To put it succinctly, 2016 was a ‘trying’ year. Full of turbulence, uncertainty and fear as a result of political events like Brexit, the UK has been left reeling in the wake of expected price hikes and budget cuts.
Of course, we don’t want to go into another year full of doom and gloom. Whilst there will probably be a tightening of the purse strings across every household in the UK, it’s important to still make time to do something fun, to have a break and to take time out from the daily grind.
Considering that the pound is weak, holidays abroad certainly aren’t looking as appealing as they once were. Staycations are affordable and just as enjoyable if you know where to look. There is so much beauty just upon your doorstep, why not step outside and take in the sights?
Here are our top 5 places to staycation in this year.
Lake District
Touted as one of the most beautiful places to visit in the UK, the Lake District is a popular choice for many couples and families to frequent, taking in the scenic landscape and looking out upon the still waters of Lake Windermere.
The home of Beatrix Potter, you can stay in a quaint, authentic English cottage and enjoy an early morning cycling trip followed by a cosy night in by the open fire. A brisk winter’s hike in the surrounding hills will help to ease the stresses and strains of daily life and offers up incredibly, picturesque views.
Belfast
A small city in comparison to other UK counterparts, Belfast is a burgeoning hotspot for culture, arts, music and cuisine. Arguably best known for it’s famous ship building industry, the Titanic Quarter is the ideal attraction to find out more about the famous ship and her tragic demise.
Enjoy afternoon tea at the Merchant Hotel, followed by a cocktail or two at Berts jazz bar or why not pop down to the Harp Bar in the Cathedral Quarter for live music and a ‘banterful’ atmosphere.
The Causeway coast is an absolute must see, steeped with history, myths and legends. Stay at the Causeway hotel and enjoy great food, stunning views and walks amongst the idyllic surroundings.
Cotswolds
Another visually beautiful place to visit, situated in the south west of England, the Cotswolds is a perfect part of the world for exploring outdoors. Log cabins can be found on the edge of the shores of a lake, where you can live scandi style, watching the stars and feel at one with nature. Positioned on a 130acre Cotswold Nature Reserve, Log Cabin holidays, provides a quiet and peaceful stay surrounded by unspoilt wildlife and greenery.
London
A staycation in London will certainly never be boring with a plethora of things to see and do everywhere you turn. Visit a West End show or take a trip to Covent Garden and pick up a box of Laduree macaroons, shop the market stalls and enjoy the open air arts and musical acts.
Of course, there is a whole host of well-known attractions including Madame Tussauds, the London Eye, Tower of London and the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace. If you’re a big fan of the Netflix series, The Crown, you will definitely want to visit the latter location!
Scotland
Known for being particularly crisp and chilly in the winter months, Scotland is a stunning place to visit when the temperature drops. Take a skiing trip to the snowy hills and mountain tops or shop until you drop in Edinburgh followed by a ghoulish experience on the Mary Kings Close tour.
Wherever you decide to visit, make sure you’re prepared for every eventuality, stay cosy and wrap up warm with an COLLECTION insulated waterproof raincoat made for winter walks and hikes.