Nurses, doctors, teachers, bus drivers and now the passport office are striking to demand better pay packages. All sectors are short-staffed and stretched to the limit, with the passport office already feeling the pressure of delays in delivering passports to budding travellers. Before the strike, there was already a 10-week waiting warning, which is expected to cause a huge spike in the waiting time for the arrival of a new passport. The walkout will last for five weeks, meaning many people who left it last minute to order a passport won’t be leaving the country.
Amidst all the passport chaos is the lure of a UK holiday destination. There are some glorious destinations to explore that can fill the holiday void if you know you don’t want to deal with the passport chaos.
Lake District
Nestled in the heart of Cumbria, the Lake District is a true paradise for nature lovers. With its serene lakes, rolling hills, and rugged mountains, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking the iconic fells like Scafell Pike, the highest peak in England, to cruising along the picturesque lakes of Windermere and Ullswater, there are endless opportunities for adventure in this stunning region. Cosy up in a traditional cottage, indulge in hearty local cuisine, and let the breathtaking beauty of the Lake District mesmerise you.
Some of the top-rated spots to visit across the Lake District include:
- Lake District National Park
- Aira Force Waterfall
- Catbells Lakeland Walk
- Hike Catbells High Ridge
- Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top
Create your own Lake District road trip and cram as many experiences as possible into your trip.
Scottish Highlands
The highlands is known for being one of the most breathtaking locations in the UK. It’s also one of the most famous, having featured in numerous films and TV series, including James Bond. The Scottish Highlands is a truly vast and beautiful piece of land, perfect for exploring by road – check out Ariescape to find your perfect vehicle.
For those seeking wild and untamed landscapes, the Scottish Highlands are a treasure trove of natural beauty. With its rugged mountains, pristine lochs, and ancient forests, the Highlands are a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike along the dramatic Glencoe, spot red deer in the Cairngorms, or take a boat trip to the mystical Loch Ness. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the Highlands with its castles, distilleries, and traditional Scottish hospitality. Stay in a cosy cottage or a remote cabin, and let the majestic beauty of the Highlands envelop you in its spell.
Here are the top-rated things to do in the Scottish Highlands:
- Culloden Battlefield
- Glencoe National Nature Reserve
- Urquhart Castle
- Highland Wildlife Park
- River Ness/Loch Ness
Because the landscape is so diverse and spans a great distance, it’s best to plan your Scottish Highlands trip to ensure you get the most out of the experience.
Pembrokeshire
Pembrokeshire isn’t always on people’s UK getaway, but it has just as much appeal as any other location you could find. For anyone seeking coastal bliss, you need to look no further. This stunning coastal county boasts some of the UK’s most picturesque beaches, rugged cliffs, and pristine countryside. Pembrokeshire is home to 14 conservation areas, 15 historic parks and gardens, and 9 important archaeological landscapes to explore. It’s a haven for anyone who likes to don hiking boots and take in the scenery or sit by the beach and watch the world go by.
Explore the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, a haven for walkers and wildlife enthusiasts, with its breathtaking coastal path and abundant marine life. Discover hidden coves, spot seals and dolphins, and breathe in the salty sea air. Pembrokeshire is also known for its charming seaside towns, such as Tenby – with its colourful houses, mediaeval walls, and golden sandy beaches – making it an ideal destination for a seaside staycation. Here are some of the top-rated things to do in Pembrokeshire.
- Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
- Oakwood Theme Park
- The Preseli Hills
- Coasteering
- The Blue Lagoon
Pembrokeshire is the type of UK destination you can take in your stride and go with the flow. You don’t need to plan your day specifically – you can wander around and come across beauty at every corner.
There are tons of destinations in the UK to explore that’ll give you all the holiday vibes going abroad does. Destinations that are not on this list but also popular include Cornwall, Brighton, and Bournemouth. Where would your perfect UK break be?
