From iconic coasts to quaint market towns, from adventure experiences to relaxing spa weekends, from big cities to remote landscapes, these are some of the best weekend breaks in the UK.
What is a great weekend break in the UK?
Fresh air and natural beauty are great places to start. Rolling green countryside etched with footpaths and surrounded by dry stone walls; or a dramatic sea breeze blown coastline that knocks iconic cliffs into perfect wilderness.
Perhaps you’re looking for a more urban getaway. Big city attractions with world-class art and a bar scene waiting to be explored, or quaint market towns with a slow, relaxed atmosphere and thriving local food scene
Whatever type of weekend getaway you’re looking for, there are many beautiful places to find the answer in the UK.
Enjoy the best of British cuisine at a Michelin-starred restaurant or the freshest lobster rolls from a van parked on the beach. Relax with a glass of wine in front of a bonfire in a traditional country pub, or jump off a cliff into the sea and refuel with a shot of adrenaline.
We’ve compiled our favorite short breaks in the UK based on our experiences in the south of England, the north of England and Wales. Scottish weekends are currently being planned to be included in this guide.
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Getaways in the South of England
01 – Enjoy the countryside in the Cotswolds
The English countryside conjures up images of rolling green hills and chocolate box cottages. Babbling brooks meander through picturesque villages and sheep-scattered meadows.
The Cotswolds are one of the best places for a weekend break in the UK, and nowhere is this more evident than in the Cotswolds.
The Cotswolds are one of the best places in the UK to enjoy a classic country walk followed by a drink in a traditional pub. The fantastic Cotswolds villages are popular for antique hunting, cream teas and being immersed in the idyllic English countryside.
Where to stay
For suggestions on where to stay, Lords of the Manor is an elegant house set in beautiful grounds in the village of Upper Slaughter, one of the most picturesque views in the Cotswolds.
The Lygon Arms is a 14th century stagecoach stop on Broadway, ideally located for hiking in the Cotswolds Way. Finally, Kingham Plow is a local pub known for its excellent food.
Lovell Cathedral Ruins, Cotswolds, England
Ruins of Lovell Cathedral, Cotswolds, England
A small row of cottages in the beautiful Cotswold village
02 – Relax in the impressive coastal scenery of the Seven Sisters
Situated between Seaford and Eastbourne on England’s south coast, the Seven Sisters Cliffs boast some of the best coastal scenery in the UK. The glowing white cliffs glisten on the sea and are covered in a layer of green grass. It is the perfect destination for a short break in one of the UK’s stunning and iconic landscapes.
The village of Alfriston is close to the coast and is an ideal base for exploring the area. This small village on the banks of the Cuckmere River is a medieval gem with a narrow shopping street lined with antique stores, an old post office and a village store.
Where to stay
Wingrove House, a boutique hotel, is located on the banks of the Alfriston River, while the recently refurbished Star Inn was voted the best hotel in the South East in the Sunday Times Travel Awards.
The Flint Barns at Rathfinny Wine Estate is a stylish country retreat with beautifully decorated rooms in a lovely location amidst the vineyards.
