A long weekend break in the UK might not sound like a big deal, but get the destination right, and those three days can feel like a full-on escape. Whether you’re after rolling hills, creative city vibes or just somewhere with a good pub and better views, the UK has more to offer than you might think.
Here are five spots that know exactly how to deliver a refreshing, feel-good break, without needing your passport.
Coastal Calm in Northumberland
If your idea of the perfect weekend involves fresh air, windswept beaches, and barely seeing another soul, Northumberland might be calling your name.
The coastline is dotted with castles, dunes, and hidden coves, making it one of the most scenic coastal areas in the UK. Walk along Bamburgh Beach with the castle looming behind you, then head inland to explore crumbling abbeys and moody moorland.
Luxury here means quiet, space, and log fires at the end of the day. Book a cosy countryside lodge or a beachside cottage and settle in for long walks, fish and chips, and maybe even a bit of stargazing – this part of the country is known for its dark skies.
Countryside Charm in Somerset
There’s something about Somerset that just slows you down in the best way. The landscapes roll on for miles, cider barns pop up when you least expect them, and the villages? All stone walls, flower boxes, and cobblestone streets.
Spend your weekend break in the UK walking through the Mendip Hills or exploring the timeless beauty of Wells (England’s smallest city). Glastonbury has that bohemian vibe if you’re into crystals, quirky cafés, and a healthy dose of folklore. Or base yourself near Bruton, where art galleries, stylish farm shops, and low-key luxury hotels have given this quiet pocket a seriously cool edge.
And when in doubt? Find a country pub, order a proper roast, and relax. If you’re searching for dog friendly cottages in Somerset, there are plenty of incredible properties to choose from. Whether it’s a historic farm cottage or a renovated lodge, each property promises a comfortable stay for you and your pooch.
A Stylish City Break in Liverpool
If you haven’t visited Liverpool lately, it’s time. The city has always had a big personality – music, football, humour, but now it’s also got a creative energy that makes it perfect for a weekend getaway.
Wander the Royal Albert Dock for museums, galleries, and waterfront views that hit differently with a good coffee in hand. The Beatles connection is there, of course, but the city’s vibe has grown into something broader, think indie record shops, street food markets, and one of the most interesting dining scenes in the UK right now.
Stay in one of the new boutique hotels in the Baltic Triangle and make time for rooftop cocktails, art exhibitions, or just a good, long people-watch. If you need accommodation ASAP, explore last minute hotel deals in Liverpool to secure your stay. These centrally located hotels offer a comfortable and affordable stay, creating a base for you to explore everything that this wonderful city has to offer.
Nature and Nostalgia in the Lake District
Yes, it’s popular. But there’s a reason for that. The Lake District really does tick all the boxes: dramatic peaks, peaceful lakes, charming towns, and just enough cafés to make your post-hike coffee feel well-earned.
Pick your pace – go hard with a summit hike up Helvellyn or keep it gentler with a stroll around Grasmere and a slice of gingerbread. Either way, you’re getting views that stick with you. For couples, it’s quietly romantic. For solo travellers or groups, it’s grounding and energising all at once.
Luxury doesn’t have to mean flashy here. It’s about beautiful inns with big bathtubs, well-stocked wine lists, and the kind of breakfasts that fuel you through anything the Cumbrian weather throws your way.
A Little Bit of Everything in St Andrews
St Andrews might be known for golf, but you don’t need to know your way around a nine iron to fall for it.
There’s something effortlessly elegant about this small Scottish town. Cobbled streets, sea views, cosy bookshops, and seriously good food – it’s the kind of place that feels polished without trying too hard. Stroll the old university grounds, explore the cathedral ruins, or just watch the waves roll in from the beach.
Stay in a boutique townhouse hotel or book a spa break just outside town. Throw in a good whisky by the fire and a long coastal walk, and you’ve got a weekend that feels like a deep breath.
Where Will You Spend Your Next Weekend?
A long weekend break in the UK isn’t just about ticking off a destination, it’s about giving yourself space to recharge, explore, and maybe see things a little differently. Whether you’re wandering through a wild coastal landscape, tucking into tapas in a hidden city bar, or just reading a book by the fire while it rains outside, there’s something quietly powerful about stepping away from your routine.
So the question is: where are you off to next?
