Last updated: February 11, 2025
The UK is home to diverse and tranquil destinations, ideal for those looking to unwind. From the secluded valleys of the Scottish Highlands to the breathtaking coastlines of South Wales and the peaceful hiking trails of The Lake District, the country is brimming with serene regions.
In this article, we’ll explore five of the best places to visit in the UK for a relaxing getaway. Whether you’re drawn to peaceful countryside retreats, charming villages or dramatic landscapes, there’s something to suit every traveller seeking a rejuvenating escape.
The Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands are located in the northern part of Scotland, characterised by rugged mountains, deep glens and glistening locks. This untouched wilderness is popular for relaxing activities like hiking, stargazing and exploring quaint villages.
The Isle of Skye is one of Scotland’s most breathtaking regions, and visitors are drawn to its famous Fairy Pools. These are a collection of trickling blue-water pools near the village of Glenbrittle, where soothing streams cascade to create a magical energy. Enjoy walks around the pools or have a picnic by the waterside to soak in its peaceful atmosphere.
Glencoe is found in the western highlands, around 16 miles from Fort William, boasting a fantastic selection of lochs and walking routes. The Lost Valley trail is especially popular, taking hikers around 6 kilometres through steep cliffs and waterfalls to stunning panoramic viewpoints.
South Wales
South Wales is a charming area on the west coast of England famed for its lush countryside, rolling hills and unspoiled coastline. There are plenty of scenic walking trails to enjoy in South Wales, especially in the Brecon Beacons National Park where you can find cascading waterfalls and rugged peaks. Stay in a wooden cabin lodge here for complete tranquillity, warmed by a cosy log fire and looking out at the starry night sky.
South Wales is home to several luxurious spa and yoga retreats, perfect for unwinding. Many country house estates offer award-winning spa treatments with indoor pools and lakeside views. Enjoy guided meditation and yoga sessions by the lake to relax and connect with your body and mind.
The coastline in South Wales is filled with calm and quiet beaches that are perfect for escaping the crowds. Rhossili Bay on the Gower Peninsula is often ranked among the best beaches in the UK, known for its vast stretch of golden sand, dramatic cliffs and tranquil atmosphere.
Cheshire
Cheshire is a historic county in the north-west of England, boasting beautiful countryside, charming towns and flowing canals. If you’re seeking a quintessentially British village with cobbled streets, independent boutiques and traditional tea rooms, there are plenty to choose from in Cheshire, including Knutsford or Alderley Edge.
The Delamere Forest is an ancient woodland in the heart of Cheshire, offering scenic walking and cycling trails. It’s a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy nature and wildlife on a peaceful UK getaway. Enjoy a picnic amid the towering trees, or relax by the tranquil lake in the centre of the woodland.
Cheshire is home to an extensive network of canals. Winding through the countryside and historic towns, canal boat trips are a great way to explore the county’s picturesque landscape. Discover canal boat hire in Cheshire to experience the tranquillity of the waterways while taking in breathtaking views along the way.
The Lake District
The Lake District is a region in the north-west of England, known for its serene lakes, rolling hills and cabin lodges, making it the perfect place for a rural escape. Quaint villages are dotted around the lakes, including Windermere where you can find plenty of scenic walking trails, cosy cafes and charming cobbled streets.
Ambleside is another excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts, with popular hikes like Helm Crag offering panoramic views of the valleys. This village is steeped in history, with a 17th-century fort and close associations with William Wordsworth, a famous 18th-century author who took inspiration from the beauty of the Lakes to write his novels.
For the ultimate relaxing stay, there are plenty of cabins and lodges in the Lake District that offer a peaceful escape. If you’re seeking to buy a property, there are some beautiful Lake District lodges for sale with modern interiors, spacious living areas and fantastic views of the landscape.
Northumberland
Northumberland is a beautiful county in the north-east of England bordering Scotland to the north. It’s known for its vast beaches and impressive historic sites, offering visitors a window into the UK’s ancient Roman past.
Northumberland National Park is a peaceful expanse of rolling hills where visitors flock to experience its rugged beauty. Here you will find Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site built by the Romans nearly 2000 years ago. Follow the wall for a scenic journey through sweeping hills and coastal plains, spotting wildlife along the way.
Bamburgh is a picturesque village on the Northumberland Coast, perfect for outdoor activities. The village is popular for photography, with the impressive Bamburgh Castle perched atop a hill overlooking the white sands of Bamburgh beach. Stroll along the waterfront, breathe in the fresh northern air, and stop at a cosy pub for a traditional British lunch by the sea.
Summary
The UK is a haven of peaceful landscapes, from soaring mountains to deep valleys and sweeping beaches, making it the perfect place for a relaxing getaway. Whether it’s the Scottish highlands, the South Wales coast or Cheshire’s historic villages, there’s something here for every traveller to explore and enjoy.
If you’re venturing on a UK getaway, be sure to include some of the destinations mentioned above for the ultimate relaxing escape.
