We Brits love a holiday – usually to escape the unpredictable British summertime weather! But unless you were one of the lucky ones who managed to sneak away for a quick break last summer, we came to the realisation that a staycation isn’t all that bad. Some of us might even prefer it! With no need to limit your suitcase to the measly cabin bag restrictions, not having to remember your passport or to change your currency, staycations can make for a much smoother holiday.
Sounds like fun? We’ve rounded up some of the best staycation ideas for you to make the most of the British summer this year!
Lodges with hot tubs
Add an element of glamour to your UK staycation by booking a lodge with a hot tub! They are the perfect way to relax after a long day’s hike or for a fun place to drink your bubbly. Even if you don’t manage to find somewhere with a pool or by the sea, a private residence with a hot tub is a great way to have a splash about, in all kinds of weather!
Hot tub breaks are also perfect if you’re looking for a romantic getaway as you can sit back, relax and unwind together. Spa breaks aren’t always the cheapest, so this is a great alternative to experience a little TLC and quality time together, whilst on a budget!
Lodges can also fit large groups, making them perfect for a vacation with friends! If you’ve got a wedding coming up and are in need of a special treat for your hen or stag do, a hot tub is a really fun addition that the whole crowd will enjoy!
Last minute staycation
If we’ve learned anything from the last year, it’s that plans can change as quickly as you can say ‘lockdown’. So don’t worry if you’re a bit skeptical when it comes to booking your holidays in advance as there are plenty of B&B’s, campsites and lodges available with some great deals!
The great thing about last minute staycation is that you can book a spontaneous weekend getaway to somewhere relatively local. If you’re a city dweller, just jumping over the city border and into the countryside can make you feel like you’re in a completely different country. The same goes for those living in the countryside – why not check out the local cities and stay in a hotel for a few nights? You may be surprised by how many beautiful places are right on your doorstep.
UK Family Holidays
Travelling with kids isn’t always easy. Luckily there are some amazing adventures awaiting them right here in the UK! We’ve got all the top tips to make your family staycations as easy as possible:
- Places to eat nearby – You don’t want to be travelling for miles to find somewhere to eat, especially if you have little ones. Try looking for places that have a restaurant onsite or somewhere near a town so you can have a stress free family meal out (the dream!)
- Parks – outdoor space is imperative when travelling with the kids as they need somewhere they can run around and get rid of any excess energy so they don’t keep you up all night! There’s also no better feeling than getting away and getting back in touch with nature and the outdoors.
- Pools – this might not be a necessity for everyone but having some fun in the pool can definitely make you feel like you’re abroad! It’s also a good blood pumping activity that feels like a treat, but is great exercise.
- Pets allowed – Our furry friends deserve a break too! If you’re looking to take your dog on holiday, it’s important to look for dog friendly locations. A lot of campsites have dog friendly options as well as some beautiful British holiday homes and cottages.
Holiday Advice
Although we can get lucky with a few hot spells, we know far too well how quickly it can change – no matter what the weather report says. Therefore, it’s important to make sure you have all the right kit with you so you can tackle all the elements. And with no restrictions on what you can take on the plane, it’s a lot easier to make sure you have everything you need for your staycation.
- Waterproof – Even though we can keep our fingers crossed for a sunny holiday, it’s always best to keep a waterproof jacket with you just in case, particularly if you’re planning long walks and adventures.
- Comfy walking shoes – you might not necessarily need to invest in any walking boots (unless you’re going on a hiking holiday) but having some shoes that are comfy to walk in are a must. We always end up getting more steps in when we’re walking around somewhere new so you need to make sure you avoid getting any blisters!
- Something cosy for the evenings – Unfortunately, those balmy summer evenings are saved for places closer to the equator so having a cosy jumper for the nighttime is a must have. That way you can stay longer outside by the campfire or enjoy a sunset on the beach in comfort.
- Blankets are a must especially if you’re camping! They’re perfect for warming up by the fire and super handy if you’re in a tent as it can get chilly overnight.
- Books – Take a break from watching TV or scrolling through social media on your staycation and dive into a book instead. Having more time on your hands on holiday is great so why not make the most of it and read that book that’s been sitting on your shelf forever!
- Board games – If you’re looking to spend more time with family and friends, board games can be a great way to have fun together and can easily be packed in the car.
- Water bottles – It’s imperative to stay hydrated especially if you’re out and about during the day so having a water bottle with you makes it easier to get all that necessary H2O!
The best UK beaches
Now you know why UK holidays are the place to be this summer, and how you can make the most of them, it’s time to discover the best UK vacation spots. Our little island has a huge stretch of coastline, and is home to some beautiful seaside locations – the perfect spots to set up camp! With so many staycation destinations to choose from, we have rounded up some of the best UK beaches for you to explore:
- Cornwall is a must visit destination for any UK staycation. Right down south, it gets some beautiful sunny weather, perfect for enjoying its picturesque beaches like the mile long Sennen Cove. Why don’t you learn to surf whilst you’re there to really fit in with the locals!
- Durdle Door on the Jurassic Coast in Dorset, may sound like something out of a Steven Spielberg movie, but is actually a breathtaking feat of nature. A grand limestone arch, on a gorgeous sandy beach, is definitely worth the long hike to see it, just make sure you wear sensible shoes and pack some food and drinks.
- If British seaside huts are your thing, then Southwold in Suffolk is the beach for you. You can take a day trip to see these brightly coloured beach huts, or stay overnight in a B&B and enjoy the other beaches Suffolk has to offer like Walberswick beach.
- Scotland is home to some stunning coves and little isles, perfect for exploring if you’re local, or staying for a week if you’re a tourist. None get more amazing then Achmelvich beach – a sandy cove for peace and tranquility!
This summer might be another one of uncertainty but you can be comforted by the fact that you can still have an amazing holiday a little bit closer to home! Sometimes we take the beauty of the British seaside for granted, but now’s the time to get exploring! Make sure you pack your favourite Nakd vegan snack bar for the road whether a Berry Delight, Cocoa Coconut or Coffee & Walnut fruit and nut bar.
For more amazing Nakd blogs why not check out our Natural Source of Vitamin D blog or our At Home Date Night Ideas.
