5 English Destinations Perfect for your Summer Staycations

Robin Hood’s Bay, Yorkshire

Nestled in Yorkshire’s coastline is Robin Hood’s Bay, a quaint little fishing village popular with tourists from both the UK and around the world. The village is home to many cosy holiday homes, independent shops and restaurants. There are a number of things to do in the bay such as a daring ghost tour, beautiful coastal walks and spots to grab a delicious ice cream. The best thing to do by far, is set your alarm early and catch the sunset from either the beach or the sea wall – it’s worth the early wake up call! Click here to read about how to spend a weekend in Robin Hood’s Bay.

Saffron Walden, Essex

Saffron Walden is a very colourful and very pretty town in Essex, by the border with Cambridgeshire. It’s just a 35 minute drive from Cambridge, or a 35 minute drive from Braintree. The town has a variety of restaurants, pubs and cafes to stop by, or go for a stroll in the countryside for a change of scenery. During your visit, make sure you stop by Audley End House and Gardens and the market too!

The New Forest, Hampshire

The New Forest has always been, and will always be a favourite destination of mine. There are countless routes to take a stroll and you could walk all day, or week, without seeing everything. The New Forest is filled with towns and villages, along with wild donkeys, horses, cows, deer, pigs and more. Be careful if you are driving through The New Forest, as the wild animals will cross the road in front of you and not bat an eyelid! Stay in one of the country hotels to get a real feel of the area, some of my favourites include The Huntsman of Brockenhurst, The Master Builders and The Bell Inn Hotel. Click here to find Five Things to do in The New Forest.

Castleton, The Peak District

Castleton is a very popular, picturesque village that holds so much English history that is surrounded by beautiful countryside walks. There are a variety of cafes, hotels and restaurants to visit and the locals are welcoming and happy to see visitors year-round. There are caves to explore in the area too, which makes it a great day out for the whole family. See if you can spot some cows and sheep on your walk, and you won’t want to forget your camera in this beautiful village! Click here to find out How to Spend 48 Hours in The Peak District.

Port Isaac, Cornwall

Port Isaac sees many tourists throughout the year, some stopping by to explore the picturesque bay, others to spot the Doctors Surgery whereby the popular series Doc Martin was filmed. There are multiple restaurants and cafes in the port, many of which are keeping modern and serving vegan option too! Just a short walk from Port Isaac is Port Gaverne, so why not take a stroll there and back for some impressive Cornish coastal views?! Find this and 5 more things to do along Cornwall’s North coast, here.

Enjoy your English staycations and tag me in your photos on instagram so I can see what you get up to! @elisetanriverdi . Know some more must-see spots in England? Pop them in the comments below to spread the word!

As always, love Elise x

FAQ

Do I need a visa to travel to the UK?

Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Citizens of many countries, including the USA, Canada, Australia, and EU member states, can enter the UK visa-free for short visits. However, some nationalities do require a visa. Check with the UK government website or your local British embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information, you can check here – https://www.gov.uk/uk-border-control

What documents do I need to enter the UK?

At minimum, you’ll need a valid passport to enter the UK. Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit, you may also need a visa, proof of onward travel, and evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay. It’s always a good idea to check the specific requirements well in advance of your trip, which you can do on the UK Border Control site – https://www.gov.uk/uk-border-control

Is travel insurance necessary for visiting the UK?

While travel insurance isn’t a legal requirement for visiting the UK, it’s highly recommended. Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unexpected expenses. It gives you peace of mind knowing that you’re protected in case of any unforeseen circumstances during your trip. I recommended having travel insurance wherever you go.

What’s the best time of year to visit the UK?

The UK, as I’m sure you’ve heard, experiences many rainy days but there are also many sunny days, they’re just not very easy to predict. The best time to visit the UK depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to do. Summer (June to August) generally offers the warmest and sunniest weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, it’s also the busiest tourist season. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are less crowded and still offer pleasant weather for exploring. Personally, my favourite months in the UK are May, June and September as the weather is usually pretty good and places aren’t overrun with children off school.

What are some must-visit attractions in the UK?

The UK is home to a wealth of historic landmarks, cultural attractions, and natural wonders. Must-visit attractions include iconic landmarks like Big Ben, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Stonehenge. Don’t miss exploring the charming cities of London, Edinburgh, Bath, and Oxford. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the picturesque landscapes of the Peak District, Lake District, Scottish Highlands, and the Cotswolds.

How can I get around the UK?

The UK has an extensive and efficient public transportation network, including trains, buses, and the London Underground. For longer distances, trains are usually the fastest and most convenient option, especially if you’re traveling between major cities. In London, the Tube (subway) is the easiest way to navigate the city. Renting a car is also an option if you want more flexibility, especially for exploring rural areas, I’d highly recommend this if you’re planning to spend a long period of time in the UK and wanting to visit multiple rural areas, it should work out more cost effective and convenient in the long run although, you will have to drive on the left hand side!

What currency is used in the UK?

The currency used in the UK is the British Pound Sterling (£). It’s advisable to exchange currency before your trip or withdraw cash from ATMs once you arrive, however credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most places, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in case you encounter places that don’t accept cards, though this is rare nowadays.

What should I pack for my trip to the UK?

The weather in the UK can be unpredictable, as everyone likes to joke about. Even in the summer, you never know when it’ll suddenly pour with rain so it’s best to pack layers and clothing suitable for various conditions. Be sure to include items like a waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, an umbrella, and clothing for both warm and cool weather. If you plan to visit religious sites or fine dining establishments, pack some smart-casual attire as well.

Is tap water safe to drink in the UK?

Yes, tap water in the UK is safe to drink. It undergoes rigorous testing to ensure its quality and is generally of high standard across the country. You can refill your water bottle from taps in restaurants, hotels, and public facilities without any concerns.

Are there any cultural customs or etiquette I should be aware of in the UK?

While the UK is a diverse and multicultural country, there are some general customs and etiquette to be aware of. These include queuing (standing in line) patiently, saying “please” and “thank you” (politeness is valued), respecting personal space, and adhering to social norms in public places. Tipping is discretionary but appreciated for good service, typically around 10-15% in restaurants.