The United Kingdom is a microcosm of cities, villages and countryside and has a wide breadth of diverse culture and rich heritage.  With such a profusion of places to explore, weekend breaks are the perfect way to explore each choice destination, as the short trip will be teeming with plentiful attractions and activities.  The UK is a cornucopia of history, with its notable past seeping through the pores of the nation in the form of its museums, landmarks, architecture and people.  The magnificently understated beauty of its countryside depicts the unblemished exquisiteness of the UK’s past, whilst the vivaciousness and verve of the cities flawlessly encapsulates the modern splendour of the nation.
 
Pembrokeshire, Wales
 
Offering stunning views of the glorious Welsh coast surrounded by towering cliffs covered in wild flowers, Pembrokeshire is the perfect tranquil getaway.  The abundance of sandy beaches, campsites, clear waters and picturesque towns make Pembrokeshire the ideal destination for families with children of all ages.  Adventure seekers can take advantage of the clear blue waters which are perfect for kayaking and sailing, whilst nature lovers can attempt to spot dolphins, porpoises, whales and seals in the crystal blue ocean. 
 
Set within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Roch Castle is your ideal dwelling during your visit to this stunning Welsh coast.  This 12^th Century Norman Castle has six ensuite rooms and has been historically inhabited by countless conquers and courtesans, soaking the castle in rich Welsh heritage.  The spectacular archaic exterior juxtaposes sharply with the modern interior, with rooms complete with free Wi-Fi, iPod docking station and luxurious 300 thread count linens.
 
http://www.rochcastle.com/ 
 
Ullapool, Scotland
 
Located an hour North of Loch Ness, Ullapool is the perfect base to explore Wester Ross and the Highlands of Scotland.  Situated in one of the most unspoilt natural environments of the UK, Ullapool has charming geological and natural landscapes for you to walk, climb and explore at your own pace.  Complete with coastal nine-hole golf course, innumerable fishing locations and seasonal music festivals, Ullapool has a wealth of activities throughout the year.
 
Stay in the Locholly Lodge, and overlook the Summer Isles from the floor-to-ceiling cathedral windows.  Complete with indoor sauna and outdoor hot tub, Locholly Lodge is the idyllic place to unwind after a day perusing the Scottish highlands.  Sleeping up to six adults and two children, Locholly Lodge is suitable for groups or families who want to enjoy their own sanctuary in the serene and remote countryside.
 
http://www.lochollylodge.co.uk/
 
Edinburgh, Scotland
 
Visit Edinburgh, Scotland’s vibrant capital bursting with centuries of unique history manifesting in its striking architecture, art and classic landmarks.  Explore the history of the centre’s New Town, with its classic Georgian architecture and grand squares and terraces, which was first designed in 1767.  Shopping lovers will thrive in a visit to George Street and Multrees Walk, with designer boutiques such as Louis Vuitton, which leading to the iconic John Lewis Edinburgh in the St James Centre.
 
Located at the top of the iconic Royal Mile, The Witchery by the Castle is a world-renowned restaurant and hotel.  Hidden in the Witchery’s historic buildings are a collection of nine uniquely theatrical dining suites that provide an inimitable experience.  Perfect for romantic getaways and honeymoons, the intimate Witchery by the Castle boasts dramatic Gothic touches, cosy velvet-lined walls and lavish four poster double beds.  Luxurious touches such as champagne upon arrival and the Witchery’s own chocolate left on pillows make The Witchery by the Castle the epitome of refined magnificence. 
 
http://www.thewitchery.com/
 
Stratford-Upon-Avon, England
 
Birthplace of William Shakespeare and boasting over 800 years of English history, Stratford-Upon-Avon is an amalgamation of British heritage set in the heart of the Midlands.  See history come to life by exploring iconic locations in Shakespeare’s life, including his place of birth; the charming childhood cottage of Anne Hathaway; the farm owned by the family of his mother, Mary Arden; the scenic garden where once stood the New Place, where Shakespeare spent the final 18 years of his life before his death here; and finally the playwright’s grave in the Holy Trinity Church, with his famous cautionary epitaph. 
 
For lavish yet classic British cuisine, visit The One Elm and enjoy locally-sourced seasonal gastronomy and real English ales.  Enjoy 28-day dry-aged rare British steaks and free-range Cotswold chicken, pork and ice cream meticulously prepared by head chef Leon Higham and his skilled crew.  Try and find the infamous secret courtyard to while away a sunny afternoon whilst sipping on a perfectly concocted cocktail or refreshing glass of fine wine.
 
http://www.oneelmstratford.co.uk/stratford-upon-avon-gastro-pub/
 
The Lake District, England
 
Seeped in English literary history, the Lake District has played host to a myriad of poets, artists and writers throughout the centuries.  Romantic poets such as William Wordsworth, whose famous ‘The Daffodils’ poem was supposedly inspired by the shores of Ullswater, have flocked to the Lake District to write against the stunning backdrop of rolling hills and endless lakes.  Other literary personas who resided in the Lake District whilst writing include Percy Shelly, Sir Walter Scott, Lord Tennyson, John Keats and Beatrix Potter, with many of their works set in the pictorial scenery. 
 
For a traditional English afternoon tea, look no further than Gilliam’s, a restored 18^th century tearoom set in the quaint market town of Ulverston.  Gilliam’s caters to all clientele, from their organic, vegetarian and gluten-free options to their miniature afternoon tea for children served on its own small tea set.  Other options on the menu include fragrant coffees, hot and cold sandwiches, soups and quiches, so there’s sure to be something to suit any taste.
 
http://gillams-tearoom.co.uk/
 

Share this article: