1. City and country escape: Manchester and the Lake District
Manchester is hard to beat for culture, diversity and nightlife. From The Lowry to the National Football Museum, there’s an abundance of world-class museums, galleries and music venues to experience.
There’s fantastic shopping too thanks to the Trafford Centre and quirky boutiques of the Northern Quarter.
After living it up in the city, slow down the pace a little. The Lake District is less than a two-hour drive from Manchester.
The head-clearing fresh air and amazing views offer the perfect contrast to the whirlwind of the city. Long walks on the fells, boat trips on Lake Windermere and Beatrix Potter’s cottage are just a few highlights you can enjoy.
2. City and beach getaway: Swansea and Pembrokeshire
Wales is a great choice for combining a stay in a lively city with a relaxing seaside break. Swansea makes a good starting point as it leads to the best beaches of the west.
In Wales’s second city, you can explore Swansea’s maritime heritage at the National Waterfront Museum and follow in the footsteps of literary giant Dylan Thomas.
About an hour and a half’s drive away from Swansea is the glittering Pembrokeshire coast. Not only is it home to colourful towns and villages, it’s also one of the best spots in the UK to see wildlife such as puffins and seals.
But it’s the pristine sandy beaches, rugged cliff paths and water sports that make this place truly special. Don’t just take our word for it – go and see for yourself...
Where to stay: Best Western Aberavon Beach Hotel, then Best Western Lamphey Court Hotel & Spa
3. Family adventure: Kent and Essex
For a multi-destination break with the kids, the south east of England has loads of great options.
Go on safari at Port Lympne animal reserve to get up close to Peruvian spectacled bears, western lowland gorillas, big cats and black rhinos. For free activities, head to Lower Leas Coastal Park, which is split into three recreational zones.
For the second part of your trip, discover Essex and Wyvernwood, a magical theme park for families with children under 12.
Step through the magic portal to experience an enchanting adventure featuring dragons, fairies, unicorns and more – all brought to life by actors.
Where to stay: Best Western Clifton Hotel, Folkestone, then Best Western The Rose & Crown Hotel, Colchester
4. Yorkshire market town tour: Pontefract, Beverley and Pickering
One of the best ways to explore the UK’s largest county is via its traditional market towns. Cobbled streets and historic buildings blend seamlessly with independent boutiques, coffee shops and inviting pubs.
Famous for its liquorice sweets, Pontefract is home to the Haribo Factory and holds a confectionary-themed festival every year.
Beverley is best known for its gothic minster but also offers a fun day out at the races or scenic strolls on the Westwood.
On the edge of Dalby Forest, Pickering is the gateway to the North York Moors and a stop on the heritage steam railway that runs all the way to Whitby.
Where to stay: Rogerthorpe Manor Hotel, Pontefract, then Best Western Lairgate Hotel, Beverley, then Best Western Forest and Vale Hotel, Pickering
5. Island hopping break: Poole, Jersey and Guernsey
A fun way to discover the south coast and Channel Islands is by taking a round trip on the ferry.
Start your break on the mainland by exploring the Jurassic Coast and enjoying an evening cruise around Poole harbour as the sun begins to set.
A four-hour ferry ride from Poole takes you to Jersey. Escape the crowds at the gorgeous white sandy beach at La Rocque Harbour, enjoy VAT-free shopping in St Helier and learn about Germany’s occupation of the island during World War Two at the Jersey War Tunnels.
When it’s time to move on, take another ferry to Guernsey to gorge on fresh seafood and explore secluded hidden gem Lihou Island, before heading back to Poole.