Top UK Destinations for 2013
Guest post by Rob James
Looking to take a holiday in the UK during 2013? There are many options available to you, from enjoying a cottage holiday in the British countryside, through to experiencing a busy weekend of sights in London, or sampling the historic appeals of York or Brighton. Families looking for cost effective holidays should particularly consider cottage holidays, where you can self cater, and make use of large spaces to spread groups out over large properties. Other options include camping, boating along the UK canals, or staying in holiday lodges with kids’ clubs and other activities. These factors and options, then, go into making up some of the best UK destinations to visit in 2013.
Cornwall
1One of the most popular UK travel destinations, this South-Western county is defined by its miles of beaches, laidback quality of life, and its opportunities for surfing and exploration. Renting holiday cottages in Cornwall is very popular amongst visitors. Key sights along the Cornish coast include Tintagel Castle and the Eden Project, with short trips also available from Penzance to the tiny Isles of Scilly.
The Scottish Highlands
Photo of Glen Coe by Shannon Falzon, December 2009
2If you’re looking for remoteness, then the Scottish Highlands make for an excellent UK travel destination. Whether staying in larger cities like Inverness, or heading out into the Hebrides and the Orkney Islands for bird watching and walking holidays, the Scottish Highlands make for excellent cottage holiday and wilderness adventure trips.
London
Photo of Big Ben by Shannon Kircher
3Distinct from the rest of the UK in terms of its sheer diversity of appeals, London can be taken in during a long weekend, with entertainment options ranging from sampling world class West End theatre to enjoying the green spaces of Hampstead Heath or Richmond.
Brighton
Photo of Brighton Pier by Shannon Falzon
4Only a short trip from London, Brighton is home to historic piers, art galleries, Regency architecture, and a lively nightlife and shopping centre.
The Lake District
Photo by Sarah Kotlova via Creative Commons
5Ideal for both romantic weekends, hiking holidays, and family trips, the Lake District in North West England represents one of the most consistently rewarding travel experiences in the UK. Particularly popular destinations include Windermere and Ambleside, with walking holiday spots also including Glenridding.
Hunstanton
6Located in Norfolk, Hunstanton is a seaside town that provides excellent sunsets and opportunities to travel along England’s Eastern coast. The chalk landscape, and temperate climate, lend itself to beach trips and surfing, as well as to bird watching and walking holidays.
Edinburgh
Photo of Edinburgh Castle by Shannon Falzon, Aug. 2010
7A must for anyone wanting to visit Scotland, Edinburgh is home to world class museums and art galleries, the imposing Edinburgh Castle in the Old Town part of the city, and a diverse history. The Scottish capital is roughly divided by the Princes Street Gardens, and can be navigated over the course of a long weekend.
The Cotswolds
8Close to London, the Cotswolds cover a region that spans Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, and Warwickshire – an excellent destination for visitors to the UK seeking rolling hills, traditional pubs, and small villages and towns. The Cotswolds is another UK destination that is ideal for a cottage stay.
York
Photo by Pnp! via Creative Commons
9This Northern English city has been central to England’s history, with multiple examples of Roman, Viking, and medieval life scattered around its walls. Popular attractions include the York Minster Gothic cathedral, the Jorvik Viking Centre, and the National Railway Museum.
The Brecon Beacons
10Found in Mid-Wales, this National Park is popular with serious walkers and cyclists, and provides a challenge for anyone wanting to explore its peaks. Other activities around the Beacons include fishing, rock climbing, and deep cave diving.
What are your favorite spots in the UK?
