Holiday types

UK breaks

There’s a lot to be said for a holiday without passports or airports. From a cottage on the coast or a lodge with a hot tub, to a theatre weekend or a coach tour of the Highlands, I’ll help you find a UK break that feels like a proper escape.

White cottages on a clifftop above a small harbour with boats on turquoise water

What’s usually included

Every trip is different, so this is a general guide. I’ll always confirm exactly what’s included in your booking before you pay.

Often included

  • your accommodation, from cottages and lodges to hotels
  • on short break packages, extras such as theatre tickets, dinner or rail travel
  • on escorted UK tours, coach travel, hotels and many excursions
  • ferry crossings, if you’re heading to the islands

Often extra

  • getting to the property, unless rail or coach travel is part of the package
  • cleaning, linen, pet or hot tub charges at some properties
  • activities, attraction tickets and days out
  • meals and drinks
  • travel insurance, which is still worth having for cancellations

Good to know

  • Changeover days. Many cottages and parks have set arrival days, often Monday or Friday, and some only take full weeks in summer.
  • Bringing the dog? Pet-friendly places can book up fast, and many have a limit on numbers.
  • School and bank holidays. These are the busiest times for UK breaks, so it helps to plan early.
  • Plan for the weather. A few wet-day ideas nearby can save a rainy afternoon.

Who it suits

Couples, families, dog owners, groups of friends and anyone who’d rather skip the airport.

Ways to do it

Different kinds of UK break, and what each one offers.

  • Cottages and holiday homes From a seaside cottage for two to a big house for the whole family.
  • Lodges, parks and boats Hot tubs, woodland walks and on-site activities, or a boating holiday on the Broads.
  • City and theatre breaks A hotel and show tickets together, with rail travel included on some breaks.
  • Escorted UK tours Coach tours with hotels and excursions planned, from the Highlands to the Cornish coast.
  • Days out and experiences Afternoon teas, spa days and activities, to add to a break or give as a gift.
  • Sports and event breaks Football, rugby, racing and more, with match tickets, travel and a hotel put together.

Planning tips

  • Check what’s extra. Some properties charge separately for cleaning, linen, pets or hot tubs.
  • Book school and bank holidays early. The best cottages and lodges go months ahead.
  • Think about parking. City hotels and some coastal villages have very little, so it’s worth checking.
  • Consider the train. Rail-inclusive breaks can be easier than driving, especially into cities.
  • Still get insurance. It’s worth having cover for cancellations, even without flights.

Ideas to get you thinking

A few popular choices. There are plenty more, so if somewhere else is on your list, just ask.

  • Cornwall
  • Devon
  • Lake District
  • Yorkshire Dales
  • Cotswolds
  • Scottish Highlands
  • Norfolk Broads
  • Snowdonia (Eryri)
  • Isle of Wight
  • London’s West End

How I can help

  • Narrowing down an area and the type of place to stay
  • Checking pet-friendly options, parking and accessibility
  • Putting together theatre and short-break packages
  • Arranging rail, coach or ferry travel where it helps

Ready to start planning?

Tell me a little about what you have in mind and I’ll come back with ideas. There’s no obligation.

Plan my UK break