We often cast our gaze to hazy tropics and far-flung cities when planning our getaways. But it’s easy to forget that weekend breaks in the UK and Ireland can mean white-sand beaches , stirring metropoles, dramatic landscapes and pretty villages . With unspoilt stretches of coast just a few hours from London, towns of honey-stone scattered among rolling hills and interesting cities in every corner of the country, a full-on escape can be undertaken with a simple few days away from home.
So we’ve rounded up the best weekend breaks in the UK – with ideas on what to do and a handful of smart places to stay – to make the most of what’s on our doorstep. For more inspiration, see our UK guides: Where can I go for a weekend break in the UK?.
