The time to take staycations isn’t quite upon us yet and it’s vital to observe official guidance and stick to the rules.
However, with lockdown restrictions gradually easing, many of us are starting to plan where we might go once we have a little more freedom.
But while you and your tribe might be tempted by the bright lights and retail therapy opportunities of big cities, perhaps you want to avoid mixing and mingling with the masses for a while longer, even though significant social distancing measures should still be in place?
In that case, why not head off the beaten track to some smaller towns across the UK? The drive there and back becomes part of the adventure and things might feel more manageable at a smaller location where you can scoot off easily whenever you feel like it.
With that in mind, take a look at these awesome alternative staycation destinations.
Dunfermline
Located in Fife on Scotland’s east coast, and just around half an hour’s drive from Edinburgh, Dunfermline is a hidden gem that’s a great spot for a family weekend away.
It’s ram-packed with history – for example, the 12th Century Abbey is the resting place of King Robert the Bruce and 11 other Scottish kings and Queens (Dunfermline was formerly the capital of Scotland).
But the jewel in the crown must be Pittencrieff Park – an expansive green space in the centre of town with a large tropical glasshouse, formal gardens and its own troupe of peacocks.
Tip: Pop into East End Park to watch a Dunfermline Athletic match if you visit during the football season.
Altrincham
A lot closer to home for Mancunians, Altrincham has more to recommend it than you might remember, so it’s definitely worth considering for a day trip, even if you don’t fancy shelling out for accommodation so close to home.
Take a short detour to Timperley village to see the statue to cult comedy hero Frank Sidebottom, then spend some time at Dunham Massey, Britain’s largest winter gardens, where there’s a 300-acre deer park, a Grade-I listed Georgian Hall and a host of gorgeous ancient trees.
If you’re a fan of The Smiths, you can pay homage to some hotspots in the band’s history with a pilgrimage to the house in Portland Road in Bowdon where Johnny Marr wrote the band’s first album, or the house on Marlborough Road where The Queen is Dead was penned.
Tip: sample artisan food and drink at Altrincham Market – it’s a must!
Corbridge
Nestled 16 miles west of Newcastle, Corbridge is an idyllic Northumberland village that’s the perfect place to spend a cathartic weekend away.
Its history is intimately linked with Hadrian’s Wall and visiting the remnants of the Roman town on the outskirts of the village is a must for history buffs.
There are also plenty of great shops here where you can pick up unusual arts and crafts from local creatives, handbags and scarves, antiques and garden ornaments.
Tip: hire a car from Enjoy Travel in Newcastle and explore the whole of the North East.
What are your favourite alternative staycation destinations? Let us know in the comments section!
