It's no surprise that holidaying within the UK sees millions of people venture on domestic vacations every year, with the South West being a firm favourite. It doesn't take much to see that our country has a lot to offer in the way of cosy hotels and day trip seaside fun (Brighton and Bournemouth, we're looking at you).
Whether you're off for a romp across Cornwall and keen to stay in a luxury cell, or you're keen to dabble in a Somerset cider experience, our guide to the best places for a weekend away in the UK has something for you.
Looking for an idyllic, beachside break in the South West? Then head to Hotel Riviera in Sidmouth, Devon. This gorgeous spot overlooks the bay, and you'll find an AA Rosette restaurant on-site for all your dining needs.
Their menu focuses on local seafood, with dishes ranging from wholetail breaded scampi to Portland crab sandwiches and homemade fish pie. They also offer afternoon tea, which we highly recommend trying out.
You'll feel like royalty at The Hoste Arms, an elegant country pub, restaurant and hotel found in the North Norfolk village of Burnham Market. They've got rooms to suit all sizes - including apartments and even a whole house, which makes it perfect for weekend getaways as a couple or with a group of friends. You can also find a cinema and spa on site, with great golf courses and coastal walks nearby, and their menu is pretty impressive too - we're talking pan-seared lamb rump, creamy white bean stew, lobster bisque risotto and much more.
A five-star hotel in the heart of the Dorset countryside, Summer Lodge offers the perfect spot for a luxurious lunch, afternoon tea or sublime dinner. The Georgian house can be found in the charming village of Evershot surrounded by four acres of gorgeous garden. Alongside a three AA Rosette-awarded restaurant with a fork-to-farm approach to plates of heritage tomato tarts and curried monkish, the hotel also boasts a spa and spaces for private events or weddings. It's also a 25-minute drive away from the Jurassic coast, making it ideal for those who wish to venture out into nature for the day after a well-earned rest in one of its cosy suites.
Offering the most fun weekends away for adults in the UK, DogHouse's Manchester and Edinburgh locations aren't to be missed. Not only can you add packages that include taps in the room, beer fridges and meals, but the spaces themselves ooze effortless cool. At the former, you'll find towering ceilings, dangling foliage and an outside terrace home to a cosy firepit, and at the latter? A laidback rooftop where you can enjoy nachos and signature sips. The 18-boutique roomed hotel is the first carbon-negative beer hotel in the country and if that isn't enough to pique your interest, then maybe its vinyl collection and buffalo wings are.
If you're looking for a break from the city, drive on over to Buckinghamshire where you'll find the independently-owned Red Lion Chenies. As well as offering charming interiors in the form of ox-blood coloured walls and shabby chic brickwork, plus boasting a spacious beer garden, the country pub serves a best of British-style menu that's sure to warm your cockles. Throughout the week you'll be able to tuck into beef burgers topped with melted applewood cheddar and honey-glazed ham chops, and then on Sundays, the quaint haunt pulls out the stops with its roasts. What's more, it's dog-friendly so your pooch can have a little getaway too.
For one of the top 10 UK weekend breaks for couples, get a load of Angels Share. This gorgeous Edinburgh destination is a plush boutique hotel filled with elegant chandeliers, leather seating and gallery walls, all within proximity to the famous castle. The 31 bedrooms each boast unique, stylish Scottish designs, nodding to individual, renowned icons and come with amenities like luxurious toiletries and a Dyson Hot & Cool Fan. In the bright, expansive restaurant, you'll find an extensive range of whisky and a cleverly crafted cocktail menu, as well as a food list that includes harissa spiced lentils and beetroot pastrami, confit duck leg and a signature cheeseburger.
It can be hard to find the ideal place to stay in the heart of the city, right? Well, Sanctuary House has you covered with a Westminster location, stylish bedrooms and a Fuller's pub for pies or fish and chips washed down by beer. Hop off the tube at Green Park and make your way over to a grand, 19th-century building with 35 rooms featuring espresso coffee machines, flat-screen TVs and ensuite bathrooms. Wander downstairs in the morning to fuel up with a full English or smashed avocado on toast alongside heritage tomatoes, then venture out to see the sights of the city, bypassing the abbey and Big Ben.
The Bridge Hotel is found right on the Thames with the beautiful backdrop of the Grade II-listed Chertsey Bridge. It's also just a mile away from the station and has amazing views from the pub terrace - a winner all round. It fronts 47 rooms, as well as a gorgeous conservatory where you can wine and dine overlooking the water, among fairy lights and lanterns. Before you catch a ride into Surrey or Central London, take a dip in a roll-top bath or tuck into fresh British produce in the restaurant, used lovingly to create plates of bourbon-glazed pork t-bone or pork and fennel sausages. The Sunday roasts are worth staying for alone, too.
Tucked away in the beautiful Cotswolds countryside, the Hare & Hounds is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. This place packs in plenty along with its 42 charmingly decorated rooms.
There's a traditional pub with open fire and courtyard and a two AA Rosette restaurant serving up refined British dishes. Book the Game Keeper's Cottage and you can add a private hot tub to the mix too.
@ Thatchers Cider on Various dates from Thursday 6th August 2026
Head over to Myrtle Farm on Station Road in Somerset, where Thatchers are welcoming cider lovers to their farm to enjoy and learn more about the frothy sips. What can you expect? Along with a guided tour and some witty stories from the century-old company, you'll also get to sample some brews with tickets starting from £15 per person. Why not make a day of it too, after you've finished sipping on apple-flavoured goodness, as the National Trust's Dolebury Warren is only a short drive away, too.
When only a great stay in Newcastle will do, the Great North Hotel has your back. This affordable yet sleek destination is sure to tick every box, while the venue is also perfect for wedding receptions and other private functions as well. Unwind in stylish, modern rooms decorated with wooden panelling, soft lighting and completed with luxury linen. If you get peckish throughout your trip then you're in luck as it's home to Pizza Dough, the contemporary dough masters serving New York-style slices. Much-loved pub Three Mile is also just down the road, offering a great meeting point for a couple of cocktails, dinner, tea or coffee.
Looking to stay in the heart of the Capital? Located in London's West End, The Montague on The Gardens Hotel is a gorgeous Georgian townhouse with stunning bedrooms that are all uniquely designed with cool artwork and quirky furnishings. There are also four high-end bars and restaurants here, including one on the outdoor terrace, where you can enjoy premium British fare and afternoon tea in elegant surrounds. What's more, it's right opposite the British Museum if you fancy visiting some tourist attractions.
Looking to see this historical university city from a stunning location just outside? Check out The Crown & Punchbowl. It's the best of both worlds, with modern yet cosy rooms alongside a traditional pub space for British fare and drinks. While well-connected to checking out the likes of St Mary's and the botanical gardens, it's also within distance of Ely and the Newmarket Races making it the ideal stop-off for many occasions. The 17th-century, Grade II-listed boutique inn offers nine rooms to curl up in, each complete with twin or super king-sized beds. On a Sunday, you'll find a warm dining room space filled with the smell of hearty roasts, and throughout the week a fine range of tempting plates like chicken supreme and curry-roasted cauliflower.
Got your eyes set on Manchester for your next weekend away? Moxy will make it happen, thanks to stylish rooms and a dog-friendly bar that slings out pizzas 24/7 and shakes up cocktails themed around the city. Snacks and drinks are also available around the clock, and come morning time, you'll be able to delight in a breakfast buffet. Its suites are equipped with 42-inch flat-screen televisions and high-quality sound systems and are home to either one or two king-size beds. Be bowled over by its sleek, quirky designs as soon as you walk in (retro beanbag,s anyone?) and make this your stop-off when looking to go out in the city.
A Grade II-listed building that houses a 44-bedroom hotel, The Park Teddington is the ideal overnight stop-off for exploring both Bushy Park and Hampton Court Palace. It fronts stylish decor from the onset, with a rich, brown-panelled dining room and modern art fixed to the walls, alongside floral wallpaper suites with plush velvet furnishings. Rest your head in the comfortable rooms, go sightseeing and munch on British classics whipped up under the talented eye of head chef Gary who uses seasonal ingredients to plate up delicious dishes like a signature sausage roll filled with cranberry, mustard, fennel seeds and chilli, plus chickpea and butternut squash tagine.
Ideal for a two-night break, Oxford is a small but stunning city filled with things to see. Explore historic university colleges and streets, as well as the Ashmolean Museum or the castle and prison, all with Head of the River as your home for the weekend. This pub is right on the water, offering scenic views of Folly Bridge as well as 19 comforting bedrooms that are modern by design and cosy by nature. Wake up every morning to a freshly cooked breakfast of streaky bacon American pancakes or creamed kale and poached eggs, or enjoy a delicious, packed sandwich for lunch, filled with avocado, black olives and pesto.
Thanks to being home to Kew Gardens, this is one of the most sought-after London locations for a weekend away. Not only is it an easy distance to nearby Richmond and a tube ride to central, but you can also peruse the famous space before munching and bedding down at The Coach & Horses. The Georgian building plays host to lazy stays topped up with delicious breakfast cocktails, craft beers and wines, as well as delicious pub food. Secure your floral-designed bedroom with quirky side tables and plush bedding, before making your way downstairs for a hearty dinner of ox cheek and pitchfork cheddar croquettes to start, followed by pan-roasted sea trout or slow-cooked lamb pie.
Tucked away in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds, The Trout Inn is a 17th century building that screams British countryside. It's surrounded by gorgeous stretches of green and it's situated close to the river Thames, making for a peaceful place to stay. Expect cosy interiors, traditional fireplaces and exposed brick walls, with comfy rooms to boot. Be sure to check out the pub-style dining areas as well, where you can enjoy AA Rosette-awarded menus that feature everything from pan-fried seabass to British steak and Malbec pie or roasted celeriac steak.
A boutique hotel, restaurant and bar, Le Monde is a bonafide beauty for your next trip away whether it's with your partner or you're looking for a solo escape to the gorgeous city. While Edinburgh is all moody, historic streets and stunning sights, the interiors here are modern with pinks, blues and neon lights. The George Street haunt comes with 18 individually designed bedrooms inspired by cosmopolitan cities, from Los Angeles to Pairs, plus there's a delicious food and drink menu to explore. Pair international plates of Jägerschnitze or beef goulash with signature sips like the Gin Gin Cosmo, influenced by New York. What's more, you can even party 'til late here, with the Shanghai nightclub, an intimate den with an Oriental charm fronting music and cocktail classes.
Offering some of the best weekend getaways in the UK for couples, this list of romantic hotels across our capital city is a must-read for those looking to ditch the flat-share or the home life for a night and shack up in style. From huge free-standing tubs in the room to Grade II-listed getaways and four-poster beds, there are all sorts in store here. Our picks include the chic and stylish The Hoxton, slap bang in the heart of Holborn near Theatreland, Karma Sanctum Soho Hotel and its rock 'n' roll spirit, plus the jaw-dropping Shangri-La and more.
Being near the Castle, the Principality and Cardiff City Stadiums make The Pontcanna the perfect pick for any kind of weekend away. Throw in some extracurricular excursions with the knowledge that you'll have a beautiful boutique room to rest your head in at the end of the day - from botanical wallpaper to cosy woodland-inspired furnishings and cool, en-suite bedrooms. The downstairs restaurant serves eggs Benedict for breakfast, spaghetti carbonara for lunch and dinner featuring battered haddock or salt-baked celeriac katsu curry. Tuck into a fresh feast before embarking on a short stroll to the centre through Bute Park.
Best-price weekend breaks in the UK are topped off by Bear Of Burton, a Dorset stay that gives you affordable rooms, pub vibes and the chance to head to the seaside. Only a moment's walk from Christchurch Railway Station, it comes with a traditional, beautifully restored boozer aesthetic and ten rooms that feature free-standing bathtubs, distressed wooden panelled walls and gorgeous, rich bedsteads. Sleep in Egyptian cotton bedding and make the most of the Teapigs teas you'll find stashed away. Munch British grub at the restaurant like baked camembert, battered haddock and chips, or Caesar salads before making your way to Avon beach or venturing further out of town to Bournemouth.
Visiting The Old Bell Hotel is like entering the private home of a very well-travelled, slightly rebellious aristocrat. The hotel's 13th-century bones provide a sturdy skeleton for a riot of colour and texture - it's all about maximalism. Every corner reveals a new treasure, from the curated global curios to the intricate hand-painted details that define the communal spaces.
For those who value independence alongside hotel luxuries, the self-catering Townhouse Suites are a revelation. They offer the perfect blend of heritage charm and contemporary tech, allowing you to brew a coffee in a designer kitchen before wandering over to the main house for a botanical cocktail in the Tyger Bar.
Tucked away in the picturesque village of South Petherton, HOLM offers the perfect countryside escape for food lovers in need of a weekend recharge. Set in a beautifully converted former bank, the space marries rustic warmth with modern design - think exposed brick, soft plaster, and an open kitchen that brings you right into the heart of the action.
Upstairs, stylishly refurbished rooms make it easy to turn dinner into an overnight stay. Come for a Sunday roast, stay for the quiet charm of Somerset and a deeply satisfying dose of seasonal British cooking.
Will only the salty sea air and sand in your toes suffice for a weekend away? Then cast your eyes over these seaside towns. Whether Pembrokeshire's Tenby, Portree in Scotland or a classic trip to Margate is more your style, find it here. We've narrowed your search down to live music and pints on the cobbled shore of Brighton, rollercoasters and sugar-coated doughnuts on the shore of Southend-on-Sea, and a quaint fishing village in the form of Robin Hood's Bay, featuring some fluffy, golden chips to enjoy overlooking the ocean.
Set back from Brighton's seafront, the beautifully bougie Artist Residence is a boutiquey hotel, bar and restaurant all in one. Each room is designed by a different artist and packs in gorgeous touches, from reclaimed furniture and rolltop baths to sensational views out to sea.
The downstairs bar is lovely and laidback, serving natural wines, craft beer and classic cocktails. When it's time to dine, you'll be treated to seasonal small plates packing in plenty of fresh, local ingredients.
The Duncombe Arms is the perfect excuse for a weekend in the country. Set in the picturesque village of Ellastone, right on the Staffordshire–Derbyshire border, this award-winning pub combines homely charm with seriously good food.
Inside, you'll find roaring fires, exposed beams and a relaxed rustic elegance; outside, a garden with views across the Dove Valley. The Michelin Bib Gourmand–winning menu from Head Chef Scott Law celebrates seasonal, local ingredients - best enjoyed with a glass of something from their excellent wine list. Stay the night in one of ten stylish rooms at the Walnut House annexe and you've got everything you need for a weekend of good food, good walks, and total relaxation.
Perfectly perched where Warwickshire, Gloucestershire, and Oxfordshire meet, The Bower House is the ultimate anchor for a weekend spent exploring the heart of England. Just minutes from the charm of Stratford-upon-Avon and Moreton-in-Marsh, it's ideal for those seeking a rural adventure and the charm of a dainty town-centre.
Spend your Saturday hiking the rolling Cotswold hills or touring historic gardens, then retreat to this Georgian gem for a relaxed Sunday roast that defines comfort. The restaurant with rooms is a warm, bustling hub of North Cotswold life that makes you feel like a local from the moment you step through the door.
When it comes to cheap weekend places to go for a weekend getaway in the UK, check out our dedicated guide. Does your idea of a holiday romance involve a countryside hot tub? More into Cambridge's historic streets and The Fitzwilliam Museum? A fan of seaside scenes across Dorset? We've got your back. And it won't cost you an arm and a leg either, especially not when you're meandering along the Cornish coast before tucking yourself into Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa.
Plan your weekend getaway with a gorgeous countryside drive to Mad Swans, located in the Mendips, only around 30 minutes from both Bath and Bristol. It's a brilliant location for golf lovers, as well as those who love great food and fresh air.
Book one of its divine eco cabins for a tranquil sleep (and make the most of the drop-down projector for movie night), and treat yourself to a late-night padel session. There's also mini golf to look forward to, as well as a driving range in the Swing Barn to test your skills, and darts and shuffleboard in The Hangout (where some seriously delicious pizza awaits, too).
Does your perfect weekend involve competition and delicious food? Then pack your bags for Mad Swans. Located a mere 45 minutes from London in the spectacular South Downs, this dynamic countryside hangout is built for 48-hour escapes. Round up your friends or bring your partner for a weekend of spirited rivalry on the pickleball and padel courts, or challenge them to a round at the high-tech Swing Barn and Putt Patch.
Head to the Hangout, where bold, colourful dishes and drinks set the stage for evenings that warm your heart. After a night of making memories, crash in style in one of the estate's sleek Eco Cabins before heading back to reality on Monday.
For the best weekend breaks in the UK, make sure the House of JÖRO is on your radar. This is the sister hotel to the Michelin Guide restaurant, coming with four exquisite rooms and a chance to dine at a 10-seater chef's table, AXL. Design is minimal and clean-cut here, with monochrome woodland prints fixed to the wall, dark furnishings and free-standing bathtubs in its king-sized rooms. Each comes with complimentary Temple Spa miniature toiletries, and you can book your own drinks packages so you can start your evening with sparkling wine on arrival. Book bed and breakfast from £45 per person, or bump up your stay with an additional dinner tasting from £120, featuring the likes of Carabineros prawn, smoked egg yolk and roast chicken.
Ah Scotland; a country for any sort of weekend break, from stunning cities to remote islands, breathtaking highlands and even that train from Harry Potter. Take a look at our picks on this run-down featuring boutique hotels with rooms individually designed to represent a cosmopolitan city from around the world, to Aberdeen spa havens packing vintage furniture and within close proximity to delicious eats. And if you're prone to adventuring in the outdoors? There's the Bothan Beilag Shepherds Hut for that, coming with a roaring fire pit and donkeys for neighbours.
Tucked away among a row of Regency townhouses by Brighton's beach, No.124 by GuestHouse serves up coastal charm just steps from the pebbles. With beautiful balconies, grand beds and vintage record players on offer across its 32 luxe rooms, there's bound to be a spot that suits you down to a tee.
There's plenty more to keep you entertained away from the sweeping sea views, from cocktail lounges and games rooms to seafood restaurants and suntrap terraces. Looking to unwind? Head down to the FieldTrip Spa for a soul-soothing treatment.
Fancy escaping the city for a couple of days? The Great Bustard in Wiltshire is exactly the kind of spot that makes weekends away special. Set in the rolling countryside just outside Salisbury, it's got all the right vibes: crackling fireplaces, a relaxed restaurant with loads of natural light, and that welcoming pub atmosphere you want when you're out of town.
The menu is all about proper modern British cooking with a seasonal twist - think estate-sourced game, garden-fresh vegetables, and wood-fired favourites. After a lazy lunch or long dinner, you won't need to go anywhere - there are ten lovely bedrooms upstairs, plus extras like spa treatments and even a private dining room if you're celebrating.
