We all know that weekend getaways are essential for couples and families. They help break up the monotony of every weekend and refresh, recharge, and reconnect as a family. Having a weekend away can be daunting, though. There’s so much to consider—where will our family stay? Should we drive or fly? What kind of food can we bring with us? And the list goes on and on. Fear not, dear reader, because we’re here to help you plan the best weekend getaways in England. Here are some of the best weekend breaks that you must try out this weekend break season.
Top 15 Best Places to Go for a Weekend Away in England
1. Peak District, England
Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Staffordshire, West Yorkshire, and South Yorkshire are among the five counties that make up this national park in the Pennines. As the UK government began to carve out protected landscapes in the aftermath of World War II, this was England’s first national park. In the same breath as industrial towns, quarries, and stately mounds, it now homes to chocolate box villages and craggy hills. Spend a weekend here in the Peak District, preferably outdoors and with a plan, to see our selection of the greatest walks for ideas.
2. Isle of Skye, Scotland
The Isle of Skye is the most well-known and beloved of all of Scotland’s islands. And, as you would expect, the landscape here is as otherworldly as anything you’ll find further afield, with a craggy landscape dominated by the Cuillin mountains. The Three Chimneys restaurant, which opened in the 1980s and still draws visitors from all around the globe, is located on much of the island, although it is mostly deserted.
3. Cornwall, England
In any part of the UK, this corner of England seems to be the least British. The brightest blue water, buffeted by sugar-sand beaches, makes up the finest beaches in Cornwall. These stretches are all the more interesting since Cornwall has the country’s hottest climate, with their abandoned coves and buzzing surf vistas. In addition, the county boasts some of the greatest restaurants in the world, including Rick Stein’s Padstow seafood restaurant and outposts from London’s top chefs. In addition, there is a vibrant creative atmosphere, such as in Penzance, where independent businesses and art galleries are drawing visitors.
4. The Cotswolds, England
British weekend backpacker. City dwellers seeking a bit of fresh country air have long flocked to the Cotswolds’ butter-hued towns. Old pubs and historic homes are the highlights of rural living here, as areas are packed with clever homeware and antique stores. – See our guide to the most beautiful Cotswolds villages for a string of towns that stretches across five counties, with serene areas interspersed amid the bustle of the riverbanks and cobbled streets. Go to beautiful gardens linked to exquisite manor residences and seek out smart-as-can-be independent boutiques for things to do in the Cotswolds.
5. Donegal, Ireland
A weekend trip along Ireland’s coastline, flitting from town to town, is a terrific getaway if you have more time. Wide-skyed Donegal, in the country’s distant northwest corner, has magnificent beaches and is famous for its music and soft landscapes. For those with restricted time, it is a good place to hole down. The Wild Atlantic Way, which follows the rough shore of western Ireland, passes through the county as well.
6. New Forest, England
If you are looking for a weekend break that will have you exploring different parts of England, the New Forest is an excellent choice. The New Forest, southern England’s biggest unenclosed woodland, is home to ponies and wild horses. It’s a national park with over 220 square miles of grazing and heathland that roam across the country. This is one of the most food-rich national parks in England, and travelers come here to hike, cycle, and see animals. Angela Hartnett and Luke Holder oversee Hartnett Holder & Co at Lime Wood, and The Terrace in Beaulieu has a hyper-local, hyper-seasonal cuisine.
7. Somerset, England
Somerset has a diverse landscape that includes countryside, major international art venues, one of the most popular places to stay in the UK, and the location of one of the world’s largest festivals. The town swiftly became the creative epicenter of the West Country in the aftermath of the Hauser & Wirth gallery opening in once-sleepy Bruton. Many of the UK’s top tables have come to the area as a result of the ensuing ripples, which include smart hotels and some of Somerset’s best restaurants.
8. Wye Valley, England, and Wales
The Wye Valley, which runs parallel to the English/Welsh border, is dotted with picturesque towns dotting the countryside carved by the River Wye. Hay-on-Wye, the most well-known hamlet, is known for its yearly literary event, but there are many more market towns to explore. Hiking up the Black Mountains or along one of the Wales Coast Path’s 870-mile routes is a big draw here.
9. Dorset, England
The coastline of Dorset, unlike that of neighboring Devon, is less well-known. It features some of Britain’s most gorgeous beaches. The Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans the county’s 95 miles of coastline, is a geological hotspot spanning 185 million years. St Oswald’s Bay and Man O’ War are two small coves close to Durdle Door, the famed limestone arch that stretches into the deep ocean. Thomas Hardy’s most famous works, on the other hand, were inspired by the countryside.
10. Kent, England
This diverse corner of the country deserves an overnight stay to explore it properly, and it’s close enough to the capital to make it one of our favorite days trips from London. From trendy (Margate has a beautiful main street and a passion for oysters on the beach) to quaint (Whitstable has a charming main street and a fondness for oysters on the beach), a series of Kentish beach towns run along the coast. Hush Heath Estate, where Balfour wines are produced and which has 400 acres of orchards accessible to the public, is one of a handful of fascinating vineyards for foodies, along with Michelin-starred pubs and a pizza shack on the beach.
11. Pembrokeshire, Wales
Pembrokeshire is a beautiful county in Wales that is perfect for a weekend break. The county is home to many stunning beaches and coastal towns, making it the perfect place to spend your weekend away. There are plenty of activities to do in Pembrokeshire, such as hiking, cycling, and fishing. If you are looking for something a little more exciting, then why not explore the many historical sites in the county? You can find everything you need to plan your weekend break on the Visit Pembrokeshire website or by reading our list of the best weekend breaks in Wales. If you would like some help planning your trip, then why not book a consultation with one of our travel experts? Either way, you can find some great weekend breaks in Pembrokeshire that will allow you to relax and unwind after a busy week at work.
12. York, England
York is a charming city with plenty of history to explore. Its heritage can be found in its historic city center, which has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You’d be mistaken, though, if you thought the city’s Roman and Viking history was limited to its walled existence at the confluence of the Ouse and Foss rivers in North Yorkshire. Cutting-edge art galleries, chocolate factories, and a variety of interactive activities for children and adults are all part of this energetic center’s rich history.
13. Hebrides, Scotland
If you’re looking for a weekend away in England, then the Hebrides Islands might be a great option for you. They’re situated off the coast of mainland Scotland, and they offer stunningly picturesque views and plenty of activities to keep you entertained. You can enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, and bird-watching while you’re there. Plus, there are plenty of historical sites to visit like broch towers and lochs. And if you’re feeling energetic, there’s also a lot of golf to be done!
14. Lake District, England
If you’re planning a weekend trip in the Lake District, there are plenty of fun things to do. From hiking in the countryside to exploring Windermere and Grasmere, you won’t be short of things to do. One of Cumbria’s (and the UK’s) most well-known national parks is the Lake District. The region is noted for its glacial ribbon lakes, steep fell mountains and literary connotations from Beatrix Potter to Wordsworth and Coleridge. The picturesque market towns (Kendal, Ambleside, and Keswick) offer snug traditional hotels for chilling out after a day of hiking in the highlands.
15. Devon, England
Devon is a beautiful county in the south of England that is popular for its countryside, coastline, and villages. It’s also home to some great attractions, like the Eden Project, Tintagel Castle, and Plymouth Hoe. If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend trip, Devon is a great choice. There are plenty of places to stay in the area – from luxury resorts to charming bed and breakfasts. Plus, there are plenty of outdoor activities to do outdoors in the beautiful surroundings: go for walks or swim in the lakes, explore the countryside by bike or on foot, or take a trip on one of Devon’s many trains.
Conclusion
This is not an all-inclusive list, so keep scrolling down and discover some more of those hidden gems where you can have the best time with your loved ones. Explore the nature trails in Somerset, dine at The Star Inn, or take a walk along the riverside in Northumberland. There are plenty of places to visit just outside London that will make for an amazing weekend away!
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