Top staycation ideas in the UK 2021

Updated 24/05/2021

Britain has loads of great places you can visit. From the Scottish Highlands & Islands to the Cornish coast, the UK has something for everyone and what’s more, the government is encouraging people to holiday in the UK in an attempt to limit the spread of the Coronavirus.

So I’ve put together a list of places. All of which have been tried and tested by me over the years. I’ve even added a few places you could look for accommodation. Happy staycation!

What are the government rules?

As we slowly navigate our way out of the stricter lockdown measures, it’s important that we all follow government guidance. But what are the rules for your area as of 17th May?

England 

• You can now meet outdoors in groups of up to 30
• Six people or two households can meet indoors
• Overnight stays are permitted
• Steam rooms and saunas might reopen
• Hotels, B&B’s and hostels can reopen
• Pubs, restaurants and bars can now reopen for indoor service
• Indoor entertainment can reopen

Wales 

• Hotels, B&B’s and hostels can reopen
• Pubs, restaurants and bars can now reopen for indoor service
• People can meet in groups of up to six people from six households (but children under the age of 11 do not count towards the total)
• Indoor entertainment can reopen
• 30 people can meet indoors for organised activities and events
• Up to 50 people can meet outdoors for organised activities and events
• Only two households can mix with each other indoors in private homes

Scotland 

The following restrictions apply to most of mainland Scotland, except Glasgow and Moray which remain in Level 3 restrictions and the Scottish islands (except Skye) which are in Level 1 restrictions.

• Six people from no more than three households can meet indoors in a private residence
• Six people from three households can meet inside a public place
• Eight people from eight households can meet outdoors (but children under the age of 12 are not counted towards the total)
• Hospitality venues can serve alcoholic drinks until 10.30pm
• 100 are allowed to attend indoor events, increased to 250 for outdoor events and 500 if there’s seating available
• Travel is permitted everywhere in Scotland except in and out of Glasgow (whilst further restrictions are in place)
• Travel is permitted to England and Wales, but people are advised to avoid areas with higher infection rates

Northern Ireland 

• Six people from two households can meet indoors at a private residence (but children under the age of 12 are not counted towards the total)
• Pubs, restaurants, cafes and bars can open indoors
• Six people from up to six households or 10 people from the same household can sit inside public places
• B&B’s and hotels can reopen
• Non-essential travel is permitted to the rest of the UK

Finding where to stay

A staycation should be enjoyable and should never get you into financial difficulty. No matter where you go and no matter what you decide to do, make sure you shop around. Many of the places I’ve visited, I did in my twenties. Where I stayed was irrelevant to me, in those days. I’ve stayed in 10 man dormitories and in Melbourne once slept in a hammock!

That might not be for you. The point is, no matter your requirements, make a budget and stick to it. When looking for places to stay, here are some places you might consider looking.

Couch surfing
Hostel World

How much will your fuel cost?

You don’t necessarily have to travel far to go on a staycation. That being said, whether you’re a few miles or on a cross country adventure, work out how much it’s going to cost before you go. Follow the link to find out how much it should cost for the vehicle you’re going in.

Where to go on a staycation

Cornwall

It wouldn’t be a staycation list without mentioning Cornwall. The Cornish coastline is arguably the most beautiful in the entire UK. Its towns and beaches are a popular getaway all year round.

The cost of Cornwall is on the increase, so you’ll need to shop around to find the budget you’re looking for. Take a look at the links below to find somewhere in your price range.

No matter what your budget is, Cornwall is packed full of cheap activities. Here is my pick of the best:

Surfing
The Eden Project – this has the world’s largest indoor rainforest. Do I need to say anymore?
Tate St. Ives – The Tate but on the Cornish coast

Scottish Highlands & Islands

The Scottish Highlands & Islands are miles of untouched, rugged beauty. If you want to get away from it all and enjoy an adventure, this place is for you. When I was up there it was to do the North Coast 500, a 500 mile, multiple day, bike ride. That, understandably, might not be your idea of fun. Don’t worry, there’s still plenty of other things to do.

There’s also the tropical style looking beaches. The one I got to visit was in Mellon Udrigle, Wester Ross (not to be confused with the mythical land in Game on Thrones). The beautiful white beaches are scattered around the highlands & islands, though. A bit of research and you should be able to find one that fits your itinerary.

Where to visit in the Highlands & Islands

Loch Ness – go searching for the infamous ancient monster
Glencoe – possibly the most beautiful place I’ve ever been to. The whisky isn’t bad either.
Tropical white beaches – you’d think you were anywhere but Scotland
Isle of Skye – a photographer’s paradise

Lake District

I’m fortunate enough to have this National Park on my doorstep. I’m an hour’s drive away and over the years it really has provided everything. If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend, some adventure, or even a weekend drinking with your friends, you can do it all.

Windermere Lake – take a boat ride across the beautiful lake
Keswick– there’s something for everyone in this bustling town
Cat Bells – a great walk for all skill levels
The World of Beatrix Potter

Snowdonia

For a short while I lived on Anglesey, so I’d take regular trips to Snowdonia. It’s a beautiful part of the world in North West Wales. The area is known for many things, not least Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales. Did you know you can get a train to the top of the mountain and there’s a cafe at the top? So even if you hate walking, there’s no excuses.

If you’re serious about not walking, there are still other things you can do. Here’s some things you might consider.

National White Water Centre – everything you need for water based adrenaline junkies.
Zip World Forest – go flying through the forest with the kids
Dolgoch Falls – there’s family fun for all at these conveniently located waterfalls

Cotswolds

The Cotswolds might be the most picturesque place I’ve ever been to. If you’re a photographer, a couple looking for a romantic getaway, or if you’re seeking ‘proper’ British getaway, the Cotswolds is for you. Here are some top things you could do there:

Copse Hill Road – Voted Britain’s most romantic street, this is obviously a great place for couples.
Warwick Castle – First built by William the Conqueror this medieval castle built by the River Avon.
Kingham – This is your typical Cotswold chocolate box village. The limestone cottages are amazing.