England is a beautiful country all year around. That said, there’s just something about England in the summer that makes it completely and utterly charming.
From the rich greenery of the countryside to the rugged brown coastline, you’re bound to do the heart-eyed emoji whichever way you look.
That’s why you don’t necessarily need to venture overseas for the spring or summer seasons. You can still get serious holiday vibes just by going somewhere local.
Don’t believe me? Check out these 10 weekend breaks in England that are ideal for a staycation.
1. Lake District
Weekend breaks in England 101: the Lake District.
Created in 1951 and made a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2017, the Lake District National Park is known for how scenic it is.
In fact, some may call it a paradise for nature lovers, hikers or anyone who likes being by the water (thanks to its 26 miles of coastline).
Here are just a few highlights:
- Scafell Pike, which is the tallest mountain in England
- Lake Windermere, which is the best-known and busiest lake where you can go on a boat ride
- Levens Hall, which is a manor house that has the world’s largest and oldest topiary gardens
- Rydal Mount, which has pretty gardens and a cute tearoom serving homemade cakes and drinks
Oh, and did I mention that some of the best hot tub lodges in the UK are in this area?
Whatever you decide to do, the 912 square miles of loveliness that is the Lake District certainly won’t disappoint.
2. London
One of the most popular weekend breaks in England at any time of year is London.
Our capital city is around 2,000 years old — and there’s plenty to see and do there during a short break. For instance, did you know that London has around 170 museums?
If you’ve never been there before, you can (and should) also check out the following:
- The National Archives, without having to pay a penny
- Borough Market, which is one of the most incredible food markets I’ve ever been to
- Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, which are all a stone’s throw away from each other
- Buckingham Palace, to check in on the Queen and her Royal Guards, obviously
And I challenge you NOT to fall in love with London’s overwhelming individuality.
3. Manchester
Known amongst Brits as the capital of the north, Manchester is one of England’s most-loved cities.
How come, you ask? Well, there’s a lot going for it, including:
- Science and Industry Museum, which is interesting because Manchester played a big role during the Industrial Revolution
- City of Manchester Distillery, which is a great gin tour
- Manchester Cathedral and Town Hall, which has gorgeous gothic-style architecture
- Arley Hall and Gardens, which has pleasant gardens that Peaky Blinders has used as filming locations
- A wide range of shops, including high street heaven at Market Street and The Arndale Centre, designer boutiques on King Street and quirky independent stores in The Northern Quarter
Oh, and did I mention that Mancunians are extremely friendly and awesome people? I personally love it there.
4. St Ives
It was impossible to get too far down this list of the best weekend breaks in England without mentioning Cornwall — and specifically St Ives.
Loved by natives and tourists alike, this tiny town is a busy fishing port that has stunning white sand beaches and surfable blue waves. Because of this, it’s a very popular holiday destination.
In addition to exploring the town, be sure to check out the following:
- Seal Island, which can be accessed via a daily boat trip as it’s 3.5 miles off the coast
- The Island, which is a grassy peninsula (not actually an island) that is great for panoramic views
Cornwall is also renowned for its nice weather. Therefore, this just proves you don’t need to travel abroad to soak up some sunshine. Right?
5. Truro
Speaking of Cornwall, shopaholics will love Truro, the main shopping city in this county.
It’s a super cute place that also has Lemon Quay (a large indoor market), the Hall of Cornwall (home to opera and ballet shows) and the grand Victorian Truro Cathedral.
Then there’s Healey’s Cyder Farm, which offers guided tours, sampling, a restaurant, tearoom and its very own shop.
Needless to say, you can quite easily spend a weekend there.
6. Liverpool
Home to the Beatles Museum, the history of one of the world’s most famous bands can be traced back to Liverpool. This is one of the many reasons why Liverpool makes such a perfect staycation spot.
Fashionistas will also appreciate the ONE shopping centre. Not to mention, Liverpool has the Royal Albert Dock, which has restaurants, bars, cafes and museums aplenty.
Need I go on?
7. Newcastle
If you love a good night out, look no further than The Toon. Other highlights include:
- The Quayside, where there is a Sunday Market and a wide range of restaurants and bars
- Victoria Tunnel, which is a 19th-century tunnel used during WW2 as an air raid shelter (guided tours are available)
- Theatre Royal, which is a mesmerising theatre if you feel like catching a show
- Mosley Street, which was the first street in the world to be illuminated by incandescent lightbulb in February 1879
The city just has an undeniably cool vibe. What can I say, it might be something to do with that famous Geordie banter!
8. Brighton
Brighton is one of my favourite weekend breaks in England.
From the Royal Pavilion (an India-style building that was a seaside retreat for King George IV) to The Lanes (a historic quarter filled with boutiques, jewellery shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants), the pebble beach to Brighton Pier, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
A couple of fun facts for you:
- Brighton’s full name is actually Brighton and Hove (two towns formed a unity in 1997 and the Queen granted its city status in 2001)
- It is home to Britain’s oldest cinema
(Hey, you really do learn something new every day!)
9. Bath
Speaking of learning new things, did you know that Bath is the only UK city that is classed as a World Heritage Site?
Much like York, Bath is enriched with British heritage. It’s all stone buildings, ancient history and amazing architecture. And this amazing architecture includes:
- The Roman baths
- Bath Abbey
- The Circus
- Pulteney Bridge
Literary lovers can also check out the Jane Austen Centre, which is a permanent exhibition exploring Jane Austen’s time in bath as a visitor and a resident.
10. Bournemouth
Lastly, another of the weekend breaks in England ideal for a staycation is Bournemouth.
Here you can find seven miles of alluring beaches where you can frolic in the sea and work on your tan. These beaches include:
- Bournemouth Beach
- Durley Chine Beach
- Alum Chine Beach
- Boscombe Beach
Alternatively, you might want to check out the Bournemouth Lower Gardens near the city centre and the Cliff Lift, which provides panoramic views of the coastline.
Either way, you’re going to adore it there.
Deciding on the Best Weekend Breaks in England
Even though it’s good to travel abroad, visit new countries and expand your horizons, sometimes you just can’t beat the beauty of home soil.
The truth is, opting for one of these weekend breaks in England can significantly reduce your planning and journey time, as well as your budget.
What’s one of the best weekend breaks in England you’ve ever been on? Are you choosing a staycation this year?
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