25 of the best weekend breaks UK has to offer for a relaxing staycation in 2023
Reader, we've been frantically Googling the best weekend breaks UK-wide of late. I don't know about you, but the promise of warmer weather being on the horizon has made me want to travel and explore everything the UK has to offer. Living here permanently means that it's all too easy to forget about the stunning and interesting areas there are to explore. If you're sticking with the UK for a quick getaway, you can afford to be last-minute, too (though we recommend booking as soon as you can for our picks below) as there's way less faff involved. Sure, we'd all love to hop on a plane to somewhere far-flung, but when you've only got a few days on annual leave left, a 12-hour flight isn't particularly convenient. So, why not get better acquainted with the place you call home?
Britain can totally hold its own against the cosmopolitan European cities we often opt for - if only you know where to look. It boasts rolling countrysides, fish and chips by the sea and abundance of pasties... and hotels, holiday cottages and campsites are filling up fast for the 2023 summer season. So, if you've got a free weekend ahead or perhaps the forthcoming bank holidays, it's worth turning your attentions to the humble British holiday.
First, you've got to decide where to go. Within just a couple of hours from London, you’ll find miles upon miles of unspoilt coastline, as well as cute and quaint villages. There’s Cornwall, Devon and the beautiful coastline of the Gower Peninsula which are stunning even in the cooler weather. Or how about a trip to the New Forest? Further afield - and more tempting in the autumn - are the UK's beautiful cities. There’s Bath for the thermal spa, Brighton for the independent shops and fantastic array of restaurants, and Edinburgh for culture and history. Oh, and did we mention that England has 10 National Parks? 10! How spoilt are we?
In celebration of spring, summer and, finally, some lighter evenings, we’ve rounded up the best destinations for a weekend break in the UK to take full advantage. In this edit, you’ll find the Peak District, Cornwall, Edinburgh and The Cotswolds - to name just a few. Whether you're a city person or prefer the great outdoors in the countryside, there'll be something for you here. Perhaps you'll even come across a location you've not yet been. Oh, and for each, we’ve provided a suggestion of the best Airbnb or hotel in the area with details of its upcoming availability, so you can relax from booking through to the big departure day.
The best country weekend break destinations | The best seaside weekend break destinations | The best city weekend break destinations | Our Airbnb, hotel and rental top picks to book now
Where is best to go for a weekend break, at a glance
- Best overall - Beautiful cottage in the heart of North Laine, Brighton
- Best country getaway - Luxury Chalet in The New Forest, Airbnb
- Best city break - Watching For Comets, Edinburgh
Before you get stuck in, you might want to peruse where you fancy heading. Here's our top picks, plus why they could be the place for you:
Which is the best UK country getaway destination?
- Ipswich - Just a short one hour train journey from London Liverpool Street, you'll find yourself tucked away from the chaos of the city surrounded by lush greenery residential farmlands. Perfect for a relaxing stay with close family and friends.
- The Lake District - Views for days. It's a beautiful corner of the planet and the UK's most popular national park - which comes as no surprise. Since 2017 it has also been a Unesco World Heritage Site.
- The Cotswolds - The winding streams, Cotswold stone mansions, thatched cottages and cute tea rooms.
- The New Forest - Designated a national park in 2005, the New Forest is charming and a joy to explore - scattered with cycle tracks, deer and quaint little villages. And it's not too far from London.
- Marlow - Marlow really does have it all. Be sure to take a stroll through Higginson Park, have a pint at a local pub along the River and sample some of the town's finest eateries.
- The Peak District - Within easy reach of Manchester and Sheffield, the Peak District is all about pubs and long walks and climbing. Don't want to be stuck in the complete middle of no-where? Head to Bakewell. It's a picture-perfect village with lovely eateries and plenty to do.
- Somerset - Somerset is the perfect mix of coastline and countryside, and the very picture of the rural England. Within its borders you'll find Bristol, the beautiful city of Bath, the hippie haven of Glastonbury and the cathedral city of Wells.
- Scottish Highlands - If it's mind-blowing scenery you're after, the Scottish Highlands has got to be at the top of your UK travel wishlist. Expect long walks, cosy pubs, live music, fresh fish and views for days.
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Which is the best seaside town in the UK?
- Cornwall - go for the surf, the amazing seafood and the long, sandy beaches. St Ives and Padstow are particular highlights.
- Devon - Head here for the beautiful beaches, to get lost in hedge-lined lanes, for the vibrant cities and for the beautifully wild moors. But mostly for the beautiful beaches.
- Dorset - A good pick for swimming, kayaking, hiking and cycling. And the Jurassic Coast – a World Heritage Site complete with beautiful beaches, award-winning fish and chips and sea-carved bays is a must-visit.
- The Gower Peninsula - For cliff-top walks, fantastic surf and unspoilt beaches, the Gower is just the spot. The National Trust owns about three-quarters of this coastline and you can hike the entire length of it on the Wales Coast Path. Dreamy.
- Brighton - It's easily reached from London and is the perfect spot for people watching. Granted, Brighton Beach does get pretty busy around its renowned Pride festival, but the city's bohemian and hedonistic vibe kinda makes the bustle worth it. Plus, why not join in with the parade? Think: drag queens, a bunch of summer vibin' tunes and a whole lot of love ❤️.
- Northumberland - The beaches in Northumberland - whatever the season - are pure magic. The coastline is filled with ancient castles, hidden gardens, sandy beaches for windy walks, rolling hills, rugged moorland and friendly little villages/pubs/tea rooms. It's a dream. And you're only a stones-throw from Newcastle if you fancy an injection of city too.
- West Wales - Venture here for horse riding along the beach and a slightly slower pace of life than you can expect further south.
- The Isle of Wight - You feel like you're going that little further afield without actually going very far. It's quiet, has seaside kitsch by the bucketful and boasts excellent seafood.
- Norfolk - The sweeping beaches and tranquil Norfolk Broads speak for themselves.
- Whistable - Whitstable is a pretty little seaside town on the north coast of Kent, within easy reach of London, five miles north of Canterbury and two miles west of Herne Bay. Why visit? If not for the seafood and annual Oyster Festival, there's a gorgeous beach and a tonne of independent cafe's and shops to explore.
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Which UK city break is best?
- Edinburgh - Hike up Arthur's Seat, visit the castle, eat at all manner of fabulous restaurants and explore the cute little nooks and crannies that are hiding at every turn.
- Oxford - It's a top-class destination for culture and charm. You can't get much more "old-school" than Oxford. Frequented for its book shops, punting, pubs and colleges, it is easily explored in a day making it the perfect weekend break if you live in London. Oh, and the surrounding countryside is beautiful.
- Bath - It's arguably one of Britain's most beautiful cities, thanks to the Georgian architecture, Roman bathhouses and the world-famous Royal Crescent. You might never want to leave.
- London - Sightseeing, history, gastronomic delights; London has it all, you quite simply won't run out of fun to be had.
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Most of the properties in this edit have dates free for summer 2026 - if only a few. Just hurry if you like the look of any of them.
Here are 25 of the best weekend breaks in the UK to book today.
Best UK city break destination: Brighton
Beautiful cottage in the heart of North Laine, Brighton
Sleeps: Six guests.
Availability: First availability begins in June and dates in July are booking up fast. Don't sit on this one!
Why we love it: While you can, of course, stay in the likes of a Best Western or seafront hotel, for us the joy of a 2 or 3-night stay in Brighton is being smack bam at the heart of the sightseeing action. The Laines are the centre of Brighton's art galleries, street art and quaint independent shopping scene. And, what better a place to return home to than this wi-fi enabled, on-site terrace equipped bolt hole. We love, love, love.Save money on trips everywhere from Brighton and the South Downs to the Cornish countryside and beyond with these Airbnb discount codes
Where to plan your weekend getaway: Ceredigion
Ty Arth, Maen-y-Groes (near New Quay), Ceredigion
Sleeps: Four guests.
Availability: June and July are looking pretty packed (must be all the family holiday goers booking in the school break), but there's still dates up for grabs - go, go, go.
Why we love it: If you've never visited New Quay or Aberaeron then take this as your sign to book a mini break or long weekend to West Wales' hidden gem. While this cottage offers guests self-catering facilities, we'd suggest having a check-in on the restaurants in town. Our travel advice? Pop to the Blue Bell for a hot chocolate - you won't regret it.Save money on your Welsh trip away, a an all-inclusive holiday in Greece and more with these Airbnb discount codes
Where to stay in the New Forest
Luxury Chalet in The New Forest, Airbnb
Sleeps: 12 guests
Availability: Around half of each month in the summer has been booked up but there are still plenty of dates available in May, June and September.
Why we love it: It's bright, airy and spacious with the kitchen of dreams and super high ceilings. If you've spent lockdown feeling claustrophobic, you'd better make a booking.Save money on a trip somewhere in the UK, or perhaps to Brussels, Copenhagen or somewhere hot, like Portugal, with these Airbnb discount codes
Where to stay in Oxford
Modern Townhouse in Central Oxford, Airbnb
Sleeps: 6 guests
Availability: At time of publication, this property has a good handful of dates free through the school holidays and lots of availability thereafter.
Why we love it: This newly refurbished townhouse sleeps up to six guests across three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room, fully-equipped kitchen and v. zen garden. It's just a short walk over the bridge to the city centre where you'll find all manner of delicious bars and restaurants.Save money on historic city breaks to Oxford, Rome's colosseum and beyond with these Airbnb discount codes
Where to stay in Devon
Maristow Cottage, Sykes Cottages
Sleeps: 6 guests
Availability: At time of publication, this property has nothing left in August but some spots still up for grabs through the rest of the summer months.
Why we love it: It has a swimming pool, which is most definitely the selling point. There's also a hot tub, an open fire, large garden and three lovely bedrooms. Sold? Sold.
Best UK weekend breaks: The Cotswolds
The Snooty Fox, Tetbury, the Cotswolds
Sleeps: All rooms sleep two guests.
Availability: This hotel has availability from May through December, with some limitations on the length of your stay during peak season and the school holidays.
Why we love it: If a bit of Barcelona, Gaudi and Mediterranean cuisine isn't your bag, the Snooty Fox will be the perfect antidote to your abroad aversion. Think: wellies off at the door after a brusque walk in one of the UK's most beautiful places before a night out on the quirky cobbled high street, eating and drinking the sumptuous locally-sourced fares.Save money on everything from your dream five-star break in Tenerife to a family friendly holiday in North Yorkshire with these Booking.com special offers and Expedia holiday deals.
Where to stay in Cornwall
Sleeps: 2 guests
Availability: A couple of weeks left in the summer and good availability thereafter.
Why we love it: This cottage has a picturesque river setting, cosy interior, wood-burning stove for the winter months, a stylish mezzanine level and views of the Devon countryside. Book now for a summer getaway in this quaint country house.
Where to stay in the Lake District
The Lake House in Windermere, Airbnb
Sleeps: 8 guests
Availability: This place is filling up fast. There still a handful of dates in every month, but you'd better act fast.
Why we love it: The lake is less than 50 meters from the property, and the views are stunning. We're also huge fans of that huge arched window in the kitchen and the elegant drawing room. Perfection.Save money on glamping trips, lock-side getaways and hiking trips in the Lakes with these Airbnb discount codes
Where to stay in Edinburgh
Watching For Comets, Edinburgh
Sleeps: 4 guests
Availability: At the time of publication there is availability from June.
Why we love it: It's super open-plan for hosting and big nights in, plus, it makes exploring the city on foot a total breeze. It has a chic breakfast bar, farmhouse kitchen and it's flooded in natural light.
Where to stay in the Scottish Highlands
Craigellachie Hotel of Speyside, Booking.com
Sleeps: Rooms available for up to two adults and one child.
Availability: This hotel has a couple of booked up dates from now through the summer, but there's still plenty of two-three night gaps so hop onto your browser today to secure yours.
Why we love it: Deep in the Scottish Highlands, this stunning hotel is a cosy home-away-from-home with exceptional service, great food, stunning interiors and spa treatments. You can even take your dog with you, too!Save money on trips from Cheshire all the way to the Czech Republic with these Booking.com discount codes
Best waterside break: Cornwall
Windsor Lookout, St. Ives, Cornwall
Sleeps: Six guests.
Availability: A couple weekends in May, June, August and then September August - it's a popular spot, don't miss out!
Why we love it: Wander down St. Ives' cobbled streets and bathe in the summer sun as though you were in the likes of Croatia or Porto. This Airbnb boasts an incredible, hassle-free location; close to all the best fine dining spots and beaches for sans-car exploring. It's also got its own bath - a rarity with Airbnbs - if you fancied yourself a spa break but, alas, those three kids won't feed themselves. Consider it five minutes peace once you've tucked them into bed. The only qualm we have? It's not dog-friendly. Though, at least you needn't worry about dog hair.Book yourself a trip to Dublin, Budapest or York today and save money wherever you head with these Airbnb discount codes
Where to stay in the Isle of Wight
Historic Studio in Seaside Town, Airbnb
Sleeps: 3 guests
Availability: This place has good availability in the coming months.
Why we love it: This place is so perfect for couples looking for a bit of an escape. It's quaint and compact but has everything you could need - as well as being just a two minute walk from the beach and five minutes from the centre of the town.Whether you're after a bit of history in 18th century Bath or a trip to view the masterpiece that is the south coast is more to your liking, make sure you save money on your booking with these Airbnb discount codes
Where to stay in Devon
Stylish, Large Family Home in Dartmouth, Airbnb
Sleeps: 6 guests
Availability: At time of publication, this property has availability but it's getting booked up quickly.
Why we love it: It's within walking distance of the centre of Dartmouth, where you'll find restaurants, pubs and shops aplenty. There are also beautiful views of the Dart and Naval college from courtyard garden or balcony.Save money on your weekend break, be it in New York or Scotland, with these Airbnb discount codes
21. UK Weekend Breaks: London
Sleeps: Rooms available for up to three guests.
Availability: This hotel has good availability for the rest of the year.
Why we love it: Nestled in the heart of Mayfair, The Chesterfield Hotel is just a short walk away from Green Park, Buckingham Palace, Oxford Street, Carnaby Street and Soho. It's the epitome of old school glamour, with four-poster beds, luxurious bathrooms and a stylish Victorian facade. The highlight is most definitely the restaurant (the afternoon tea, more specifically): excellent service, fresh ingredients and a relaxing atmosphere. If you try one thing, make it the scallops.Check out more of the best hotels in London and make sure to save money on your stay - whether you're planning on visiting Greenwich market town or some Barrafina tapas in Soho is on the cards - with these Booking.com discount codes
Where to stay in Ipswich
Sleeps: 10 guests
Availability: Good availability through summer, bar August.
Why we love it:
Spoil your friends and family to a pet friendly luxury weekend break featuring a personal party/games room, a room dedicated to and filled with gin, BBQ, sauna and an outdoor heated pool.
Where to stay on the Gower Peninsula
Award-Winning Contemporary Cottage, Airbnb
Sleeps: 5 guests
Availability: This property books up super quickly - July and August are pretty much off the cards, but there's a handful of dates up for grabs in June still. Don't hang about.
Why we love it: The pops of green, the beautiful upstairs living area and its ideal placement for exploring both the Gower and the Brecon Beacons.Save money on trips to Wales - be it Cardiff or a log cabin in Snowdon - with these Airbnb discount codes
Where to stay in Northumberland
Sleeps: 2 guests
Availability: Good availability apart from July where there's only one week left Race ya.
Why we love it: This place is autumn getaway perfection. It's big, beautiful, set within 80 acres of farmland and with stunning countryside views. On your doorstep are amazing walks, Hadrian's wall, the Lake District and a pub which serves up great food just one mile away.Save money on trips to Cheshire, Northumberland and more with these Airbnb discount codes
ShutterstockWhere to stay in Norfolk
Sleeps: 2 guests
Availability: This property has lots of availability, just look from May. The second half of June is pretty jammed, but otherwise you're in luck!
Why we love it: Overlooking farmland straight from your stable door, there’s plenty of riverside pubs and cute villages to leisurely stroll through.Save money on holidays in Norfolk, Chester or the Scottish lochs with these Airbnb discount codes
Best LGBTQIA+-friendly romantic break: Brighton
Pink to make you Wink cottage, Brighton
Sleeps: Six guests.
Availability: It's filling up fast, but there's still availability every month of the upcoming year at the time of writing.
Why we love it: With decor like that of a boutique hotel - as is the Brighton way - this Plum Guide stay is situated just minutes from some of the UK's best beaches and, if cuisine is your jam, make sure to try the fresh seafood from one of the beachfront stalls. You'll feel like you're dining on a Spanish seascape or, if you're more one for a sit-down gourmet affair, why not make the trip to nearby Horsham for Michelin-starred restaurant The Pass. Catch us pampering the night away on those plush double beds.
Where to stay in Dorset
Sleeps: 4 guests
Availability: This Airbnb has great availability all summer long - woo.
Why we love it: Not only is the kitchen so sleek we'd happily sleep in there, the interiors are super luxe and the dining room opens out to reveal a balcony - perfect for summer evenings.
Where to stay in Brighton
Spacious Elm Grove Retreat, Airbnb
Sleeps: 10 guests
Availability: This property has availability from May onwards.
Why we love it: There is so much space if you want to head away with friends or another family. The house has been finished to total perfection, and the outdoor terrace (complete with BBQ) is a glorious little sun trap.Save money on the best city breaks - be it a UK or European city break - with these Airbnb discount codes
Where to stay in the Lake District (with a spa)
The Swan Hotel and Spa, Booking.com
Sleeps: Rooms available for up to 2 guests.
Availability: There is plenty of availability here, beginning from tonight.
Why we love it: This hotel enjoys views of the river, a restaurant, spa centre and hot tub. Every room is individually decorated to a high standard, and the location is perfect for exploring the Lake District National Park. It's perfect for couples!Save money on Eurostar-friendly holidays in France or perhaps a riverside holiday in Newby Bridge with these Booking.com discount codes
Where to stay in the Cotswolds
Second Nature, Gloucestershire
Sleeps: 2 guests
Availability: This property has great availability from now through till the end of the year.
Why we love it: This is the perfect spot for a cosy, cold-weather countryside escape. You've got a tonne of countryside walks right on your doorstep but you're just a short drive from the city of Cheltenham. There's a regal four-poster bed in the bedroom and a stylish and sleek kitchen for you to cook up a feast.
Where to stay in Whitstable
Old Vines Cottage, Whitstable, Kent
Sleeps: Six guests.
Availability: You'll need to enquire to find availability for this property.
Why we love it: With direct access to Whitstable Beach Front, the beautiful Old Vines Cottage will definitely deliver when it comes to incredible seaside sunsets. Watch from the private courtyard garden, or head for sundowners over at the Old Neptune – one of the Kent coast's most picturesque pubs – that's just a stone's throw away.
Where to stay in London
Sleeps: Rooms available for up to five guests.
Availability: This hotel has good availability for the rest of the year.
Why we love it: Overlooking Kensington Gardens, the hotel feels as if you are a world away from the busy streets of London. They’re even offering a staycation package this summer, which includes: valet parking, champagne, an afternoon tea hamper, spa treatments and a tailor made cocktail experience. What more could you want?
