7 Unmissable UK Seaside Holidays

With the Covid-19 pandemic, air travel seems a distant memory and a faraway pipe dream for many of us. Well, summer is here and if you’re not planning on going abroad for the summer (I know I’m not!) then you’re in luck. I’ve rounded up some of the best beach holidays in the UK for you to snag those insta-worthy snaps.

Blackpool

You’ll never be short of things to do in Blackpool. If you’re looking for excitement, then Blackpool Pleasure Beach’s amusement park will be an alluring attraction.

A shot of Blackpool pier
RMC42 – Shutterstock

The vintage wooden rollercoasters will please thrillseekers and the seaside itself is perfect for those looking for a chill holiday. You can also visit Blackpool Tower, which is home to the famous Tower Ballroom (which is probably closed for the moment, but certainly well worth a visit).

Brighton

The home of Pride, Brighton is where the LGBT+ community can feel at home. It’s edgy, it’s quirky and most importantly, it’s got an awesome nightlife.

A shot of Brighton Pier from the pebbled beach
BerndBrueggemann – Shutterstock

And if that’s not your scene, there’s still plenty to do and see in Brighton, like the stunning architecture of Brighton Pavilion. Take a trip to the pier for a fun day out and far reaching views across the Sussex coast.

Bournemouth

I spent many summers in Bournemouth as a child so I might be biased, but this beach resort is packed with things to do. It’s probably my favourite UK beach to sit and relax on.

Bournemouth Pier and beach
Philip Hector – Shutterstock

Take a trip to the Isle of Purbeck and explore the Jurassic Coast, or visit Corfe Castle. Or, you can chill on the pier with all its amusements.

Falmouth

It’s a tiny seaside town, but Falmouth is the home to absolutely delicious fish and chips. For an extra dose of history and culture, visit Pendennis Castle, or explore the maritime museum.

Falmouth high street
Falmouth high street

READ MORE: What I did in Falmouth

Llandudno

Hit up Llandudno Pier, which was built in the 19th century, for a historical stroll and stunning views. The coastal town is famous for its Victorian architecture, but there’s plenty to see and do in Llandudno that doesn’t just revolve around the beach.

S-F – Shutterstock

If you’re a fan of cliffs, you can take the Great Orme tramway up to the summit. Check out the mining tunnels too for an adventurous day out.

St Ives

A Cornish gem, St Ives is especially popular with British tourists. It’s chock-full of sandy beaches, where you can relax, rest, or hit the waves and go surfing or on a trip to seal island. There’s no shortage of coastal paths to walk and views for days. Plus, the art scene comes alive in St Ives, with the Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Garden and the Tate gallery.

St Ives

READ MORE: Discover Budleigh Salterton, a sleepy seaside town

Whitby

A beautiful northern beach, Whitby is also home to the famous Captain Cook, and you can visit the museum dedicated to his life. Head to the gothic Whitby Abbey to see Bram Stoker’s inspiration for ‘Dracula’ and enjoy views over the sea.

Lukasz Pajor – Shutterstock

If you do visit any of these beaches, please remember to leave only footprints – take any litter with you and ensure you keep the beach clean and tidy. Make sure you maintain social distancing and are respectful of other people’s space, too.

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The Best Lakes in the World

Forget beach holidays and city breaks – a peaceful lakeside trip is exactly what your 2020 holiday plans need to rest and recharge for the new decade. So, with that in mind, here are the most stunning lakes across the world – perfect for your Instagram feed, and your sole. (geddit?)

5. Dead Sea, Jordan/Israel

Stepped in history, this extra salty lake is a must-see, boasting over 1 million hashtags on Instagram. Be sure to get that perfect shot of you lazily floating along!
IMAGE: vvvita – Shutterstock

4. Lake Como, Italy

Surrounded by stunning mountainous background, it’s no wonder Lake Como was so popular with 1.4 million hashtags! An up-market must-see.
IMAGE: Gaspar Janos

3. Lake Michigan, USA

One of the five Great Lakes of North America, this is the only one to be situated entirely within the USA.
IMAGE: ehrlif – Shutterstock

2. Lake Tahoe, USA

Embodying the best of both worlds, enjoy ski resorts and restful beaches, along with nearly 2.5 million other Instagrammers.
IMAGE: topselles – Shutterstock

1. Lake District, UK

Set in England’s north west, this beautiful lake topped the list with nearly 3 million hashtags on Instagram. Safe to say it’s well worth a visit. Watch this space!
IMAGE: Michael Conrad – Shutterstock

Where will you plan your next trip? It’s gotta include a lake!

Data from www.showerstoyou.co.uk

5 Things to See and Do in Exeter

The capital city of Devon, Exeter, is a tourist and financial hub (to an extent) in the South West. If you’re looking to holiday in the UK this Summer, the South West is always popular. To help you decide where to go, I’ve put together a handy guide to Exeter, so that you can maximise your time.

Continue reading 5 Things to See and Do in Exeter

Exploring Budleigh Salterton

Struggling with your UK holiday destination? With Brexit looming, fewer Brits are choosing EU locations for the summer holidays. Beyond Europe, many families will be priced out of a summer holiday abroad this year, but for a pebbly seaside retreat, we need look no further than the South Devonian Coast.

Continue reading Exploring Budleigh Salterton