The economic and financial outlook of the cost-of-living crisis and rising inflation means tightening of belts, but it’s crucial to manage stress during this difficult time. As a nation, we love to go on holidays as a form of escapism. Shorter trips are becoming a popular way to balance the cost of going away while also still reaping the benefits of a break. Typically, a mini-break is a weekend away or a few days away, but usually less than a week.
European destinations have been popular for short breaks in previous years. However, the uncertainty of the pandemic and airport delays have influenced more and more of us to look for domestic locations for a holiday.
Whether you want to go away for a special occasion or just to get some distance from the everyday hustle and bustle, UK locations have so much to offer.
Scotland, Ayrshire
On the Scottish west coast, Ayrshire is accessible for drivers and is full of locations with impressive architecture and heritage.
Ayrshire is home to beautiful golf courses, stunning views and movie-worthy walking routes. If you like to revitalise your body and mind with the great outdoors alongside a touch of luxury, this is the perfect spot for a relaxing and sophisticated mini-break.
Glamping hotspots
Glamping is gaining ground as a glamorous alternative to camping, as it often involves upgraded amenities and facilities, like beds.
- North Yorkshire: There are so many glamping spots in North Yorkshire in the rustic atmosphere of the countryside and woodlands.
- Wales: With such a variety of landscapes in Wales, you can take your pick between glamping with a mountainscape backdrop or waking to the sound of the sea.
- Oxford: With many glamping spots along the River Thames, Oxford is one of the most interesting options. Not only is it peaceful, but it’s also close to a historical city hub.
Cornwall
For a coastal destination with old-school charm and plenty to see, you can’t go far wrong with a visit to Cornwall. Enjoy its beautiful beaches and famous surfing before a trip to the renowned Minack Theatre to enjoy a spectacular performance in an open-air theatre carved into the rock.
The Eden Project is an attraction of global appeal: biomes full of striking plants based on different continents and regions of the world. It has the world’s biggest enclosed rainforest and a walkway for a magical stroll through the canopies of the trees.
Cambridge
As a major intellectual icon that many consider to be quintessentially English, Cambridge has a lot to see and do. Get a guided tour of the town by punting down the River Cam and then treat yourself to the majesty of the Fitzwilliam Museum.






