Top UK Holiday Locations
Sun, sea and sangria. Three words we usually associated with a summer holiday. In the past number of years however, it appears we’re choosing to make our own sangria, settle for a temperature in the high teens (at best) and take in the best Britain has to offer. Apparently, the south of France and Spain have had their time in the sun, and British holiday makers are opting for the ‘staycation’ instead. A study has found that 93% of Britons head off on at least one holiday within the UK every year, equating to a whopping £13billion.
It’s not as if the cheap European flights have vanished or the reliable packaged holiday has become extinct. In fact, they are more readily available than ever. Perhaps we’re all realising that when the weather is good at home, its just as good as being abroad.
The figures support the theory that camping is on the up, but now you’ve decided you’re staying in the UK this summer, the dilemma is, where to stay. Here with Motorparks who sell a variety of cars such as the new ford focus automatic, we take you through the different options available in to making your ‘staycation’ a great one.
Caolasnacon, Kinlochleven, Argyll
Sitting on the edge of Loch Leven, Caolasnacon combines breath-taking views with idyllic scenery. The campsite offers visitors the chance to pitch their tents right by the water. You will not run out of activities to keep yourself entertained, with water sports including wind-surfing a particular favourite of the thrill seekers. Or, if you’re not a water person, the climbing and hiking trails nearby give unrestricted access to the local wildlife. Loch Leven plays home to otters and if you’re lucky you might even catch a glimpse of a golden eagle.
Once you’ve finished indulging in the surroundings, there is no better way to round of your evening than by having your tea as the sun goes down, beside the beauty of the Loch.
Opening season is Easter until October every year. From £10 per tent for two people.
Bay View Farm, Cornwall
The site at Bay View sits right on the South West Coast Path, offering uninterrupted sea views, perhaps one of the best in the country. The recent glamping hype has contributed to the rise in those choosing to spend those precious weeks off from work in the UK, and Bay View offers such facilities.
The snugs, which look out over Looe bay, provide holidaymakers the home comforts not quite provided with standard camping. Power-sockets, Wi-Fi and most importantly a full-size double bed provide holiday makers the full camping experience, without the inevitable drawbacks.
And if you’re stuck for things to do, who doesn’t love monkeys. A brief walk from the camp-site entrance and you will stumble across the monkey sanctuary, home to a variety of the rescued creatures.
Open all year round and charged at £20 per pitch which allows for two adults and two children.
Hooks House Farm, Robin Hoods Bay, North Yorkshire
Sticking with scenery and a view to remember, Hooks is no different. The grassy slopes wind down form a high hill right down to the sea. Deemed as the ideal starting point for anyone wanting to carry out the coast-to-coast, the farm is no different to the other sites in the wide range of activities it offers.
The local beach on Robin Hoods Bay offers opportunities for rock pooling and fossil hunting, whilst a 15-minute walk will lead you to the local museum. If you’re starting the coast-to-coast, consider the appropriate stops along the way through Yorkshire, before ending up on the Cumbrian coast.
Between March and October, the site will remain open. From £7 for adults and £3 for children.
Baysbrown Farm, Great Langdale, Lake District
This campsite is different to most others you will come across. Situated in the beautiful Great Langdale Valley, you don’t book a pitch, you just arrive and find a space. Acres of flat ground are provided that sit at the base of the mountain range.
Use the days to your advantage. Rise early and set off hiking through the routes that include Crinkle Crags and Scafell Pike. This campsite provides the ideal opportunity for anyone looking to escape from the pressures of modern life and to ultimately just relax.
This site is open from March through to October. From £6 per adult and £3.50 per child.
Making it there
There’s no point planning the trip of the summer without considering how you get there in the first place. The popular choice amongst caravanner’s and campers throughout the UK is the estate car or SUV, as realistically, size really does matter. Even if its glamping you’re going for, remember all the necessary essentials – you don’t want to have to run around the local town to find a pillow on day one of your trip.
