7 Weekend Getaways in the UK That'll Refresh and Enamor You
Where Will You Go for a Little Getaway?
The wonderful thing about the United Kingdom is that on this small and compact island country you are never too far from anywhere. You can take a short trip of a few hours in any direction and find yourself in a completely different part of the country.
So if you are looking for a change of pace and want to get away for a few days, there are plenty of options not too far from home. Here are some of the best weekend breaks in the U.K.
Edinburgh
The vibrant energy of the bustling Royal Mile, the narrow cobblestone alleys and steep staircases, the pleasant gardens and courtyards, the castle perched on the hill overlooking downtown — Edinburgh is a delight to wander through.
The capital city of Scotland is rich in history and culture and you can explore it on foot for hours, ducking into cozy pubs and quirky shops along the way. You can even spend your night at one of the best castles to stay at in Scotland, Dalhousie Castle Hotel, which dates back to the 13th century.
The best time of year to visit is during August, when the Fringe Festival turns the entire city into an internationally renowned showcase of theater, musicals, stand-up comedy and improv.
York
York was an important walled city during medieval times. Much of its architecture is still preserved, giving you the feeling that you have traveled back in time.
The city has some of the best preserved and most beautiful medieval buildings in all of Europe. Most impressive of all is the York Minster Cathedral, a jaw-dropping Gothic masterpiece that will have you staring in awe at its stained glass windows and lofty ceilings.
You can also walk down The Shambles, a narrow cobblestone street with overhanging timber-framed buildings that hasn’t changed much since the 14th century.
A trip to the Waitomo Caves is certainly illuminating, particularly if you want to learn more about the glowworms who call the caverns below home.
Brighton
Brighton has been known as the quintessential English seaside getaway destination since Victorian times, as any Sussex travel guide will tell you. In the summer months, it becomes one of the best best places to visit in England, as its beaches, restaurants and bars come alive with tourists and locals enjoying the sunshine.
Take a stroll along the iconic Brighton Pier and enjoy all of the cheesy, old-timey seaside fun, such as the retro carousel, photo boards you can stick your face through, carnival games, karaoke bars, fish and chips stalls and sweet shops.
You can also go shopping in the famous “Lanes” — a tangle of streets in the historic quarter of Brighton packed with excellent coffee shops, restaurants and cute boutiques.
