Summary of Top Staycation Destinations in Britain
England is an incredible country to explore, with surprising diversity, culture, and charm for such a relatively small island. There are numerous stunning places for a staycation in Britain dotted all across the island.
From the beautiful coastline of Pembrokeshire in Wales to driving the NC500 in the Scottish Highlands and visiting historic Roman cities like Bath, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Now, any staycation in Britain requires a bit of planning to maximize your holiday enjoyment. Therefore, to help you prioritize, here are some of my favorite spots in Britain for an unforgettable getaway.
1.) Pembrokeshire National Park
Nestled on the southwest coastline of Wales, Pembrokeshire is an absolutely beautiful place to explore and a fantastic destination for a staycation.
Once in the area, explore the coastline from the Blue Lagoon and continue down the coast towards the stunning beaches of Barafundle Bay and Freshwater West Beach. Both are absolutely breathtaking, and you might even spot some resident seals.
Another great location nearby is Tenby, a charming historic fishing village. Be sure to stroll around the town, visit nearby Caldey Island, and explore the ruins of Carew Castle, which are impressive to see.
Heads up, public transport can be limited here, so exploring by car is advisable. Local buses are available, and bringing a bike could help cover more ground. Be sure to plan ahead, as some bus routes may not run frequently.
2.) Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands is among the ideal destinations for a staycation in Britain, especially if you’re already in Scotland. Exploring the Highlands by car is the best way to appreciate the historic ruins, rugged coastlines, and charming local villages.
If you’re looking for adventure, consider driving the NC500, which is best explored over 5 to 7 days. We’ve traversed this route several times and the views are absolutely breathtaking.
3.) Cotswolds
Although only about 60 miles from Central London, the Cotswolds is a stunning area ideal for a staycation in Britain. The region features charming little villages, rolling hills, and an unmatched quaint charm.
When you’re there, be sure to visit places like Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold. Both towns are filled with quaint houses, independent shops, and delightful tea houses perfect for enjoying a scone or two.
Don’t fret if driving isn’t your preference; there are bus links between villages and towns within the Cotswolds.
4.) Snowdonia National Park
Wales is home to some of the finest national parks for outdoor enthusiasts, with Snowdonia being one of the most spectacular. The park encompasses vast areas for exploration and boasts Snowdon, the tallest mountain in England and Wales (Yr Wyddfa in Welsh).
If you’re keen on exploring, consider obtaining a ‘Red Rover’ train ticket, which acts as a hop-on-hop-off ticket between towns along the coast from Machynlleth (the ancient capital of Wales) to Pwllheli. However, be aware that train services may run infrequently, so it’s essential to plan your journey in advance.
5.) St Andrews
We may be biased since we both lived in St Andrews while studying, but I can genuinely say it’s one of my favorite towns to visit in Scotland.
Located approximately a 1-hour drive from Edinburgh (or a train to Leuchars followed by a 15-minute bus ride), St Andrews is an ideal destination for a day trip or a long weekend getaway.
Here, you must walk along the stunning West Sands Beach that stretches the entire length of the peninsula, offering beautiful views of the town.
If you’re interested in golf, consider booking a round at the Old Course, famously where the sport originated. It’s an institution open to everyone, though green fees can get pricey at peak times.
6.) Yorkshire
Yorkshire is an expansive region in the north of England that offers an incredible variety of landscapes, including moorlands, magnificent waterfalls, and charming towns and cities. You can expect a fulfilling mix of everything here.
When in Yorkshire, visiting the town of Whitby is a must. This lovely town allows you to visit the ruins of Whitby Abbey while enjoying the scenic beauty. Don’t forget to explore Robin Hood’s Bay during your visit to this beautiful coastline.
7.) Northumberland
Known as castle country, Northumberland is perfect for a staycation along the eastern coast of England. The area is expansive, making it ideal for exploration by car. If you’re passionate about history, visiting as many castles as possible is essential. Plan your trip to include remarkable sites like Bamburgh Castle and Dunstanburgh Castle, where a rich history awaits.
8.) Cornwall
Cornwall is potentially one of the best places for a staycation in Britain. This extensive area of Southwest England truly shines in summer, although it’s fantastic to visit year-round, especially for beach lovers.
While visiting Cornwall, you can enjoy stunning towns like St. Ives, or go to New Quay, known as a surfers’ paradise. Moreover, the vast number of bays in Cornwall offers unmatched opportunities for surfing. The beaches of Cornwall are a must-see—each more charming than the last.
9.) Bath
Bath is undoubtedly one of my favorite cities in England. It’s perfect for a staycation in Britain, particularly if you’re short on time.
You can easily navigate the city in 1-2 days, making it an ideal quick getaway.
While here, make sure to visit the Roman Baths and Bath Cathedral, both of which are stunning. Also, don’t miss out on grabbing a toasted bun from Sally Lunn’s, which has been delighting visitors with their buns for centuries.
