British Travel Awards 2026: Why Your Vote for Sykes Holiday Cottages Matters
We’re so excited to be nominated for another British Travel Award, and we’d love your support! Sykes Holiday Cottages...
by Maia Noden / News
Summer is one of the most popular times to explore the UK, and it’s clear to see why. With longer days, warmer weather and plenty of seasonal events, it’s the perfect opportunity to plan a sunny staycation.
In fact, UK summer holidays continue to grow in popularity, with bookings increasing year on year and thousands of breaks already planned for the upcoming season. Whether you’re travelling with family, whisking away as a couple or celebrating as a group, there’s no shortage of places to visit in the UK in summer.
From lively seaside towns to tranquil countryside escapes, this guide brings together some of the best UK summer destinations based on real booking trends, helping you decide exactly where to go in summer in the UK.
Keep reading to discover the best places to go in UK summer…
Continue scrolling to find out more about what makes these destinations perfect for summer…
If you’re after a summer escape that blends beautiful beaches, great food and pretty island feels, Anglesey is a wonderful choice in North Wales. With miles of coastline and plenty of sunshine during the warmer months, it’s the kind of place where days are best spent outdoors from morning through to sunset.
One of the best spots is Newborough Beach, where a enchanting forest walk leads you out onto a vast stretch of golden sand. It’s perfect for a slow start to the day, whether you’re walking, cycling or simply soaking up the views.
For families, Anglesey Sea Zoo and Pili Palas Nature World offer fun and interactive days out, while history lovers can explore the impressive Beaumaris Castle. If you’re hoping to make the most of the coast, Traeth Benllech is another stunning beach that’s ideal for swimming and relaxing in the sun.
Meanwhile, Rhosneigr is a hot spot for scenic walks and is home to one of the best beaches in the UK. The Oyster Catcher is a must-visit here, with its outdoor seating set right on the sand dunes, making it a marvellous spot to enjoy a drink or a laid-back meal as the sun goes down.
With breathtaking scenery, fantastic food spots and a slower pace of life, Anglesey is perfect for couples, families and anyone looking to truly switch off this summer time.
Weymouth is one of those classic seaside towns that should definitely be added to your UK summer bucket list. With its wide sandy beach, vibrant atmosphere and plenty to see and do, it’s ideal for family and friends looking for a traditional British break by the sea.
You can easily spend your mornings on the beach or exploring SEA LIFE Weymouth, before heading over to Bowleaze Cove for a slightly quieter spot to relax. For something more laid-back, pack a picnic and make your way to Nothe Gardens, where you’ll find lovely, little green space with views across the coast.
There’s also plenty of history woven into the town, with Sandsfoot Castle, the Tudor House Museum and Weymouth Museum all offering a unique experience. As the day winds down, a stroll along Weymouth Stone Pier should definitely be on the cards, especially on a warm evening when the sea is calm and the town starts to glow!
Beach days, history and that unmistakable seaside charm is why Weymouth makes the list of the best places to visit in the UK this summer.
If your idea of a summer break leans more towards lakes, fresh air and slower days, Bowness-on-Windermere is a perfect fit in the heart of the Lake District. Perfectly positioned on the shores of Lake Windermere, it’s sure to provide a splash-tastic summer for you and your loved ones.
You can start your day with a gentle lakeside walk before hopping on a boat cruise or trying your hand at watersports. There’s something incredibly relaxing about being out on the lake, especially on a warm sunny afternoon with the dramatic mountain landscape as your backdrop.
Heading back into land, The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction offers a nostalgic and family-friendly experience, while Brant Fell viewpoint is well worth the short climb for panoramic views across the lake. If you’re after something more slow-paced, there are plenty of lakeside cafés and pubs where you can sit outside and take it all in.
With Windermere village nearby and even a golf course within easy reach, this is the kind of destination where you can fill your days or do very little at all, depending on your mood.
For a quieter take on a summer coastal break, Beadnell in Northumberland boasts a slower, more peaceful alternative to some of the UK’s busier seaside towns. It’s where you can properly switch off and enjoy the endless views of the coast.
The beach here is wide, open and ideal for watersports, with surfing and kitesurfing both popular on breezier days. If you’re after something a little different, boat trips to the Farne Islands give you the chance to spot seals and seabirds in their natural habitat.
One of the best ways to spend an evening here is with something simple and relaxed. The BAE at Beadnell serves up authentic pizzas from 5pm, so you can sit on the sand with good food and the sound of the sea in the background.
Beadnell is perfect for couples, small groups or anyone looking for a more low-key summer escape by the coast.
Bright, colourful and full of life, Tenby is one of the most vibrant seaside towns in the UK. In summer, this town in Pembrokeshire is buzzing with energy, from the beaches to the harbour and everywhere in between.
North Beach is perfect for a traditional day by the sea, while South Beach offers something a little more adventurous, with caves to explore and plenty of space to wander. The town itself is just as fun to explore, with its pastel-coloured buildings, independent shops and plenty of places to grab food and drink.
History is never far away here either, with Tenby Castle and the Tudor Merchant’s House both worth a visit. If you fancy a round of golf, Tenby Golf Club is great fun with stunning coastal views while you play.
With a train station right in the centre, it’s also incredibly easy to explore nearby areas along the Pembrokeshire coast. Whether you’re after beach days, exploring or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Tenby delivers on all fronts and that’s why it makes it to the best UK summer destinations list.
Buxton earns its place among the best places to go in the UK in summer as somewhere a little different, combining a charming town setting with easy access to the country’s most dramatic landscapes. It’s a great choice if you’re after both culture and countryside in one trip.
Start your day with a walk through Pavilion Gardens, especially when everything is in full bloom, before heading to Buxton Opera House or the Museum and Art Gallery for a dose of history and culture.
From there, the Peak District National Park is right on your doorstep. You can spend your afternoons exploring places like Lud’s Church, The Roaches or Thor’s Cave, each offering delightful adventures. Chatsworth House is also within easy reach and makes for a brilliant day out.
With so much to explore nearby, Buxton is ideal for those who want to stay active while still having a welcoming base to return back to.
Skipton is the kind of place that makes a summer break feel simple in the best possible way. With its canals, historic streets and the Yorkshire Dales on your doorstep, it’s the best location for a relaxed getaway.
A walk along the canal is a great way to start the day, especially when the weather is warm and everything feels calm. From there, you can wander through Craven Court, a charming and historic shopping spot filled with independent stores.
For a bit of peace and quiet, Skipton Castle Woods offers a tranquil escape just a short walk from the town centre. And when you’re ready to explore further, the Yorkshire Dales is a short journey away, boasting endless opportunities for walking, cycling and taking in the scenery.
Skipton is an ideal base for those who want a mix of town and countryside without having to choose between the two.
If you’re after a slower pace this summer, Bourton-on-the-Water is hard to beat. This picturesque Cotswolds village is all about taking things easy and enjoying your surroundings.
The River Windrush runs through the centre, making it great for gentle riverside walks or simply sitting back and watching the world go by. On sunny days, you’ll often find people dipping their feet in the water or enjoying a picnic nearby.
There’s plenty to explore at your own pace, including The Model Village and The Dragonfly Maze, both of which add a bit of fun to your stay. But really, this is a place where the charm comes from doing very little at all.
Ideal for family, friends, or anyone looking to unwind, Bourton-on-the-Water captures the essence of a summer escape and is easily one of the best places to visit in the UK in summer.
Delivering that classic British seaside experience, Burnham-on-Sea has a lively atmosphere and plenty to keep everyone entertained during the warmer months in Somerset.
The town’s iconic lighthouse and famously short pier are well worth seeing, while Berrow Beach has a wide stretch of sand that’s great for long walks and relaxing in the sun.
For those who enjoy a round of golf, Burnham and Berrow Golf Club is one of the best in the area. Back in town, you’ll find plenty of places to eat, drink and enjoy the seaside atmosphere.
It’s a great choice for families or anyone looking to enjoy a traditional getaway by the coast, helping it stand out as one of the best places to visit in the UK this summer.
Last but not least on the list, Inverness stands out as one of the best places to visit in the UK in summer, offering a slightly different feel with its mix of city charm, nature and unique experiences. With longer daylight hours in Scotland, you’ll have even more time to explore!
The River Ness makes for wonderful strolls before heading up to Inverness Castle for views across the city. If you’re looking for something a bit more interactive, a scavenger hunt is a fun way to see the sights.
Boat trips from the area give you the chance to spot dolphins and seals, adding a real highlight to your trip. Back in the city, the Botanic Gardens offer a quaint spot to unwind, while the Saturday street markets near the Inverness Cathedral brings a lively, local feel.
A visit to Leakey’s Bookshop is a must, with its snug atmosphere and traditional fireplace making it feel like something out of a film. Inverness is perfect for those who are hoping for relaxation, exploration and something a little out of the ordinary this summer.
There’s something memorable about summer in the UK that makes it one of the best times of year to travel. From spontaneous beach days to long evenings spent outdoors, it’s a season that naturally encourages you to slow down and make the most of your surroundings.
One of the biggest advantages is the array of activities on offer. You can spend one day relaxing on the beach and the next exploring countryside trails or visiting local attractions. Many of the best places to visit in summer in the UK really come to life during this time, with events, markets and outdoor dining adding to the atmosphere.
For families, the school holidays make it easier to plan longer breaks, while couples and groups can take advantage of the better weather and extended daylight hours. It’s also often a much more flexible and convenient option staying in the UK compared to travelling abroad, with no need for flights or long airport queues.
If you’re wondering where to holiday in the UK in August or planning ahead for peak season, summer offers the perfect balance of relaxation, adventures and special moments.
Don’t just take our word for it, here’s what our guests have said about their UK summer breaks…
"The property has a superb location on the coast to coast route with great walking in all directions. The apartment itself is well equipped with a powerful hot shower and very comfortable beds. Log effect gas fire heats is effective and easy to use. In summer you can swim in the river at the bottom of the garden. The owner is very friendly and knows a lot about the area. Keld itself is a truly picturesque little village. A great place to stay!"
- D Thresh, April 2026
View on Trustpilot"Booking was easy and the property was exactly as described "
- Mr Neil Jukes, Aug 2025
View on Trustpilot"This was our second stay in this sweet little cottage. It is very well equipped and had everything we needed. The hosts were helpful and responsive, ensuring we had checked in ok and making sure we were happy. The bathroom is fantastic, spacious and with a great walk in shower. We stayed in the summer but I can imagine it would be wonderfully cosy in the winter too"
- Alice Fattorini, Aug 2025
View on Trustpilot"Used Sykes many times over the last 15 years. Always very helpful and friendly."
- Alexander, Jan 2025
View on TrustpilotData insights from this article have been taken from Sykes Holiday Cottages internal booking data from 2024, 2025, and 2026. The top destinations have been selected from the towns with the most bookings based on the regions with the highest bookings per property.
Did any of the best UK summer destinations steal your heart? Begin your summer staycation in the UK today by booking one of these summer holiday cottages! If you’re hoping for a taste of paradise this summertime, be sure to check out all of these UK exotic beaches too, before using our Inspire Travel Guide to help plan the perfect stay.
by Maia Noden / News
Hi! I'm Maia, and I have been working in UK travel since January 2024. I’m originally from Chester, and I studied Journalism at ...
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We’re so excited to be nominated for another British Travel Award, and we’d love your support! Sykes Holiday Cottages...
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