AD | January is a great time to head away for a little rest and relaxation after the frenetically-paced festive period, isn’t it? You don’t need to jet off to faraway destinations to embrace travel either; UK staycations are a much more-eco-friendly option. There’s nothing like kick starting the year by exploring somewhere new, and beating those formidable January blues. What’s usually a bleak, cold and (let’s face it), slightly depressing month, can be turned around with a long weekend right here in the UK.
5 top UK staycations to inspire you
So, if you’re thinking about planning a weekend break or longer staycation in the New Year, then here are five top UK destinations for a little bit of travel inspiration…
A spa break in Newmarket
Does it get much more luxurious than a weekend immersing yourself in a beautiful 5 bubble-rated spa? If you’re looking for some serious pampering in a stylish setting, book yourself into the Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa. Nestled in the heart of Newmarket, aka the home of British horseracing, this luxury Suffolk hotel is home to one of the finest spas in the region.
Treat yourself and make a weekend of it by checking into one of the gorgeous hotel rooms and enjoy some delicious dining in the award-winning Squires Restaurant. There are a number of spa breaks to choose from and don’t you think that hydrotherapy pool looks amazing?
A cosy stay in The Cotswolds
If activities aren’t your thing, but cute cottages and historic villages are, then The Cotswolds will serve you well. This picture-perfect part of the UK is ideal for those looking to unwind with a glass of wine by the roaring log fire. Why not work up an appetite with a bracing countryside walk, before enjoying a roast dinner in one of the many quaint English pubs?
Bourton-on-the-Water is an idyllic town that’s not too far from me in Bath. And it’s often hailed as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ which, when you see it, will make perfect sense. You can book yourself into an Airbnb, a secluded lodge, or why not choose a family friendly cottage where you can bring your dogs too!
A busy trip to Edinburgh
If you’re craving some time in the city, Edinburgh is the place to be. Head up just after Christmas and you’ll still be able to catch a glimpse of the festive decorations that dress up the city over the holidays. Edinburgh has it all – from amazing shops, to tourist attractions, fantastic restaurants and interesting museums.
If you prefer your weekend breaks to be a bit busier than the likes of The Cotswolds, but not quite as hectic as London, Edinburgh is a happy medium. It’s been a while since I was last there but, even though my husband’s from Glasgow, I think you’ll have an amazing time.
A long weekend in the Lake District
Another of our favourite UK staycations is an escape to the lakes to unplug against the backdrop of beautiful scenery and spectacular views. If you enjoy spending time outdoors, you’d be hard pushed to finder a better destination that’s bursting with outdoor activities and surrounded by nature.
And if you’re looking for a destination hotel that offers a touch of luxury (ideal after you’ve spent the day hiking, or so I’m told!) Another Place is a fantastic option – you can even bring your pooch too. This dog-friendly hotel is known as the Soho House of the Lake District. Home to a stunning pool, vibrant eating areas and lovely grounds, it’s perfect for a New Year getaway.
A beach break to Brighton
Ok, it might not be the first place that springs to mind when booking a trip for the start of a New Year, but hear me out. Brighton is fabulous whatever the weather. During the hot summer months, prices for hotels skyrocket and you’ll find it tricky to book a luxury hotel for less than £200 a night.
Head to the coast off-peak however, and you can enjoy lower rates but just as much fun. You can wander around the fantastic selection of independent boutiques, and get involved in the vegan food scene too. And strolling along the beach and breathing in the fresh seaside air will definitely blow all those Christmas cobwebs away!
How does a break in the New Year sound to you? Are you tempted to book something up? Where are your favourite places in the UK for a winter staycation?
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Cotswolds looks amazing, like the perfect little get away! I feel like it would be great to stay there during the colder months too! Whilst Brighton and Edinburgh would be great for when there is warmer weather! I have always wanted to go to the Lake District simply for the scenery and views. You can’t go wrong with a dog friendly hotel either! x
I feel we’re slightly spoilt with The Cotswolds as it’s so close to us but yes, you can’t beat a country walk and a pub lunch in front of a roaring fire. So very British, I know, but a must at this time of year. I hope you make it to the Lakes some day, they are just stunning! x
Great ideas all of these! Brighton is in fact my absolute favourite, there’s so much to see and do and shop and eat. I’d recommend wandering outside of the center area as well for some picturesque walks along the beach and the beautiful neighborhoods.
Oh, thank you for these tips, we’ll make sure we do that the next time we head over to Brighton!
Staycations ate really the best when you don’t want to go abroad. Spa deals are definitely the best and the most relaxing, I definitely want to do that in the new year and Brighton is one of my favourite beach towns to go to! Great suggestions xx
Oh, yes, they are, although spa breaks are a think of the past for me now I have Flora, she gets bored! But we all love a good beach walk so Brighton is always a favourite (along with Cornwall!) xx
Yessss I love a staycation! I adore The Lake District, so I’d love to go back there. I’m hoping to do a little trip away by myself next year to Norfolk or Great Yarmouth – I love them both. I also definitely need to arrange to come and see you becuse Bath is still high on my list! xxx
Ooh, Norfolk sounds wonderful – I always think of that beach at the end of Shakespeare in Love, Holkham I think? And yesssss, you do need to come to Bath, this year has just galloped by, next year hopefully will be a little calmer and we can fix something up! xxx
Gorgeous pics – I hope someday to see this in real life! Great reviews – thanks for sharing!
Thank you very much – I hope you do too, they’re all gorgeous locations!
I’ve been two Edinburgh and Brighton, although probably best as long weekend destinations rather than going for a couple of weeks at a time
Oh yes, I agree, although a road trip around Scotland for two weeks would be cool too!
This is giving me wander lust so much I can barely stand it! I’m due for a trip to the UK and may have to prioritize visiting some of these places, especially Edinburgh (my sister was in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival last and I was dying of jealousy that I couldn’t go).
Oh, you must go to Edinburgh in that case, you can’t let your sister continue to have all the fun! I hope you have a lovely time over here as and when you do come over 🙂
Such amazing recommendations! I love that there’s something for everyone. I’ve been talking about having a mini staycation in January and you’ve just made it so much easier. I’ve got my eye on a beautiful hotel in the Lake District 🙂
Oh thank you, that’s so kind, and I’m thrilled that this has helped you – I hope you have a wonderful time in the Lakes in the New Year, sounds fabulous! 🙂
The homes in the Cotswolds look like a dream! And that spa seems fantastic…it’s definitely inspired me to treat myself to a spa day!
They are really fairytale, aren’t they? And I hope you do treat yourself to a spa day, tis the season and all that!
Great post! I’m from the US and have always wanted to visit the U.K., so when I finally do I’ll make sure to refer to this!
Thank you – I hope it’s helpful for when you do travel across the pond 🙂
What a great round up!
Although I am amazed you missed off our staycation resort…. my Dads house! So I can ferry him to and fro from a New Year’s Eve party! The little stop out!
Thank you, and haha, you did make me laugh, your Dad sounds like a lot of fun! 🙂
These location are amazing. I would like to be at all places for New Year. Thank you so much for sharing.
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Thank you – it’s hard to choose a favourite isn’t it? 🙂
These places look absolutely lovely.. I wish I would visit all these places one day… thanks for sharing Lisa… have a wonderful day…💕
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You’re very welcome, I hope you get to see at least some of them some day too!
Aw, I always love seeing the Cotswolds pop in posts like this. 😊 Bourton-on-the-Water is one of my favourite villages to visit around here. I’ve been to Edinburgh before and fell in love with the city, I definitely need to make a point of going back next year. The Lake District just seems so tranquil, I bet it looks so picteresque in the Winter months. Great picks Lisa.
I thought of you when I was writing this, I know the Cotswolds is your stamping ground! Thank you, Kim, I’m so glad you enjoyed this 🙂
These are some great places to visit! I have been to Brighton but only for shopping I want to do a night out there. I also want to visit Scotland also! Hoping to do at least one of those places this year! Thank you for sharing these great locations xx
You’re welcome, I’m glad it’s given you some staycation inspo – I have to confess my heart is reaching for Scotland! xx
I want to travel more this year! So it was definitely great inspiration! Xx
Thank you! Xx
Great post some amazing ideas any post with the West Pier Brighton as a front cover has my vote
Thank you – Brighton is one of my faves as well 🙂