5 reasons to visit the UK
When planning your holidays, you might be looking forward to discovering new destinations abroad - from sunny beaches and lush rainforests, to cobble-stoned streets lined with inviting restaurants. But when you're in need of a last-minute getaway, when you only have a weekend to spare, or when you just want to get away without the hassle of international travel, UK holidays are here to save the day.
Getaways close home have an enduring appeal, offering so many exciting activities on our doorstep, along with restorative spa-breaks that don't break the bank. We have a great choice of experiences to enjoy in locations from Cornwall all the way up to the Scottish Hebrides. Many of our trips are accompanied by experts too, so you can learn more about the landscapes and history of our isles.
During the winter months, you could experience the Northern Lights, if you're in the right location. Alternatively, view Northumberland's stars in the company of an astronomer - a truly magical break. The spring brings the opportunity to see many of the UK's glorious gardens in full bloom, from Sezincote Gardens in the Cotswolds to Tresco Abbey Garden on Tresco in the Isles of Scilly. The balmy summer months are the perfect time to head to the coast - we love getaways to the vast, golden beaches of Cornwall and Norfolk, or to the white, powder-soft beaches of the Hebrides, where you can almost feel like you're in the Caribbean if the weather is right.
In case you're not already looking up locations in the UK for your next escape, here are five reasons why staycations are top of our wishlist.
There is a fantastic range of stunning gardens to explore right here in the UK. The Cotswolds are renonwed for their stately homes with glorious gardens. Join Adam Henson and explore the idyllic Cotswolds and visit his own Cotswolds Farm Park. You will also visit the pretty village of Broadway, Chedworth Roman Villa, Painswick Rococo Gardens and Sudeley Castle.
Scotland is home to some exceptional islands with intriguing histories, breathtaking landscapes, and tranquil beaches to be discovered. Of course, the mouthwatering seafood and smoky whiskies are also a big draw. The best way to see these islands is by cruise, and smaller ships allow you access through the Caledonian canal and Scotland's narrow waterways.
One benefit of holidaying in the UK is that you don't have to deal with the hassle of flying. Instead, why not spend some time exploring the country's heritage railways, which will whizz and steam past some heavenly scenery.
Travel along the Bure Valley Railway, Poppy Line and the Bittern Line in Norfolk. For something more elegant, re-live the Golden Age of travel with a trip on the Northern Belle and relax in an Art-Deco carriage as scenery passes you by. Journey on board the famous Jacobite steam train, as you pass over the spectacular 21-arch Glenfinnan viaduct, as seen in the Harry Potter films.
You don't have to jet off to the Mediterranean for a beachy holiday. While the weather is a little more reliable in southern Europe, we do have some stretches of sand here that give the Costa del Sol a run for its money. The Isles of Scilly, off the coast of Cornwall are truly stunning - with sandy beaches, glorious gardens and wonderful wildlife waiting to be explored. Join our trip to the Isles of Scilly and you'll see what we mean.
According to recent research, there's been an uptick in interest in the many historic stately homes and palaces to be found in the UK, perhaps thanks to the influence of TV shows like Bridgerton and Downton Abbey. On our royal history tour, you can enjoy visits to some of Britain's finest palaces including St George's Chapel, Hampton Court Palace, the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey. This four-day tour includes a private visit to Windsor Castle and a guided tour of the Queen's State Apartments and the lavish King's Apartments Rooms at Kensington Palace.
You could also join Lucy Worsley in historic Bath, as you follow in Jane Austen's footsteps.
