The New Year is a time to tighten the purse strings and recover from the spending spree of Christmas. However, sometimes it is important to get away and escape the January blues. Luckily, you don’t have to spend a fortune to have a great New Years break. In fact, a short break in January or February provides a perfect opportunity to explore some areas of the British Isles which you may not have been to before. The weather may not be perfect, so pack your water proofs and warm clothing, but there is some beautiful countryside, fantastic activities and delicious things to eat and drink. Here’s a selection of the best locations.
Suffolk
Suffolk is endowed with some of the most beautiful country scenery in the UK. If you are interested in the natural side of things, the county has a RSPB Reserve, you can take cruises on the Deben or Orwell Rivers and there is the seven acre Fullers Mill Garden. If the weather does not allow such visits, you may want to check out the John Peel Centre for Creative Arts, see the plush residence of Helmingham Hall or catch a show at the New Wolsey Theatre.
North Yorkshire
Breath-taking landscapes, traditional stone villages and quaint seaside towns, North Yorkshire is an area of Britain in which very few people regret spending a mini-break. The fishing town of Whitby, with it’s quirky Dracula connection, amazing Abbey ruins and labyrinth streets of gift shops not to mention mouth-watering fish and chips, is a must-see while in North Yorkshire. Take a walk over the wild moorlands to evoke the spirit of Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights.
Wiltshire
With Stonehenge, Longleat Safari Park and a vast array of wonderful walks, you will never be stuck for something to do in Wiltshire. Wiltshire is England at it’s most English, with chocolate box villages, canals and green and pleasant landscapes, it’s a great area to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Scotland
If the cold weather is not an issue, a trip north of the border will bring lots of great places to explore. A rich history, vibrant culture and incredible scenery mean a short trip in Scotland (from a provider such as UK Breakaways) will give you memories to last a lifetime.
Newcastle
Having recently being voted the UK’s best city by readers of The Guardian newspaper, it is only right that Newcastle should feature on this list. The Tyneside city has established itself as the favourite destination of many with its attractive river vistas, friendly locals and fantastic cultural offer.
Liverpool
Liverpool is another city which has recently won a lot of plaudits for its regeneration in the last decade. Since being crowned European Capital of Culture in 2008, Liverpool has gone from strength to strength with an impressive shopping centre, some of the best museums outside of London and great selection of trendy bars and restaurants.
This post is written by Sam Renton
Sam is a lifestyle blogger who loves to spend to time with the family, travel and find a good bargain.
I spent many Family holidays in Suffolk – I absolutely love the place!!