5 Tips for Staycations in the UK 

The UK’s diverse landscapes, history-ridden towns, and friendly people make it the perfect place for staycations. From short weekends in the winter to longer summer stays, the UK is a haven for getaways from the tops of Scotland, all the way to Lands-End in Cornwall. Nestle yourselves amid rolling hills for cozy retreats or discover the nostalgic joy of UK seasides. The world of opportunities for a UK staycation is endless. 

Here are five tips to ensure the best staycation in the UK unfold. 

1. Tips for the best time to visit

While it depends on what you want to experience on a UK visit, there is ultimately no right or wrong time to go. The UK is home to renowned unpredictable climates, of varying temperatures and precipitation across all the seasons.

In the summer, temperatures can reach more traditional European temperatures, but it’s never worth forgetting that there can still be days of cooler temperatures and rainfall. Across the coastlines and in major southern tourist attractions, the summer season brings in the busiest crowds of the year among those in search of the perfect British summer. If you hope to connect on your trip, and socialize with a wealth of national and international travelers, summer is the perfect time to visit. 

The English countryside is the perfect retreat for an unplugged escape when the skies are gray. The wintertime across England is typically a rainy and snowy affair, so what better way to make the most of it than with a secluded log cabin retreat amid the rolling hills of greenery? The shorter daylight hours of winter make the perfect backdrop for festive lights to shine and cozy evenings by the fire together. Across local countryside villages too, there are a range of festive markets for whole families to enjoy together. 

2. Tips for where to stay

From well-in-advance planned getaways to last minute stays, there are a wealth of cozy to contemporary accommodation options across the UK landscape. Think of traditional converted farmhouses in the Yorkshire moors, to serene Cornish treehouse havens down south. Accommodation across the countryside, cities, and beach resorts of the UK can be as budget-friendly as it is wildly unique, as travelers desire. 

Whatever your wants and needs are, ensure that you get the whole group together to plan out exactly the kind of hub that will suit you. Private hot tub? Secluded amenities? Spa facilities? Grand Manor stay? The list of options is endless. 

3. Tips for the best places to go

From some of the most influential cities in the world to picturesque rolling hills and golden beaches, the UK’s portfolio of the best places to visit is endless. 

For a city break, the UK is home to four capital cities: London in England, Edinburgh in Scotland, Cardiff in Wales, and Belfast in Northern Ireland. (Also Read: How many days in Belfast is enough?)

Head south to the bright lights and economic hub of London, where every tube stop feels like a whole new world. Influenced by cultures across the world, from bustling Asia to relaxing Australia and quintessential British charm, it’s a guarantee that there is something for everyone to see in one of the most powerful regions of the earth. See the living quarters of English royalty and the plethora of colorful performances of the synonymous West End.

Meanwhile, at the other end of the island, Edinburgh seeps history and ornate old town motifs. From the Royal Mile Street connecting the castle to the main town and to the National Museum of Scotland, it showcases a wealth of artefacts to impress all eyes.

For a countryside haven, the National Park of the Lake District in the county of Cumbria is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its ecological significance and protection efforts. Home to the highest peak in England, Scafell Pike, take on a range of walks, from uphill climbs to downhill descents. Amid such beautiful scenery, you’re sure to enjoy travel by foot or bike; it’s the perfect getaway for travelers wanting to keep active while away from home.

4. Tips for things to do

From traditional British excursions to unique experiences traveling amid various places, there are a wide variety of things to do for tourists heading to the UK.

For musical enthusiasts desperate for West End wonders, consider fun theatre breaks that combine thrilling performances with serene rail travel. For people heading up north, check out the artistic flare of the Northern Quarter in Manchester. With a similar international appeal as London’s Camden Markets, this scene of Manchester is home to a diverse array of eateries, shopping districts, and musical influences. 

If a relaxing retreat is a dream, the UK has a wide range of spas and wellness cultures to rejuvenate in. From outdoor treetop treatments to indoor luxurious facilities, a spa break can be just what ‘the doctor ordered’ for bonding time or just solo energizing. Spend evenings stargazing in the National Park of Northumberland, at the milky blue skies above, scattered with the bright lights of constellations. The winter months here tend to produce the clearest skies for sightings, and there’s even a chance to see the Northern Lights at peak season! 

5. Packing tips for a UK staycation

Like for any overseas or local trip, packing for the UK must ensure every aspect is carefully considered to suit everyone, from children to grandparents.

While summer stays mean light clothes, don’t forget about the temperamental nature of the climate; colder days in the summer aren’t unusual in this part of the world!

Pack as little as you can, for all seasons and occasions, to ensure the best trip and the most authentic one to the UK climate.

Don’t let the unpredictability of the forecast deter, when the UK is a European gem ready to be explored and appreciated. No matter the season or time of year, there is a getaway to suit all groups and travelers. The UK, awaits.