Summer’s so close we can almost taste the Pimm’s and ice cream. If you haven’t booked your summer holiday yet, why not try doing something a little different this year and take a trip to somewhere in the UK. We’ve got so many amazing places right here on our doorstep, a UK summer holiday is definitely something to consider.
From amazing beaches and hiking trails to renowned attractions and water parks, the UK’s got it all. Here are 3 UK summer holiday destinations you probably haven’t thought about visiting before. They’re all easily accessible by train, so make sure to take advantage of great prices when you book an Advance Ticket with CrossCountry.
The English Riviera – Torquay, Babbacombe Bay, Paignton
The English Riviera is a 22 mile stretch of outstanding South Devon coastline boasting glorious sandy beaches, rocky coves, picturesque villages and warm weather, making it one of the UK’s best summer holiday destinations.
And it’s not just sand and sea that gets tourists flocking to the pretty coastline – the English Riviera has a plethora of attractions and has even been designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark.
Highlights
Babbacombe Model Village – Feel like a giant as you explore a miniature world that’s sure to capture the imagination of all ages. It’s a big hit with families and includes stunning gardens, as well as a mesmerising illumination show at night.
South West Coast Path – Jaw-dropping views, picturesque paths, perfect picnic spots, secluded coves to paddle or swim, plus lots of wildlife to spot and photograph - a walk along the South West Coast Path is spectacular.
Splashdown Quaywest – Enjoy remarkable views of the English Riviera whilst tubing down a huge water slide! Splashdown Quaywest is the UK’s biggest outdoor waterpark and offers thrill seekers an exciting day out. Experience the sheer speed of The Screamer ride, spiral through the Raging Rapids and if you’re brave enough, have a go on the Devil’s Drop.
We run services to Torquay and Paignton, so sit back on a CrossCountry train and enjoy the views from your window as you travel down to the beautiful South Devon Coast.
Tynemouth, Newcastle
The picturesque village of Tynemouth stands at the mouth of the River Tyne with a history that dates back hundreds of years. Alongside award-winning beaches and historical attractions, you will find Tynemouth village is full of antique shops, fashion boutiques, an array of eateries and superb village pubs.
From Newcastle, Tynemouth is a 20-minute bus ride, meaning you can enjoy the beauty of the coast while still being in close proximity to a bustling city.
Highlights
Tynemouth Castle & Priory – Once one of the largest fortified areas in England, Tynemouth Castle and Priory overlooks the North Sea and River Tyne. With its 2000-year history and beautiful views it is a great day out for the whole family.
Tynemouth Longsands – A mile long stretch of golden sands, Tynemouth Longsands is a Blue Flag beach boasting stunning vistas, refreshing walks and great surf conditions. Longsands has developed a national reputation as a surf destination and has staged national championships! If you fancy learning, Longsands is a great place to do so with lessons and board hire available.
Whitley Bay – This seaside town has been popular with generations of visitors and with its wealth of attractions, it’s easy to see why. Visit the iconic St. Mary’s Lighthouse, take a stroll through the promenade or chill out on the beach. It also boasts a lively nightlife and great restaurants. From Tynemouth, you can take the 3-mile coastal walk to Whitley Bay to enjoy its beaches, bays and cliffs tops.
East Lothian, Scotland
Lush green landscape and long summer days make Scotland an idyllic holiday spot and one of our favourite places to visit in the summer is East Lothian. With over 40 miles of stunning coastline, pretty seaside villages, golden beaches, cultural attractions, excellent food and some of the world’s finest links golf courses, there is plenty to keep you busy, whatever you enjoy doing.
A great base for your stay in East Lothian is Dunbar, a town on the North Sea coast, about 30 miles of Edinburgh. It’s a pretty town, renowned for its high sunshine record, rugged coastline and attractive countryside.
Highlights
The John Muir Way – This coast to coast route stretching 134 miles across Scotland’s heartland begins in Dunbar and runs all the way to Helensborough on the west coast. You can choose to walk or cycle part of the route where you can enjoy coastal views, a sea breeze and plenty of places of interest along the way.
Beaches – Belhaven Bay, part of the John Muir Country Park has won awards for its pristine sands, rolling dunes and excellent views out towards the Forth Estuary. It’s also a popular surf spot. Another favourite is Dunbar East Beach, another lovely sandy beach which is located just minutes from the high street,, it’s great for rock pooling, so bring a fishing net.
Dunbar Town – As one of the most important Scottish fortresses in the Middle Ages, Dunbar is a town steeped in history. With its various shops, narrow lanes, churches and other historic buildings, Dunbar still preserves its old-world charm. Explore the ruins of Dunbar Castle which stands guard over the town’s twin harbours before visiting the inspiring John Muir’s Birthplace Museum.
Hopefully you’ve been inspired by our less well-known UK summer holiday destinations. If you’re looking for something a little more mainstream, there are lots of fun things to do in Bournemouth or why not visit one of the UK’s Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty? Whichever holiday floats your boat, explore the rest of our blog for more travel inspiration.
Don’t forget buy an Advance ticket via our Train Tickets app or website for great savings.
Written by Seb