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Best of British - top 10 UK staycation spots
More and more people are discovering the many beautiful holiday destinations we have right here in the UK. If you’re thinking of seeing what this country has to offer, then look no further!
We’ve put together a list of the top 10 staycation spots in the UK, all within easy reach of a Richmond Villages retirement community.
1. Derby
For a city stay, Derby is the perfect location. With everything city life has to offer right alongside the rural countryside, Derby is sure to fulfil your staycation needs. Spend your days soaking up the culture and history, visiting local attractions such as Elvaston Castle and Country Park, National Trust Calke Abbey, and Staunton Harold Reservoir.
2. Leamington Spa
Leamington Spa is a beautiful town for any staycation. For plant-lovers, the Jephson Gardens and Glasshouse showcase gorgeous tropical plants and over 140 species of trees. The Royal Pump Rooms, once an 18th-Century spa, is now home to Leamington Spa’s public Art Gallery and Museum, making it perfect for anyone looking for some culture. Warwick Castle is also a short drive away for anyone looking to include some history in their staycation.
3. Cheltenham
With a mix of old and new, Cheltenham has something to offer everyone and makes for a great staycation spot. As the most complete Regency town in the UK, there’s plenty of sightseeing to be done in the town itself. The Brewery Quarter provides everything from shopping, to fine dining, to luxury hotel stays. If you want to venture further afield, Sudeley Castle and Gardens showcase stunning medieval ruins set in beautifully restored gardens that tell the story of its rich history.
4. Letcombe Regis
If walking holidays are for you, then look no further than Letcombe Regis. Uffington White Horse is a particular attraction for visitors, boasting the oldest chalk-cut hill figure in Britain. With walking and cycling routes up to Uffington Castle, the journey makes a spectacular day out for nature-lovers. You can make a whole walking holiday of your staycation in Letcombe Regis with other routes including the Ridgeway, Wayland’s Smithy burial mound, and Scutchamer Knob.
5. Nantwich
This historic market town in Cheshire is a picturesque place to stay with its Tudor and Georgian architecture. For the Cold War enthusiasts, the Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker is within easy reach. The 13th Century Chirk Castle is less than an
hour’s drive away for a historical day out, while Nantwich Lake offers an idyllic picnic spot to while away the hours.
6. Billing Aquadrome
Situated in the Nene Valley, Billing Aquadrome is in the perfect location for a UK holiday. From afternoon tea at Delapré Abbey, to historical days out at Boughton House and Rockingham Castle, o countryside walks in Abington Park and Salcey Forest, there are activities to entertain the entire family. While Northampton offers theatre, dining, and shopping, it is close to quaint towns and villages that offer local markets and independent shops alike.
7. The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds are a popular holiday destination for good reason. There’s plenty to do and see in idyllic surroundings. Whether you’re looking for a family day out at Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens and Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park, a historic adventure at Blenheim Palace and Sudeley Castle & Gardens, or a nature walk in Cirencester Park, the Cotswolds have plenty for everyone.
8. Cheshire
Cheshire is famous for being home to some of Britain’s grandest properties, with over 550 listed buildings, spanning from the medieval to the Victorian periods. Chester Zoo and Cheshire Falconry are great days out for animal-lovers, while Cholmondeley Castle Gardens and Tatton Park give you the chance to spend the day in picturesque surroundings.
9. Oxford
There’s plenty to enjoy in the historic university city of Oxford, making it perfect for any staycation. Whether you want to centre your stay around the university with college tours, museum visits, and a trip to the Bodleian Library, or you’d rather venture into other sites such as Oxford Castle and Prison or Broughton Castle, there’s a great deal for history-lovers to immerse themselves in.
10. Evesham
This market town in Worcestershire is perfect for those looking for a relaxing staycation. Visit Evesham Abbey and Almonry Museum, take a stroll through Abbey Park and along the Blossom Trail, or visit the Valley and hop on the EVLR steam train, taking in the stunning views across the Cotswold Hills. The beautiful village of Broadway is also a 10-minute drive away, offering museums, countryside
walks, and farms right on your staycation doorstep.
With this handy list of staycation destinations, we’re sure you’ll find something to make your summer an unforgettable one.