Summer Staycations for your Bank Holiday

Whether you’re looking for a fun trip with the gals, a romantic reunion getaway with your long-distance lover, or just a solo change of scene, we’ve got your UK staycation sorted.

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Get back to nature with Welsh glamping

Never really liked actual camping? No, us neither. Thankfully, you can still get that outdoor experience with a little bit of luxury in the heart of the Welsh countryside.

If you are looking for a romantic getaway, we highly recommend getting some one-on-one time in South Wales. Under the Oak Glamping offers a gorgeous setting near Caerphilly for you to unwind. Stay in the traditional huts and keep your phone charged up with electricity throughout – you’ll need it for all of the excellent Instagram opportunities.

They even offer accommodation in a repurposed vintage train carriage if you’re looking for something a bit more quirky. On top of all that, if you are missing civilisation, you’ll only be a short distance from Cardiff and its shops, restaurants and bars.

You can also venture further west for some stunning hiking in the Pembrokeshire hills. You can take in some history in the Victorian town of Tenby, do some whale watching and even have a try at coasteering if you’re feeling adventurous.

Cornish coastal luxury

If you are enviably sensible and have been living frugally due to cossy living crisis (urgh), why not treat yourself coastal retreat in Cornwall? With plenty of gorgeous beaches, Newquay is the ideal place to take up surfing or work on that tan.

For some additional luxury, we recommend a stay in the over-100-year-old Atlantic Hotel. Standing above the town on its own piece of headland, it has the best scenic views of the ocean. No excuses are needed to grab a day pass to the spa and have some drinks while you reconnect with your gal pals.

Looking for something more hands-off? There are loads of self-contained, amazing apartments in and around Newquay from which you can still take advantage of the stunning sea views and coastal comforts, like this one.

Hop on a train to Scotland

Cities might seem a bit daunting at the moment, but they don’t have to be. Especially if you’re willing to invest a little more in transport. Perfect for a solo adventure or a couples getaway, Caledonian Sleeper trains from London to a variety of cities in Scotland are about as fancy as rail travel in the UK gets.

You can relax in your own private room and maybe get some reading in or watch Netflix from somewhere other than your bed. Breakfast is on the cards and having a place to snuggle up definitely beats sitting upright the whole way. Better still, you can reserve a spot to bring your bike with you and open up a whole world of exploration once you arrive at your destination.

With many tourist spots looking towards phased reopening in August, there will still be an abundance of activities. And if all else fails, take yourself on a whiskey tasting – it’s the least you deserve hun.

Give London a go

Natural History Museum

Whether you live in London or not, there is a lot going on in the capital. Treat yourself to a unique stay in the ZSL London Zoo lodges or a couple of nights in the quirky and affordable Qbic Hotel, and explore the city at leisure. With tourist numbers still pretty low, it’s a great opportunity to see the city and visit some attractions. Museums and galleries like the Tate Modern and Natural History Museum are already on track to reopen, and this is the perfect chance to get the London experience without the crowds. Just try your best to avoid the Underground and don’t forget to check if you need to book.

If you are London based, and you’re wanting more of a day trip out of London, then check our article on day trips out of London by car.

Team Nonchalant x

Last Updated on 26th July 2023 by Nonchalant Magazine

Emma Alice Jane
Emma Alice Jane

Emma is a writer, reviewer and arts marketing professional living and working in London. Travelling as much as she can, she is determined to see the world as well as write about it. She knows too much about Wes Anderson films and sharks.

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