In a world that needs buzzwords they’re called “staycations”. In reality, remaining within the confines of the UK for your big annual holiday is simple common sense to many British families. It’s usually cheaper, always simpler, and we’re lucky to live in a wonderfully beautiful country.
Recent research has suggested that news of the unsettled international situation is making more British travellers consider the safety of their destination when they plan to travel. And now the Zika virus outbreak in South America and the Caribbean is putting another horror headline in front of tourists.
But there are plenty of more positive reasons to swap the passport for a good pub guide this summer, including these 10 great value British holiday hot – or maybe pleasantly warm – spots.
1 – The English Riviera
Torquay takes the cream tea when it comes to claiming this coveted title, but the South Devon coast is amply supplied with attractive resorts, including Babbacombe, Paignton and Brixham. There’s a good deal of traditional British seaside fun to be had, but it’s not all fish and chips in an area that’s becoming increasingly fashionable.
2 – Southport
There’s more than just Blackpool to be enjoyed on the Lancashire coast. In fact, with one of the country’s oldest piers, some lovely Victorian architecture, a superb beach, world-class golf courses and easy access to Manchester and Liverpool, many Southport fans reckon it’s their favourite retreat that’s the really illuminating north-western seaside down.
3 – The Welsh Coast
All of Wales is lovely, of course, but it’s the coastal fringes that are really attracting attention these days. That’s partly thanks to the world’s first all-encircling coastal path, taking in secluded coves and busy holiday towns alike. Natural beauty is the big draw in places like New Quay, Penrhos or Lydstep, though.
4 – The Norfolk Coast
Proximity to London is bringing all sorts of fashionable folk up the A11 to Norfolk, with posh restaurants popping up to serve them. Norfolk is still good value though. Resorts like Great Yarmouth and Cromer used to be the butt of jokes, it’s just today that these beautiful historic seaside spots are getting their just desserts.
5 – Fylde and Lytham St Anne’s
Back to Lancashire and still no need to mention Blackpool. The Royal Horticultural Society called Lytham, “One of the greenest, cleanest, and most beautiful places in Britain.” There are certainly some good gardens in the area, and the coast is known for its beaches. Visit in July for the colourful kite festival, one of many local events.
6 – Eastbourne
It’s still a lovely place to retire, but the south coast resorts are thriving these days, as fashionable Londoners discover that there’s a great variety of attractions: beautiful historic architecture, award-winning beaches, lots of culture, and just to the north the wonderful South Downs National Park.
7 – Llandudno
Just to the south-west lie the jaw-dropping landscapes of Snowdonia, to the east the vibrant cities of Manchester and Liverpool are within easy reach. Llandudno is another seaside resort that’s being rediscovered. It’s a Victorian classic, but if your taste in history extends to earlier ages, the UNESCO World Heritage site, Conwy Castle, should be on your must-see list.
8 – North Cornwall
It’s not so long ago that we in Britain thought that surfing and other exotic water sports were something that you could only do in some steamy tropical clime. No longer though. The Cornish waters will never be as warm as those off Hawaii, but the north Cornish coast is recognised as a surfing hotspot, with Perran Sands, a quiet change from the wave-catching crowds and partying kids at Newquay.
9 – North Tyneside
North Tyneside and Northumberland are genuinely neglected gems. It’s a real shame, because the coast line – including the astoundingly beautiful castle and dunes at Bambrugh – really is stunning. To the north is Hadrian’s Wall, one of the finest Roman sites in the world, to the south, Newcastle offers all the big city entertainments.
10 – The Hampshire Coast
How many people on their way to the Channel ports take a look around and wonder if they shouldn’t be staying on this side of the water for their holiday? This part of the English coast is a paradise for water sports and sailing enthusiasts, and the New Forest is just inland. Portsmouth has major historical attractions, while Southampton is a thriving modern city. Try Hayling Island, for a unique get away.
