For many people, the concept of spending the summer in the United Kingdom is not typically a positive one. Most people crave to go abroad during the summer months, and to soak up as much sun as possible. However, there are actually some fantastic spots in the UK to visit during summertime. Contrary to popular belief, this little island is full of beautiful, mesmerizing places – you just have to find them! So, if you’re keen to stay on home soil this summer, or if you’re just curious about what the UK has to offer besides Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, then here are some stunning UK summer spots to spend your vacation this year.
Top 3 Stunning UK Summer Spots for an English Holiday
The Lake District
If you’re after some relaxation amongst picturesque views, the Lake District is the place to be. Situated in Cumbria, north-west England, the Lake District welcomes a substantial number of tourists each year. The area is renowned for its lakes, hiking spots and cutesy market towns. Many people choose to stay near Lake Windermere, England’s largest lake. It’s probably the most popular part of the national park; and one of the most stunning UK summer spots. A mile inland from the lake is Ambleside, a bustling little town full of boutique shops and restaurants; stay here if you want to be close to Lake Windermere. Then there’s Ullswater, a common starting point for hikers and walkers, and those who love a dramatic view. There is something for everyone to enjoy in the Lake District, which is perhaps why so many people love it there.
Lake Windermere by Brian Taylor on Flickr // CC BY 2.0York
The capital of Yorkshire, York is an ideal spot for history lovers to spend a summer day or two. The city was founded by the ancient Romans, and boasts a number of historical buildings and attractions. Take York Minster, for example, the 13th Century Gothic cathedral in the city centre. This is possibly one of the most beautiful historical landmarks in Northern England. And not forgetting York Castle, which has been around for over nine centuries, and has a rich history full of bloody battles.
It’s perhaps for this reason that York is renowned for being amongst the most haunted cities in the world. And let me tell you, when I stayed in York, me and my friend definitely weren’t alone in the hotel room that night. But that’s another story. Anyway, a summer’s day in York should end with a ghost walk around the city, in which a local guides tourists around the most haunted/historical hotspots and tells the stories of each location. This definitely can’t be missed when visiting York! Spend the daytime exploring the adorable boutiques on the medieval ‘Shambles’, and head to Betty’s for the best afternoon tea in Yorkshire.
York by Phil Richards on Flickr // CC BY-ND 2.0St. Ives
Peaceful, picturesque St. Ives is located on the coast of the Celtic Sea in Cornwall, south-west England. This tourist hotspot is perfect for those who love nothing more than spending summer at the beach. It’s just further proof that you don’t need to go abroad for the best, either. St Ives is actually one of TripAdvisor’s Top 10 European beaches. Art lovers will also love it here, since this Cornwall mecca is home to one of only four Tate galleries in the world, the Tate St Ives. Choose from staying in a luxury hotel, a cutesy cottage, or a modern apartment. There is something for everyone in St Ives, and it’s perfect for those who want to feel like they’re abroad (but they’re actually in England).
St Ives by Nana B Agyei on Flickr // CC BY 2.0So, if you didn’t believe it before, hopefully these stunning UK Summer spots will show you that you don’t need to leave the UK to get a tan and have an amazing summer. This miniscule island is actually home to so many beautiful places, and it’s important that more people see that.