Are you dreaming of your next getaway? Winter doom and gloom getting to you? Why not consider a staycation and discover the most beautiful places that are nearer to home than you think.
We might be daydreaming about jumping on a plane to somewhere tropical, but as the travel landscape changes, staycations are becoming a lot more popular. It’s believed that 68% of British travellers staycationed in 2020 and the trend is only set to continue for 2021. And why not? Staycations are the perfect opportunity for exploring the UK and all it has to offer. It turns out, our doorstep is much more exciting and soul-quenching than we remembered.
From historic cities to picturesque landscapes, taking a trip a little closer to home with these top staycations near Manchester is a better bet and not what you might expect. Read on to find out more.
Visit Scotland
If you fancy a complete change of scenery, what about the Isle of Islay in Scotland? One of the most beautiful places in the UK but also the home of Whiskey – now you’re talking! The Isle of Islay is a stunning island off the ‘whisky coast’ of west Scotland, known for its peaty, smoky whiskies.
The Isle of Islay is home to a magnificent golf course at The Machrie, designed in 1891 by Willie Campbell, and the course was recently modernised by DJ Russell a former golfer and Vice Captain of the European Ryder Cup and PGA.
You can’t go to Scotland without visiting historic Edinburgh, but it’s even better if you go via Loch Lomond.
Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park
Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital, located in central-eastern Scotland, near the North Sea. When travelling from the Isle of Islay to Edinburgh, stop off at Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.
The Trossachs is Scotland’s first National Park, packed with so much to see and do. You can walk from the wide-open lush landscapes of the southern section to the sprawling glens and rocky peaks in the north, and you’ll see why nature lovers keep this place close to their hearts.
The Historic City of Edinburgh
Nature is unique, but sometimes we need a city and urban life in our staycation. There is no better city than Edinburgh for history and shopping, and let’s not forget Edinburgh is home to some fantastic restaurants and bars. With no less than four Michelin starred restaurants that call Edinburgh their home, you will never run out of delicious options.
Edinburgh is a city that exudes history and culture. The famous castle stands right in the centre of the town. It is the most obvious pointer to the past. The surrounding cobbled streets offer an incredible atmosphere to get you in the mood for a visit to the museums that will offer a glimpse into Edinburgh’s bloody history. If blood and gore is not your thing then perhaps a fun-filled afternoon at the Camera Obscura & World of Illusions museum?
If you fancy a country escape closer to home, then look no further than the Lake District.
Lake Windermere and the Surronding Area
Let’s start with stunning Lake Windermere in the Lake District, approximately 1 hour 45 minutes from Manchester. The lake itself is beautiful, peaceful and massive, with no-one around to spoil the view you can take in the 10.5 miles in quiet contemplation. Once there, you can stay in the quaint town of Bowness-on-Windermere. The town is one of the leading centres for all outdoor activities, and there are hundreds of walks in the Southern Fells.
Head out to Ambleside and or Kendal to get a real feel for Cumbria. History-wise, there are some gorgeous spots to visit, including Wray Castle, Fell Foot Park and, of course, the lake itself, best seen by boat.
Lake Windemere is terrific, but actually, Manchester is also a historic place to explore. This unique history is within our lifetime. Manchester is the birthplace of Brit Pop, it was Manchester that changed the face of music in the UK and the world, and no staycation would be complete without a tour of our own hometown and being a tourist for the day.
Manchester and Brit Pop
If you were young in the late 80s and 90s and living in Manchester, it would have been impossible to ignore the tidal wave of talent that could be found at the Hacienda Club. Names such as The Smiths, New Order and Oasis, not forgetting The Stone Roses and The Happy Mondays to name but a few of the rock royalty that came from Manchester.
Sadly the Hacienda is now a block of residential flats in a gentrified part of town. It is now a far cry from the rundown warehouse and surrounding area that saw such talent and creativity. However, if you’re an Oasis fan interested in finding somewhere that still stands, then head down to The Sifters Record Shop on Fog Lane where Noel and Liam bought records that would later influence their music.
If you’re not interested in music, then maybe you’re a football fan? It’s safe to say that some Mancunians (people born in Manchester) and tourists alike live and breathe football. When possible both United and City’s clubs offer tours, including a behind-the-scenes tour of the grounds. For those with a more general interest in the sport, the NFM (National Football Museum) in the city centre provides an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in your team’s league history or to learn about the beautiful game.
Wherever you decide to go to the UK, you will find fascinating and enlightening experiences to enjoy right here on your doorstep – Staycations are the best!
We found some great places on the very appropriately named http://www.staycation-uk.com including lots of dog friendly and beach holidays. Some real hidden gems and quirky places, including a converted school bus and a Victorian railway carriage in Sussex.