Staycations and Safer Travel - 5 perfect UK weekender breaks

In collaboration with Hotels.com, but all views are my own

Like everyone else right now all I want to do is pack my bags and head off on a European road trip or book a flight to a far-flung destination! The past 18months have felt incredibly long, with ongoing restriction which has affected all of our lives in one way or another, periods of being unable to work or see family members, most of all doing our part to help keep ourselves and others safe and while things definitely feel like they are moving in the right direction, we still live with the possibility of sudden changes to travel windows which make booking a break overseas more complicated than ever before.  

I have seen people on the news get stranded in countries that have suddenly gone into lockdown or have put the UK (or visa versa) on to the amber or red list meaning more tests and quarantining before being able to head home. While these additional risks may be worth it for some, for others who cannot take more time off work or have children who have already missed a lot of school, this is not an ideal option. 

This is why 2021 is turning out to be the year of the Staycation, which is not only a positive for our own homegrown travel industry but it's also easier to monitor the current health risk as well as UK attractions and destinations having to follow Covid Safe Protocols. Also please remember that it's great to support local tourism but keep washing your hands, wearing a mask indoors and being sensible and on that note here are 5 destinations perfect for an adventure-filled staycation. 

1. Lake Windermere, Lake District

Lake Windermere is one of the most beautiful areas of the Lake District and is perfect for outdoor lovers as it's surrounded by nature, mountain hikes and quaint villages to explore. The area offers something for the whole family with plenty of space to run free (and socially distance), watersports and museums to take in along with plenty of breathtaking views. 

2. Isles of Scilly, Cornwall

The Isles of Scilly has got to be my favourite place in the UK and a place that feels truly exotic and away from the maddening crowd. Getting there can be quite tricky and expensive if you opt to take the Helicopter from mainland Cornwall, but I can promise you it's worth it as you will be rewarded with white sands and crystal clear uncrowded beaches. You can also take the Ferry or Fly from Lands End - we did a mixture of both when we visited the Isles in 2016

3.  St Davids, West Wales

St Davids may be Britains smallest city but it offers plenty to see and do and is located in one of the most beautiful parts of Wales, with rugged coastlines a plenty, countryside walks and historical buildings to explore is a great place to get away from it all. Whether you are religious or not I do recommend visiting the imposing 12th-century Cathedral as well as the gothic ruins of The Bishops Palace and if you are feeling particularly adventurous then I recommend taking a boat to one of the wild offshore islands of Ramsey, Grassholm, Skomer or Skokholm.

4. Bristol, England

While Bristol City is a busier option than the other destinations on this list, it's perfect for those who are craving a creative cultural break without heading into London. We love Bristol as it offers plenty to do for all ages from kids to couples or solo travellers. Here are a few recommendations of free things to do in the city - Visit Spike Island art gallery and the MShed museum, take a stroll along the harbour alongside houseboat, street art and hip cafes, walk across Clifton Bridge for some incredible views or get a hit of the countryside at Ashton court and spot some wild deer at the same time. I have also written a post of 6 things to do with kids in Bristol so do check it out. 

Enjoying the Street Art in Bristol

5. Isle of Wight, England

The Isle of Wight has been on our bucket list for a while now and is a great option when you feel the need to really want to get away as you need to take a 45minute ferry to get to the island but don't have the additional risk of quarantining that you may face if you opted for a European destination instead. The Isle of Wight is also perfect for those who love the outdoors and is also popular with stargazers. 

Over the past year, the UK Tourism board has introduced the "Good to go" scheme which has seen businesses including attractions, activity providers and accommodation to change the way they operate to make it safer for customers and staff by adhering to Government guidance on cleanliness and social distancing. Of course, there will always be a risk but a variety of steps have been put in to build confidence and reassurance during these times with health and safety at the forefront. 

Have you planned any getaways for this summer?