From beaches to campsites: the best last-minute heatwave escapes
Just when you thought all hope was lost, the Great British summer finally showed up, with the forecast filled with wall-to-wall sunshine and mood-boosting temperatures.
Whether you’re looking for a day at the beach or to stretch your legs in the fells, our guide to spending the heatwave in Britain has it all. We reveal the top destinations, campsites, hotels and things to do – from north to south, shoreline to summit. If you’re looking for quieter inspiration we even reveal the secret to crowd-free and cheaper holidays in Britain and the quirky corners of our nation yet to be discovered. Explore them all via the links below.
All that’s left for you to do is pack up the car, crank up the playlist and don’t forget the sun cream – it’s time to make the most of the sunshine, while it lasts.
The best national parks
As a nation we’re blessed with 15 showstopping national parks – these protected wild spaces come into their own when the sun shines.
But planning the perfect trip to any of the national parks can be overwhelming – where should you stay, which activities should you try and how do you get there smoothly? Our local experts can help you make the most of the nation’s natural gems in our dedicated guides to the Lake District, Northumberland, the South Downs, the Peak District, the Brecon Beacons, Snowdonia and Cairngorms National Park. Top tips include sampling the Pennine Way (Britain’s oldest long-distance national walking trail), raising a glass in a vineyard in the South Downs and wild swimming at a 18m-high waterfall in the Breamish valley, Northumberland.
If you’re keen for a quieter day out, consider one of the UK’s 46 National Landscapes, previously known as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty; these spectacular spots attract just a fraction of the crowds.
The best beaches and islands
Forget rolling countryside, do you want ice cream, sandcastles and sea breezes instead? The best place to start would be our expert guide to Britain’s 20 greatest beaches, from Cornwall to the farthest reaches of Scotland. If remote and untouched is more your vibe, check out one of these little-known strips of sand instead.
Britain’s coastline is brimming with delights away from the sand, too – including some of the nation’s most beautiful seaside villages (think pastel-washed houses and proper fish and chips) and hotels. Offshore, our native islands are hidden treasures for holidaymakers (St Martin’s could easily pass as the Caribbean) – whether they’re beautiful or car-free, our experts have visited them all, so you can find the right fit. If heading norther, consider Scotland’s best islands.
No time to travel, but still fancy a dip? Our experts reveal the nation’s top lidos and outdoor pools. Or give wild swimming a go at one of our top choices.
If you’re simply planning a family picnic to pass the time, we reveal the top spots across Britain to unfold the gingham.
The best walks
If there’s a better way to enjoy the warm sunny days than with a walk through the great British countryside, we’ve not discovered it. To help you put your best foot forward, we’ve chosen the greatest routes in the land, from the West Highland Way to the South West Coast Path, as well as the best circular walks and those with a brilliant pub at the end.
If you’re looking to clock up the miles, our choice of crowd-free alternatives to the UK’s most popular routes is further inspiration, or why not trade in the mountains for the coast, with the nation’s best trails with sea views?
The best staycation hotspots
Aside from beaches, mountains and national parks, Britain is brimming with wonderful regions and cities to spend the time exploring. A spell of good weather is the perfect excuse to book a long weekend in one of the nation’s alternative hotspots – including Norwich and Leeds.
Wherever you’re heading, The Telegraph’s experts are all insiders and have written knowledgeable guides to help you plan the perfect visit. Whether it’s finding the best restaurants in Brighton, a refreshing pub in Yorkshire, a cool new attraction in Edinburgh, we’ve got it covered in our destination guides, from the Pembrokeshire to Cornwall, and Manchester to Bath.
The best campsites and hotels
Once you’ve chosen where you’re going and what you’re doing when you arrive, the final piece of the holiday puzzle is where you’ll stay.
From the greatest campsites to seaside hotels and pubs with rooms – the Telegraph’s catalogue of the best places to stay in Britain is unrivalled, whether you’re looking for a last-minute family break or a cosy getaway for two.
This article was first published in July 2023, and has been revised and updated.
