5 reasons to visit the UK
If you're busy planning your holidays for 2023, you might be looking forward to discovering new destinations abroad, from sunny beaches to 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.
The spring and early summer 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 for 2023.
There is a fantastic range of stunning gardens to explore right here in the UK. Visit the Cotswolds with Gardeners' World presenter Rachel de Thame to discover beautiful Bourton House this June. Rachel will join you on an exclusive guided tour of the gardens, sharing her knowledge as you witness the elegant terraces, lush herbaceous borders, creatively planted flowerbeds, and exotic trees.
Alternatively, join our four-day trip with presenter Christine Walkden to see some of England's finest gardens, including that of King Charles III at his beloved Highgrove House.
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. Join our cruise with weather presenter Carol Kirkwood for an unforgettable cruise around Scotland's Highlands and Islands. You'll be sailing aboard Lord of the Glens, a small, yacht-like ship, where you'll spend eight days exploring the Caledonian Canal and the enchanting islands off Scotland's western shore.
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. Take our trip to Norfolk with historian Lucy Worsley - you'll enjoy three heritage rail journeys, along the Bure Valley Railway, Poppy Line and the Bittern Line.
Or, if you only have a day to spare, why not join beloved actress Joanna Lumley on a day trip to a Kent vineyard on board the sumptuous British Pullman.
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. Join our trip to the Isles of Scilly in August and you'll see what you mean. Here you'll discover pristine sandy beaches, turquoise seas, and an unrushed pace of life.
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. Join historian Robert Hardman this May or September and you'll get a special look at royal history on visits to some of Britain's finest palaces. You'll visit St George's Chapel, Hampton Court Palace, the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey - with an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour at Windsor Castle.
