With a huge choice of fabulous destinations right on our doorstep, a staycation in the UK this bank holiday weekend makes perfect sense. The convenience of simply being able to jump into your car and drive straight to the start of your break is a big advantage of the staycation. Cruising up to a cosy coastal cottage or motoring along to a magnificent moorland hotel are much better options than joining the long queue at an airport or ferry terminal. As well as the added convenience, your wallet will thank you, and reducing your carbon footprint by avoiding air travel is also kinder to the environment.
The UK has some top staycation spots to choose from, including city breaks, seaside retreats, and countryside getaways. Check out our guide to some of the best places to head for in your car this bank holiday weekend.
Classic city breaks with amazing architecture
If you enjoy a fun city break, York is a must-see destination. Boasting more attractions per square mile than any other city in the UK, York has something for everyone. The beautiful York Minster is one of the world’s most impressive cathedrals. Built in the 7th century, the Minster is in the heart of the city. Only a short walk away you’ll find the historic area famously known as the Shambles. Featuring preserved medieval buildings, the narrow, cobbled streets are reminiscent of a location in a magical world. The Shambles is Europe’s most visited street, attracting tourists from around the globe.
Another option for a cosmopolitan mini break is the charming city of Cambridge. With the 31 colleges of the University of Cambridge offering awe-inspiring architecture around the city, there is plenty to see. If you’re feeling energetic, take a trip to the top of Great St Marys tower to enjoy the views across the city.
Both of these cities are easily accessible by road, York being towards the north end of the A1 and Cambridge being towards the south end. For a good spot to stop off on the journey, check out the OK Diners along the A1. Located near Grantham, Stamford and Newark, these classic American diners offer delicious burgers, all day breakfast, and epic milkshakes.
Spectacular seaside spots on the coast
Taking a staycation in the UK doesn’t mean giving up on dreams of relaxing on the beach. Brighton is the iconic British seaside resort. Voted as one of the top ten city beach break destinations in the entire world, Brighton is famous for its beachfront. If you’re feeling active, there are lots of things to do from water sports to beach games. But if you prefer to relax, there is also the option to just grab a deckchair and watch the world pass by. The Brighton Palace Pier, with its fish and chips shop and arcades, is definitely worth a visit.
Most visitors to Brighton will arrive via the A23. From the east or west, the main route runs along the south coast via the A27.
Brighton is only one of the popular vacation spots located on the south coast. Officially the sunniest place in the UK, this beautiful part of the country is perfect for a memorable staycation. There are over 300 miles of coastline, attractions, world heritage sites, and national parks, so there will be something to interest the whole family.
Beautiful lakes and thrilling drives
For those who want to get away from it all, the beautiful British countryside is calling. Topping the list of places to consider is the luscious Lake District. The A591 route from Kendal to Keswick is known as one of the best driving routes in the UK. The medieval market town of Keswick offers plenty of places to stay and is only a short distance from the magnificence of Derwentwater. The silvery surface of this spectacular lake reflects the slopes of the dramatic mountains bordering the area. Taking a hike in the fells is a sure way to feel re-energised and reconnected to nature.
Driving to the Lake District also offers the opportunity to experience one of the steepest roads in England. Hard Knott Pass is located in the Duddon Valley in Cumbria and has a gradient of 1 in 3, making it known as one of Britain’s most challenging roads. The road is entirely paved and is usually open all year round. However, drivers are cautioned to take car with the sharp and narrow hairpin bends along this route, which can be unnerving.
Alternatively, head over to Wales to explore some of the most breathtaking scenery in the UK with a drive through the Snowdonia National Park. The A4086 takes you motoring past Snowdon itself. The mountain has its own railway which runs all the way to the summit, so you can still enjoy the views without the strenuous exercise of a hike first.
Driving coast to coast in Wales is a wonderful way to see the country and take in two national parks along the way. The A470 runs from Cardiff in the south all the way up to Conwy in the north.
Find parking in the Lake District
Stress-free staycations
Driving somewhere new to explore is always exciting. But there is often that underlying worry about whether there will be a convenient parking spot. Wherever you choose to take your break in the UK this bank holiday weekend, you can rest assured that there is no need to worry about where to park when you arrive. YourParkingSpace offers you the convenience of being able to book your parking bay in advance. With over 350,000 parking spaces, driveways, and lock-up garages to choose from across the UK, you can find that perfect space for staycation bliss without the parking hassle.