The best weekend getaways in the UK

We’re just about in the peak of summer. The weather’s hot, the days are long, and people everywhere are yearning for a holiday before the weather cools off again. If a trip abroad isn’t in the cards this year, there are still a range of destinations closer to home that will make a wonderful weekend break. From catching some rays in Tenby to ambling around Cotswold villages, here are some of the best weekend breaks in the UK.

The Gower Peninsula

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The Gower Peninsula is the perfect combination of relaxation and intrigue, combining beautiful, tranquil beaches and crumbling medieval castles. There are a scattering of B and B’s in the area, but the best place to stay is likely Fairyhill; an 18th-century home that’s been converted into a luxuriously furnished hotel, set within equally gorgeous grounds, and offering a locally sourced menu that can be rivalled by few others in the whole of Wales. Whatever you do here, don’t leave without popping in Wright’s Food Emporium; an expertly stocked delicatessen with its own delicious wines and condiments that will make a great souvenir. It’s also recommended you plan an afternoon walk from Rhossili to Worm’s Head. Just be sure to check the tide before climbing across!

Tenby

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Tenby is an ancient seaside town in Pembrokeshire, on the South coast of Wales. This town is surrounded by a border of stone walls dating back to the 13th century. Though these were designed to repel outsiders, they now attract history buffs and other travellers from all over the world. Tenby itself is absolutely adorable, and bursting with the archetypal shops and pubs that you’d find in any UK city. While mum and dad will probably be happy with the quaint little shops and miles of beautiful beaches, Tenby makes a great family getaway too, with a range of things to see and do for the kids. Heatherton World of Adventures is a large multi-activity facility, where the whole family can take part in go-karting, zip-lining, paintballing and a range of other activities. Entry is free, and you only pay for the activities you want to do. There’s also a scattering of historical sites and museums for older families.

The Cotswolds

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The Cotswolds is one of the most popular destinations for UK breaks for a reason: it’s absolutely gorgeous! Full of unspoilt chocolate box villages and a range of beautiful country walks, this may not be the ideal destination if you have young children, but it’s a paradise for mum and dad! If you only plan one activity in the Cotswolds, make sure it’s taking the breath-taking ramble from upper to lower Slaughter (no, that’s not a typo!) along the banks of the River Eye. If the English weather is being as unpredictable as ever, then have a lazy wander around the villages of Burford and Bourton-on-the-Water. These both have an ample range of shops, pubs, and tea rooms that are great for sating your curiosity, and simply taking a load off to watch the world go by.

Cotswolds image by WikiMedia.