Discover UK staycation ideas and hidden gems with our ultimate guide for summer 2021! Find the best places to visit in the UK, from Devil’s Bridge in Wales based on legend and fairy tales, to dramatic waterfalls in the highlands and woodland retreats in the heart of the English countryside. Finding a UK staycation that isn’t swamped with tourists can be a challenge, and after many months of being stuck indoors due to the global pandemic, this summer, should we get the green light to travel, you can almost guarantee there will be an influx of tourists in the top UK hotspots. So, if you’re searching for UK travel destinations where you can unplug, relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the crowds, we’ve got your back. Get ready to explore nine unspoiled staycation ideas in the UK, that you might not have heard of before!
1: Delamere Forest, Cheshire
Get back in touch with nature and escape to the British countryside at Delamere Forest for a UK staycation. A perfect setting for a family picnic, Delamere is in Cheshire and offers various outdoor activities. From Nordic trekking to swinging from the treetops at GoApe, take in the landscape on a Segway or bike and burn off some steam in the sunshine. New for 2021, you can also extend your visit by booking a woodland cabin in the heart of this ancient royal hunting forest—ideal for anyone hoping to unplug and relax in a place of moss, pine, and wildlife.
If you are planning a staycation with little ones, you’ll be glad to hear that Delamere Forest is also home to the Gruffalo Sculptures. So, if you venture into the deep dark wood, you may find a Gruffalo, from Julia Donaldson’s classic story! But don’t be scared, we’ve heard he’s very friendly!
2: Knockvologan, Isle of Mull
Head to the tidal island of Erraid and discover Knockvologan Beach, a Scottish destination with panoramic sea views and clean white sand. During low tide, you’ll be able to trek across the beach, from the south side of Erraid to David Balfour’s Bay. For those who enjoy bird watching, see if you can spot a Mull Eagle, one of Britain’s largest and most impressive birds of prey. Then look to the sea, and you might be lucky enough to spot otters and seals too. After taking in the wildlife, consider a Scottish Whiskey tour at Tobermory Distillery to finish off your staycation on a high.
While on the Isle of Mull, make sure to see Duart Castle, the seat of Clan Maclean for over 700 years. Explore the ancient Keep and eerie dungeons with a guided tour before driving to Eas Fors Waterfall. Similar to Kilt falls in Skye, there are plenty of picnic spots close to the parking bay where you can spot and admire this spectacular Scottish waterfall. One of the best staycation ideas if you’ve always wanted to explore the Scottish highlands.
3: Dinas Dinlle, Caernarfon
One of the best places to visit in the UK for a family seaside trip is Dinas Dinlle in Caernarfon in North Wales. This Blue Flag beach lies on the north coast of Llyn Peninsula and is home to an Iron Age hillfort! With a mix of golden sand and pebbles, you can hike along the coast or build a sandcastle on a warm summer’s day. It’s also a great UK travel destination if you’re into watersports, as jet skiers, power boaters, and scuba divers all enjoy the calm water here.
Stroll around Parc Glynllifon, an old estate that once belonged to the Lords Newborough, perfect for a relaxed woodland walk. With its own amphitheater, contemporary sculptures, this Grade I listed country park is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and is rich in wildlife including the endangered Horseshoe Bat. Or if the welsh weather takes a turn for the worst, head to Beacon Climbing Centre and conquer the high roped walls and low-level bouldering before refreshing with a coffee and catch-up at the on-site cafe.
4: Lough Erne, Northern Ireland
Book a staycation this summer and take a ferry or flight to Northern Ireland and visit Lough Erne. History buffs will love this UK travel destination as it consists of 150 islands, which the Vikings raided in the 9th century, and still has evidence of its medieval history. Lough Erne is the second biggest lake system in Northern Ireland and you can even hire a self-drive boat to cruise around the historic town of Enniskillen, or perhaps enjoy a spot of fishing too. Visit Florence Court, an 18th century home and gardens, or head to Enniskillen Castle, situated along the River Erne and built over 600 years ago by Gaelic Maguires.
Or if you prefer a more action-packed day in Northern Ireland, why not test your driving skills at Safari Action. Based in Enniskillen, you can experience off-road driving, rifle shooting, archery, clay pigeon shooting, or even blindfold driving, if you’re brave enough! Suitable for all ages, it will contrast the tranquility of this naturally beautiful part of Northern Ireland. 25 minutes away on the other side of Enniskillen, is Belle Isle Castle an opulent countryside house dating back to the 12th century. The 470 acre estate would be a great place to stay for a large family and friends’ week long holiday.
5: North York Moors National Park
Take a trip to the North York Moors National Park, a rural staycation idea in the North of England. Surrounded by natural beauty, the North York Moors National Park is home to a magnitude of wildlife. Explore heather moorland, one of the largest continuous expanses of upland heather moorland in England, and take a step back in time as you see evidence of ancient towns and villages. In fact, this is one of the best places to visit in the UK if you want to see Roman fortifications, medieval castles, abbeys, and Iron Age forts.
Jump on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, and take in the panoramic views of the North York Moors National Park in comfort and style. The ultimate steam engine experience, for train spotting enthusiasts and Harry Potter fans, this old steam train line stops off at the famous Harry Potter station in Goathland. So, sit back, relax and take in some of the best-preserved old railway stations in the whole of England.
6: Devils Bridge, Wales
One of the best places to visit in the UK for a picnic beside a waterfall is Devil’s Bridge in Wales. A naturally stunning backdrop for a romantic day trip, Devil’s Bridge is in the heart of Wales, sits on the edge of Ceredigion, and is a must for a rural UK staycation. Start at Woodlands Tearoom for a nice cup of tea and a slice of cake before trekking down approximately 300 steps to the bottom of the powerful waterfall. Halfway down you’ll find a pagoda directly opposite the main fall, and 200 meters further down, you’ll find more picnic benches. Along the way, don’t forget to make a wish and put a coin in a tree stump, which is the Welsh equivalent of a wishing well. Devil’s Bridge falls has around 600 steep steps to climb in total, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes and take your time.
Devil’s Bridge has been a tourist attraction for over 100 years and is based on local legend. Legend has it that the devil once visited Wales in the 11th century. Coming across an old woman, the devil asked why she was so upset. The woman explained that her cow had wandered across the river. The devil decided to build a bridge overnight but with a catch! The first living thing to cross the bridge would belong to him. The wise old woman outwitted the devil by throwing bread across the bridge, which her dog chased after. The devil completely embarrassed disappeared and was never seen again. So, if you enjoy Welsh legends, be sure to visit Devil’s Bridge.
7: Holywood, Scotland
Visit Holywood in Dumfries, Scotland, a UK travel destination perfect for those who enjoy natural beauty, and the world of science. Make sure to spend a day wandering through the Garden of Cosmic Speculation, a 30-acre optical illusion inspired by the fundamentals of modern physics. The garden, designed by architect theorist Charles Jencks and his late wife Maggie Keswick, an expert on Chinese garden design is a must-see attraction. The garden features geometric fractals that light up and are based on string theory and the concept of black holes.
While visiting Dumfries, Scotland why not delve into Scottish history and explore Drumlanrig Castle, where children can experience salmon fishing, mountain biking and adults can soak up the elegance and grandeur of the castle and gardens. Before leaving this charming Scottish village, you must see The Twelve Apostles, a large stone circle that will certainly bring to mind Outlander vibes. Marvel at this mysterious ancient stone circle set between Holywood and Newbridge, before heading to Sulwath Brewers, to taste traditionally brewed handcrafted real ale.
8: Whitby, Yorkshire
Whitby along the Yorkshire coast was the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula, and makes for a gothic staycation idea. This quaint harbor town in Yorkshire gave Stoker exactly what he needed to develop his iconic novel in 1890, and now the town has plenty of Dracula-inspired experiences to enjoy. Pluck up the courage to book the Dracula Experience, a unique tour of the story including animated scenes, live actors, and electronic special effects, or enjoy a walking tour of the town where vampires might be lurking around every corner.
Continue your thrilling staycation in Whitby by testing your logical thinking skills and teamwork at Eskape Whitby. An escape room that offers two immersive rooms, The Night Watchman or A Curious Case. Become a detective for an hour, and see if you can break a series of codes and puzzles against the clock. After this heart-pumping activity, get back to nature by taking the kids to Rewilding Adventure at Raithwaite Sandsend for a woodland adventure day. From family bushcraft and ax-throwing to archery, spend quality time together and learn survival skills.
9: Hunstanton, Norfolk
A pretty Victorian resort, Hunstanton, built in 1846, was commissioned by Styleman Le Strange as a UK travel destination where he could relax and recharge. Old Hunstanton features striped cliffs and a traditional Victorian promenade garden, ideal for a sunny sea-side escape. There are pony rides, a large sandy beach, and plenty of rock pools to keep little ones entertained. If you fancy this hidden gem staycation, be sure to head to Heacham, only three miles away from Hunstanton. The home of no other than John Rolfe, who married Pocahontas in the 16th century. You can even visit the memorial to the Native American princess at St Mary, the Virgin Church.
But if you’re seeking a memorable UK travel destination, you simply can’t miss out on Norfolk’s lavender fields. During the summer months, Heacham will be in full blossom with the aroma of lavender, presenting an incredible natural backdrop for a beautiful UK staycation. Enjoy afternoon tea at The Norfolk Lavender Lounge, only 6 miles from the Queen’s Sandringham Estate, before getting lost in the acres of lavender.
That’s it for now. Please remember to pick up any litter that you have ‘accidentally’ dropped. It helps to keep these regions in pristine condition, just as you found them.