One of the biggest trends in travel for 2023 is discovering the hidden gems of the UK with a fantastic UK break.
With this in mind, we couldn’t help but feel this was the ideal time to do a deep dive into some of our favourite places to visit in the British Isles that may not necessarily be on your radar.
We love the likes of Dorset, Devon and Cornwall, but there are some other incredible places to visit that you should definitely add to your list of places to take an unmissable UK break.
Cambridgeshire, England
At less than an hour’s train ride from London, Cambridge is well-known for its historically-rich dazzling architecture, its proximity to the River Cam and of course, its prestigious world-famous university.
But, there’s also sprawling green spaces, a fantastic collection of intriguing museums and some pretty stellar multicultural culinary delights.
This is one of the best destinations in England to take a UK break.
Stay: The Graduate Cambridge – Nestled along the banks of The River Cam and in the heart of city centre, this idyllic retreat is perfect for history lovers, locals and city-dwellers seeking a much-needed getaway.
It’s like going to Cambridge University without studying and with a healthy dose of style. Download or open the Orbzii app to book.
Monmouthshire, Wales
Love history? The pretty county of Monmouthshire is for you if this is high on your list of things to explore when taking a UK break.
This is a landscape that is unequivocally steeped in history.
If meandering around a castle is high on your list of things to do on your UK breaks, then you are in luck.
Monmouthshire is home to not just one or two, but nine castles!
One of our favourites is the stunning Raglan Castle.
History buffs should check out the Three Castles Walk which takes you on a 19-mile circular route linking in three medieval castles which includes Grosmont, Skenfrith and White Castle.
If you prefer adventure over history, why not try some canoeing on the River Wye or rock climbing on the Wyndcliff where you can enjoy some far reaching views from ‘The Eagle’s Nest’ at the top.
Stay: St Pierre Marriott Hotel & Country Club – Located in Chepstow, the hotel and country club is located on a lake close to Caldicot Castle and the stunning Wye Valley.
It’s worth booking a visit to the spa where you can enjoy a variety of different treatments.
Leicestershire, England
Roman baths, historical attractions, intriguing listed buildings like the medieval Guildhall and historic cathedral as well as a buzzing nightlife, Leicester has a fantastic array of things to do.
Culture vultures will adore the aptly named Cultural Quarter, where you can find dozens of galleries, museums, and theatres putting on a wide range of events.
From real ale pubs to cocktail bars and from bands playing rock music to jazz nights and poetry recitals, it’s easy to see why this is one of the top city’s thanks to its emerging music scene.
Step outside of the city and you will find over 70 miles of tranquil waterways and the vast National Forest.
Yes, you can kayak to the pub and do a kayak crawl! What more could you want from a UK break?!
Stay: Kilworth House Hotel – This fantastic offers timeless elegance in the heart of rural Leicestershire.
Set within stunning, expansive grounds, this is a luxurious hotel in the heart of the countryside.
Make sure you carve out time to enjoy a classic Afternoon Tea which effortlessly combines delicious culinary delights with unrivalled service.
East Lothian, Scotland
East Lothian is one of the most beautiful areas of Scotland.
Not only does it offer over 40 miles of glorious coastline brimming with stunning landscapes, there’s also lots of things to see and do in the area.
It’s an ideal destination whether you are there with friends, family, you are flying solo or even for a romantic UK break away.
Its close proximity to the majestic city of Edinburgh, makes this a popular choice for a day trip or weekend away.
From Yester Castle to walking with alpacas in the East Lothian countryside at John Muir Country Park, you won’t be short of wonderful things to do.
For the more adrenaline-fueled junkies, why not pay a visit to Belhaven Bay which is one of the best places to paddle board and surf in the area.
Stay: – The Bonnie Badger couldn’t be any less Scottish right?! Set in the heart of East Lothian’s enchanting coastal village of Gullane,
The Bonnie Badger is a modern Scottish restaurant with rooms, but is one of the best boutique hotels to stay in East Lothian.
We love its Scandi/Scottish style and it’s one of the most prestigious places to eat in the area making it an ideal choice for foodies looking for a fantastic UK break.
Buckinghamshire, England
Set in a beautiful landscape, the gorgeous county of Buckinghamshire is full of fascinating places to explore.
It’s also one of the most intriguing counties in the British Isles, thanks to its never-ending array of things to do.
Want to learn about code-breaking in a country estate? Or enhance your knowledge in the macabre Hellfire Caves?
Of course you do! In Buckinghamshire, it’s all possible!
Buckinghamshire is the perfect year-round destination for a UK break or even a day trip?.
With its chocolate box villages, historic towns and stunning scenery, it makes for a delightful break and it’s just over 90 minutes on the train from London.
Make sure you take some time to visit the stunning Stowe House which is one of Britain’s finest 18th Century hidden gems
Stay: It’s iconic and has been the first choice of celebrities and royalty.
Cliveden House sits on the border of Berkshire and Buckinghamshire and is one of the great country houses of Buckinghamshire, and possibly all of England.
It’s utterly luxurious and this Grade 1 Listed stately house is set in peaceful, rolling countryside.
