clyde, Glasgow is worth revisiting.

The Best Weekend Trips in Wales

St Davids Wales is the underdog of Britain, but its stunning natural landscapes and great coastal towns make it a great place to spend a weekend. My favorite place to travel in Wales is St. Davids in Pembrokeshire.

The smallest city in the UK, it has a beautiful historic cathedral and great little shops. It’s also on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, the perfect way to explore the cliffs and shores of the Welsh waterfront.

How about you? What do you think are the best weekend trips in the UK?

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29 Comments on Lady’s 16 Best Weekend Trips in the UK

a lovely post and I can’t argue against the places you’ve chosen but it’s an all too familiar occurance that everyone avoids mentioning The Chilterns. Close to London and with some of the prettiest villages and towns. If you have a moment please come and visit the area. Hopefully it can be added to your great list?

Thanks for the recommendation! I will have to get out there sometime soon!

I haven’t heard of the Chilterns. Really have to look that up. Thanks for the recommendation Gavin, I’m always looking for new places to explore 🙂

Aaaaaah it’s all soooo lovely! I can’t pick just one! x

Yeah! It’s hard to choose!

I’m supposed to be heading to Scotland in 2016, so I’ll definitely have to put Glasgow on my list!

Yeah! It’s well worth a visit.

I hadn’t heard of the Eden Valley, it sounds lovely – what county is it in?

It’s in Cumbria near the Lake District.

That’s quite a list and many of them I have yet to visit. Even after 12 years I still haven’t explored all of this beautiful country.

I hope you get a chance to do some more of them!

Great post, there’s definitely some places I need to visit in the UK. The Lake District is one of my favourite places to visit, such lovely sights and I love going to Beatrix Potter’s cottage! xo

Thanks! Yeah, I loved her cottage!

Great list, especially with some more long weekends coming up!

Julie, What a great list. I’ll be visiting some of these places this summer. I can’t wait!

That’s great! I hope you enjoy them!

Awh isn’t the UK beautiful? So much variation in nature and architecture. There’s something for everyone. x Maaike

I love UK, especially those old cities! And I love all of your pictures , it is very nice!

xo Florence

My heart is bursting, I want to visit all of these places. Saving this post on Bloglovin’ because I’m holding out hope that it will happen.

Nice! I hope you get a chance to do some of them!

I did a bunch of these weekend trips back when I lived in London. My favourites were by far Edinburgh, the Cotswolds and Glasgow.

That’s great! Those are all really good places to go on the weekends.

Love this! Thanks for sharing! The only one I would add is Northumberland – Bamburgh is epic xx

Yeah, I love Bamburgh. The castle is amazing!

This is a great list and resource all in one spot! Thanks for referring me here on your post today.

You’re welcome! I’m glad you think so.

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The Veiled Explorer

Solo Muslim Female Traveller | Tech Engineer | #breakingthebias

52 Adventures For Your Best Friend Bucket List

Are you and your best friend always looking for new adventures to embark on together? If so, you’ll want to check out this list of 52 amazing adventure ideas to add to your best friend bucket list. From exploring new countries to conquering challenging hikes, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your best friend and get planning – the world is waiting!

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London – ultimate best friend bucket list, uk – ultimate best friend bucket list, the far east – ultimate best friend bucket list, asia – ultimate best friend bucket list, africa – ultimate best friend bucket list, europe – ultimate best friend bucket list, ultimate best friend bucket list around the rest of the world, the veiled explorer’s conclusion, 1. have afternoon tea at the langham in london.

What better way is there to spend an afternoon with your friends than to share an afternoon tea in London? That too at the birthplace of the afternoon tea tradition, The Langham , London. That’s right, whilst Anna Maria Russell, Duchess of Bedford invented the tradition, The Langham was the first establishment to add afternoon tea to their menu.

And thus began the great tradition tea time tradition.

TOP TIP: If you’ve never had afternoon tea, you can expect finger sandwiches, cakes, teas, and coffees.

2. See Harry Potter And The Cursed Child At The Palace Theatre

Potter head fans unite! If the UK is the home of Harry Potter, The Palace Theatre in London is the home of Harry Potter And The Cursed Child . Whilst you can watch the play in New York, Melbourne, and a few other destinations, there’s nothing quite like seeing it in London.

3. Join In On A Secret London Event

If London loves putting on something, it’s a not-so-secret, secret event . From movie themed nights in secret locations to Bridgerton themed balls , there’s always a secret event for you and your posse to dress up and join in on.

4. Attend A Red Carpet Film Screening In Leicester Square

Leicester Square is the home of the glitz and glam red carpet screening in London. Why not gather your friends and get your glam on and spend the night celebrity spotting. But the fun doesn’t have to stop there. If you’re lucky, you may even be able to go in and watch the film with the stars.

You can keep up with the upcoming red carpet premieres here .

5. Do A Harry Potter Warner Bros Tour In London

If you and your friends are Harry Potter fans, then a trip to the Warner Brothers Studio is a must. Not only do you get to experience a life size Diagon Alley and sip on fresh butterbeer. But you’ll also be able to see a lot of the props that were used in the Harry Potter films and take a deeper dive into the behind the scenes.

TOP TIP: If you’ll rather not have the wizarding world demystified for you, then maybe skip this one.

6. See Your Favourite Artist At The Royal Albert Hall

Seeing your favourite artist perform at The Royal Albert Hall with your best friends, is definitely a bucket list dream come true. Not only do you get to experience the exuberant atmosphere of the Royal Albert Hall, but it will also be a fond memory that you can hold onto forever.

7. Take A Road Trip Through The Cotswolds

A road trip with your best friends is never a bad idea. And in the UK, The Cotswold has to be one of the best road trips that you can take, stopping off at the various villages along the way.

You’ll be able to chomp down freshly baked pastries and scones, see the iconic thatched roof cottages in Bibury and stroll through more villages that will make you believe you’re in a fairytale. Be sure to have a camera with you, as you’ll want to strike a pose in many of the places.

8. Go Camping In The Peak District

If there’s one activity that is best enjoyed in the company of others, it’s camping. And the Peak District in the UK is a great location to go camping for a couple of days. Whilst wild camping isn’t allowed without the land owner’s permission, there are over 90 plus campsites around Derbyshire and the Peak District.

9. Ride The Harry Potter Train From Fort Williams

Just like our young heroes and heroines rode back and forth to Hogwarts in Harry Potter, the train from Fort William will give you the closest experience. Similar to the films, you’ll get to climb aboard the steam train and even have your own cabin should you choose to do so.

If you want to upgrade your experience, be sure to opt for the afternoon tea option. And yes, the train will pass over the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland.

10. Hike Ben Nevis

Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in Scotland and the surrounding British Isles, with a summit of 1,345 metres above sea level. This is not a hike for the faint-hearted, but it’s definitely an experience that will bond you for a lifetime.

Just remember to come prepared.

11. Seven Sisters Cliff Walk

Looking for an alternative outdoor bucket list adventure to have with your friends, one of the lesser known activities is walking the Seven Sisters Cliff. It’s a 25km long walk from Seaford to Eastbourne that offers great views of the white cliffs and the surrounding sea.

And the best part, this walk can be completed on a day trip.

12. Go Golfing In St Andrews

Golfing is one of the greatest pastimes in St Andrews, Scotland, and is a sport that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whilst you can enjoy golf on your own, it’s best enjoyed with a group of friends to get some light-hearted competition going.

13. Stay At A Ryokan In Hokkaido

A stay in a traditional Ryokan, is at the top of every Japan bucket list. If you aren’t familiar with a Ryokan, it’s usually an intimate inn with tatami floored rooms. If you stay at a Ryokan in a hot spring town like Hokkaido, you can even enjoy hot spring baths.

Whilst most Ryokan will have communal bathing areas, some rooms may also include a private onsen.

Book Your Trip Here

14. go to disneysea tokyo.

Whilst there are many Disney worlds and lands dotted around the globe, there is only one DisneySea , and it’s located in Tokyo. Unlike the other Disney experiences that are aimed at a younger crowd, DisneySea is aimed at a slightly older crowd.

Unlike the famous castle, DisneySea is centered around a giant volcano with Venice styled canals and gondolas available at the waterfront. From the snacks to the rides, you’ll definitely not regret spending a whole day here.

15. Have A Fast & Furious Mario Kart Race In Tokyo

Mario Kart fans unite! Whether you’re a Mario, Luigi, or Princess Peach, you can have a real life Mario Kart race on the streets of Tokyo. Yes, just like the game, you’ll have a Kart and be dressed up in your favourite character and all.

If you’ve ever dreamt of drifting Tokyo style, this may be the closest you’ll get to it. So round up your closest best friend, and tick this epic bucket list moment off your list.

16. Sunrise Hike Up The Chureito Pagoda To View Mount Fuji

Catching a glimpse of Mount Fuji is such a rare sight and for the best chances of seeing it, I recommend waking up nice and early. Whilst you’ll be able to see Mount Fuji from most of the Fuji 5 lake region, the best spot is up at the Chureito Pagoda.

This will require you to hike up a lot of stairs, but the view from the top will be so worth it. You’ll be able to see Mount Fuji in the distance, with the pagoda in the foreground. And if you visit during spring, you’ll even be able to see the cherry blossoms.

This is one of those moments that will take your breath away.

17. Walk The Great Wall Of China

Walking The Great Wall Of China is a no-brainer when it comes to putting together a bucket list. If you’re not familiar with The Great Wall of China, it is exactly as the name suggests. It’s a 21,196 km long wall in China that is made up of a series of fortresses.

And when visiting today, you can walk hop or skip along the wall whilst ticking a huge bucket list moment of your list.

18. Volunteer With Giant Pandas In Chengdu

Volunteering with your best friends is one of the most noble things one can do. And did you know that you can put your time to good use at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding? As the name suggests, this research base works with cute giant pandas, and you’ll get to volunteer directly with them.

If you’re wondering what volunteering with the Giant Pandas entails, it consists of tasks such as:

• Making Panda cakes
• Feeding the Pandas
• Watching Panda movies

You can find out more about the volunteer programs here.

19. Attend The Yi Peng Lantern Festival In Chiang Mai

A bucket list wouldn’t be complete without a festival. But unlike your typical musical festivals, I bring to you a cultural festival of light from Northern Thailand. The lantern festival in Chiang Mai is known as Yi or Yee Peng, is a full moon festival celebrated at the end of the Thai lunar new year.

Without a doubt, you would have seen this on Instagram or even in Disney’s Tangled. But that first moment when the lanterns simultaneously float into the skies together, it’s such a magical moment that you have to witness in person.

20. Have Drinks From Atop The Marina Bay Sands

Now, don’t immediately shut this down, as drinks doesn’t have to include alcohol. In fact, you can even enjoy a fresh coconut water here if you don’t even want to have a virgin mojito, but it’s the views here that I encourage you to come for.

From atop The Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, you’ll get panoramic views of the gardens by the bay, the coast and so much more. It’s the perfect location to sit and have a chat with your best friends whilst taking in the gorgeous views of Singapore from above.

21. Sail Ha Long Bay In Vietnam

Sailing Ha Long Bay is a dream come true for anyone that has seen this hidden gem in Vietnam. If you ain’t familiar with Ha Long Bay, it’s located in North East Vietnam. It’s an area famous for its Emerald waters and the thousands of limestone islands with a rainforest top.

And the best part, you can sail the bay overnight aboard a junk boat. If that’s not your thing, you can even sail aboard a luxury cruise.

View The Top 10 Ha Long Bay Cruises Here.

22. Sing Karaoke In Seoul

For any Korean Drama fans, you know that a good night out with your mates almost always involves singing karaoke at a norebang. Which literally translates to “song room”.

As the name suggests, it’s a karaoke venue where each group will have their own separate room to sing their hearts out in. So you won’t have to worry about anyone else’s eyes or ears being on you whilst ticking off this K-Drama fan’s bucket list goal.

23. Yoga Retreat In Bali

A peaceful soul healing retreat is a must for every friendship group. Not only does it give you the space to heal in a safe space, but it has a way of bringing you closer together. And the perfect destination is Bali.

Bali is the home of surf worthy waves, Instagram worthy landscapes and ashrams worthy of every yogi. Even if you’re not a fan of yoga, you can still keep yourself busy exploring the island, riding the waves or relaxing at one of the many spas whilst your friends get their yoga session in.

Book Your Yoga Retreat In Bali Here

24. hot air balloon ride in cappadocia.

Cappadocia is the dreamy UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Turkey. It is famous for it’s rock formations and cave like houses. Whilst walking on the ground and climbing up rooftops gives you a great feel of your surroundings, the best experience is from the skies.

If you look up at sunrise, you’ll see a sea of hot air balloons floating in the sky. Whilst it’s great to observe from below, the view aboard a balloon is priceless. It’s one that will appeal to photographers and non photographers alike, whilst getting the thrill of being in a hot air balloon.

Book Your Hot Air Balloon Ride In Cappadocia Here

25. explore the mahals in india.

If you and your best friends have ever wanted to feel like kings or queens, well then the Mahals in India is the place for you. A Mahal is a large mansion or palace that most often was the home of Indian royalty and noble men and women alike.

Whilst there, not only will you get to walk in their footsteps and learn the secrets of the Mahal. But you’ll also be able to immerse yourself in the local culture and have your own photoshoot, should you wish.

Book Your Mahal Tour Here

26. take a beach trip to goa.

Yes, most bucket lists include beach trips to Thailand, Ibiza, or the like. But the long-forgotten “it” destination is Goa in India. When one thinks of India, one may think of food and culture, and the beaches may not be an immediate activity that springs to mind.

But Goa is in fact one of the top holiday destinations in India. It is famed for its beaches of course but also for its carnivals, waterfalls, water sports, and even its lesser expected Portuguese influence.

27. Scenic Train Ride From Kandy To Ella In Sri Lanka

A train ride through the tropical mountains with a tourist’s head peeking out of a carriage doorway is an image that we have all seen on Instagram. This is in fact the famous train ride from Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka.

This 6-10 hours train journey will take you through tea plantations, rice paddies, and of course, Sri Lanka’s incredible mountains. Whilst the views are plenty to keep you busy, this is a bucket list train ride that is best enjoyed with friends to help the time pass by. And to, of course, capture that perfect shot of you peeking out of the train as the train bends on the railway.

Book Your Train In Sri Lanka Here

28. go on an african safari to spot the big 5.

An African safari to spot the big 5 is at the top of every adventure bucket list, and it very well belongs on a best friend bucket list. Not only will you get to experience this once in a lifetime journey together, but you’ll also have each other to lean on for support during the challenging moments.

The African wilderness is very much different from your home comforts once you leave the sanctuary of your accommodation. This could involve long drives in hot, uncomfortable situations, terrifying encounters, and more, that can be tough on even the most well travelled individuals. Having a familiar shoulder to lean on never hurts.

Book Your African Safari Here

29. see the great migration at masai mara.

Masai Mara is a national game reserve in Narok, Kenya that is in a preserved area of the savannah wilderness. It is the home of wild lions, cheetahs, elephants, and zebras, but it’s the annual great migration that makes Masai Mara such a unique location.

Every year between the months of July to October, over 2 million wildebeest and zebras, to name a few, trek from Tanzania’s Serengeti to the greener pastures in Masai Mara. This is the best time to see these animals in their masses, crossing the river, making for a perfect canvas for every photographer and animal lover alike.

Book Your Maasai Mara Tour Here

30. camel ride around the great pyramids of giza.

Camel rides are a popular tourist activity in many desert locations, but there is something special about camel riding around the great pyramids of Giza. It’s an experience that will make you feel like you’re in a different world, one that time has forgotten.

The best part about this best friend bucket list item is that it can be enjoyed at any time of the year. But if you want to make it extra special, why not visit during a full moon. When the night sky is lit up and the pyramids take on an eerie glow, it’s an experience that you’ll never forget.

Book Your Great Pyramids Of Giza Tour Here

31. sunset cruise along the river nile in a felucca.

This is a bucket list item that is best enjoyed with a group of friends. A sunset cruise along the River Nile in a felucca is the best way to see Cairo from a different perspective.

Cairo is often bustling with activity and noise, but on the river, you’ll find a sense of peace and tranquillity. As you float down the river, you’ll be able to take in the incredible views of the city skyline and the Great Pyramids in the distance.

Book Your Sunset Cruise In A Felucca Tour Here

32. enjoy a hammam in marrakech.

What could be more relaxing than enjoying a hammam with your best friends in the vibrant city of Marrakech? A hammam is a traditional Moroccan bathhouse that is the perfect way to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

You’ll get to experience first-hand the Moroccan culture and enjoy some well-honed relaxation techniques. This is an experience that you’ll want to repeat time and time again.

Book Your Hammam In Marrakech Here

33. see south african penguins at boulders beach.

This best friend bucket list item is for the animal lovers out there. Seeing South African penguins up close and personal is an experience that you’ll never forget.

Boulders Beach is located in Cape Town and is home to a colony of African penguins. The best time to see them is in the early morning or late afternoon when they’re feeding.

This is a great opportunity to take some amazing photographs and create some lasting memories with your best friends.

Book Your Penguins Encounter Here

34. undersea photography in mauritius.

Mauritius is a beautiful island nation off the coast of Africa that is renowned for its stunning beaches and turquoise waters. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy some quality time with your best friends.

But Mauritius has so much more to offer than just its beaches. Underwater photography is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of Mauritius.

There are a variety of different underwater photography tours available, so you can choose the one that best suits your interests and budget. These tours will take you to the best spots for snorkelling and diving, and you’ll get to see a whole new world that you never knew existed.

35. Go On A Spa Trip To Budapest

What could be more relaxing than a spa trip to Budapest with your best friends? This is a city that is renowned for its thermal baths and spas, so you can be sure that you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Budapest is the perfect city to visit in the winter when the temperatures outside are chilly. The thermal baths and spas are the perfect way to warm up and relax.

There are a variety of different spa experiences on offer in Budapest, so you can select the one that best suits your needs. Whether you want a traditional Hungarian massage or something more modern, you’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for.

Book Your Spa Experience Here

36. chase waterfalls in iceland.

One of the best things about Iceland is its stunning landscapes. And what better way to see these landscapes than by chasing waterfalls with your best friends?

Iceland is home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world, so you’ll be spoilt for choice. Many of these waterfalls are located near Reykjavík, so you can easily visit them on a day trip.

Be sure to bring your camera because you’ll want to take plenty of photographs to remember this best friend experience.

Book Your Iceland Experience Here

37. watch a fashion show in paris.

Paris is the fashion capital of the world, so it’s only natural that you would want to watch a fashion show while you’re there. There are fashion shows happening all the time in Paris, so you’ll be able to find one that suits your schedule and budget.

If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience, then you can’t go past watching a fashion show at the world-famous Paris Fashion Week. This is an event that is attended by the who’s who of the fashion world, so you’ll be sure to see some amazing designs.

No matter what time of year you visit Paris, you’ll be able to find a fashion show that suits your needs. So be sure to add this best friend bucket list item to your list.

38. Brunch At A Parisian Café

No best friend bucket list would be complete without brunch at a Parisian café. This is the perfect opportunity to catch up with your best friends while enjoying some delicious food.

There are a variety of different cafés to choose from, so you can select the one that best suits your taste. Whether you’re looking for a traditional French café or something more modern, you’ll be able to find what you’re looking for.

Paris is a city that is renowned for its food, so you can be sure that you’ll enjoy your best friend brunch experience.

39. Don Your Best Gown And Mask At The Carnevale Di Venezia

If you want to experience a truly unique best friend bucket list item, then you should head to Venice for the Carnevale di Venezia. This is a festival that takes place every year and is celebrated with a parade of masked participants.

The best way to experience the Carnevale di Venezia is by dressing up in your best gown and mask and joining in the festivities. You’ll be able to see some amazing costumes and masks during the parade, and you’ll get to experience the excitement of this unique festival.

40. Go On A Shopping Trip To Milan

Milan is the best place to go for a shopping spree with your best friends. This city is home to some of the best designer stores in the world, so you’ll be able to find everything you’re looking for.

Milan is also a great city for bargains. You can find some amazing deals on designer clothes and accessories if you know where to look.

So be sure to add a shopping trip to Milan to your best friend bucket list. You won’t regret it!

41. Sail The Greek Islands

One of the best things about Greece is its stunning islands. And what better way to see these islands than by sailing around them with your best friends?

There are a variety of different sailing experiences on offer in Greece, so you can select the one that best suits your needs. Whether you want a luxury yacht or a more traditional sailboat, you’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for.

Greece is renowned for its beautiful beaches, so you’ll be able to enjoy plenty of time relaxing in the sun with your best friends.

Sail Greece with Contiki here .

Book Your Day Tours Here

42. eat your way through the amalfi coast.

The Amalfi Coast is a stunning part of Italy that is renowned for its food. If you want to experience the best of Italian cuisine, then you need to head to the Amalfi Coast.

The best way to eat your way through the Amalfi Coast is by taking a food tour. This will give you the opportunity to try some of the best dishes that the region has to offer.

Be sure to bring your camera because you’ll want to take plenty of photographs to remember your foodie adventure.

Here are some of the best food tours on the Amalfi Coast.

Book Your Amalfi Coast Day Tour Here

43. take a tuscan cooking class in florence.

If you want to learn how to cook like a true Italian, then you need to take a Tuscan cooking class in Florence. This is an experience that you’ll never forget.

You’ll have the opportunity to learn how to cook some of the best Italian dishes from a professional chef. And you’ll also get to enjoy your creations at a traditional Tuscan dinner.

This is a great activity to do with your best friends that will allow you to bond over your shared love of food.

Here are the Top Cooking Classes In Florence .

Book Your Cooking Class Here

44. go to miami florida to experience spring break.

Miami is the perfect place to spend your spring break. This city is full of excitement and offers a wide range of activities to keep you busy.

Whether you’re looking for an upbeat scene or want to relax on the beach, you’ll be able to find what you’re looking for in Miami. Don’t let the party scene put you off, as there’s more to Miami than it being a booze-filled destination.

And when you’ve had enough of the sea, there are also plenty of great restaurants to enjoy.

45. Alaskan Cruise

One of the best ways to see Alaska is by taking an Alaskan cruise. This is an amazing experience that you’ll never forget.

You’ll get to see some of the most stunning scenery in the world and enjoy a wide range of activities. Whether you want to go whale watching or hiking, you’ll be able to find what you’re looking for on an Alaskan cruise.

This is a great trip to do with your best friends, and you’ll be sure to create some lasting memories.

Book Your Alaskan Cruise Here

46. go shopping at christmas in new york.

If you want to do some Christmas shopping that you’ll never forget, then you need to go to New York. This city is home to some of the best department stores in the world and is the perfect place to find gifts for everyone on your list.

New York is also a great place to celebrate Christmas. You’ll be able to see the city all lit up and enjoy a range of festive activities. And if you have time, you can follow in the footsteps of young Kevin from Home Alone 2 and allow yourself to simply wander and get lost in the big apple.

So be sure to add a shopping trip to New York to your best friend bucket list.

47. Girls Trip To Las Vegas

Las Vegas is the perfect place for a girl’s trip. This city is full of excitement and offers a wide range of activities to keep you busy that don’t have to include gambling or alcohol.

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious spa break, some culture, or want to simply relax by the pool, you’ll be able to find what you’re looking for in Las Vegas.

Just be sure to not leave your purses at home because Las Vegas is known for being a bit pricey.

Book Your Activities In Las Vegas Here

48. explore the pura vida lifestyle in costa rica.

Costa Rica is known for its Pura Vida lifestyle, which can be best described as a laid-back approach to life. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, then Costa Rica is the perfect place for you.

In Costa Rica, you’ll be able to find plenty of activities to keep you busy. Whether you want to go zip-lining, hiking, or take a dip in hot springs, you’ll be able to find what you’re looking for in Costa Rica.

And be sure to sample the local cuisine, which is some of the best in the world. This is a great place to visit with your best friends, and you’ll create some unforgettable memories.

Book Your Costa Rican Activities Here

49. drive a classic car in cuba.

If you want to experience a bit of Cuban culture, then you should drive a classic car in Cuba. This is a great way to see the country and the best part is that you can do it with your best friends.

You’ll be able to find a wide variety of classic cars to choose from, and you’ll get to enjoy the freedom of the open road. This is a great way to explore Cuba, and you’ll be sure to have some laughs along the way.

Don’t have a driving licence? Well, that’s okay, you’ll find plenty of classic car tours in Havana that will come complete with a driver.

50. Swim In Mexican Cenotes

If you’re looking for a unique swimming experience, then you should check out the Mexican cenotes. These are natural pools that are found in caves and offer a beautiful setting for a swim. These cenotes are a bit off the beaten path, so you’ll likely have them all to yourselves.

The best part is that you can do this with your best friends, and it’s a great way to cool off during the hot summer months. You’ll be able to find a variety of cenotes to choose from, so be sure to check them out when you’re in Mexico.

Book Your Mexican Cenote Experience Here

51. ride the rocky mountaineer through the canadian rockies.

If you want to experience some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, then you need to ride the Rocky Mountaineer through the Canadian Rockies. This is a breathtaking journey that you’ll never forget.

You’ll get to see snow-capped mountains, rushing rivers, and pristine forests. This is a great trip to do with your best friends, and you’ll be able to create some lasting memories.

52. Road Trip Through USA

There’s no better way to see the USA than by taking a road trip. This is the best way to explore all that this country has to offer. You’ll be able to see everything from the big cities to the small towns and everything in between.

You can customise your road trip to suit your interests, and you’ll be able to stop whenever you want. This is a great way to travel with your best friends, and you’ll create some amazing memories.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your BFFs and start planning your next adventure. Whether you’re looking to explore a new city or travel to an exotic destination, there’s something out there for everyone.

And don’t forget – the best part of travelling with friends is that you always have someone to share the memories with long after the trip is over. What’s your favourite adventure to go on with your buddies? Leave me a comment down below and let me know!

Want to be friends?

One Day In Bangkok, Must See Attractions

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The 15 best places to visit in the UK in 2024

From charming seaside spots to bustling cities, we’ve got all the staycation inspo you need right here

For all the bucket list places around the world, it can be easy to forget that we actually have some pretty amazing places to explore right here on our doorstep. Sure, the British weather can have a mind of its own and train travel can leave a lot to be desired, but if you’re willing to put up with all of that, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by what there is to discover. 

From quaint coastal towns with trailblazing restaurants and bustling cities with an edge of their own, to gorgeous islands that feel nothing like the UK , these are the parts of the country that should hands-down be on your staycation wishlist for next year. These places have thriving food, drink and arts scenes, they’re home to exciting new openings and they have plenty of big events for you to scribble into your calendar, pronto. 

Thinking of planning a holiday a little closer to home next year? By sifting through all of the hottest launches for next year and using our expert knowledge of cultural scenes around the country,  Time Out’s UK team has curated the very best British destinations for you to plan a trip to in 2024. And the best part? Y ou can visit most of them easily, cheaply and without having to catch a flight. Time to get booking!

RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best  things to do in the UK 🏖️ The best  seaside towns in the UK 🏘️ The best  Airbnbs in the UK

An email you’ll actually love

Where to visit in the UK in 2024

1.  Bristol

Should we really be surprised that (apparently) everyone is moving to Bristol ? Its cultural scene is just as exciting as London ’s, but it’s still only a short coach journey away; it has picture-perfect streets and bustling, diverse nightlife. And i n 2024, its arts offering is only getting better. A musical adaptation of the 2006 film ‘ Starter for Ten ’ is coming to the renowned Old Vic theatre from February 29 to March 30, while   DIASPORA! , a brand new festival showcasing BIPOC global ethnic majority artists – across theatre, dance, music, visual and digital arts, as well as poetry and spoken word – is launching in May.   Undershed , a new immersive gallery, is on track to launch in Spring, and   Boxhall   – a street food, beer and events space by the same people who behind London’s   Boxpark   – will also open its doors.   

The perfect day Start with grabbing a coffee from Clifton Coffee Roasters  before pottering around Gloucester Road and perusing the many shops (it’s the largest strip of independent retailers in Europe). Then, hop on a Bristol Ferry water bus tour  to see the city from the water . Finally, feast on a dinner of Spanish small plates at Bravas (or check out one of the city’s other excellent restaurants ), before heading out to rave the night away at one of the many DIY-style clubs . 

Plan your trip The 2024 edition of Bristol’s newest music festival, Forwards , takes place on August 31 and September 1. 2023 headliners included Aphex Twin, Erykah Badu and Raye .

📍 The best things to do in Bristol 🍴 The   best  restaurants in Bristol

2.  Hull

Hull became a surprising capital for the UK’s LGBTQ+ community in 2023. From  Monroe’s   to Unit 49 and Cherry’s – named after the late ‘Ru Paul’s Drag Race’ star Cherry Valentine – an influx of new gay bars and clubs means Hull’s new Freedom Quarter is slowly growing its ecosystem of queer-friendly spaces. As well as its thriving LGBTQ+ scene, in 2017 the East Yorkshire city was also named the city of culture. It’s got The Deep , an enormous aquarium with 3000 species, a picturesque old town which survived the city’s relentless WWII bombings, and lots of up and coming indie art galleries like Ground and Artlink . Don’t sleep on Hull.

The perfect day  Get your caffeine fix at Still. by Two Gingers Coffee before having a wonder around Hull’s charming old town or pottering in the shops at Hepworth’s Arcade . After that, head to indie events space Ground to check out whatever arty happenings they have on. Finally, stop for a pint at Ye Olde White Hart before heading to one of the infamous 13-hour parties (yes, really) at Gate No. 5 .

Plan your visit Pride in Hull will take place on July 29, 2024. 

📍 The best things to do in Hull

3.  Isles of Scilly

A lot of people say that the Isles of Scilly are the British version of the Caribbean – and you know what? We’d totally agree. This stunning archipelago off the coast of Cornwall is largely unspoilt, with white stretches of sandy beaches, turquoise waters and plenty of opportunities to go island hopping and dolphin spotting. But there’s more, too: head to the local museum to immerse yourself in the islanders’ deep sense of culture and tradition, sink yourself silly on local ales at seaside pubs or indulge your sense of adventure by snorkelling over the many under-the-sea shipwrecks. Bliss. 

The perfect day Travel to the islands by Skybus from Land’s End – it only takes 20 minutes, and there’s a gorgeous view. Once you arrive, make your way over to St Mary’s Riding Centre to take in the stunning scenery on horse-back. If that’s not your thing, hire bikes and explore the coastal trails of St. Mary’s islands before taking a transfer boat to St. Agnes to visit the Turks Head for a hearty pub lunch made using local ingredients. Once your food goes down? It has to be time for a swim.

Plan your trip The Isle of Scilly food festival is a ten-day celebration of local provenance taking place in September, with mouth-watering events like beach BBQs and vineyard tours.

📍 The best places to visit in Cornwall

4.  London

Ah, good old London . No matter how many times you’ve visited or how long you’ve lived there, you’ll always find new things to discover in the capital. There are a tonne of new restaurants to feast at, all sorts of gorgeous hotel openings and plenty of fresh cultural things to do. Most notably, in 2024, you can dance at Drumsheds , the mammoth warehouse club housed in a former IKEA, catch a blockbuster exhibition – like Yoko Ono at the Tate Modern or The World of Tim Burton at the Design Museum – and see epic new West End performances ( Mean Girls , anyone?).

The perfect day  For lunch, grab a delicious loaded sandwich at Dom’s Subs on Hackney Road for (or treat yourself to a boujee meal out at Morito ), before perusing the cute independent shops on Columbia Road and gawking over the even cuter animals at Hackney City Farm . Head over to Soho for a late-afternoon pint at the iconic French House , then round off your day with a delicious pre-theatre dinner at the newly opened Forza Wine at the National Theatre , before catching a play. 

Plan your trip Book tickets to see the stage adaptation of Studio Ghibli’s ‘ Spirited Away ’, taking place at the London Coliseum from April 30 until August 24.

📍 The best things to do in London 🍴 The best restaurants in London

5.  Belfast

The Norn Iron capital is criminally underrated. If you’re yet to discover its welcoming warmth and cultural vibrance, 2024 is the year to change that. Over the next twelve months Belfast has mega ambitions to deliver its biggest ever cultural celebration via a project dubbed ‘ Belfast 2024 ’. Set around the theme of ‘People, Place and Planet’, the whopping programme of 24 large-scale commissions and over 200 events, workshops and activities includes a collaboration with the Eden Project, a guerilla gardening scheme aimed at rewilding the peace walls in the west of the city and an immersive music showcase celebrating Belfast’s contemporary Black culture.

The perfect day Begin with a wholesome morning stroll through the Botanic Gardens , followed by a hefty brunch at Output . Then wander through the parliament buildings at Stormont and the monumental Titanic Belfast museum. In the evening, find your way to The Muddlers Club hidden within the historic back streets of the Cathedral Quarter, or if you’d rather eat in, order from cult favourite Mexican place Boojums . Round off the evening by grabbing a pint accompanied by some banging live music at the Dirty Onion .

Plan your trip  The cultural celebrations kick off from March and will run through to November. Make sure to be in the city on March 17 for an ‘enhanced’ edition of St Patrick’s Day shindigs.

📍 The best things to do in Belfast

6.  St Andrews

Forgive us for including two Scottish seaside towns in this list (see: number 14), but it’s a good excuse to plan a road trip, right? A coastal gem in the Kingdom of Fife, St Andrews is home to an ancient university, three stunning beaches, botanic gardens, multiple pubs, a famous golf course and not much else. But it’s also beautiful, extremely walkable and very peaceful, and if you’re after a bit more action, it’s also close enough to Dundee to plan a day trip to the renowned V&A museum . St Andrews has also been tipped to be a hit set-jetting destination for 2024 with the town featuring heavily in the final season of ‘ The Crown ’, thanks to it to being where Prince William met Kate Middleton while at university. Fans, come this way.

The perfect day Line your stomach with a delicious fry up from Northpoint (which claims, like many places in town, to be where ‘Will met Kate’). Then, you’ll probably want to go for a lofty beach walk on West Sands, where ‘Chariots of Fire’ was filmed, before returning to town for some fresh fish and chips from Cromar’s (if the weather allows, eat them on another nearby beach: Castle Sands). In the evening, catch a local show at The Byre Theatre  or sink some pints at one of the town’s many pubs: Aikman’s and Brew Co. are very good choices.

Plan your trip  V isit in July: most of the students will have left for the summer and you might actually get to enjoy the beach with some sun.

📍 The essential guide to Scotland

7.  Lewes

‘Like a box of toys under a great amphitheatre of chalk hills... on the whole it is set down better than any town I have seen in England’: so said William Morris about Lewes in the 1800s. The sloping Sussex town has been a favoured haunt of artsy progressives, not least Virginia Woolf, Vanessa Bell and the rest of the bohemian Bloomsbury set. In 2023, it gained a brand new cultural space in the form of Charleston in Lewes (head here in the new year to catch the ‘Bring No Clothes: Bloomsbury and Fashion’ exhibition, closing March 3). There’s more, too: as you wonder Lewes’ charming wonky streets you’ll stumble past the former home of Anne of Cleves, Lewes Castle , a hodgepodge of artisan stores and delicious foodie spots – as well as the most bonkers pub in the UK, the Lewes Arms.

The perfect day  Take the brand new Sussex Art Shuttle and travel a short distance outside of town to see Charleston Farmhouse , before heading back for a veggie burger at Bun and Bean and a pastry dessert from Flint Owl Bakery . Spend the afternoon learning about the history of the castle and Lewes Priory , then browse the independent shops in The Needlemakers . Finish with a meal and a movie at Depot .

Plan your trip  The stunning Glyndebourne Opera House is hosting a festival of world class opera from May 16 to August 25, while the incredible extravaganza that is Lewes Bonfire Night is taking place around November 5.

📍 The best things to do in Lewes

8.  Newcastle

There’s plenty to shout about in Newcastle (and not just the nightlife, though we love that too). The city’s food scene already had a pretty good reputation, but new openings in 2023 have really seen it thrive, like natural wine and pizza spot Bawn  and new brunch spot Cafeteria :  a sort of posh style greasy spoon, which seem to be all the range now. Pair this with a load of great galleries and pubs, the legendary Wylam Brewery and Tyneside Cinema and seriously reasonable prices and you’ve got a cracking weekend away. Or you might just want to pack up and move there. It happens. 

The perfect day  Grab a coffee (with a view) at La Verne Vintage , before walking waterside and over the Quayside bridge. Head to the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art and wander through whatever exhibition is on, before heading to the very top floor for fantastic views over the city. Then head to Ouseburn, Newcastle’s coolest neighbourhood, and grab a pint and a banging vegan lunch at The Ship Inn . If you’ve got an itching for more art, check out the Biscuit Factory next door. After a few more pints, hit up World Headquarters for a night on the Toon. 

Plan your trip  The Newcastle Fringe 2024 will run from July 18 to  29. Catch shows at the very cool Northern Stage as well as a number of pubs. 

📍 The best things to do in Newcastle

9.  Falmouth

Falmouth has always been Cornwall’s cooler town. Home to Exeter and Falmouth university campuses, student life here has brought a bit of vibrancy and edge to the quiet cobbled streets – but there’s always been a glaring gap when it came to the question of nightlife. Recently, though – thanks to new music venue  The Cornish Bank  –  its late night credentials have shot up. From Klub Nos Lowen, a cult folk music night, to up and coming indie bands, this spot is the ideal place to absorb some of the county’s best culture.

The perfect day  Start with a paddle at Gyllyngvase Beach, then warm yourself up with a coffee at Gylly beach cafe . Then check out the independent boutiques and galleries on the high street. (Shout out to Mirri Damer jewellery and Wild Pony vintage.) After grabbing some grub from Harbour Lights fish and chips, head to Chain Locker for a harbourside pint before moseying on to a gig at The Cornish Bank. If you have time, pop in to Beerwolf too, a charming pub/bookshop.

Plan your visit  T he annual worm charming championship  (you read that right)  takes place in late May every year. The Sea Shanty Festival  takes place on June  14 to 16  2024, and Falmouth Week , an extravaganza of music, sailing and local culture, takes place on August  9 to 18 .

📍 The best things to do in Falmouth

10.  Manchester

Manchester never fails to serve up a cultural banquet. After a huge year that saw the launch of Factory International at Aviva Studios, the rescue of grassroots gig venue, The Snug , and the long-awaited reopening of Manchester Museum , 2024 is set to be another big one. The star of the show will be the huge, innovative Co-op Live  which is opening in April, backed by Bruce Springsteen and Harry Styles and already has the likes of Liam Gallagher and Oilvia Rodrigo lined up to perform. And in much-anticipated news for its food scene, L’Enclume chef Tom Barnes is opening his first solo restaurant, Skof , in the Noma district in spring.

The perfect day  Swing by Idle Hands to fuel up on carbs and caffeine before perusing around the Northern Quarter’s indie shops (don’t miss Queer Lit or the Craft and Design Centre). Pick from a huge range of edible options at Mackie Mayor for lunch (or head to the Michelin-starred Where The Light Gets In , for something special) then use the new Visit Manchester Pass to check out the National Football Museum and take a craft beer tour of the city. End with a tipple and live music at YES .

Plan your trip  Head up some time between October 23 and 27 to catch the Worldwide Music Expo , which is set to attract over 2,600 big guns from the global music industry.

📍 The best things to do in Manchester 🍴 The best  restaurants in Manchester

11.  Ramsgate

Last year it was all about Margate , but now, another neighbour has joined Kent’s roster of cosy, culture-filled seaside towns that everyone’s getting obsessed with. Enter: Ramsgate , a walkable gem with a hell of a lot of character. Check out one of its locally-run galleries and studios (including Level 11 , specialising in dog pics), and don’t miss filling up at one of its new food offerings: this year, bar/restaurant Seabird  arrived on the scene , as well as new monthly pop-up Catch at the Camden Arms , serving up a delightful seafood set menu. Oh, and the world’s biggest Wetherspoons is here. You heard us. 

The perfect day  Pull up at Ramsgate Station and stroll towards the seafront, stopping at The Modern Boulangerie on Harbour Street for brunch and a ridiculously good cinnamon roll. Take a coffee to go and spend time checking out Ramsgate’s indie shops, from the records at Vinyl Head to the pottery, books and glass at Island Vintage . Head to the harbour and head out on a seal-spotting boat trip , before grabbing a sunset pint at the Royal Harbour Brasserie . Finally, warm up with pub grub at The Bedford Inn  (top tip: you can rent a room at their brand-new hotel too). 

Plan your trip  Go when it’s sunny and try to catch the town’s  International Film Festival in June or the Festival of Sound in August. 

📍 The best things to do in Ramsgate

12.  Norwich

Hugged by the marshes and woodlands of Broads National Park, Norwich brings the ancient to the contemporary — from its cobbled alleyways and two dazzling cathedrals to the modern exhibitions at the Sainsbury Centre and its Michelin-star prowess. In summer 2024,  Norwich Castle (which was apparently one of Europe’s most important mediaeval fortresses) is set to reveal the results of a mighty £15m revamp, due to include redecorated rooms and the restoration of its 12th century Norman keep. As the self-proclaimed ‘City of Stories’ and England’s first UNESCO City of LIterature, you’ll be enchanted by Norwich’s tale.

The perfect day  Order your morning drink of choice at Strangers Coffee then stop by the city’s 900-year old market on Gentleman’s Walk to check out the organic produce and food stalls. Save room for dessert so that you can enjoy elevenses at Figbar then take in the magnificent architecture of Norwich Cathedral and check out the curiosities hiding within the antique shops on Elm Hill. Round it all off with dinner from Grosvenor Fish Bar .

Plan your trip A c elebration of queer art and ideas, Queerfest Norwich is happening February 8 to 24.

📍 The best things to do in Norwich

13.  Alnmouth

For a tranquil seaside break in 2024, the tiny fishing village of Alnmouth on the border between Scotland and England is a solid bet. Think: wild, windswept walks, pastel-coloured fisherman’s cottages, freshly-caught fish and blissful peace and quiet. Three surrounding beaches make up part of Northumberland’s 40-mile long coastal path — which happens to be a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, recently renamed ‘National Landscapes’ – and as such, there’s a delightful cluster of wildlife to look out for, including adorable puffins and grey seals.

The perfect day Sit down for an A.M. coffee and fresh kippers on toast at Bistro23 before checking out Almouth’s cluster of independent stores like Scots of Alnmouth and Jane and Harry’s. Then stop by the Ferry Hut , a bitesize museum dedicated to the ferrymen of yesteryear. Spend the afternoon adventuring along the coastal path before indulging in a well-earned dinner at The Whittling House .

Plan your trip Alnmouth Arts Festival  is happening on June 15 and 16, with more than 50 designers and craftspeople exhibiting their work in venues throughout the village.

14.  Ullapool

A tiny village and port around 45 miles from Inverness in the Scottish Highlands, Ullapool is well situated for walkers and cyclists to get their dose of the great outdoors: explore the nearby Corrieshalloch Falls, scramble up Stac Pollaidh mountain or to hop on a ferry to the Outer Hebrides. But there’s more to this place than just hiking boots and anoraks. Ullapool also going under something of a cultural renaissance, with Scotland’s most remote club night bringing of-the-moment electronic DJs to the area and The Seafood Shack and new 3AA Rosette restaurant  The Dipping Lugger  attracting foodies from far and near. The town was recently chosen as one of Time Out’s most underrated travel destinations in Europe, so get down soon.

The perfect day Wrap up warm and drive over to the foot of Stac Pollaidh mountain, with its spectacular peak of Torridonian sandstone. Reward yourself with a packed lunch on the top after a two-hour climb, before heading home and warming up in The Ferry Boat Inn  where you can enjoy a slap-up dinner with some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever eat.

Plan your trip The next Baile/Baile club nights take place on February 3 and March 2, showcasing some of Scotland’s most exciting DJ talent.

15.  Wrexham

Who’d have thought a small Welsh city would have been taken over by Hollywood celebs and become the subject of an extremely popular Disney+ documentary? Wrexham, home to the formerly flailing football club Wrexham AFC, became one of the UK’s hottest tourist destinations after A-listers Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney bought the club in 2020. The city is also home to St Giles’s, one of the most stunning churches in Wales. Then there’s the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct – a huge 18-arched stone and cast iron structure carrying the Llangollen Canal across the River Dee – and two National Trust properties, Erddig Parkland and Chirk Castle . In 2024, the national Football Museum for Wales is also expected to open, with exhibitions on Welsh language communities, fan culture and LGBTQ+ experiences.

The perfect day Start the day at Aussi brunch spot Lot 11 . After fueling yourself, you’re obviously going to want to check out The Racecourse, the stadium that’s home to Wrexham AFC. Then you’ll need to grab a pint at The Turf , the football team’s pub of choice. For the afternoon, hop in the car for a 20 minute drive to check out the gorgeous views from the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and surrounding World Heritage Site.

Plan your trip Wrexham Feast , an annual food and drink festival, takes place in late September.

📍 The best things to do in Wrexham

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19 Best Road Trips in the UK for Scenic Drives

March 19, 2024

The UK is home to some of the world’s best road trips , with lots of (both official and unofficial) routes zig-zagging across the entirety of the region.

So in this four-wheeled guide, we’ve brought you the 19 best road trips in the UK . I’ve covered routes in all parts of the region, and I’ve included short rides, long rides, coastal journeys, mountainous meanders, and everything in between.

Rev up that engine and come join the fun!

1. The North Coast 500

2. the northumberland coastal route, 3. the north pennines, 4. the arran ring road, 5. the a4069 black mountain pass, 6. the heart 200, 7. the trotternish loop, 8. the snow roads scenic route, 9. the causeway coastal route, 10. the central sperrins route, 11. the cambrian way, 12. the welsh coastal way, 13. the borders historic route, 14. the lake district loop, 15. the atlantic highway, 16. the south west coastal 300, 17. the high mournes scenic loop, 18. the norfolk and suffolk coasts, 19. belleek to teemore, before you go.

I’m starting with my favorite road trip in the whole of the UK.

A 500-mile (800km) loop around the most northern parts of mainland Scotland, the North Coast 500 is iconic and unmissable—and if you’re only going to attempt one ride on this list, you should definitely make it this one. I’ve done this loop twice, and I’ll definitely be doing it again.

People genuinely have no idea how beautiful or remote this part of Scotland is. Along the route, you get fishing villages, charming towns, massive mountains, some of the best beaches you’ve ever seen, and lots of the planet’s best landscapes. Some stretches are unbelievably otherworldly, and totally unlike any other part of the UK.

If you like hiking, you’ll love this ride—it takes you to some of the best, most rugged and most underrated walking spots in the UK, and you could spend years exploring new treks and trails in this area. For walks, I recommend Stac Pollaidh, Torridon, and the shoreside strolls on the west coast (but there are also way more).

For sheer variety and beauty, road trips really don’t get much better than this… and this is one of the best road trips in the UK.

• Location: Scotland
• Distance: 500 miles/800km
• Itinerary: Signposted loop beginning and ending in Inverness (or Applecross), and following the coast for the majority of the way
• Recommended Time: 5-21 days
• Highlights: Ullapool, Torridon, the Bealach na Bà, the tiny villages, the meandering roads, and the beautiful beaches

For me, the Northumberland Coastal Route is the very best road trip in England.

That might be because I’m from the area and I’m very very biased and I absolutely love the place I’m from… but it just might also be because it’s actually true.

If you like remote beaches, isolated shorelines, friendly fishing villages, massive castles, or gigantic portions of heavily-salted fish and chips, you’ll undoubtedly fall in love with this ride.

You start in Tynemouth, just east of the city of Newcastle . From here, you follow the coast all the way to Berwick-upon-Tweed, the last significant settlement before England becomes Scotland.

Along the way, you’ll pass some of my favorite places in the world, including Cresswell, Alnmouth, Amble, Seahouses, Bamburgh, Craster, Bamburgh Castle, Dunstanburgh Castle, and plenty more. If you want history and beaches without countless crowds, it doesn’t get better than this.

Though this is an incredible road trip, it’s actually most famous as the route for the ultra-beautiful Coast and Castles bike ride .

• Location: England
• Distance: Around 75 miles/120km
• Itinerary: Linear route from Tynemouth to Berwick-upon-Tweed, following the coast the entire way
• Recommended Time : 3-5 days
• Highlights: Tynemouth, Cresswell, Alnmouth, Craster, Bamburgh Castle, Dunstanburgh Castle, lots of friendly faces, lots of fish and chips, and a whole load of quiet towns and beaches

If you’re looking for underrated and under-the-radar, this is the best English road trip on our list.

I love the North Pennines. A bleak, barren and boggy range of peaks in northern England, this is the best mountainous area if you’re looking for remote, rural hikes without lots of other people.

It’s a very unique area. While most hilly regions are green and verdant, this place is sort of apocalyptic and empty, but in a strangely attractive way.

It’s also a great choice if you want a short trip—the route I’m recommending measures only 40 miles (65km).

Start in Lambley, a village famous for its massive viaduct. From here, head south to lovely Alston, my favorite town in the area. Keep heading south and you’ll hit Garrigill, Ashgill Force waterfall, and the ever-popular town of pretty Barnard Castle.

If you want to add a detour, I recommend hiking up Cross Fell , the tallest peak in the North Pennines. The highest point in England outside the Lake District, it sits at a lofty 893 meters (2,930 feet).

• Distance: Around 40 miles/65km
• Itinerary: Linear route from Lambley to Barnard Castle
• Recommended Time : 1-3 days
• Highlights: Lambley Viaduct, Alston, Ashgill Force, Barnard Castle, the optional detour to Cross Fell, and exploring a barren-but-beautiful area

Another circular Scottish route, this is one of the best road trips in the UK for completionists who like feeling as if they’ve seen the entirety of one particular place.

Off the west coast of mainland Scotland, you have the Isle of Arran… which is famously known as ‘Scotland in miniature.’

It comes with that reputation because it offers most of the same things as mainland Scotland. You get great beaches , excellent hikes , multi-day walking and cycling trails, fantastic food, friendly faces, varied wildlife , and some of the cutest coastal settlements you’ve probably ever seen.

If you want to see pretty much the entirety of the island, you can drive around its whole perimeter by riding the Arran ring road. It measures in at only 56 miles (90km), but it brings you close to everything you could want to see .

Make sure you hike up Goatfell, walk some stretches of the Arran Coastal Way , and spend some time exploring towns and villages.

• Distance: 56 miles/90km
• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending in Brodick, following Arran’s entire coast in a big circle
• Recommended Time : 2-7 days
• Highlights: Seeing all of Arran’s highlights, some of the best beaches you’ve ever seen, the Arran Coastal Way, an ascent up Goatfell, and the settlements of Brodick, Lochranza and Blackwaterfoot

The A4069 Black Mountain Pass is only a short journey, but it’s the most famous road trip in Wales by a long way, and it’s absolutely incredible.

Sitting in the western side of the Brecon Beacons (a massive range of mountains in the south of Wales) , rides this short don’t normally have views this good. Famous for appearing on British TV show Top Gear, the route offers jagged peaks, massive passes, and some of the best panoramas that Wales has to offer.

Notorious for its tight bends, hairpin turns, suddenly-there sheep, and stomach-churning scenery, this is an adrenaline junkie’s dream. That said, it’s not as dangerous as some people like to pretend… so as long as you’re a competent driver, you’ll definitely be comfortable.

If you like mountains, or if you’re looking for a short but brilliant ride, this is one of the best road trips in the UK. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to stop for photographs (there are lots of laybys where you can pull in to get your camera out) .

• Location: Wales
• Distance: 20 miles/32km
• Itinerary: Linear route from Llandovery to Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen, across the A4069 road in the Brecon Beacons
• Recommended Time : 1 hour
• Highlights: A short ride, an exhilarating adventure, hitting the most famous road in Wales, and some of the most dramatic mountain scenery that the UK has to offer

The Heart 200 is one of the newest official road trips in Scotland. And unlike the North Coast 500, it takes you in a loop through the center of the nation, instead of on a tour around the outskirts.

The idea behind this ride is that it journeys through the heart of the nation, hitting lots of the most popular tourist spots. It runs between two excellent national parks: Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, and the Cairngorms National Park (which is the biggest national park in the UK).

In between those parks, you also hit Perth, Stirling, Pitlochry, Callander, Bridge of Allan, Loch Tay, Loch Earn, Loch Leven, and loads more great stuff. The whole route is signposted… which is useful, because the ride meanders a maze-like route through this part of the nation.

For lots of people, the highlights here are all the cute towns and villages, and there are dozens of tiny places dotted around the route. If you like exploring small settlements, this is one of the best road trips in the UK.

• Distance: 158 miles/320km
• Itinerary: Loop starting and ending in Perth or Stirling, following the official signposts all the way
• Recommended Time : 3-7 days
• Highlights: Perth, Stirling, Pitlochry, Bridge of Allan, Loch Tay, Loch Leven, and exploring the outskirts of two of the UK’s best national parks

Sort of similar to the Arran route I’ve outlined above, the Trotternish Loop takes you around an island. But this time, it’s the much-more-famous Isle of Skye —and you don’t see the entirety of the place.

Instead, you see the whole of the Trotternish Peninsula, where you’ll find lots of Skye’s most famous attractions. The most northern part of the Isle of Skye, the Trotternish Peninsula is a finger-shaped area full of attractions and adventures. The most famous parts of this place include the Quiraing, the Old Man of Storr, Mealt Falls, and the island’s capital of Portree.

But you’ll also see Staffin, Uig, Rubha Hunish, the Fairy Glen, the dinosaur footprints of An Corran Beach, and plenty more.

Even if you don’t make any en-route stops, the drive itself is still phenomenal, offering some of the most dramatic landscapes in all of Scotland. If you’re visiting Skye, you should absolutely drive along the Trotternish Loop.

• Distance: 50 miles/80km
• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending in Portree, following the coast for pretty much the entire ride
• Recommended Time : 2-4 days
• Highlights: The Quiraing, the Old Man of Storr, Mealt Falls, Rubha Hunish, the Fairy Glen, Portree, the dramatic drive itself, and seeing lots of Skye’s highlights in one big trip

If you want a real adventure, this is one of the best road trips in the UK. It takes you through some of the highest parts of the Cairngorms, the biggest (and arguably most impressive) national park in the UK.

Riding through some of the most mountainous parts of Scotland, the Snow Roads Scenic Route climbs through the highest public road in Britain (and, consequently, typically the first road to be hit by seasonal snowfall, which gives the route its name).

Because it’s so high, this is the best ride on our list for panoramic views—along the way, you’ll see lots of peaks and passes. The highest point is Cairnwell Pass, which sits at a loftily-impressive height of 670 meters (2,200 feet).

Full of tight turns and hair-raising switchbacks, you need to be fairly confident to drive this one. But the roads are well-surfaced, and the infrastructure is great (with lots of designated photo-grabbing opportunities along the way, which are purposely placed in the most scenic spots).

By road, there’s no better way to explore the Cairngorms… and this ride is a mountain-lover’s dream.

• Distance: 90 miles/144km
• Itinerary: Linear route from Blairgowrie to Grantown-On-Spey, following the signposts all the way
• Highlights: Cairnwell Pass, Tomintoul, Corgarff Castle , the photo opportunities, the winding roads, and seeing many Cairngorms highlights without ever needing to leave your car

The most famous road trip in Northern Ireland by a long way, The Causeway Coastal Route runs from Derry to Belfast along the northern and eastern coasts of the nation.

It’s most well-known for passing the Devil’s Causeway (the only UNESCO site in Northern Ireland, and the location that gives the route its name). Make sure you stop to see it—it’s one of the strangest geological oddities in this part of the planet.

But the highlights run way beyond that… you get beaches, coastal walks, some surprisingly good inland hikes, Dunluce Castle , Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge , and super-friendly towns and villages.

If you’re only going to tackle one road trip in Northern Ireland, you should probably make it this one. It’s a particularly good choice if you’re a big fan of detours — there are nine official side-trip loops along the route, and they all make your journey bigger, better, much more scenic, and a lot more adventurous.

You should also give yourself enough time to explore both Derry and Belfast, two excellent cities. Tiny Derry in particular is super charming, and it’s one of my favorite settlements in the UK.

• Location: Northern Ireland
• Distance: 130 miles/212km
• Itinerary: Linear route from Derry to Belfast, running all the way along the coast
• Highlights: The Devil’s Causeway, Derry and Belfast themselves, lots of excellent detours, endless coastal walks, Dunluce Castle, Carrickfergus Castle, seeing a massive chunk of Northern Ireland, and riding around the nation’s most famous road trip

In the northwest of Northern Ireland, you have the Sperrins, a mountainous area that takes up almost a quarter of the nation. They’re not the tallest or most well-known mountains in the area, but they’re brimming with hikes, drives, cycling routes, lakes, valleys, historical sites, and some of Northern Ireland’s most overlooked adventures.

In and around the entirety of the Sperrins, there are four official driving routes , taking you to various parts of the area. Of them all, the Central Sperrins Route is the longest, the most comprehensive, and (arguably) the best.

This particular route takes you very close to the summit of Sawel, the highest peak in the area. It’s not massive (measuring in at only 678 meters/2,224 feet), but it’s a great hike.

Other highlights along the way include Baronscourt Forest, Gortinglen Forest, Glenelly Valley, the climb up Mullaghcarn, the villages of Donemana and Sion Mills, and the medieval Aghascrebagh Ogham Stone.

And of course, if you want to add even more action and adventure to your ride, you can add an extra Sperrin road trip or two to your route (all four are joined to one another).

• Distance: 90 miles/145km
• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending in various possible places, but the best choice is Strabane
• Highlights: Strabane, Baronscourt Forest, Gortinglen Forest, Glenelly Valley, the ascents up Sawel and Mullaghcarn, exploring an underrated part of Northern Ireland, and the exciting option of adding extra road trips

If you want to see lots of Wales and lots of mountains, The Cambrian Way is one of the best road trips in the UK.

The longest Welsh ride we’ve featured on our list, it’s an official route, and it’s probably the most popular road trip in the nation. It runs from the Welsh capital of Cardiff (right in the south of the nation) through to Conwy, a castled resort town on the nation’s northern coast.

But though it begins and ends in coastal territory, the route mainly passes over mountains. It runs through the Brecon Beacons, Elan Valley, the Cambrian Mountains, and parts of Snowdonia National Park.

If you want to take some hilly hiking detours, you have endless options. Snowdon is of course the most popular choice, but there are also lots of wanders in and around nearby Beddgelert. But don’t overlook the southern mountain ranges, which are quieter and arguably more interesting.

Non-hiking highlights include the narrow-gauge Brecon Mountain Railway , Gwydir Castle , and Adventure Parc Snowdonia , but there’s plenty more fun.

• Distance: 240 miles/386km
• Itinerary: Linear route from Cardiff to Conwy via the Brecon Beacons, Elan Valley, the Cambrian Mountains, and parts of Snowdonia National Park
• Recommended Time : 2-10 days
• Highlights: Endless hiking side-trips, Snowdonia National Park, Elan Valley, Conwy, Cardiff, and tackling the longest Welsh road trip on our list

Another official Welsh road trip, the Coastal Way is another south-to-north odyssey through Wales.

But instead of cutting inland through peaks and passes, it instead runs along the coast, taking riders along some of the nation’s best beaches and coastal settlements. The route meanders from St Davids to Aberdaron, following the coast pretty much all the way.

If you like seas, sands and shores, this is one of the best road trips in the UK. Some of the best beaches along the route include Whitesands Bay, Tywyn Beach, and Llangrannog Beach, but there are many more. Make sure you also stop off at the lovely seaside settlements of Abersoch, Cardigan, Aberaeron, and Llangrannog.

All of that said, this ride isn’t all beaches and bays—you also get some good inland hiking opportunities. The northern part of the ride runs west of Snowdonia National Park, while the southern Preseli Hills are great for low-level wanders.

Last of all, make sure you also spend some time in both St Davids and Aberdaron. While St Davids is the pilgrimage-famed smallest city in Britain, Aberdaron is a quaint former fishing village.

• Distance: 180 miles/290km
• Itinerary: Linear route from St Davids to Aberdaron, following the coast all the way
• Recommended Time : 3-10 days
• Highlights: Whitesands Bay, Tywyn Beach, Llangrannog Beach, Abersoch, Cardigan, Aberaeron, St Davids, the Preseli Hills, and seeing countless hidden highlights of the beautiful Welsh coast

The Borders Historic Route is the most underrated Scottish road trip we’ve featured on this list.

Starting from just inside England, the ride then runs all the way to Edinburgh, passing through some of the most history-stuffed parts of southern Scotland.

If you’re interested in history and heritage, make sure you check out Gilnockie Tower , Abbotsford House , and the National Mining Museum of Scotland . And of course, when you reach Scotland’s capital of Edinburgh , there’s plenty of historic stuff to explore there too.

Along the route, you’ll also pass some serene towns and villages, including Langholm, Hawick, Selkirk and Galashiels.

Broadly speaking, this route is very rural and quiet, with lots of rarely-visited settlements and attractions. If you’re interested in Scottish history, lowland Scotland, or being surrounded by few other tourists, you’ll definitely love this ride. It’s not the most dramatic or scenic route in Scotland, but it’s endlessly charming.

• Location: Scotland (and a tiny bit of England)
• Distance: 89 miles/143 km
• Itinerary: Linear waymarked route from Scots Dyke to Edinburgh
• Recommended Time : 3-4 days
• Highlights: Exploring an underrated part of Scotland, the settlements of Hawick, Selkirk and Galashiels, the borderland lowlands, the history and heritage, and an excellent finale in Edinburgh

For seeing very-famous places, this is definitely one of the best road trips in the UK.

The Lake District National Park is the most well-known hiking hub in the entirety of England, and masses of locals travel here for hiking, cycling, swimming, and various other outdoor adventures.

There are endless beautiful drives in and around the region, but for seeing lots of the highlights, here’s what I recommend…

Start in Ambleside, right in the middle of the park. Head east (via the shores of Ullswater) to Pooley Bridge, then cut west to Keswick and Cockermouth. From Cockermouth, head south to Broughton-in-Furness, then back to Ambleside to complete your route.

If you take no detours (though you probably will!), this ride clocks in at 110 miles (177km).

It’s impossible to squeeze all of the Lake District highlights into one drive, but this route does a pretty good job of doing exactly that. It offers Helvellyn, Coniston Water, Keswick, Windermere, Ullswater, all the places we’ve already mentioned, and some of the best panoramas of the park’s various areas.

If you have time, I recommend hiking up Helvellyn, and walking along the entire southern shore of Ullswater.

• Distance: 110 miles/177km
• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending in Ambleside, via Ullswater, Pooley Bridge, Keswick, Cockermouth, and Broughton-in-Furness
• Highlights: Ambleside, Coniston Water, Keswick, Windermere, seeing the most famous national park in the UK, hiking up Helvellyn, and walking along the shores of Ullswater

Probably the most well-known driving route in England, The Atlantic Highway runs across some of the most famous beaches in the UK.

The ‘Atlantic Highway’, in truth, is just a better-sounding name for the A39 road, a beautiful drive that runs through a western part of southern England.

Though most people only drive from Bridgwater to Bude (which is around 100 miles/160km), I think it’s best to take the route a little further, traveling all the way from Bath to Newquay. If you take the longer route, it measures in at around 210 miles (338km).

Along the way, you’ll pass some of the best parts of the Devon and Cornwall coasts, which many people think are the best shorelines in the whole of the UK. And as another big perk, this is one of the warmest parts of the region, perfect if you’re trying to dodge shoddy weather.

One of the best road trips in the UK for seas and sands, it’s phenomenal. But be warned: it gets outrageously busy in summer… so you should expect lots of crowds and traffic, and you should try to tackle it outside of peak season.

• Distance: Around 210 miles/338km
• Itinerary: Linear route from Bath to Newquay, following the coastline all the way
• Recommended Time : 5-10 days
• Highlights: Bath, Bude, Porlock, Ilfracombe, Woolacombe, lots of beaches, cliffs and sands, and enjoying the warm climes of the hottest part of the UK

The South West Coastal 300 takes you to some of the most overlooked parts of Scotland’s brilliant coastline.

Most people have heard about the northern and northwestern coastlines of Scotland… but way fewer know about all the treats and treasures on Scotland’s southwestern coast.

Some of the highlights include Ayr, Stranraer, Newton Stewart, the Mull of Galloway lighthouse, Girvan, Portpatrick, Moffat and Whithorn. Portpatrick in particular is a big local hotspot, and it’s one of my favorite seaside villages in Scotland.

You also get great seafood, rolling hills, mini lochs, and some underrated hiking opportunities. The entire route circles around Galloway Forest Park , which I think is the best walking region in southern Scotland. Best of all, because this area isn’t yet overrun by tourists, locals are super friendly and welcoming, and love chatting with visitors.

If you want beaches, hikes and villages without crowds, this is one of the best road trips in the UK.

• Distance: 300 miles/482km
• Itinerary: Signposted loop starting and ending in many potential places (but Dumfries is best)
• Recommended Time : 7-14 days
• Highlights: Newton Stewart, Girvan, Portpatrick, the stretch of coast between Ayr and Stranraer, Galloway Forest Park, great seafood, and enjoying coasts without crowds

The High Mournes Scenic Loop takes you through the most impressive part of the Mournes mountains, in the southern part of Northern Ireland.

If you’re looking for short but impressive, this is one of the best road trips in the UK, and it’s crammed with peaks, panoramas and passes at every twist, turn, and hairpin bend.

In and around the area, there are mountains, lakes, seaside views, and forests—so although the route only clocks in at 32 miles (51km), there’s a huge amount of variety. Best of all, the route skirts around Slieve Donard, the highest mountain in Northern Ireland (with a highest point of 850 meters/2790 feet).

Start in the beautiful seaside town of Newcastle, then follow the B180 and the B27 roads, which will lead you to the village of Attica. From Attica, head east, and you’ll hit Annalong, a tiny marina-fronted village where most people end their trip. But I recommend not stopping here—instead, you should turn this trip into a loop by riding along the coast back to Newcastle.

It’s almost unbelievable how much beauty, variety and awe you can cram into a trip this small. If you’re short on time, I 100% recommend it.

• Distance: 32 miles/51km
• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending in Newcastle
• Recommended Time : 1-3 hours
• Highlights: Newcastle, Annalong, climbing up Slieve Donard, pretty coastal views, the tucked-away lakes, and seeing what might just be the most dramatic mountains in Northern Ireland

Though they’re famous, the Norfolk and Suffolk Coasts (in the southeast of England) are often overlooked in favor of the coastlines in the southwest of England (where you find the Atlantic Highway, which we’ve already outlined).

But this region is absolutely beautiful, and it’s definitely worth exploring.

Because it’s such a big area, there are of course lots of routes you can attempt in the region. But I’m going to recommend driving from Felixstowe to Huntstanton, which is a pretty lengthy drive of around 180 miles (290km).

If you ride the whole route, you’ll hit the three best parts of the region: the Norfolk Coast Area of Natural Beauty, The Norfolk Broads, and The Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Natural Beauty.

The coastlines are the most famous part of this ride, but this part of the nation also has some pretty good low-level hills and hiking… if you want a compromise between shorelines and mountains, you won’t find any better than this.

If you’re interested in birds, this is one of the best road trips in the UK—there are many RSPB reserves in this part of the region.

• Distance: Around 180 miles/290km
• Itinerary: Linear route from Felixstowe to Huntstanton, following the coast all the way
• Recommended Time : 5-8 days
• Highlights: Hunstanton, Blakeney Point (where you’ll find the largest seal colony in England), Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft, and the three officially-designated areas of natural beauty

Another great option for a short ride, the route from Belleek to Teemore is in an underrated part of Northern Ireland, and it’s brimming with endless lakeside views.

It’s not an official drive, but it’s one of my favorites… and it’s absolutely beautiful. But here’s the important part: when you tackle it, don’t take the direct route. Instead, follow the A46 out of Belleek, which will bring you along the southwestern shores of Lower Lough Erne.

One of the prettiest lakes in Northern Ireland, it’s full of great views, excellent picnic spots, and lots of tiny islands. Other highlights along this part of the route include the Cliffs of Magho , Blackslee Waterfall , and Tully Castle .

Eventually, you’ll hit the town of Enniskillen, which is great for an overnight stay. From here, pass both Lisnaskea and Teemore on a pretty ride which takes you over the shores of Upper Lough Erne.

During this part of the ride, make sure you check out the oddly-situated Hare Krishna Temple, which sits on a small island inside the lake.

When you get to Teemore, you’re super close to the Republic of Ireland border. I recommend crossing the border for even more adventures!

• Distance: 38 miles/61km
• Itinerary: Linear route from Belleek to Teemore, via Enniskillen
• Recommended Time : 1-2 days
• Highlights: The Cliffs of Magho, Blackslee Waterfall, Teemore, Enniskillen, the strange Hare Kirishna temple, lots of tiny islands, and endless lakeside views

And that brings us to the end of our guide to the 19 best road trips in the UK . Thanks for reading!

We compiled this list from our collections of the best road trips in England , the best road trips in Scotland , the best road trips in Wales and the best road trips in Northern Ireland . So for even more detail, rev on over to those.

And if you’re curious, here’s the answer to the popular question: How Long Does it Take To Travel Across Great Britain?

About the author

Senior Travel Reporter

Paul is a handsome and hilarious travel writer and travel journalist from the UK. He's hiked, hitchhiked and laughed his way through more than fifty countries, and he's always looking for a new place to call home. Originally from Newcastle, he's lived all over the UK, spent more than three years in Asia, and most recently lived in Vietnam and then in Georgia.

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7 of the best road trips around the UK

The U.K. has more than 260,000 miles of road ready to explore. As fun alternative to flying, a road trip can bring everyone together. From the unspoilt Welsh coast to the rugged Scottish Highlands, a road trip is a time to crank up your favorite power ballads, explore those roads less travelled and compare highway gas stations.

There are many stunning road trip options around the fair isles. Our favorites are below as they are fun to drive and include amazing scenery and things to do. We have also included ideas on where to stay from the luxurious to the adventurous.

Getting around

Road trips need cars, right? Make sure to choose the best credit cards for your car rental, which include upgraded status at the likes of Avis and Hertz, the ability to earn airline miles and enhanced insurance.

For something a little different, you can hire a Turo , the world's largest car-sharing marketplace. It basically allows the car owner to earn money by sharing their car whenever they're not using it. Turo has a wide selection of cars including classics, convertibles, SUVs and more.

Peak District to the Lake District

Driving through Windermere, the Yorkshire Dales and Manchester, start the road trip with two beautiful National Parks -- the Lake District and the Peak District. The Lake District is a great place to start this self-guided road trip with 912 square miles of high mountains, coastline and, of course, 50 lakes and tarns.

In the Peak District, Chatsworth House is well worth a stop, as it is one of the U.K.'s favorite stately homes with 30 magnificent rooms, a 105-acre garden, parkland, a farmyard and one of Britain's best farm shops. A visit to the Peak District isn't complete without a visit to the birthplace of the Bakewell Pudding before setting off to the bright lights of Manchester .

How long will it take? Four to five days.

Where to stay: The DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park Hotel is located on the doorstep of the beautiful National Peak District, has a large spa and is a good base for South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire. Rooms start at about $80 per night.

Oxford and the Cotswolds

Driving through Ross-on-Wye, the Cotswolds, Cheltenham, Gloucester and Oxford, this road trip is for those of you looking for a quintessentially British weekend starting with historic Oxford then chocolate-box Cotswold villages before heading over the border to Wales.

Related : 6 tips for surviving a road trip with a large family

This route will wind you through many Areas of Outstanding Natural beauty. The Cotswolds covers a huge area of almost 800 square miles and runs through five counties (Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire and Worcestershire). Stretch your legs with 3,000 miles of footpaths and bridleways to explore, wildflower meadows and 4,000 miles of historic Cotswold stone walls dividing up the landscape.

How long will it take? Three to four days.

Where to stay: Malmesbury is strategically well located on this road trip and Whatley Manor is great for some pampering. This luxury manor house hotel is set in the beautiful Cotswolds countryside with 12 acres of gardens, a spa with an indoor/outdoor pool and not one but two Michelin Stars. Prices start at about $340 per night.

The Coastal Way

Starting at St Davids in the south, winding through to Aberdaron on the tip of the wild Llŷn Peninsula in the north, this Welsh road trip shows off sandy beaches, harbor villages and hidden coves.

Driving through St Davids, Mwnt Beach, Cardigan and Portmeirion will take you through two National Parks. From the comfort of your car to a train, there are seven heritage railways within Snowdonia -- with arguably the best being the scenic Snowdon Mountain Railway and the dainty Talyllyn Railway.

Mwnt Beach is well worth a stop. This sandy beach in the summer is home to dolphins, seals and porpoises. You'll drive down country lanes to be presented with dramatic views over Cardigan Bay. Look out for the tiny white picturesque Church of the Holy Cross above the beach.

How long will it take? Six to seven days

Where to stay : The Quay Hotel & Spa in Deganwy epitomizes cool sophistication on the North Wales coast. Set on the idyllic Conwy Estuary, expect awe-inspiring views of the most magical scenery in North Wales. Rooms start from $240 per night.

The Black Mountain Pass

From the coast to the mountains, this mini road trip has spectacular Brecon Beacons scenery, Tywi Valley views and is the road trip is for driving fans full of hairpin bends and switchbacks.

Start in the north at Llandovery, crossing the dragon's humps of Pont Aber and Herbert's Pass then cascade down to the village of Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen. Along the way, you'll be met by wayward sheep, proper Welsh farmers, rustic farmhouses or even a motoring journalist as thanks to Jeremy Clarkson, it's also known as the Top Gear road.

How long will it take? One day, though it's far better to extend your trip and stay in the Brecon Beacons area for the weekend.

Where to stay : The Charcoal Hut is somewhere to stay if you want to walk straight into the Brecon Beacons from your door, then come home to the romance of a cozy hut with a hot tub. Bliss. Cabins from $140 per night.

This fairly new road trip launched in 2019 and covers 200 miles around the heart of Scotland . The round trip from Stirling takes you through Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park up to Cairngorms National Park and down through Perthshire. Easily done in a weekend, you can also whizz down the road from Glasgow and Edinburgh .

Heart 200 is the road trip that has something for everyone from castles, distilleries (gin and whisky), stunning nature and delicious pubs and eateries. On the way down from the Heart 200, check out Scotland's National Museum of Flight where you can get up close and personal to Scotland's only Concorde .

How long will it take? Two to three days

Where to stay: Macdonald Aviemore Resort is situated at the very heart of the Cairngorms National Park with a choice of three four-star hotels and 18 woodland lodges. Its loyalty scheme called Fans of Macdonald Hotels, offering discounts when booking for short breaks, dining experiences and spa treatments and competitions. Rooms start at about $170 a night.

Related : Whisky, walking and wonderful views: The ultimate Scottish road trip

North Coast 500

Scotland's answer to Route 66 and possibly named after the famous Proclaimers song, the North Coast 500 will take you to the furthest reaches of the Highlands. Start in Inverness and look for Nessie at nearby Loch Ness before spending the week discovering fairy-tale castles, beaches and Scottish villages. Just watch out for wayward Highland cows and stags.

Meander through the east coast villages of Dornoch and Wick to Aultbea and Ullapool on the west coast. Ullapool overlooks the shores of Loch Broom and is home to the award-winning Highland Liquor Company which produces Seven Crofts gin, named after the original seven private dwellings that made up Ullapool in 1791. Stop off for a tour of the distillery and of course tastings for the lucky adults not driving -- or better still spend the night here.

How long will it take? Five to six days.

Where to stay: The road trip takes you along rural areas so booking in advance is advisable. Ullapool is also home to The Ceilidh Place -- a quirky low-key TV-free literature themed hotel with a restaurant offering local seafood. Try the Loch Broom langoustines with lemon mayo and salsa verde. Rooms from $215 per night.

Northern Ireland

Causeway coastal route.

Starting in either Derry or Belfast , head to the coast where you'll pass the Giant's Causeway, the Dark Hedges (as seen in Game of Thrones) and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge -- from where you can sometimes see Scotland on a clear day. Then head for the Gobbins Cliff Path, north of Belfast, an ambitious walkway chiseled out of basalt rock with hammers.

The white sands and azure waters of Whitepark Bay also make for a lovely stop. Rathlin, Northern Ireland's only inhabited offshore island, sits around halfway along the route and is home to an RSPB reserve. Its resident guillemots, razorbills and puffins satisfy aviation needs of a different kind and are a must-see if birdwatching is your thing.

How long will it take? Three to four days. There are ferry companies like Stena Line with regular sailings that will transport you and your car to Northern Ireland.

Where to stay: Belfast has plenty of things to do and has two good Radisson Rewards options: the Radisson Blu at 44,000 points (or around $100 midweek) per night and the Park Inn at 38,000 points (or around $85 midweek) per night.

Bottom line

Whether it's your summer vacation or a week away from the office, none of these routes will disappoint as they offer so much variety whether you are looking for a short weekend trip or a full-on week of discovery.

10 Best Destinations to Visit with Friends from the UK

Where to travel as a group from the uk.

Round up your friends for a trip to one of these fantastic destinations that offer plenty of fun activities and attractions to enjoy as a group. If you’re anything like us, it’s been a while since you were able to spend some quality time with your besties – try to carve out a few days exploring somewhere new or revisiting a familiar place to make new memories.

We have a nice mix of destinations near and far for you to consider, so whether you're looking for a long weekend or a whole week of rest and relaxation, let us help you make your next group trip an unforgettable one.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Ramble along the canals and soak up the easy-going vibes.

Amsterdam is up there with Europe’s finest city breaks for groups of friends to enjoy. Flights to Amsterdam from anywhere in the UK take just over 1 hour, making this a great option for a short break. Rent some bicycles and explore the Old City on 2 wheels, get cultural in the Museum District, and linger along the canals enjoying the many quaint restaurants and curbside cafés.

The Dutch capital is famed for its canals, and a sightseeing trip from the water is a more leisurely way to see the city. For shopping, De Negen Straatjes (The 9 Streets) is home to famous retailers, kitsch souvenir shops, and independent boutiques. Come nightfall, head to Leidseplein Square to mix and mingle with friendly locals in bars and restaurants.

London, England

Take a trip to your own capital city.

London is a city with a prestigious history, which can excite Brits as much as international travelers. Explore the world-famous museums and galleries such as The British Museum and Tate Modern, before heading to Westminster on the banks of the River Thames where you’ll find the Houses of Parliament.

In summer, a trip around Hyde Park is always fun. During the colder months, you can go on a culinary adventure in Borough Market, home to some of London’s best food stalls. Other fun ideas for groups in London include afternoon tea at a famous hotel and enjoying the sunset from a rooftop viewpoint. Read more…

10 Best Nudist Beaches in the UK

Edinburgh Waverley Train Station

Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh

Ibiza, spain, spain’s most cosmopolitan island in the mediterranean sea.

Ibiza is one of Europe's most sought-after destinations for a trip with friends. Laidback yet luxe, the island’s lifestyle combines the best of Spanish culture with an undoubtedly cosmopolitan vibe.

Days are spent chilling at beach clubs or exploring the arid interior of the island, while night times can be spent in any of the island’s fantastic restaurants and bars in Ibiza Town or enjoying the more down-to-earth vibes found in San Antonio on the north coast. If you’re in the mood for some exploration, take a short ferry ride across to Formentera Island, which feels very much like Ibiza did half a century ago. Read more…

Las Vegas, Nevada

America’s neon-drenched desert city is popular for group trips.

Las Vegas is a neon-drenched city in the middle of Nevada's Mojave Desert that’s renowned for group trips. I’m sure you’ve all seen at least 1 movie based on the premise. Best known for its glitzy casinos and lavish experiences, come here for entertainment on an American scale – big, bold, and brash.

The Strip is the epicenter of Las Vegas and home to the most iconic Vegas casinos, world-famous live shows, and over 50 resorts. Most group trips to Las Vegas revolve around the Strip, but it would be a mistake not to take a trip out into the desert to enjoy the stark beauty of the Mojave Desert and the Grand Canyon. Read more…

Paris, France

Great for adventurous foodie groups.

Paris is unwaveringly popular for Brits thanks to its close proximity and proud Gallic culture. Sightseeing can fill an entire week’s itinerary here, with names that roll off the tongue including the Arc de Triomphe, Sacré-Coeur Basilica and The Louvre. A feature of the city much loved by visitors is how important cultural heritage is to the French and how well the landmarks in Paris have been looked after.

Of course, any trip to Paris means sampling some of the world’s finest cuisine. From steak frites smothered in Café de Paris butter to the everyday experience of snacking on a warm baguette fresh out of the boulangerie , food and food culture is often a central part of a trip here. Read more…

Miami, Florida

Florida’s fun-loving beachside city.

Miami combines modern city convenience with a diverse culture and stunning beaches. South Beach is an excellent place to stay on a friends’ trip. You can enjoy a few hours of sunbathing, enjoy some tasty Latino cuisine, and take a stroll along Ocean Drive. This is where people come to see and be seen, which gives you and your crew more than enough people-watching opportunities.

For a change of pace, Downtown Miami has many interesting museums and attractions lining Biscayne Bay. If you’re looking for a more secluded spot in Miami, the Oleta River State Park is a 1,000-acre nature reserve that's covered in mangrove forests and crisscrossed by hiking trails. Read more…

Dublin, Ireland

A city full of friendly locals and irish craic.

Dublin is a lively city with a small downtown area, making it a favorite for large groups who want to be within walking distance of most of the top attractions. It’s not short of fun things to do either. Whether strolling down the main thoroughfare of Grafton Street or enjoying the live music in the pubs of Temple Bar, many of Dublin's best experiences come from immersing yourself in local life. Choose accommodations close to the River Liffey and you'll be well placed no matter what your interests are.

If you and your friends are planning more than a few days in Dublin then a day trip is advised. You can take the train to Howth in less than 30 minutes – this fishing village is home to Howth Castle and some medieval ruins. Read more…

Bangkok, Thailand

Tuk-tuks, rooftop bars, and world-class shopping and dining.

Bangkok is one of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating cities for you and your friends to explore, with adventure at every corner. There's a timeless charm to Bangkok, thanks to the gleaming temples and smiling locals. The city continues to modernize, with ever more attractions and improving transportation links, but the laidback culture and great value 5-star accommodations can still be found throughout the city.

Thanks to the diversity found in Thailand’s capital, you can shop for local fashion and jewelry at markets like Chatuchak or head to ultra-modern shopping malls – Icon Siam, EmQuartier, and CentralWorld – for the world's finest brand names. Come mealtimes, Bangkok gives you and your friends plenty of choices. You can enjoy delicious Thai food from street vendors or swanky Michelin-starred restaurants. Read more…

Berlin, Germany

Enjoy art and history in germany’s most diverse city.

Berlin's is one of Europe's most alluring capitals, with a rugged charm that's all its own. Many different neighbourhoods offer large groups plenty to discover. From the leafy neighbourhoods of West Berlin to the cultural gems found on Museum Island and the hipster enclaves of East Berlin, the city has many different faces for you to see.

If you’re interested in 20 th -century history then a visit to Checkpoint Charlie is probably on the cards during your trip. Then take the opportunity to visit the nearby Disgusting Food Museum, which offers an amusing look at exotic foods from around the world. If you're looking for shopping, dining, and nightlife all in 1 place, check out Alexanderplatz in East Berlin – it's directly beneath TV Tower, Berlin's tallest building. Read more…

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Gran Canaria

Gran canaria’s capital city has activities from morning till night.

Las Palmas is the largest city on Gran Canaria and the best place on the island to find a combination of sandy bays, ancient history, and exciting nightlife. The year-round sunshine found in the Canary Islands also makes this a great option for some winter sun.

Start your day in Plaza de Santa Ana in the Old Town of Las Palmas and explore narrow, cobblestone alleys and several 16 th -century landmarks. Be sure to stop for a group photo in front of the Castillo de la Luz (Castle of Light) before heading to Playa de Las Canteras for a leisurely meal with ocean views. Come nightfall, the center of the action is Parque de Santa Catalina, a block back from the marina. You and your crew can enjoy many alfresco restaurants and bars, balmy temperatures, and a buzzing atmosphere.

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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12 Best Day Trips In England

Honestly, there’s a huge amount of places in England to explore, especially on a sunny day. We’re so fortunate to have a whole heap of the best day trips in England that are dotted all across the country. With everything from tropical-like islands to magnificent castles .

That being said, it can be pretty tough to nail down a few of the best day trips in England to head out on. This is especially true when you’ve got such a huge amount to see.

This is exactly why I wanted to share some of the best day trips in England that everyone can enjoy.

Now, rather than just focusing on one area of England (after all, we’re not all based in London , Manchester etc), I thought I’d pop a few suggestions that are dotted all across the country.

This’ll hopefully give you a load of relatively local spots to visit for one of the best day trips in England.

With that in mind, take a look at some of the best day trips in England that I’m sure you’ll love. Have the best trip!

1.) The Cotswolds

For me, visiting the Cotswolds is easily one of the best day trips in England. This is especially true if you’re based around Bristol , Bath or further north, too.

Nestled within a protected area of outstanding natural beauty, the Cotswolds is filled with rolling hills and quaint little villages and towns to boot! It’s the kind of place where you can spend a day driving around the country lanes and randomly just come across the prettiest little places.

Once here, make sure to explore Bibury and see the iconic Arlington Row . The houses are so quaint. Afterwards, take a little drive to Stow-on-the-Wold or visit Castlecombe that is equally idyllic.

To make things really easy, book this incredible Cotswolds tour from London. Along the way, you’ll stop at Bibury, Burford, Stow-on-the-Wold and more.

Just be sure to book your tour before arriving in London as the tour can fill up fast at peak times. Alternatively, check out the tours that have slightly different routes, too.

Read more: Best places to visit in the Cotswolds

Not too far from the Cotswolds, Bath is a Roman city that’s totally steeped in history.

It’s a totally stunning city and one of the best day trips in England as it’s only a few hours by train from central London.

Once here, you’ve got to go visit the Roman baths that you can still tour to this day. Also, pop into Sally Lunn’s for some of her iconic buns that are famous in Bath.

They’re so tasty and a must-have when hunger strikes.

Afterwards, take a stroll around the town and see Bath Abbey and the circus, too. It’s a present of houses that are so beautiful and totally unique.

Finally, after strolling the cobbled streets, pop over to the Thermae Spa pool that’s heated by geothermal activity. Their outdoor pool is just so nice.

Though be warned, you can easily get sunburned, especially on a sunny day. Lather yourself in sun protection, like the ones Bioderma produce that’s not using nano mineral filters and are better for the environment.

Plus, you won’t look like a lobster when you leave the spa! 

After a little dip, head inside for one of their massage treatments, too. They’re amazing.

Also, be sure to book this Bath walking tour with optional Roman Bath tickets . It’s a great way to explore the whole city and see all the main spots.

Just be sure to book before arriving in Bath; places fill up on weekends and you don’t want to miss out.

Read more: Best things to do in Bath

3.) Peak District

Being the oldest national park in the country, the Peak District is a totally gorgeous area to explore.

Plus, it’s one of the best day trips in England if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Once here, make sure to ramble around Winnats Pass , visit the underground river and take a tour in a historic car across the hills and valleys. It’s so picturesque.

Read more: Exploring the Peak District

4.) Cambridge

Now, after living in Cambridge for a year, I’ve come to realise how special this place is. You see, it’s not only steeped in history but it also has a shed load of gorgeous foodie spots and stunning university grounds to see, too.

Only 45-minutes from central London by train, it’s totally easy to visit if you’re wanting to see one of England’s prettiest little cities.

Yeah, it’s much smaller than the likes of London or Birmingham but it has a charm that is well-worth experiencing.

After arriving in Cambridge, make sure to head over to King’s College Chapel and see the ornate works that have stood for centuries.

Afterwards, book these tickets and hop on board a guided punting tour of Cambridge at your own pace. It’s so much fun, even in the colder months when you wrap up warm.

Alternatively, check out the (below) tours of Cambridge which are great options, too.

Read more: Best things to do in Cambridge

5.) The Jurassic Coast

Nestled on the south coast of England, the Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO-protected area of England that’s pretty unique.

You see, what makes the Jurassic Coast so special is its geological formations and the fact you can go fossil hunting , too.

Once here, take a stroll on the beach and keep your eyes peeled! If you’re patient, you’ll end up finding quite a few fossils that you’re actually allowed to keep. Though, no digging into the cliffs isn’t allowed.

Some people have even found dinosaur skeletons, too. It’s such a special place and a perfect spot for one of the best day trips in England.

After scouring the beach, head over to Corfe Castle for a wander around this ancient village.

Finally, pop over to see Durdle Door and ramble to Old Harry Rocks that’s totally beautiful on a sunny day.

Read more: How to go fossil hunting on the Jurassic Coast

Situated within Yorkshire, York is a Viking city that’s got a history dating back over 1,000 years.

Plus, it’s also a relatively small city which makes it one of the best day trips in England if you’re already in the area.

After arriving in the city, take a wander over to York Cathedral and climb the stairs to the views from the roof. You’ll get a gorgeous view of the walled city from up here.

Afterwards, head on over to the Shambles that’s a street that’s so quaint and pretty. It almost looks like it has fallen out of Harry Potter!

Afterwards, take a wander around the city walls, visit the castle and even head to Roots for a delicious seasonal meal.

It’s one of my favourite spots; plus, they have the tastiest cocktails.

Finally, if you want to take to the water, book these self-drive boats around York . It’s so much fun for a morning; we loved it. 

Read more: Best things to do in York

7.) Newcastle

Being England’s most northerly city, Newcastle is one of the best day trips in England if you’re heading up (or down) the east coast.

You see, over the last few decades, Newcastle has really made a name for itself as a great little city break, especially with all the things to do there.

If you love art, then check out the Laing Art Gallery or the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art. These are great spots to visit, especially if the weather gets a little wet!

Afterwards, pop down to Sage, and wander the Riverside to see the Tyne Bridge. It’s an iconic part of Newcastle. You honestly can’t miss it.

Read more: Best places in Newcastle to visit

8.) Northumberland Coast

Northumberland has a nickname as ‘castle country’ and it’s easy to see why once you arrive. It’s the county that has the most castles out of any in England and they’re totally stunning.

Once here, make sure to check out Bamburgh Castle which is huge and so imposing. Also, don’t forget to see Dunstanburgh Castle and Alnwick Castle, too. Now, you probably won’t have enough time to visit them all when searching for the best day trips in England, but you can certainly give it a shot.

Alternatively, stay for a few days and head out to see Holy Island that’s totally unique! It’s a tidal island that gets cut off from the mainland every day, so be sure to plan your trip in advance.

Once here, you can visit Lindisfarne Castle and even try some of the monks’ mead that they produce on the island (and is made from honey).

Read more: Best places in the north of England to visit

9.) Lake District

One of England’s newest UNESCO world-heritage-sites, the Lake District is just beautiful.

With around sixteen lakes in all, the Lake District is a great place to visit if you love the outdoors and you’re already in the northwest of England.

Now, the most famous lake to visit has to be Windermere, but if you want to avoid the crowds, pop over to the quieter (but still big) Ullswater.

From here, you can stay in places like Another Place and ramble around the hills and countryside before heading out onto the lake itself.

We decided on paddle boarding and also taking the traditional steamer across the lake itself.

It really is a stunning area of England and, if I’m honest, a great place to spend longer than just one day.

Read more: Best things to do in the Lake District

10.) St. Ives

Cornwall is a totally beautiful area within England to explore. Better still, it’s a really easy place to visit for one of the best day trips in England when you’re already in the southwest of the country.

Whilst here, make sure to check out the sandy beaches of St. Ives, take a wander around the town and find some of the best places to eat.

Pop into the Cellar Bistro for their freshly-caught sea bream and haddock that is always so tasty.

Alternatively, pop into the Mermaid Seafood Restaurant which serves some tasty seafood, too. Their hake is so yummy and the restaurant is so cute.

Read more: Best things to do in Cornwall

11.) Arundel

Situated around a 100-minute drive from central London, Arundel is dominated by its incredible castle that’s something to behold!

Occupied by the Howard family, it has a history that dates back almost 1,000 years. Nowadays, you can head inside the grounds and the grand rooms that still overlook the town of Arundel itself.

Once here, make sure to scale the Norman Motte and see the views of the quadrangle and courtyard of the castle itself.

Afterwards, head into the staterooms and libraries to get a glimpse of what castle life is really like. It’s totally incredible.

Read more: Visiting Arundel Castle in West Sussex

12.) Windsor

If you’re already in London, Windsor is probably one of the easiest (and arguably) one of the best day trips in England. You see, it’s only about 30-minutes on the train, right from the heart of central London.

Before arriving, be sure to book these tickets and head inside Windsor Castle and explore some of the staterooms and iconic grounds which the royal family call home.

You’ll likely spend about 3-4 hours here, so plan your day trip in advance.

Afterwards, pop over to Eton and take a boat trip down the River, too. It’s a great way to relax and see more of the area on a sunny day.

Read more: Best things to do in Windsor

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12 BEST Day Trips From Cambridge, England

Spend the day at a safari park, exploring london or experiencing what royal life was once like with these fantastic day trips from cambridge..

Cambridge is without a doubt one of the most beautiful cities in Great Britain.

Home to Cambridge University, it’s infamous for its stunning architecture and the River Cam running through the city. Full of history and culture dating back over 1,000 years, there’s so much to do. However, if you’re looking for a day trip further afield, we’ve compiled a list of the best day trips from Cambridge.

If you’re on holiday and staying in the city for more than a few days, then we always recommend people go on a day trip to see what’s around the city. And trust me, there is a lot to see and do around Cambridge!

From popular cities like London and Norwich, to safari parks and manor houses, there’s a day trip for everyone. We love visiting Sandringham and learning all about the royal lifestyle. Or perhaps you’d prefer checking out the history at Audley’s End and Ely. 

For family friendly days out, head to Colchester and Thetford Forest. We highly recommend the drive in safari at Woburn Safari Park. There’s even days at the beach or hiking in the countryside for good measure!

If you’re looking for the perfect day out from Cambridge then keep reading to see what you can do.

If you’re staying in Cambridge for a bit, make sure you check out our list of the best punting tours in the city. This guide is perfect for first-time visitors to the city!

Best Day Trips from Cambridge

Audley’s end manor house.

Nestled amongst the Essex countryside is this gorgeous Manor House from the Jacobean era. The English Heritage owned building is only a 35 minute drive from Cambridge, making it the perfect place to spend the morning or afternoon.

As you discover the home you can watch actors play out life as it would have been as they prepare for the family of the house to return.

You can even venture through the Victorian stable and acres of parkland with your little ones. There’s a surprising amount to do here, and the kids will love it too.

Ely, once home to Oliver Cromwell, is one of the smallest cities in England. Here you can explore the history of Oliver Cromwell’s house or visit Ely Museum, which used to be a jail. 

If you’re a fan of The Crown you’re going to want to visit Ely Cathedral, which was used to film some scenes. There’s even a stained glass museum inside where you can marvel at the art. 

Don’t forget to try the infamous delicacy before you go – smoked eels caught from the River Great Ouse. I promise you it’s a lot tastier than it sounds!

Sandringham

For a regal day out visit the royal residence of Norfolk. King George VI once made his wartime speech from Sandringham Estate . Take a tour around the historic 18th century house and discover how the other half live. 

The Royal Parkland is dog friendly, making it the perfect family friendly Cambridge day trip. Cycle or walk around the grounds or check out the children’s play area. You can even grab an afternoon tea before you go.

Norfolk Coast

Explore 90 miles of coastline, including beaches, cliffs, salt marshes and estuaries, at Norfolk.

Choose one of the many beaches to relax on, from Heacham Beach to Caister Beach, or perhaps you’d prefer to discover one of the coastal cycling paths. 

Visit one of the many quaint nearby villages, like Cley-Next-The-Sea. You can even enjoy nature by birdwatching or hopping on a boat to spot the seal colony at Blakeney National Nature Reserve . 

One place we love and have written about extensively is Cromer. This is one of the most popular holiday hotspots on the Norfolk coast, so check out the best things to do in Cromer here!

Norwich 

Norwich was once the second most powerful mediaeval city, and is now the most complete mediaeval city in the UK. 

The city is littered with historical attractions. Norwich Castle was originally built as a Norman Royal Palace before being used as a prison. It is now a museum where you can learn all about the history of Norwich.

Walk along Elm Hill, one of the prettiest streets in England with its Tudor buildings. Don’t forget to marvel at the city walls which are still intact. 

Bury St Edmond’s

Bury St Edmond’s, now a serene old market town, is one of the best day trips from Cambridge. The abbey was once one of the richest and most powerful Benedictine monasteries in England. Now you can stroll through the abbey gardens and it is gorgeous.

Check out Moyse’s Hall Museum to learn about the history of Bury, rare timepieces, and witchcraft! Walk through Nowton Park and enjoy the arboretum, which is home to many exotic plants. If you’re into local produce you’re going to love the market. 

Head to the rival university town for a lovely day out. Known as the ‘City of Dreaming Spires’, Oxford is full of gorgeous architecture and stunning buildings to explore. 

Head to the Bodleian Library , which is one of the oldest libraries in Europe and the second biggest in Britain. Or check out Oxford castle and prison for an exciting day out.

Harry Potter fans are going to love visiting Christchurch college. Some of the Hogwarts scenes were filmed here too!

Nothing can beat a day trip to the capital. Just a short drive or train ride from Cambridge is the city of London. From food and theatre, to history and art, there’s something for everyone!

Check out one of the many museums – we recommend the Natural History Museum where you can visit Dippy the Diplodocus. Check out Camden market for your vintage clothes and delicious food or catch a show on the West End before you go.

Colchester 

Check out Colchester, Britain’s first city and the former capital of Roman Britain. You can expect to enjoy a mix of heritage and history amongst the 21st century culture. 

Head to the town centre to visit Colchester Castle Museum, Firstsite Art Gallery and Castle Park to see the best of what the city has to offer. You’re going to love Colchester Zoo for a wild family day out. 

Sutton Hoo is the site of two early mediaeval cemeteries dated from the 6th and 7th century.

Explore the High Hall exhibition to learn more about the Anglo-Saxons and see objects discovered at the infamous dig. You can even check out the Royal Burial Ground.

For a family friendly day you can explore the 245 acres of dog friendly walks or follow the sculpture trail on River View walk. Each sculpture is inspired by the creatures depicted on objects found at the dig site. 

Thetford Forest

For a relaxing day out from Cambridge explore Thetford , the UKs largest man made lowland forest.

Explore the miles of trails which are even accessible by horseback! Cycle or walk your way through the forest and check out the many species of animals it’s home to. 

At the centre of the forest is High Lodge Forest Centre , where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a well deserved ice cream. The adventure play area is perfect for little ones. Did you know, you can even hire a barbeque!

Woburn Safari Park

If you’re looking for a truly incredible day trip from Cambridge, Woburn Safari Park is the choice for you. Here you can drive through over 300 acres of parkland to discover lions, elephants, rhinos, and more!

We’d recommend checking out the foot safari where you can get up close and personal with red pandas, lemurs and wallabies. Oh, and don’t forget to experience one of the talks to learn all about your favourite animals.

There’s so many great day trips from Cambridge! Which will you choose?

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14 places to travel with your best friend

Updated On 27th May, 2021

Friends that travel together, stay together! Your bestie is the one person you can always rely on. The one that’s there to help you forget about all the hard days at work, the  difficult breakups  and to just generally embrace the good vibes with! They are also the perfect person to build a best friend bucket list with and tick off as many places to travel with your best friend as possible .

Jobs, colleagues, flings, hard times… they all come and go. But your best friend(s) will stick with you through it all. When you’ve got yourself a BFF, cherish them, appreciate them, and make the most of every second with them!  Life is short .

Get your pen and paper out and start your best friend bucket list for 2021.

Your best friend is the  perfect  adventure buddy. They know you inside out, perhaps even better than you know yourself. Creating a best friend travel bucket list together is such a fun task to do and  then there’s going out and ticking the adventures off!  Check out my guide to planning your next adventure here.

The memories you make as you work your way through your best friend bucket list are priceless. There are so many places to travel with your best friend that the adventures will last a lifetime. They are the memories you’ll be laughing about for years and years to come, especially if you  turn them into a scrapbook . Travelling and sharing memories is one of the best ways to  show your BFF that you love them .

If you’re looking for places to travel with your best friend, places to visit with your best friend or ideas for your best friend travel bucket list, this is the blog post for you. Go on, share this with your best friend, get your notepads out and get planning!

Check out my best friend bucket list here.

14 places to travel with your best friend...

1. australia.

Travelling or backpacking through Australia is high up on many people’s best friends bucket lists !  It’s not hard to see why Australia is one of the best places to travel with your best friend.

Maybe it’s the tropical climates, the wildlife, the laid-back beachy lifestyle, the epic road trips or the backpacker goals lifestyle that has you dreaming of a trip down under, or maybe it’s a combination of them all?

Whether you want to try a city break in Sydney , backpacking down the East Coast , a trip to the outback , or a laid back weekend in Byron Bay, there are so many best things to do in Australia that it can be hard to choose what to do first! Not to mention the bucket list trips to the Whitsundays , Fraser Island or the Great Barrier Reef! Wherever in Australia you decide to visit with your best friend, you’re sure to have an awesome time. 

Check out the best things to do in Australia here. 

2. Portugal

Portugal is somewhere I recently spent a fair amount of time in, exploring with my van and my girlfriends, and we absolutely loved it!  Portugal is 100% a stop off you should make on your European road trip or adventure. 

Portugal is a great place to travel with your best friend because there  are  many   awesome things to do in Portugal. W hether it’s for surfing in Nazare or Lagos , exploring the stunning city of Lisbon or relaxing on the Algarve, Portugal is definitely somewhere to add to your best friend bucket list. 

Whether you’re an avid surfer, walker, camper or beach bummer – Portugal is going to cater for you and your best friend… and some.

Check out the best things to do in Portugal here.

Travellers tend to give England a hard time for its rainfall but where there’s rain, there are lush greens. If you are your BFF love hiking, then a staycation in England is a great place for your best friend bucket list. The beautiful English countryside, such as that in Yorkshire ,  the Lake District ,  Devon  and the  South Downs  will be, without a doubt, one of the highlights of your English adventure and trust me, you’ll be missing the cosy English pub scene within days of departure. The most beautiful places in England are going to blow your mind.

From the bustling cities such as  London  and  Leeds , beachside towns in  Cornwall  and  Dorset , to the many Areas of Outstanding Beauty and  national parks , England really holds its own when it comes to choosing places to travel with your best friend. 

• 15 UK National Parks: which one should I visit?
• The best places to visit in England
• My favourite things to do in England
• Unique things to do in England

From taking on one of the incredible  French via ferratas , wine tasting in one of the French wine regions and hiking in the  French Alps  all the way to  Skiing in Val D’Isere , a  city break in Paris  and a  Christmas Market road trip , you aren’t short of things to do in France that you can add to your best friend bucket list.

I’ve done many road trips with my best friend through France over the years and your trip to France can include so many incredible types of adventure. You can also try surfing down in Hossegor / Biarritz, climbing in Chamonix and visiting the champagne region ! Gosh, France is amazing!

If you’re based in the UK, getting the ferry over to France is such an easy option, make France one of many great places to travel with your best friend. The crossing takes around an hour and it means you don’t have to worry about going to the airport / hiring a car when you get there. See my experience and tips for the ferry crossing here.

See all the best things to do in France here. 

5. Indonesia

A country that I’ve fallen in love with time and time again, Indonesia really is a great place to travel with your best friend. I’d say it’s one of the cheapest places to travel in Asia, or even in the world, making it perfect for anyone who is travelling on a budget. From exploring the famous island of Bali (for example the surf break in Uluwatu , or the monkey forest in Ubud ) to swimming with manta rays on Nusa Lembongan , and discovering the smaller, less travel islands that are equally as beautiful, Indonesia provides plenty of opportunity for adventures for your best friend bucket list.

Check out all the best things to do in Bali here. 

Beautiful Italy is one of the best places to travel with your best friend. Seeing the colosseum in Rome should be on everyone’s best friend bucket list, as well as taking a gondola in Venice, seeing the Duomo in Milan, eating all the pasta in Puglia, visitng Pompeii, going on a Calabrian road trip and exploring some of the best things to do in Sicily , such as exploring the multicultural capital of Palermo . Hop on a plane with your BFF for a well-deserved dose of sunshine, gelato and good wine!

See all the best things to do in Sicily here. 

There are million reasons to visit Greece, and it’s one of the best places to travel with your best friend. From swimming in the turquoise waters to exploring underground lakes, exploring the history in Athens or Crete, sailing around the Ionian Islands or going on a road trip across the Greek mainland, it’s one of the best places to put on your best friend bucket list. 

Check out the best things to do in Greece here. 

8. Thailand

Thailand is such a popular destination for first time backpackers due to its low cost of living, and high delivery of adventure and freedom (partying) – the best of both worlds and ideal for an adventure with your best friend. From buy one get one free buckets and partying with international backpackers in some of the most gorgeous locations in the world such as Bangkok, to volunteering in elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai, PADI diving certificates and island hopping – it’s not hard to see why it’s popular. Why not add Thailand to your best friend bucket list and share all the fun with your BFF?

• Check out my top tips for travelling in Thailand in this post. 
• See all my tips for travelling in Southeast Asia in this post. 

With 50 provinces, 17 regions, and at least 5 languages, Spain is a super diverse country, so it’s one of the best places to travel with your best friend if you’re looking for some variety in your adventure! From hiking and skiing in the Pyreenes to surfing on the coast, spending a party weekend in Marbella to going on a road trip in Mallorca and catching some of the most beautiful sunsets in Formentor , or enjoing the winter sun in Gran Canaria or a city break in Barcelona , Spain has something to offer every set of BFFs! Don’t forget the amazing cuisine, stunning architecture and the fact that Spain hosts some of the best music festivals in the world – add Spain to your best friend bucket list now! 

10. Costa Rica

Get yourselves ready to be immersed  in the abundant, rich quality of nature that is on offer in   Costa Rica . From what I’ve seen, Costa Rica is truly a playground of nature, consisting of 27 National Parks dotted across the country. Can you imagine? It’s an awesome place to travel with your best friend!

If you’re not kicking back and relaxing on the Caribbean Coast in Santa Teresa , you could be trying your hand at riding the waves along the Pacific Coast. And then after that, you’ll most likely be spending a few nights in the treetops at one of the eco-resorts before diving into the jungle or climbing  Costa Rica’ s highest mountain. You get the picture… it’s adventure central, great for your best friend bucket list!

Check out all the best things to do in Costa Rica in this blog post. 

11. New Zealand

New Zealand is one of the most popular places to visit in the world, especially for backpackers, and who wouldn’t want to go backpacking with their best friend?!

There are so many awesome things to do in New Zealand, that even though I’ve been twice now, I can’t wait to get on a plane and explore some more. Maybe it’s the breathtaking scenery, the friendly local people, the entralling history and culture, the epic road trips, the amazing food and wine, or the backpacker lifestyle that has you dreaming of a trip to New Zealand, or maybe it’s a combination of them all?

There are so many cool things to do in New Zealand, making it a great destination for your best friend bucket list. There’s skydiving in Taupo , bungy jumping in Queenstown , taking on the Tongariro crossing , seeing the dolphins , exploring Auckland , and more! 

See all the best things to do in New Zealand here. 

12. Croatia

From  sunset kayaking around Dubrovnik castle  to hiring a boat and  travelling around some of the islands , all the way to dancing the night away during the  Yacht Week  or Underground Market in the cellar of  Diocletian Palace in Split , you aren’t short of things to do in Croatia – it’s definitely one for your best friend bucket list.

I’ve been to Croatia a few times over the years, including with the  Yacht Week  and with the  Global Travellers family , and Croatia really is full of adventure. Whether you want a city break in  Split  or  Dubrovnik , to go  Croatia island hopping  along the Dalmatian Coast, to go hiking in the Plitvice Lakes National Park or go swimming under the  Krka waterfall,  Croatia really has adventure to offer everyone, making in the perfect place to travel with your best friend.

Check out all the best things to do in Croatia here. 

A luxury safari in Kenya . Talk about once in a lifetime opportunities… definitely one for your best friend bucket list! 

How does an adventure to uncover the big five sound? In the wild? In Africa? In your own private jeep? What dreams are truly made of, right? What’s more, after you’ve seen all the animals on safari you can head to Watamu for some beach time and fully chill out on the coast… pure bliss!

• See my guide to planning your Kenya safari here
• See my guide to Watamu on the Kenyan coastline here

14. The Philippines

The Philippines is a destination that  changed my approach to travel , and I can’t wait to return there one day. From the stunning beaches to the deep blue lagoons, you can really have a ‘luxury’ holiday on a backpacker budget in the Philippines! The Philippines is also one of the best places to do adrenaline-rushing activities such as canyoneering, skydiving, paragliding, and swimming with whale sharks – adventures that are perfect for your best friend travel bucket list! Check out my experience of canyoneering here.

Have you travelled with your best friend?

Where are your favourite places to travel with your best friend? Anything you’d add to this best friend bucket list?

Love as always and happy adventuring,

Passionate about adventure and creativity. Currently enjoying the sunshine while teaching English in southern Italy.

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IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

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Southampton top, heathrow hotels top.

• EB-K - Canterbury, Dover Cliffs & Castle & Kent Villages
• IF1 - Stonehenge, Bath & Windsor
• IF10 - Small Group Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter & Oxford
• IF17 - Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter & Oxford
• IF18 - Semi-private evening experience at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter
• IF21 - London & Heathrow to Southampton Direct
• IF22 - London & Heathrow to Southampton via Stonehenge
• IF23 - Southampton, Salisbury, Stonehenge and Windsor to Heathrow & London
• IF24 - Cotswold Villages, Downton Abbey Locations & Country Pub Lunch to London & Heathrow
• IF25 - Southampton direct to Heathrow & London
• IF3 - Stonehenge, Glastonbury and Avebury
• IF38 - Southampton, Bath & Windsor Castle to Heathrow & London
• IF39 - Southampton to London & Heathrow via Stonehenge
• IF4 - Stonehenge, Bath, Lacock & Avebury
• IF41-AM - The Making of Harry Potter with hotel pick up - Morning Departure
• IF43 - London & Heathrow to Southampton via Windsor Castle
• IF49 - Pre Cruise Southampton Package
• IF5 - Oxford, Cotswolds & Country Pub Lunch
• IF6 - Wine Tasting in the Garden of England
• IF8 - Downton Abbey Filming locations, Cotswolds & Blenheim Palace
• IFH39 - Pre Cruise London - Southampton package
• IFH40 - Post Cruise Southampton to London Package
• IFH52 - Pre Cruise London to Southampton package with Cotswolds sightseeing
• IFH53 - Post Cruise Southampton to London Package with Cotswolds sightseeing
• IFH57 - Best of London & England Sightseeing Hotel Package
• IFH58 - Pre Cruise London to Southampton package with England sightseeing
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7 of the best UK walking festivals for 2024

The Isle of Wight Walking Festival is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year — and a number of similar events are taking place across the UK as the weather warms up.

May is the month for walking festivals when walkers make use of longer days to scale the rickety stiles of the British countryside. There’s been a slew of new festivals in recent years — with guided walks themed around subjects as diverse as archaeology and astronomy, food and folklore. The festival calendar drops off through June and July, but the pace picks up again in September, when walkers can savour the last drops of summer at a handful of events.

1. Haltwhistle Walking Festival

Best for: history 27 April-6 May

Millennia ago, centurions marched the ramparts of Hadrian’s Wall — these days walkers follow in their sandalled footsteps with the advent of the Haltwhistle Walking Festival. Hosted in a town right beside the Romans’ ramparts, the festival includes some two dozen events centred in great part on local history — the legions loom large, but so too do medieval priories, Quaker meeting houses and historic mining communities.

2. Isle of Wight Walking Festival

Best for: islands 11-19 May

This festival celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2024, with an event in spring and another in autumn. Book onto the spring session to see the island’s natural world beginning to stir — guided walks take participants in search of red squirrels, passing through bluebell woods, wading the shallows on a seagrass harvesting project and exploring the steep, sublime scenery of West Wight.

3. Suffolk Walking Festival

Best for: easy walking 11-26 May

If the contours of Wales, the English Lakes or the Scottish Highlands seem too daunting, head to the more kindly gradients of Suffolk for this walking festival. Close to 60 guided walks explore this famously flat county, ranging from potters beside the North Sea coast at eerie Orford Ness to saunters amid the more idyllic landscapes of Dedham Vale.

4. Winchcombe Walking Festival

Best for: village-exploration 17-19 May Hikers come to the Cotswolds for the wooded escarpments and blustery commons, but it’s also beloved for having some of England’s loveliest towns and villages. Among them is Winchcombe, an ancient Anglo-Saxon capital hosting a walking festival in May. Hikes explore pubs, parishes and pathways — including a meteorite-themed walk in honour of a celestial object that crash landed in February 2021.

5. Arran Mountain Festival

Best for: a mountain view 17-20 May

Anyone wishing to dip their toe into Scottish mountaineering should head to the Isle of Arran: not only are its hills said to represent the Highlands in miniature, but it also hosts the Arran Mountain Festival, with a programme of walks for many abilities. Head up Goatfell — the island’s highest point (874m) — or traverse the A’Chir ridge, with vertical drops below.

6. Gower Walking Festival

Best for: a coastline walk 7-15 September

The Gower is a finger of land protruding into the sea west of Swansea, with cliffs rising sheer from the swells of the Bristol Channel. The annual festival’s programme is still being finalised, but Wales’s finest beaches are likely to play a starring role: hikers will pass the sandy sweep of Rhossili Beach, the little coves of Caswell and Pwll Du and, best of all, the great wandering estuary at Three Cliffs.

7. Richmond Walking and Book Festival

Best for: bookworms 20-29 September

The festival offers a two for one, promising to combine ‘boots and books’, ‘walks and words’. This year’s schedule is still to be confirmed, but expect to spend days pacing the uplands of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, with evenings resting tired feet but exercising curious minds, listening to authors read from their work.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

First picture of ‘best friends’ killed after crash at London retail park

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Three best friends in their early 20s were racing around a retail park in a convertabile when they plunged into an embankment and died, a witness claims.

Sohail Zulfiqar, 20, Mohamad Zeidani, 22 and Mohammed Ghazzi, also 22, were all killed in a horror crash near Staples Corner in Brent Cross at the weekend.

They were among five people packed into a Mercedes CLK when it swerved into some trees at 11.26pm on Sunday.

The three friends were pronounced dead at the scene, while the remaining two were rushed to hospital where one is in critical condition.

Officers believe a number of other cars were in the car park but do not currently know if they were involved in the crash.

According to a local shop owner, the car park is a popular racing spot amongst teenagers and the boys made ‘several laps’ of the circuit before the collision.

Mr Ghazzi, Mr Zeidani and Mr Zulfiqar were returning home with two friends after travelling after going to the gym in a nearby Retail Park.

Police have described the incident as a ‘terrible accident’, and no arrests have been made.

Mr Zulfiqar’s younger brother Shaan described Sohail as ‘the most generous person and the strongest person I know.

‘He was in his second year at university and was going to turn 21 in ten days time.

‘Everybody loved him, he was just the best person you could meet. If you needed anything, he’d always help you.’

A friend of the boys, who only gave his name as Nabil, said: ‘They were lovely boys who’d been friends since childhood.

‘They did everything together and went to the same university. They were both very intelligent.’

A family friend of Mr Zeidani’s father said he is ‘devastated’ and his ‘heart has been broken’.

Another friend at the scene, who asked not to be named, said the man who escaped serious harm did so because he was flung clear of the vehicle before it crashed.

He said: ‘We don’t know how this accident happened. We have no answers. The families are waiting for answers from the police. We need more information.

‘Three of the friends died instantly and the two others were rushed to hospital. One of them is in a very bad way.

‘The man who was less seriously injured was somehow thrown from the car. I don’t know if that was after the car dropped down from the bank or he threw himself out.’

The friend said he knew Mr Zeidani’s father, who is originally from Lebanon.

He added: ‘He is devastated. You cannot even talk to him at the moment. His heart has been broken.’

A retail worker who had viewed CCTV of the incident told the Mail how the young men were spotted driving a soft top convertible with the top down just before the crash.

He told the publication: ‘Young men regularly meet in this car park and race around it. It’s a fairly regular thing but on this occasion, it’s ended in tragedy.’

A local garage owner told the  Evening Standard : ‘I turned up for work this morning and there were police everywhere. It was carnage. There was blood in the road, it was horrific.’

This is a developing news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates.

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Imagine a world without on-screen entertainment. Tricky, isn’t it?

Yet before black mirrors stole our leisure time, humans found plenty of inventive ways to keep boredom at bay. Cross stitching , nature painting, Mongolian throat singing - and that’s just off the top of our heads.

But, along with the inventions of booze , toothbrushes , kites and gunpowder (some of our favourite things incidentally, though inadvisable to enjoy all at once), we have Ancient China to thank for the gift of playing cards.

The Tang Dynasty invented the earliest prototype way back in AD1000, before evolving into the 52-card deck we know today. Refined through the centuries and shaped by Egyptian, and Italian hands along the way, playing card games is still an easy way to make friends abroad even when navigating language barriers.

You can play alone of course - Solitaire was developed for solo players - or learn magic tricks with a simple deck of cards.

Their ubiquitous presence meant they were the perfect way to help wartime prisoners escape their captors. In WWII, US and UK intelligence teamed up with the US Playing Card Company on a top-secret project to make special ‘map decks’ which revealed escape routes when submerged in water and the top layers peeled away. It’s thought some 316 allied soldiers attempted to escape thanks to the cards.

Despite all the gizmos, gadgets and shiny things at our disposal today, we’ll always make room for a great set of playing cards. They’re reliable for game night (especially if you’ve got Ben Affleck, Matthew McConaughey or Kevin Hart, known poker fans, coming over for a round), fun to play while travelling (and no need to worry about charging either) and are an easy way to strengthen ties with friends, both new and old.

We’ve rounded up the best sets below, whether you’re looking for a fun gift or want a statement look to double as a home accessory.

Best travel games for adults, from UNO to Monopoly

Best home brewing and beer making kits to shop in the UK

Best drinking games for fun times with friends

Best unique and decorative chess boards that will look amazing in your home

Galison Liberty Maxine Playing Card Set: Liberty London

Designer of beautiful covetable prints, Liberty’s playing cards are both fun and 104 pieces of art across the double deck set. It comes in a coordinating presentation box, lifted with foil to pick out the details. If you’re looking for an elegant set of playing cards, stop the search - Liberty has it in the box.

PRINT WORKS Double Playing card set

You’ll find a double set of cards in this set, made with acid-free card that can be wiped clean with a dry cloth. It’s a fairly classic set with red and black suits and the reverse covered in a pastel Harlequin print that matches the presentation box.

Smythson Playing Cards Twin Pack

Smythson’s cards feature the same gilt edging as you’d find across its stationery range, creating a lovely synergy across your office. The traditional-looking cards feature a chic pattern across the back using the brand’s signature Nile Blue and navy tones. They’ll come in a matching Nile Blue box, making a wonderful gift for someone special.

Block Design Gradient Playing Cards

Designed to bring joy to the chromatophiliac in your world, these playing cards transform a typical suit into a glorious rainbow of gradient colour. Red and black colours are replaced with sunny hues, allowing players to understand colour theory while getting into the death round of cribbage. They certainly make a game of snap much more interesting.

Christian Lacroix Maison De Jeu Playing Cards

Inspired by a vintage French gambling house, this stunning deck comes from the design behemoth that is Christian Lacroix. The set of two comes in a souvenir box, equally finished in an eye-popping maximalist style. Almost too pretty to play with.

ACELION Cool Plastic Playing Cards

Whether you dream of playing poker in the pool or bridge on the beach, a waterproof pack of cards are the best bet. Droplets will roll off the high-grade plastic, allowing you to concentrate on the game at hand instead of worrying about smudges and stains. You can even run them under a tap if they get too grimy. The deck contains a classic 52 cards along with two Jokers.

Oliver Bonas Inspirational Women Playing Cards

Using cards as a vehicle to remind players of some of the world’s most inspirational women, this cute pack is a must for any card game lover. You’ll find illustrations of the likes of Maya Angelou, Malala Yousafzai and Maria Montessori, plus a short caption of their achievements. If you’re looking for a gift for a friend that won’t break the bank, this is a lovely idea.

Galison Michael Storrings Four Seasons Playing Cards, Set of 2

Travel the world while sitting still playing cards with this deck illustrated by Michael Storrings. The reverse features pretty painting of cityscapes and natural surroundings, giving your opponents something to look at instead of your inscrutable poker face.

Guinness Label Playing Cards

For the Guinness lover who has all the other merch proclaiming their love for the stout, how about a smart deck of cards? Decorated with the brewery’s signature label, they’re the deck to take to the pub and challenge old pals.

Normann Copenhagen Manikhin Playing Cards

If you’re fed up with board games, give games night a vintage twist with a fresh deck of cards. Inspired by the art of burlesque and vintage postcards, this set is illustrated by artist Roma Manikhin and will add an erotic and slightly peculiar edge to your next poker game.

DY.2ten 2 Decks Mini Playing Cards

When you’re trying to travel light every inch of space counts. No need to forgo cards though; just make them a miniature version. This set is available in three shrunken sizes including a version for dollhouses to help the residents enjoy their very own casino night. Aside from the size, they’re perfect versions of a traditional deck and can be tucked into a pocket for gaming fun wherever your travels happen to take you.

M.Y Giant Playing Cards Set

What’s better than a classic deck of cards? A supersized version! This pack offers fun for all the family, XXLing a game of snap or raising the stakes in a round of Texas hold ‘em. Once you’re all gamed out, you can try building a pyramid with them too.

David Shrigley Playing Cards

Celebrated for his whimsical observations on the world through doodles and sketches, fans of the illustrator David Shrigley will be delighted to learn there’s a special pack of cards decked out in his signature style.

Featuring playful (occasionally sweary) twists on Kings, Queens, Princes and the rest of the pack, this is a set to keep proudly on display (ideally in a house of cards formation).

Hermès Set of 2 Cheval de Fete Bridge Playing Cards

Inspired by the midcentury posters of the Polish School in Warsaw and the brand’s well-known love of horses, these cards offer a luxury take on a standard deck. They’re edged with silver and remain flexible and comfortable to hold thanks to the printed card base.

The world's first doggy jet service will cost you $6K for a one-way ticket

Dogs will soon be able to experience their own “ fur st” class flight with the launch of the world’s first jet charter company specifically designed for man’s best friend. 

BARK, the dog toy company that coordinates the popular treat subscription BarkBox, is partnering with a jet charter service to take away the challenges of long-distance traveling with dogs, according to a press release. BARK Air, as the company calls it, offers the “white glove experience typical of a human’s first-class experience and redirected all that pampering to pooches.”

Taking dogs on airplanes is, typically, a stressful endeavor with different airlines having different policies for pet travel. For example, American Airlines allows small dogs in a carrier to be placed under the seat in front, but larger dogs are put in the cargo space, which has been found to be stressful for the pet. For United Airlines , pets can fly in the cabin if there’s enough space, but they must fit in a carrier under the seat in front.

“We are excited to take the insights we’ve learned over years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastically different from just accepting dogs – from the ground to the skies,” said Matt Meeker, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at BARK, in a statement. 

First-time Fido's taking to the sky? Here are tips from my flight with a dog

Learn more: Best travel insurance

However, you’ll need to pay a hefty fee for the dog-friendly flight. For now, a ticket for just one dog and one human will run you at least $6,000 one way. 

The first BARK Air flights will take off on May 23, and so far, there are only two flight routes available, both from New York’s Westchester County Airport. From New York to London’s Stansted Airport, it’ll cost $8,000 one-way and to Los Angeles’s Van Nuys Airport will cost $6,000 one-way. Tickets are available for purchase on April 11.

Not only does BARK Air allow dogs, it also focuses on the furry friends by treating them like VIPs, the press release said. BARK Air passengers can skip TSA checkpoints and screenings and instead experience a simple check-in process where they can meet the other dogs on the flight and the humans are served a meal cooked by on-site chefs. 

When boarding, a BARK Air concierge is on-hand to ensure the dogs are socializing and adjusting to the environment well. 

Each flight will undergo “Dogs Fly First” flight prep that includes “calming pheromones, music, and colors that pups prefer.” To make the flying experience easier and more enjoyable, dogs have access to various aids such as calming treats, noise-canceling ear muffs, and calming jackets.

During takeoff and descent, dogs are given a beverage of their choice to help their ears adjust to cabin pressurization. Of course, there will be plenty of treats on the flight.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

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'Conan O'Brien Must Go' is side-splitting evidence of life beyond late night TV

Eric Deggans

Conan O'Brien dresses as a Viking in Norway. Conaco/Max hide caption

Conan O'Brien dresses as a Viking in Norway.

To be honest, when I first heard Conan O'Brien was ending his TV talk show in 2021, I assumed news that he might turn to variety shows and online programs to continue his career was some combination of face-saving and wishful thinking.

But after watching the four episodes of his new Max series Conan O'Brien Must Go , it's now obvious — even to a thickheaded critic like me — that leaving late night TV really was liberating for O'Brien. He's leveraged his unique sensibility into several different podcasts, a deal with Sirius XM , specials featuring other stand-up comics and now this travel series for Max — which resembles jokey specials he did for cable channel TBS back in the day.

And as the late night TV genre crumbles under sagging viewership and the decline of traditional media, O'Brien's renaissance also provides an example for the future — where fertile comedy minds and talented performers can spread their work over a much larger canvas.

Pop Culture Happy Hour

Is conan o'brien the best 'hot ones' guest ever discuss., learning a lesson from 'hot ones'.

O'Brien already made a splash recently with his brilliantly maniacal appearance on the interview-while-eating-hot-wings show Hot Ones , slobbering over hot sauces while claiming, as he was checked over by a fake doctor, that "I'm fine! I'm perfectly f*****g fine!"

This is the place where O'Brien shines — he's called it "this strange phantom intersection between smart and stupid" — and it's on full, freakish, super silly display in every episode of Conan O'Brien Must Go .

The conceit of the show is pretty simple. O'Brien heads overseas to visit average folks in Norway, Argentina, Thailand and Ireland who had once Zoomed in to speak with him on the podcast Conan O'Brien Needs a Fan . Sometimes the visits seem like a surprise — he catches one aspiring Norwegian rapper in shorts and Crocs after popping up on his doorstep — and others seem a bit more planned, including his visit to a radio show with about four listeners in Buenos Aires.

Each episode begins with a solemn monologue which sounds like it is delivered by the film world's most eccentric voice, German filmmaker and actor Werner Herzog (he's not credited in the show and when asked, a publicist at Max shared a quote from O'Brien: "I can neither confirm nor deny the voice in question.")

The torturous accent by "Herzog" makes every line sound absurdly hilarious, describing O'Brien as "the defiler ... with dull, tiny eyes ... the eyes of a crudely painted doll ... he scavenges in distant lands, uninvited, fueled by a bottomless hunger for recognition and the occasional selfie."

Now that's smart. And oh so stupid.

A funhouse mirror version of a travel show

O'Brien performs onstage with a fan in Norway Conaco/Max hide caption

O'Brien performs onstage with a fan in Norway

Fans of O'Brien's Conan Without Borders specials on TBS already know what his style is when he tackles a travel show — throwing himself into outrageous reactions and situations while working his quirky brand of improvised conversations with hapless bystanders.

In the Max series Conan O'Brien Must Go , that includes O'Brien offering screechy vocals onstage during a performance of a Norwegian emo/rap band. Or asking provocative questions of a couple therapist/sex expert. Or getting beat up in a "fight" with a 10-year-old boy in a bar.

It's all an excuse for O'Brien to unleash his energetic wit, taste for silly absurdity and skill at drawing laughs from sympathetic — if often befuddled — strangers. Whether you enjoy this special will depend on how you feel about O'Brien's style, which can feel a bit like the world's best class clown doing everything possible to make you crack a smile.

(Rent a family in Norway so they can say goodbye when he gets on a SeaCraft? Check. Get local artists to paint a mural of O'Brien, a soccer star and The Pope on the side of a building in Argentina? Double check.)

'Conan O'Brien Needs A Friend' Is A Joke Name For A Podcast — Sort Of

But what amazes in a larger sense is how O'Brien has turned his sensibility into a comedy brand to fuel work on many different platforms. And, at age 60, with more than 30 years as a comedy star, he's been released from the shackles of any genre to shine wherever he chooses — whether it's an episode of Hot Ones or a streaming service which sometimes looks like a collision between True Detective and 90 Day Fiancé .

Leaving late night TV as late night left him

I'm old enough that I started covering TV not long after O'Brien made his first move from the shadows of life as a comedy writer – he worked on Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons — to succeed David Letterman in 1993 as host of NBC's show Late Night (now hosted by Seth Meyers). Back then, NBC gave O'Brien years to figure out the show, honing his smartly serious comedy in a way that would inspire then-teenage fans like Seth Rogen and Bill Hader .

O'Brien left NBC after a disastrous deal where the network tried to make him host of its venerated late night program The Tonight Show and also keep its former host Jay Leno at the network. He moved to a late night show on TBS in 2010, but even then, there was a sense that his creativity was a bit hemmed in by the format.

After 28 Quirky Years, Conan O'Brien Is Leaving Late Night

By the time he left his TBS show Conan for good, it seemed O'Brien was already caught in a trend which would hobble other late night shows — as young viewers consumed his content online and ratings on cable dropped.

Now, with a podcast and digital media company worth many millions and growing status as a TV comedy legend still willing to do almost anything for a laugh, O'Brien is proving there is a successful life beyond late night.

Particularly, if you have the talent to play the fool while leaving little doubt you're also the smartest person in the room.

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‘Conan O’Brien Must Go’ Is the Best Version of Conan

The comedian’s new travel show proves he’s at his best away from the rigid confines of late night

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After hundreds of episodes of Hot Ones , there’s little a guest can do to shake up the reliable formula of thoughtful questions combined with increasingly spicy chicken wings. But Conan O’Brien isn’t just any guest. Conan is someone who arrives with “Dr. Arroyo,” his personal physician, who, when asked where he went to medical school, answers “1998”; he deposits the remains of each wing into his jacket pocket; seemingly unfazed by the heat, he chugs hot sauces like they’re in tiny liquor bottles from a hotel minibar; he rubs the drumsticks on his hands, mouth, and, yes, nipples. Even as Conan’s pale complexion begins to resemble a ripe tomato, he remains committed to the bit, raising his body temperature by two degrees in a state of delirium. (According to Dr. Arroyo, of course.) Behold, the comedy GOAT:

Aside from being one of the funniest people on the planet, Conan seems to operate at the peak of his powers when surrounded by chaos. He was, for a time, our longest-tenured late-night host: He had a career on the airwaves that spanned nearly three decades, not unlike his icon, Johnny Carson. But while Conan could do the usual late-night beats in his sleep—the opening monologue, the celebrity interviews—he was never better than when things went completely off the rails. Consider: Conan used his last week as the short-lived host of The Tonight Show to waste NBC’s money on bringing a Kentucky Derby–winning horse to set; trolled his interns and staff in remote segments; introduced the world to his associate producer Jordan Schlansky, who gamely played a pretentious foil ; found an actual Tinder date with Dave Franco.

But some of Conan’s best work has been when he’s left the rigid confines of late night altogether. In 2015 Conan began a spinoff travel series, Conan Without Borders , in which he explored other countries armed with little more than his self-deprecating wit. “[Travel shows are] completely outside the realm of anything I do,” he explained to The New York Times in 2019. “They can be frightening because they take away a lot of control. I’m out there, I don’t often know what I’m going to encounter.” More often than not, it’s led to comedy gold. For instance, while he was taking a Japanese etiquette lesson, Conan’s instructor said that he wasn’t her type. The reason: “Face.”

Face . You could never script something so casually brutal; therein lies the magic. Most important, Conan never mocks other cultures to induce laughs—instead, he makes himself the butt of the joke, leaning into the bit of an ignorant tourist. But what truly elevated Conan Without Borders was how he could deftly weave in educational components and approach dark periods of a country’s history with genuine sensitivity. (Conan’s visit to the Armenian Genocide Memorial with his longtime assistant, Sona Movsesian, is among the most emotionally resonant moments of his career.) Thankfully, even though Conan has bowed out of the late-night scene, he’s doubling down on the travelogues.

On Thursday—Conan’s birthday, no less—Max released Conan O’Brien Must Go , a four-part series that takes him to Norway, Argentina, Thailand, and Ireland. These destinations were inspired by his podcast, Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend , which, in addition to celebrity interviews, features conversations with fans from around the globe. (The fans frequently invite Conan to come visit their neck of the woods; few would ever imagine he’d take them up on the offer.) While Conan O’Brien Must Go doesn’t rely on celebrity cameos, every episode opens with Werner Herzog voice-over narration about the grandeur of Mother Earth and how, to fully appreciate its natural wonders, we must sometimes “defile it.” Rest assured, Conan the Defiler is more than up to the task.

What separates Conan O’Brien Must Go from his first travel show is the incorporation of those fans, including a Norwegian fish farmer, an Irish medical student, and an Argentine painter. The fans understandably react to Conan showing up at their front door with a mixture of shock and glee, but before they even get a chance to compose themselves, he playfully roasts their respective living situations. Nobody gets it worse than Jarle, a young Norwegian rapper who still sleeps with soccer-themed bedsheets from childhood and has bread so stale it lands with an audible thud when Conan drops it. “I’ll wipe the floor with you,” Conan tells Jarle, “which actually might be a good idea, because I think you’d pick up a lot of lint.”

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But while it’s enjoyable in its own right to see Conan surprise fans, Conan O’Brien Must Go is never better than when he throws all caution to the wind mingling with the locals. One standout bit in Argentina involves a soccer team that invites Conan to its stadium, where he proceeds to take the sport’s reputation for theatrical diving to another level, with fake blood spurting out of his mouth. Argentina is also where Conan reunites with his archnemesis, Schlansky, who repeatedly corrects him on the proper pronunciation of tango over dinner. (Schlansky insists he’s right, even when the chefs disagree with him.) And while some comedians might have second thoughts if nobody seems entertained by their shenanigans, Conan always doubles down—if only for his own amusement. (The Argentine gauchos did not enjoy his singing talents.)

Despite all the silliness that’s part of the Conan experience, Conan O’Brien Must Go also manages to have moments of real profundity. For one, Conan uses the Ireland episode to explore his own heritage, culminating with a visit to the patch of rural farmland that belonged to his ancestors. It puts everything into perspective: His forebears fled the Irish famine for America, and their descendant returned with a camera crew and decades of fame and success under his belt. Truly, what are the odds? But what really tugs at the heartstrings is a brief video from the Norwegian fish farmer Kai, who explains how Conan’s visit to his small town completely changed his life. It’s genuinely heartwarming stuff, proving that comedy can achieve more than just laughs when it’s approached with curiosity and empathy.

It’s been three years since Conan last graced our screens, and his absence really underlined that he’s one of one. You can’t imagine anyone else showing up to a foreign country and reacting to situations on the fly without everything falling apart at the seams. But as Conan proved time and again during his late-night tenure, that’s where great comedy can be found: among the people, whether it’s in the streets of Harlem or a Civil War reenactment . Conan’s late-night career went through many phases , all of them worthy, but in retrospect, it feels like the format was holding him back. Conan O’Brien Must Go isn’t just a hilarious return to form: It’s one of the best things he’s ever done. Let’s hope the show’s Season 2 renewal will be a matter of when, not if. With Conan at the helm, there are so many more countries worth exploring—and defiling.

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Derek Thompson comes on to discuss Donal Trump’s trial, reactions to Uri Berliner’s essay about NPR, and how boring the presidential election is

Will Swerve Strickland Become the Next AEW World Champion at AEW Dynasty? 

David and Kaz kick also discuss the emergence of NXT’s Je’Von Evans after his match with Ilja Dragunov

Real Madrid and Bayern Head Into the Champions League Semifinals

Musa and Ryan recap Wednesday’s Champions League quarterfinal second legs

End of the Warriors, Knicks’ Ceiling, Zion, and Lillard’s Future With Frank Isola. Plus, Comedian Dan Soder.

And, of course, Ceruti and Kyle join for some Life Advice: How do we kick the bad player out of our pick-up games?

The Twisted Irony of the Jontay Porter Scandal

Jontay Porter couldn’t resist the temptation to gamble. Neither can the NBA.