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United Kingdom Holidays

A nation of diverse riches

UK holidays are all about variety. Whether you’re after history, cultural events, nightlife, food or nature, it’s a destination that rewards visitors of every persuasion. Made up of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, it’s a relatively compact country that packs in an astonishing amount. It’s also straightforward to travel through, via a quick flight, road trip or train journey.

When it comes to historic sites (and sights), holidays to the UK boast plenty of diversity. Beautifully preserved castles, majestic abbeys and churches, Roman baths dating back to 60 AD and astounding 5000-year-old stone circles are just some of the wonders you can visit. All this is surrounded by remarkable countryside. It might be hard to choose between the lochs and highlands of rural Scotland and the lakes of northwest England – or the surf beaches and seaside towns along the south coast. But wherever you go, you’ll find that each unique area contains astonishing treasures.

If you prefer an urban break, there’s lots to keep you busy in the UK’s buzzy cities. The cosmopolitan capital, London, is home to some of the world’s finest drinking, dining, museums and more – not to mention landmarks of the fabled Royal Family. There’s plenty to do, see and eat in other cities too, each with their own distinct character – whether you’re looking to tour ancient university towns, dance until dawn or explore cutting-edge cuisine. That’s before you even consider cultural events – with music, literary and food festivals, sporting events and exhibitions, the UK is awash with fun things to see and do.

All regions in UK

Explore our map of United Kingdom

Your questions answered

With a temperate climate, the United Kingdom is an all year round travel destination. But winter tourists should know that some sites and attractions close down during the cold season as weather conditions make them inaccessible. Check closing dates if you're considering a winter break. British summers are warm but rarely scorching, creating the perfect conditions for sightseeing walks or al fresco dining. Visit in spring to see the UK countryside in all its glory. It's when the lush green landscapes begin to flourish with bluebells, daffodils, and an abundance of wildlife.
Cornwall is where you'll find the UK's best beaches. The south-west county is a mecca for surfers and sun-seekers. Devon is another popular spot, although some of the pebble beaches are more for exploring than relaxing. But, dog lovers take note, many of the beaches are canine-free in the summer. Dorset's Jurassic Coast has many beautiful beaches and rock formations, including St Oswald's Bay, Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove. It can be a steep walk down to the seafronts, but you’re rewarded with peaceful enclaves built for relaxing days stretched out on the sand.
The UK has hundreds of swimming beaches. Look out for the Blue Flag beaches. All Blue Flag beaches have won awards for cleanliness and safety. And they usually have full-time lifeguards, signs highlighting the best places to swim, and changing facilities. Just don't expect any tropical sea temperatures. The British sea tends to stay pretty cool, even during summer. The water is perfect for a refreshing dip on hot days, but most swimmers and surfers still wear wetsuits when spending lots of time in the water.
The United Kingdom comprises four countries: England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Island. Land borders connect the first three, and you can reach Northern Island by boat or plane. The ferry takes around eight hours from Liverpool. Flights from most UK airports get you there in less than an hour. The UK has soft internal borders, which means you can pass through them with little or no checks. Standard travel and holiday visas are valid for all countries within the UK.
The United Kingdom is famous for its historical culture, literary icons, and lush countryside packed with biodiversity. Visit York and Chester to see buildings and structures dating back to Roman times. London is home to some of the most iconic architecture in the world, including Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and St Paul's Cathedral.Stratford-upon-Avon is the quintessential English town. Take a stroll by the river, explore the local markets, and see William Shakespeare's birthplace. Nature lovers can take relaxing rambles through the picturesque English countryside. Those looking for more adventure can explore the epic mountain regions in the Scottish Highlands. Look out for the red squirrels, wildcats, puffins, and deer.
The UK can be more expensive than some other European destinations, but there are ways to make your trip more affordable. Try to book accommodation early for lower prices. The UK has excellent public transport links and buying family or weekly tickets will help you save on travel costs. Many museums and galleries are free to enter, but you might need to pay extra for specific exhibitions. There's a wide range of restaurants and grocery stores that cater to all budgets.