The Quintessentially Traditional British Holiday

Tight Wallet Little Britain

If you’re on a tight budget, a holiday abroad isn’t always an option. Instead, more and more people are choosing to holiday at home in the UK. If you’re not from the UK already, it’s a refreshing change to step away from the bright lights of big tourist cities like London and take a trip into the countryside to experience a quainter, more relaxed side of British life.

UK Holidays Summertime

If you’re considering a UK holiday, then it’s definitely best to plan one for the summer time when you might be lucky enough to catch a bit of sunshine (although it’s never guaranteed). Autumn is also a lovely time to visit the British countryside, as there’s plenty of long, picturesque walks that are even lovelier once the landscape is filled with burnt orange hues.

The Lakes Have More!

The Lake District, Wales, Yorkshire and Scotland are full of spectacular scenery and are all popular ‘staycation’ destinations for Brits. If you fancy being by the sea, then you should definitely head to Devon or Cornwall. All have plenty of country pubs, picturesque villages and scenic views, but if you’re still not sure where you’d like to go, do a bit of research, starting with this article listing five of the best UK holiday locations.

Decisions...Decisions...

If you decide to holiday inland, you could opt to stay in an upmarket country house hotel if a little luxury is what you’re after, but there are plenty of other options. If you’re a fuss free walker just after somewhere to kip for the night, then there are cheap hostels scattered all over the countryside which are always popular with walkers, so you’re bound to meet some like-minded people on your travels.

You know you love it!

Renting a house is an option that many may not consider, but if you’re a family or even a couple, then there’s something for everyone. Many houses for rent are even dog-friendly, meaning your furry friend won’t have to be put away in kennels whilst you go enjoy yourself. Plus, dogs make great companions on long, country walks so bring them along with you! You can find plenty of lovely, dog-friendly houses to rent in the West Country on the Helpful Holidays website.

London Baby!!!!

So, if you’re from the UK, save yourself some cash this year and take the time to appreciate what your own landscape has to offer. If you’re coming from overseas, then consider the countryside before heading straight for London!

Europe’s Most Relaxing Retreats

Silver Island Yoga Retreat, Greece.

With a deep-rooted family history that saw the island fall into disrepair when the owners grew old, Silver Island has a heritage that will sound all too familiar for anyone who’s seen Mamma Mia. Comparisons aside, it’s all just coincidence, and the island has been picked back up and resurrected as a private yoga retreat. Guests enjoy a home-made muesli and Greek yoghurt breakfast sourced from the island’s produce, before a yoga class and free time to stroll along the beach or take a kayak trip around the island. You’ll share the entire island with a maximum of 11 other people and stay in a modern, minimalist bedroom, making it one of the most relaxing retreats in the whole of Europe.

Lake Orta, Italy

Less well-known and therefore more peaceful than its neighbouring waters Garda and Como, Lake Orta is just west of Maggiore and is an atmospheric haven. Small, non-hectic and beautiful, Orta makes the ideal holiday destination for anyone wanting to relax whilst surrounded by stunning scenery. It’s fairly remote, with there being just one main town nearby, but there are also excursions to a romantic island set in the centre of the lake and to the ‘holy hill’, which is home to many Baroque chapels.

South West England

Cornwall, Dorset and Somerset all lie in South West England, boasting some of the best countryside spots in the UK. Renting a country cottage or log cabin is the perfect retreat for a busy family looking for some down time away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The homes on offer at www.luxuryselfcatering.uk.com offer a retreat complete with barbeque and outdoor hot tub on the plot of an old country farm, so it’s perfect for those who want to unwind as a family.

Anti Paxos, Greece

So small it doesn’t even have an airport, the tiny island of Anti Paxos has a population that fluctuates between just 30 – 100 people. A few small, stunning beaches are surrounded by vineyards and flowers, with just one tiny village and a few taverns to visit. Most visitors leave with the last taxi boat at 5.30pm, as hotels are pretty much non-existent on Anti Paxos, but it’s well worth a visit for a relaxing beach day if you ever have the chance. For more information on this tiny island, visit www.paxos-greece.com.