Weekend breaks in the UK

According to psychologists, taking a few short breaks or weekends away throughout the year will make you happier than one long annual holiday. It’s all to do with making happy memories and, let’s face it, a few weekends away will enable you to collect memories by the bucket-load.

For a weekend away at the seaside, don’t just consider the obvious pier destinations of Blackpool and Brighton. There are many other British gems – including Dorset and Devon. If it’s an activity break that you’re after, then why not go sea-kayaking in Scotland, kite-surfing in Cornwall or climbing in the Peak District?

To pack the most into your precious time off work, we suggest a city break. With so much to see and do, it’s hard to resist the pull of the bright lights. From London to Edinburgh, Cardiff or Chester, it’s possible to cram superb shopping, outstanding museums and galleries, and of course great eateries all into a few days.

Below are some of Britain’s best locations for a weekend break, in alphabetical order. Scroll through and find plan your perfect weekend trip today.

Cornwall

Cornwall breaks

Cornwall

One of the UK’s finest holiday spots, find the best beaches and activities in the Cornwall area.

Cotswolds

Cotswolds

A weekend break in the Cotswolds offers visitors picture-perfect village life with exquisitely pretty countryside to stride through and cosy pubs to hunker down in.

Devon

Weekend breaks in Devon

Devon

A short break in Devon will see you bounding over beaches, wandering the moors and discovering an abundance of stunning National Trust properties.

Dorset

Dorset

With lovely beaches and unearthed fossils, there’s more to Dorset than just ice-cream and paddling.

Isle of Wight

Isle of Wight

Award-winning beaches, hidden coves and bustling harbours make the Isle of Wight truly unmissable.

Kent

Kent

Take a trip to Kent and enjoy rolling countryside, beautiful castles and hundreds of miles of coastline.

New Forest

New Forest

New Forest

With ancient woodlands and picturesque villages, the New Forest is a fantastic place for a relaxing break.

Lake District

Lake District, weekend breaks

Lake District

The Lake District was made for long walks, pub visits and admiring some of the UK’s most picturesque views.

Norfolk

Norfolk

From vibrant coastal resorts to quaint market towns, Norfolk is a county that has something for everyone.

Northumberland

Northumberland

If you’re looking for breathtaking scenery, exceptional historic sites, outdoor adventure and wonderful sandy beaches, you’ll find it in Northumberland.

Peak District

Peak District Weekend breaks

Peak District

Visit sumptuous stately homes and picturesque villages all on a break in the Peak District.

Scotland

Scotland, weekend breaks

Scotland

Beautiful countryside and buzzing cities make Scotland the ideal place for a short break.

Suffolk

Suffolk

Stroll along glorious beaches, explore grand National Trust properties and discover charming country villages in Suffolk.

Wales

Wales

With breathtaking scenery, vibrant cities and exhilarating outdoor activities, there’s so much to do on a Welsh break.

Yorkshire

Yorkshire

With beautiful scenery and picturesque seaside resorts, Yorkshire is the ideal destination for a well-earned break.