It’s all about the summer staycation — and for good reason. There’s no need to travel overseas for sunshine, scenery and unforgettable family days out. The UK has everything you need right on your doorstep.
Skip the airport queues, baggage limits and long-haul journeys. A UK staycation lets you relax sooner, travel lighter and discover some of Britain’s best coastal, countryside and city destinations.
With hundreds of holiday cottages across the country, you can choose from vibrant city breaks, beach holidays, secluded rural retreats or charming village hideaways. This summer, explore a new corner of Britain and make the most of the sunshine closer to home.
1. Head to the Coast: Britain’s Best Seaside Staycations
As an island nation, the UK is blessed with miles of spectacular coastline. From golden sandy beaches to dramatic cliffs and wildlife-rich shores, there’s a coastal staycation to suit everyone.
Popular UK coastal destinations include:
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Dorset – Famous for sweeping bays and the Jurassic Coast
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Devon – Home to sandy beaches and traditional seaside towns
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Cornwall – Known for turquoise waters, coves and coastal walks
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Norfolk & Suffolk – Havens for birdlife and peaceful beaches
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Pembrokeshire – A stunning National Park coastline
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Scotland – Dramatic cliffs, island views and breathtaking scenery
Whether you’re looking for sea-view cottages, lighthouse stays or family-friendly beach escapes, a UK coastal staycation delivers sunshine and salt air without leaving Britain.
2. Explore Britain’s National Parks
The UK is home to 15 protected National Parks, each offering unique landscapes, wildlife and cultural heritage. A National Park staycation is ideal for walkers, cyclists, photographers and families seeking open space.
Standout destinations include:
Choosing a cottage in or near a National Park means fresh air, wide-open landscapes and memorable summer adventures.
3. Visit Historic Sites and Heritage Attractions
A UK staycation is also a chance to explore centuries of history. Organisations such as National Trust and English Heritage protect some of Britain’s most treasured castles, ruins, gardens and country houses.
Across the UK, you’ll find:
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Medieval castles and historic ruins
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Grand stately homes and landscaped gardens
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Protected coastline and countryside
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Family-friendly heritage attractions
Adding a heritage day out to your staycation is a brilliant way to mix relaxation with discovery.
Discover your perfect historical Rural Retreat here.
4. Go Walking and Reconnect
One of the greatest benefits of a staycation is the chance to slow down and unwind. Britain is criss-crossed with National Trails, public footpaths, bridleways and long-distance routes, making it one of the best countries in the world for walking holidays.
From gentle coastal strolls to challenging hill climbs, you can choose your ideal route based on:
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Distance
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Terrain
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Scenery
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Elevation
Well-marked paths make exploring simple, whether you’re walking with young children or heading out on a full-day hike.
Discover your perfect Rural Retreat with walking routes here.
Why Choose a UK Staycation This Summer?
A summer staycation in Britain offers:
From the coast to the countryside, vibrant cities to peaceful villages, the UK provides everything you need for a memorable summer holiday.