Ideas for your next UK summer staycation

Have the last few years reignited your love for the Great British holiday? Many of us will be opting for a staycation this year. Whether you are looking for a family break or a romantic getaway, the UK is bursting with options to ensure you have an amazing holiday. Even if you can’t always count on the weather! To inspire you, we have picked some of the best staycation ideas the UK has to offer.

Family staycations

Many families will be looking to explore the hidden gems of the UK this summer. Whether you are looking for a beach holiday, theme parks or a week enjoying the countryside, we’ve got it all right on our doorstep.

Staying in the UK also makes travel simpler. Getting in the car means anything from a couple of weeks camping around Scotland to a day trip to the nearest beach is possible. Check out our blog on summer car tips to make sure your vehicle’s ready for the trip too.

Cornwall

We couldn’t write a list of top family holiday destinations in the UK without including Cornwall. With miles of sandy beaches, surfing lessons for older children and younger kids can do some rock pooling or build sandcastles.

Rainy days are covered too. The Eden Project, St Michael’s Mount and the National Maritime Museum Cornwall are some attractions that will keep everyone entertained.

Cornwall is also a food lover’s dream. With cream teas, pasties and locally caught seafood to whet holidaymakers’ appetites.

Yorkshire

You can’t go wrong with a family staycation in Yorkshire. With its dales, moors, peaks and national parks, it’s got more than its fair share of beautiful countryside. Not to mention a breathtaking coastline that boasts 42 beaches in the UK Beach Guide.

Yorkshire is great for young kids too. As well as the Sea Life Scarborough Sanctuary and Lightwater Valley theme park, there are plenty of amusement arcades for rainy days.

York is also well worth a visit, with attractions including the Jorvik Viking Centre, the National Railway Museum and York Minster.

Scotland

A Scotland staycation has something for all the family. Whether you want to spend the day hiking up Ben Nevis or some of the Munros, enjoy the peace and quiet of some of Scotland’s hidden beaches or take in the buzz of the Edinburgh Festival, it’s all on offer north of the border.

The unspoilt beauty of the Scottish Highlands may tempt you to hire a motorhome or campervan and spend a couple of weeks touring around. There are even camp sites near to Loch Ness, if you and the kids fancy a bit of Nessie spotting.

Staycation ideas for couples

If you’re looking to get away for a romantic break with your other half, the UK has plenty of options. If you dream about picturesque landscapes, beautiful cottages and the charm of quaint little towns, you can’t go wrong with a short UK break.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh certainly deserves a spot on the romantic destinations list. The old town is as picturesque as its surroundings, with its underground streets adding a touch of intrigue. Arthur’s Seat meanwhile offers stunning views of the city. It is little wonder Edinburgh is sometimes known as the ‘Athens of the North’.

The Lake District

Make sure you pack your walking boots when you head to the UK’s largest national park, the Lake District. Grab a map and get exploring.

It’s perfect for the more active couple as there’s mountain biking, climbing, walking, kayaking and canoeing. Plus, once you’ve built up an appetite there are plenty of great places to eat, including several Michelin star restaurants.

The Cotswolds

With charming, picturesque towns and villages full of pretty cottages, fairytale castles and romantic hotels, a Cotswolds staycation is sure to delight.

There is plenty for foodies too. With culinary delights such as Gloucester Old Spot pork, Tewkesbury mustard and Stinking Bishop cheese.

Start planning your staycation

If our staycation ideas have inspired you, remember to consider your travel insurance when booking a holiday.

Even when staying in the UK it’s important to ensure you’re protected should you need to cancel your holiday due to family issues, or cut your trip short due to unforeseen circumstances. As long as your trip is 25 miles or more from your home and at least two nights long, you will still benefit from the cover included in a travel insurance policy (Applicants for insurance are subject to normal underwriting criteria).

Visit Co-op Travel Insurance for more information and to get a quote for your UK staycation.