We're always looking forward to exploring new locations overseas, but there’s no doubt that holidays at home are hugely popular. UK holiday destinations offer so much variety within a short distance, not to mention mini-breaks that don't break the bank.
UK holiday destinations provide a fabulous choice of experiences in every season, and we’re planning our escapes right now, starting with an autumn spa break in Leicestershire to get our mind and body ready for the winter.
And while the Mediterranean might have glorious weather in the summer, a British beach break has its own charm, and we can often be lucky with the weather in the spring and summer months too. We're eyeing trips to the golden beaches of Cornwall and Norfolk for a classic seaside escape - think ice creams and fish and chips on the seafront and long walks along stunning coastlines.
If you're wondering where you should go for your next British escape, we've brought you the best UK holiday destinations, from walking holidays to railway holidays to rejuvenating spa breaks.
1
Norfolk
With its famous local produce, pretty windmills and glorious beaches, Norfolk is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the UK.
During a five-day staycation in April, May, or September 2024, you'll take three historic railway journeys to effortlessly explore the region, including boarding the Bure Valley Railway and the Poppy Line — two historic steam trains.
You'll also tour Sandringham, the Royal Family's splendid country retreat, in the company of historian Lucy Worsley. You'll have the opportunity to hear insider knowledge as you make your way around the house and gardens.
This staycation also includes a paddleboat cruise on the Bure River - with the chance to see picture-perfect thatched cottages and Norfolk's famous windmills - and a stay in four-star comfort near Norwich for four nights on a half-board basis.
When: April, May, or September 2024
2
Scottish Highlands
One of the most beautiful UK holiday destinations you'll ever see, the Scottish Highlands are so striking that they've attracted the film industry, with scenes from James Bond and Harry Potter movies shot here.
Treat yourself to a magnificent four-day adventure around the region in June or July next year, and you'll travel over land, sea and loch, with multiple journeys powered by steam.
You'll have the chance to ride the West Highland Railway on the iconic Jacobite steam train over the mighty 21-arch Glenfinnan viaduct, famously crossed by the Hogwarts Express.
You'll also get to explore the Highlands by water, with a voyage over the Firth of Clyde on the world's last ocean-going paddle steamer, the historic and elegant PS Waverley and a cruise on Loch Katrine on the Lady of the Water, enjoying breathtaking views as you sail.
When: June of July 2024
3
The Hebrides
Another must-see part of Scotland is the incredible Hebrides, an archipelago off the west coast of the Scottish mainland characterised by white-sand beaches, jaw-dropping wildlife, and unique archaeological sites. You'll find remote whisky distilleries, prehistoric stone circles, and ancient churches here, as well as miles of dramatic coastline with astonishing views.
Join Prima for a cruise of the Hebrides in May 2024 and you'll explore some of these enchanting isles from the comfort of luxury yacht, Lord of the Glens. You'll visit the Isle of Iona, the Isle of Mull and the Isle of Skye, and see some of the Scottish mainland as you sail the Caledonian Canal.
Joining you for part of this trip will be weather presenter and proud Scotswoman Carol Kirkwood, who'll tell you about her Scottish family's history during a private talk and Q&A session, and she will accompany you on an excursion.
When? May 2024
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4
Leicestershire
This landlocked county is worth considering for a rural escape, with its miles of rolling countryside sprinkled with sweet villages and grand stately homes.
Nestled in the leafy countryside close to the quintessential market town of Melton Mowbray, Ragdale Hall is the place to check in if you want to soak up the tranquillity of rural Leicestershire. For a blissful spa break in a gorgeous UK holiday destination, this place will leave you feeling more than relaxed.
Aside from the pampering and soaking up the views from its infinity rooftop pool, you can explore the exquisite grounds and gardens with long, scenic walks, whatever the season.
When: Until September 2024
5
Manchester
If you're looking for a culture-packed city break in the UK, then Manchester is hard to beat, with a long list of top-class museums and galleries to explore. The city has a proud history in the arts and entertainment. Music lovers can visit iconic locations with links to bands like The Smiths, Oasis, The Stone Roses and Joy Division .
If you're more of a TV-lover, you might want to tour the set of one of Manchester's most beloved cultural exports - Coronation Street.
Visit Manchester next year with Prima on a special Corrie-themed trip and you'll get a chance to walk the street itself, visit replica sets of iconic locations such as Roy's Rolls and The Rovers Return, and meet actor Mikey North, who plays Gary Windass in the soap.
When: March 2024
6
North Wales
This picturesque part of Wales is an excellent UK holiday destination for those who appreciate fresh air and the great outdoors and who love to immerse themselves in the heritage of a region.
Explore North Wales by taking a train up Mount Snowdon, where you can enjoy the sweeping panoramas without embarking on the challenge of the mountain hike. You can also board the Welsh Highland Railway, a steam train that carves a route through the foothills of Snowdon and the Abergaslyn Pass.
Of course, a trip to this part of the world wouldn't be complete without a visit to a castle, and Prima's adventure in October this year includes stepping inside Gwydir Castle to soak up the atmosphere of this Tudor masterpiece.
When: October 2023
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7
Yorkshire Dales
The rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales have provided much literary inspiration over the centuries. And whether or not you love the novels of the Bronte sisters and The Railway Children by Edith Nesbit or simply enjoy the fresh air and fine views, there's plenty to savour in this scenic pocket of England.
Explore the Yorkshire Dales on foot and by rail on Prima's walking holiday over five glorious days. Together with a group of like-minded readers, you'll walk for around three or four hours a day to explore the villages, bridleways and homes of the Bronte sisters from a base in Skipton, the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales.
You'll also board three splendid trains, including a ride on a classic steam train.
When: October 2023 or April, August, or October 2024
8
Warwickshire
For more literary delights, head to Warwickshire and the birthplace of William Shakespeare in the enchanting market town of Stratford Upon Avon. You could also visit the magnificent Warwick Castle, where a whole day can be spent exploring what medieval life was like within the castle walls, spotting peaco*cks in the gardens or trying a spot of archery.
As a base for your Warwickshire adventures, spend two nights at The Charlecote Pheasant, just five miles from Stratford Upon Avon and on the doorstep of the National Trust's Charlecote Park. When you book with us, two nights include a complimentary room upgrade, breakfast on both mornings, a three-course meal on your first night and a welcome drink to start your stay in style.
When: Until October 2023
9
The Cotswolds
The honey-stoned homes and rural beauty of the Cotswolds make this region a much sought-after place to live. But it's just as wonderful to dip into on a fabulous UK staycation, with idyllic walks and cosy pubs aplenty.
Spend a night at Bowden Hall, a four-star Georgian country house hotel, and you'll be staying in the heart of Gloucestershire, surrounded by archetypal Cotswolds country landscapes.
With Prima's exclusive offer, you'll get £26 per person towards dinner on one evening at the hotel's Bar and Brasserie, a
Full English breakfast daily and a late checkout at noon, making it the perfect restorative country getaway.
When: Until December 2023
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10
The New Forest
A magnet for nature lovers, The New Forest covers 350 square miles over Hampshire and parts of Wiltshire and is loved for its sleepy river valleys, gorse-covered heathland, free-roaming ponies, ancient woodlands and storybook villages. It makes for a truly magical country escape and is well worth adding to your UK staycation wish list.
Prima has a two-night offer for a stay at Careys Manor, an excellent hotel in the heart of the New Forest National Park. This is the perfect place to relax and reset, absorbing the tranquillity of the New Forest and enjoying top-class spa facilities. Prima's offer includes a bottle of Prosecco, dinner each evening, and use of the health club facilities.
When? Until March 2024
11
The Chilterns
The Chilterns in southeast England is a heavenly region known for its gently rolling hills, quaint villages, and unique geological features. It's an ideal area for long walks through leafy beech woodlands, where you might spot Adonis blue butterflies, red kites soaring overhead, and perhaps even a cute otter or water vole on a river bank.
Spend a couple of days exploring The Chilterns with Prima's one-night stay at Danesfield House, a stately country house located between the pretty towns of Marlow and Henley-on-Thames. It also has 65 acres of its own manicured gardens to enjoy while you stay, as well as a luxurious spa. With our offer you'll get bottle of Champagne, dinner, and access to the spa.
When: Until December 2023
12
Cornwall
Cornwall is a staycation favourite for good reason: the beauty and character of this southwesterly prong are simply sublime.
The harbour town of Padstow on Cornwall's north coast is one of our best-loved spots. Keen walkers can make the most of the scenery by heading out on the South West Coast Path, enjoying the rugged coastline and spotting fishing boats out on the water, ready to replenish the local seafood restaurants.
The town is well-known for great food, thanks in part to chef Rick Stein, who owns several restaurants in and around Padstow. One of these, the inviting gastro pub The Cornish Arms, has Shepherd's Huts in its grounds where you can two nights with Prima's special offer.
You'll get a three-course meal at The Cornish Arms. A Stein's Deli beach picnic to enjoy on the beach, and a bottle of Rick Stein Chateau Bauduc Rosé.
When: Until March 2024
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13
The Lake Disctrict
The Lake District National Park is a vast natural playground with some of the UK's most dramatic natural scenery. These are the quintessential English landscapes which inspired former resident Beatrix Potter, whose farmhouse and garden, with its haphazard mix of herbs, fruit, vegetables and flowers, is open to visitors.
Prima has a two-night offer for The Belsfield Hotel, which will put you right on the banks of the serene Lake Windermere. The offer includes a cruise on Lake Windermere, allowing you to enjoy spectacular views of mountainous landscapes, secluded bays, and forested islands from the water.
When: Until December 2023
14
Peak District
The Peak District is a place famous for its walking trails, but it's also where some of the nation's finest country houses stand, including Chatsworth House, Renishaw Hall and Gardens, Haddon Hall and Tissington Hall.
Prima has a special offer for a two-night stay at Mosborough Hall, a perfectly-located hotel for discovering the grand stately homes of the Peak District and taking long, scenic walks through the countryisde. It's only a short drive from Sheffield too, so you can take in a show at one of Sheffield’s historic music venues and theatres, or enjoy a walk in the famous Winter Garden.
Prima's offer includes a Full English breakfast on both mornings, a three-course dinner with wine pairings on your first night, and a late checkout.
When: Until October 2023
