As children across the country close their books and put their pencils down for another six weeks of summer holidays, countless parents will be getting their family prepped and packed to jet off for a European getaway.
However, whilst many of these far-flung locations offer bright sunshine, good food, and a taste of the local culture, there are plenty of UK destinations that offer just as much, at a fraction of the price.
With this in mind, the team at holiday lodge provider Hoseasons has put together a list of UK locations with similar offerings to some European hotspots, all with warmer average temperatures to make sure you still have that holiday feel.
Instead of the Ardennes – Dumfries and Galloway
With the average temperature for Dumfries and Galloway across August and September sitting at 18 degrees, you’ll be able to stay outdoors all day without an issue.
Lush forests, rolling hills, and stunning valleys are just some of the features that make the Ardennes one of the premier destinations for lovers of the great outdoors, but by no means are they exclusive to them. Scotland’s Dumfries and Galloway offers many of the same experiences, with the region being home to countless hiking trails and nature walks. There are plenty of other activities to be getting up to as well, suitable for a range of ages. Younger children may enjoy visiting one of the many farms in the region to spend a day with the animals, while older kids seeking thrills can participate in activities such as climbing or even a rafting trip down the river.
Much like the Ardennes, Dumfries and Galloway is also an area steeped in history, with castles and museums galore.
Instead of Český Krumlov – Oswestry
At an average temperature of 19 degrees before the school holidays are up, Oswestry is a great choice for those looking to add a bit of history to their stay.
The town of Český Krumlov is one of the Czech Republic’s most popular tourist destinations, home to streets lined with a variety of historical architectural styles from across the Middle Ages. The town’s aesthetic has often seen it labelled as a place straight out of a fairy tale, complete with a castle and surrounding woodland.
For a similar experience closer to home, visit Oswestry. This medieval market town sits just on the border between Shropshire and Wales, with history and culture at every turn. There’s plenty of stunning architecture to take in as you take a trip to one of the many museums and sights on offer, including The British Ironwork Centre, featuring sculptures that have to be seen to be believed.
Instead of Cascais – Whitby
With temperatures averaging at around 17 degrees, there’s a reason Whitby has been one of the UK’s favourite staycation spots for decades.
One of Portugal’s best seaside resorts, Cascais’ idyllic beaches, deep history, and breath-taking landscape have made it a dream destination for many. Whether you’re spending all your time there or just on a day trip from Lisbon, you’ll find that even walking through Cascais is an experience in itself, with the rocky coastline making for a breath-taking backdrop.
As for its UK alternative, it has to be one of the most well-known seaside towns in the UK. Whitby has a huge amount of things to see and do, with some of the most iconic beaches and historical sites in the country. A trip to Whitby Abbey is a must-do, well worth the 199-step climb, and after your descent, you can treat the family to fish and chips from one of the many famous chippies spread throughout the town.
Instead of Hallstat – Pooley Bridge
With average temperatures reaching 18 degrees, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better spot for a peaceful escape with the family.
Settled on the shores of Lake Hallstat, Hallstat is one of Austria’s premier tourist destinations. Surrounded by stunning water and picturesque mountains, you’ll find a breathtaking sight wherever you look. Whether you want to explore the surrounding forests or discover the history of the area, Hallstat is a place of beauty through and through.
While comparing somewhere to Hallstat is a difficult task, Pooley Bridge certainly has some similar features. Nestled away in the Lake District, the village is the perfect location for a quiet getaway by the water. The village itself boasts numerous tearooms overlooking Ullswater, the second-largest lake in England, as well as boat hire and trips to explore other nearby hidden gems.
As you may expect from a Lake District location, the surrounding area is some of the best the UK has to offer, with the pikes and fells offering plenty of opportunities for a picnic with a view.
Instead of Carcassonne – Aberdeen
With Codona’s Amusement Park situated right on the coast and average temperatures sitting at 17 degrees, a day at the seaside is an absolute must.
An incredibly popular destination for lovers of history and architecture, the French fortified city of Carcassonne is like stepping into the pages of a history book. The city’s medieval fortress, the Cité de Carcassonne, has been so well maintained that it’s on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites, with tours of the structure being a tourist favourite.
When it comes to a UK alternative for Carcassonne, Aberdeen is the natural fit. Once a castle town itself, the city has plenty for visitors to discover. Attractions like the University of Aberdeen Zoology Museum offer experiences both educational and entertaining, while the many parks in and around the city are filled with idyllic picnic spots amongst nature. Of course, no trip to Aberdeen would be complete without a trip to the beach.
For more information about summer staycations, please visit https://www.hoseasons.co.uk/