5 staycations to consider this summer
The sun has finally come out of hibernating for what feels like an eternity, we’re ditching the thick winter coats, and we don’t know about you, but we’ve got positive vibes all round here at Your Coffee Break. There’s just something about the start of spring that is so uplifting, and we can barely contain our excitement for upcoming summer evenings. Picnics in the park and days spent lounging in the garden with a book in one hand, and ice cold diet coke in the other. Pure bliss!
Although many of us will be reaching for our passports this summer, have you considered taking a staycation this year, rather than hopping on a plane? The UK is full of beautiful sights, rich history and stunning coastline. So why not spend some of your annual leave discovering your own country this summer? Or if you’ve already got your summer holiday booked, why not make the most of the upcoming bank holidays and book yourself a long weekend with your girlfriends or partner?
To help you along the way, we’ve put together some of our top recommendations for the ultimate staycations. You don’t have to worry over check in times, baggage allowances or inconvenient delays here!
1. Recharge in Cornwall
Cornwall is a fantastic places to recharge your batteries. Get out of the city and breathe in the fresh coastal air! The pace is much slower and you can enjoy time just simply pottering around all of what the area has to offer. St Ives is a simply stunning area of Cornwall, with plenty of cafes, restaurants and boutiques for you to peruse at your leisure. Home to five different beaches, there really is no better way to spend a morning with a coffee in hand as you stroll along the white sandy beach and hear the waves gently crashing.
Where to stay? We would recommend Tregenna Castle Resort or the Primrose Valley Hotel for unique rooms and a fantastic location.
Where to eat? The Porthminster Kitchen for delicious fish and chips, a seaside classic of course!
2. Go Walking in Wales
If you fancy getting out there in the great outdoors, then Wales might be just what you’re looking for. Ideal for keen hikers, Wales offers superb scenery and well-marked national trails. So it’s time to lace up (and dust off, ahem) those walking boots! The Wales Coast Path offers a particularly interesting walk, it’s the world’s first uninterrupted route along natural coast and provides a stunning backdrop of beaches, cliffs, woodland and rolling hills.
Where to stay? Wales offers many castle retreats, so you can sleep in true style like the princess you are.
Where to eat? Wales has many pubs, as well as top notch restaurants. If you happen to find yourself in the Brecon Beacons, then be sure to check out The Three Horseshoes Inn for a hearty lunch!
3. Hire a Punt in Cambridge
Synonymous with punting, this charming University town has plenty to offer for visitors. Punting along the river is an absolute must (well if it’s good enough for Beckhams!) and of course, you just have to take a bottle of champagne and a punnet of strawberries with you along for the ride! Wander around the famous University grounds, and marvel at the stunning Kings College as you walk down Kings Parade with an ice cream in hand. As well as this there’s also the Fitzwilliam – perfect for any history or art buffs out there, and plenty of shops and restaurants to satisfy your needs. If you fancy a night out with a difference, why not head to nearby Newmarket for a night at the races?
Where to stay? The Bedford Lodge Hotel is great if you fancy heading into Newmarket as well, and is also home to an amazing spa. If you want to stay central into the city then there’s plenty of independently run B&B’s!
Where to eat? For a Michelin star experience then Alimentum is a must visit, for something a little more cheap and cheerful then Butch Annies does great burgers!
4. Soak up History in Bath
Ah beautiful Bath, a world heritage site, architectural dream and unique city that you just can’t help but fall in love with. You will be truly spoilt for choice with this stunning city but luckily we have a few tips for you! If it’s your first time visiting then you have to visit the Roman Baths, it’s a great way to soak up the culture and understand the history of Bath. A stroll up to the Royal Crescent should also be on your to-do list, a row of stunning Georgian townhouses and a pretty special view as well! Afternoon Tea at The Pump Room is another must-do, and for Jane Austen fans, there’s the Jane Austen centre which celebrate Bath’s very own famous resident.
Where to stay? The Bailbrook House Hotel offers stunning views and a real sense of luxury. This building was often visited by royalty including Queen Charlotte and King William IV!
Where to eat? There’s plenty of options to choose from but we would recommend Sotto Sotto for delicious Italian food.
5. Fall in Love with the Peak District
For keen cyclists and hikers, the Peak District offers the perfect landscape. A world of natural beauty awaits! Home to pretty market towns, villages and historic houses, there’s plenty to do if you don’t fancy spending your whole weekend walking. With activities including horse riding, water sports and even helicopter flights, you definitely won’t be bored. If you can’t resist a bit of shopping (let’s be serious it’s an enjoyable activity) then there’s always the East Midlands designer outlet. Who says you can’t combine a walking holiday with shopping?
Where to stay? Losehill House, a privately owned boutique hotel and spa offers a relaxing stay and hello – there’s a spa!
Where to eat? It’s best not to plan too strictly here as you never know where you’ll end up and at what time. It’s more fun to head out for your hike and come across pubs, restaurants and cafes but if you are planning ahead then Piedaniels in the Bakewell area is worth a visit.
