For the majority of us, going abroad seems only like a distant memory and the events of the world simply have restricted your freedom on where you can go. As hotels and non-essential business start to reopen across the UK, you may be curious to take a retreat locally and see what the UK, or more specifically in this post, see what England has to offer. Chances are you’ll be pleasantly surprised just what’s around in England for you to do and you’ll wonder why you’ve never explored the country so in-depth before. From the warm beaches of the south to the mighty hills and spectacular views of the North, from relaxing breaks away to adventure activities, there is a staycation suitable for everyone.
Some basic golden rules and advice when booking a staycation, would be:
- If your region is under lockdown, you must not travel
- Book only with free cancellation
- Book early to avoid disappointment as more and more people are staying locally
- Call certain places directly for a potentially cheaper deal as more than often places pay a fee to be listed on hotel comparison websites.
Hadrian’s Wall, Cumbria
Go back in history and retrace the ruins of Hadrian’s Wall. Tackle 73 miles of stone – preferably not on the same day – and really give yourself a break from any work or home life stress and concerns. Either see a glimpse of the wall ruins or make it your mission in conquering the ruins from coast to coast. Most of the wall may be no longer be standing, let alone remaining but walking the route of where the wall once stood, still can be made up with the awesome views and wildlife that England provides.
Where to Stay:
This will depend mostly on what part of the wall you wish to see. If you’re planning on trekking the route of the wall or even just wishing to see the better parts of it, then the Official Hadrian’s Wall Website. In all, turn your visit into a heritage break and choose from a variety of accommodation, from the refined elegance of Farlam Hall near Brampton to the idyllic surroundings of the Tranquil Otter self-catering lodges at Thurstonfield.
Lake District
Enjoy fantastic scenery and placid lakes while you hike the hills and play on the water. The Lake District is by far one of, if not England’s most beautiful national park. Great for all seasons and the perfect place in England to find tranquillity and give yourself a chance to unwind. The Lake District National Park will provide sights that closely resemble that in Scotland. Experience stunning waterfalls, hidden gemspots and impressive sites such as Lowther Castle. . If tranquillity isn’t enough for you, then why not race through the Lake District on a mountain bike or enjoy the scenery from the middle of one of England’s fastest-growing music festivals, Kendal Calling.
Where to Stay:
Stay close to Windermere as this is the biggest lake in the area and most of the main attractions will be here. Think of it as the capital of the Lake District where you’ll find pubs, hotels, water activities, shops and more. Parking does tend to be a bit of an issue in the Lake District, so do try to ensure that your accommodation does accommodate free parking if you can. Check out the official Visit Lake District website for accommodation ideas from hotels to glamping.
Cornwall
Think shipwrecks, hidden treasure, smuggling, Poldark and of course, Cornish pasties whenever you have Cornwall in mind. Stone circles, museums and a rich maritime heritage also make Cornwall heaven for historians, oh and not forgetting Cornish clotted cream whenever you fancy the chance at scones with your afternoon tea. For those of you into watersports, you’ll find no better place in the country to surf the waves and because you’ll be surrounded by coastline, there’s an opportunity to wild swim, sail, paddleboard, kayak or hitch a ride on a boat trip. Other activities include coasteering, dolphin spotting, see an open-air play at the Minack Theatre or follow the steps of the legendary Cornish giant Cormoran at St Michael’s Mount. Cornwall offers a different beach for every day of the week and glorious open spaces looking out to sea while you forget your troubles.
Where to Stay:
If it’s your first time in Cornwall then consider St Ives for a balanced range of activities to undertake during your stay. Newquay is another idea if you’re into nightlife and a fantastic pub atmosphere. Penzance is a tropical paradise that offers warm temperatures, palm trees and where you can find a decent selection of good value and budget accommodation options.
London
The big one. London has it all and offers too much to mention. Sure it can be expensive but it doesn’t have to be if you plan your stay or even day right. There are tons of free museums, parks, historic attractions and events that can be done. If you don’t mind paying then you’ll find no trouble occupying yourself in this busy city. Start off by getting your bearings on the London Eye and admire the country’s capital city.
Where to Stay:
This depends on your budget. London is certainly not cheap when it comes to staying overnight but it’s more of an experience. Treat yourself and your partner as a romantic night away or stay the night with celebrating someone in mind like a birthday etc… Something to help justify some of the expensive costs that London can hold. Otherwise have a look on Booking.com for a place in your budget.
Kent
Known as “The Garden of England”, Kent offers so much to not only people from the UK as a whole but also many from tourists from Europe as often Europeans enter the UK, via the ferries at Dover or the train with Eurotunnel. Start your visit to Kent by visiting Dover Castle and discovering the secret World War 2 bunkers that were built into the White Cliffs of Dover and witness the busiest shipping lane in the world, where between 500 – 600 ships a day pass through the Dover Strait. When your done, head on to the medieval city of Canterbury and discover how the assassination of Thomas Becket in the Cathedral on 29 December 1170 changed the course of history. Treat yourself to a river tour aboard a rowboat and learn more about the rich history that Canterbury has to show. For nautical enthusiasts, visit the Historic Dockyard in Chatham and return to the ‘Age of Sail’ when the Dockyard built mighty ships that mastered the world’s oceans.
Where to Stay:
Kent has a wide array of places to stay with hotels, B&Bs, luxury cottages, hostels, cool campsites, glamping and much more to suit any budget or group size. Canterbury is a good choice for being centralised in Kent and all other towns and attractions are not too far. However, the official Visit Kent website has many recommendations for a place to stay as well as places to eat.
New Forest, Hampshire
If cities aren’t your thing, then the New Forest National Park is the ultimate retreat with abundant wildlife and charming forest walks. If the outdoors sound like your thing, bring your bicycle or hire one and take on the gravel paths that run through the New Forest wilderness while you witness over 3000 wild ponies spread out among the park. The New Forest is a great place for a slow-paced break away while ponies and donkeys take their time and stop the traffic as they cross between patches of common pastureland, all the while you are enjoying the peaceful atmosphere that the forest provides.
Where to Stay:
Sandyballs Holiday Resort is the perfect choice for camping enthusiasts and those that prefer the combination of luxury and adventure with glamping. On-site restaurant, swimming pool, bicycle hire, forest walks and entertainment make Sandyballs an excellent place to stay.
Norfolk
Visit the Broads National Park in Norfolk and take a boat trip along the twisty rivers and beautiful canals if a relaxing and unique trip is what you’re after. Don’t worry if you’ve never been on a boating holiday before, welcoming staff can help show you the ropes. If boating for multiple nights is not for you, then you can hire just for a day. If you ultimately prefer to keep your feet dry, then visit the Norfolk Lavender Fields where you can see 100 acres of lavender that resemble the famous lavender fields of Provence in France. Walking the fields may just convince yourself that you’re abroad, and help you satisfy that travel urge.
Where to Stay:
The official Visit The Broads website has great information and a list of boating holidays to choose from. Select how many nights you would like and what boat you feel is appropriate for you. If boating is not what you have in mind then the website also displays other recommended accommodation from B&Bs to hotels.
Nottinghamshire
Robin Hood anyone? A visit to Nottinghamshire gives you the chance to explore legendary landscapes like Sherwood Forest, venture into rich history as you unravel the stories of Robin Hood and Nottingham Castle, and enjoy shopping and dining in a modern city. The Robin Hood Festival commences every year in August, where England’s most famous outlaw, along with his band of merry men, see off the Sheriff of Nottingham and take from the rich to give to the poor in this spectacular event. If it’s capped crusaders that you’re after then why not visit the real Wayne Manor in which appeared in the Dark Knight Trilogy films. This historic Elizabethan mansion is a popular attraction in Nottingham, and a number of scenes were filmed in the grounds and Hall, including a garden party scene at night which features in the film’s trailer.
Where to Stay:
If you really want a feel for the legend then consider staying at Forest Holiday’s Sherwood Forest. You can stay in a log cabin and immerse yourself in the outdoor life afforded by 3,300 acres of woodland. Take it one step further and have your cabin include a hot tub whilst you retreat from your busy everyday life.
Hertfordshire
Hertfordshire is the place to be for rambling country estates, cute villages and gothic cities. Picnic outside mansions with forest backdrops and admire ruined Roman amphitheatres and Norman cathedrals. Come face to face with dragons and wizards straight from the Harry Potter films and get close to endangered snow leopards at Paradise Wildlife Park. In August, enjoy an open-air cinema at Hertford Castle or experience a meal at Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, ‘England’s oldest pub’ according to Guinness World Records, where Oliver Cromwell dined in the 1600s.
Where to Stay:
For a guide on places to stay, try the official Hertfordshire website and see if there’s anything that takes your fancy. From manor rooms to glamping tents, there’s a budget to suit everyone.
East Sussex
It’s easy to unwind in East Sussex’s fairy tale castles, stately homes and calm countryside. Discover William the Conqueror’s famous stand at the Battle of Hastings and the Abbey that was built after. On a rainy day, see tropical fish at SEA LIFE Brighton and see if you can walk through the world’s largest under-sea glass tunnel. Be a real knight or princess for the day at Bodiam Castle and take a glimpse at medieval life. For those with a love for adventure soar above England’s highest chalk sea cliff on a paraglider and take in the stunning scenery of the South Downs and get a fantastic view of the famous red and white striped lighthouse as you glide through the air.
Where to Stay:
Travelling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to cut back on style; enjoy a relaxing break in one of Brighton’s chic and cosy hotels and hostels. Otherwise consider budget accommodations such as Premier Inns and Travelodges in the area that certainly won’t break the bank while you tour this beautiful part of England.
