One of the most exciting parts of going on holiday can be planning the wonderful things you’re going to do when you reach your destination.
If you’re having a UK staycation this year, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
According to figures published by Statista, the number of Britons taking a staycation in 2023 increased by 50% compared to the year before. With so many wonderful sights, events, and activities to choose from, it’s not hard to see why.
So, if you’re keen to join this trend, but you’re not yet sure where in the UK to go, read on to discover some of the best things to see and do in 2024.
1. Absorb the atmosphere at literary, foodie and music festivals throughout the country
Whether you’re a devoted foodie, a bookworm, or a fan of all things musical, there are hundreds of festivals to choose from this year.
For classical music lovers, the Bath Bachfest in February provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the music of Johann Sebastian Bach, while soaking up the city’s stunning Roman and Georgian architecture.
If books are more your thing, the Oxford Literary Festival in March has an impressive line up of guest speakers, including authors Michael Rosen and Will Hutton. Or head to Wales for one of the world’s biggest literary events, the Hay Festival. Over 11 days in late spring, the picturesque border town of Hay-On-Wye attracts 100,000-plus visitors with a dizzying schedule of guest writers, poets, comedians, and musicians.
Or plan your staycation around one – or more – of the country’s tantalising food festivals. From Edinburgh to St Ives, the UK streets will be packed with amazing food from around the world, especially during the summer months.
2. Immerse yourself in art as the National Gallery celebrates its 200th anniversary
From May 2024, the National Gallery in London will kick off an ambitious year-long programme of events to celebrate its 200th anniversary.
On 10 May, 12 simultaneous exhibitions centred around a national treasure will be launched at different museums and galleries throughout the UK. More than half the UK population will be within an hour’s journey of one of these events.
So, wherever you’re planning to staycation this year, there’s a good chance you’ll have the opportunity to feast your eyes on a National Gallery masterpiece.
3. Explore Scotland’s ultimate road trip, the North Coast 500
This scenic 516-mile route around the north coast of Scotland is a fantastic way to see the country. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this road trip is an ideal choice.
The route runs through four counties – Inverness-shire, Ross and Cromarty, Sutherland, and Caithness – each offering its own character and unique charm.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the stunning coastline, rugged mountains, pristine beaches, and pretty fishing villages. Explore ancient castles, bustling cities, and majestic lochs. The North Coast 500 has it all!
And of course, the beauty of a road trip is that you can create a staycation that fits with your time, interests, and budget. What are you waiting for?
4. Wrap up warm and enjoy stargazing at Northumberland Dark Skies Park
If you’ve never visited a designated “dark skies” area, you’re in for a treat.
Dark sky sites are areas where your view of the night sky is unobstructed by light pollution or other unnatural light sources.
In 2013, Northumberland National Park became England’s first International Dark Sky Park. On a clear night, you could see thousands of stars, the Milky Way, and the Andromeda Galaxy, which lies 2.5 million light years away.
So, if you fancy giving stargazing a try, wrap up warm, pack a telescope and a flask of something hot, and head north.
5. All aboard for the 45th anniversary of Pullman Dining services on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway
If you fancy treating yourself to a little luxury, or you’re planning a staycation to celebrate a special occasion, a first-class dining experience on a Pullman Moorlander steam train could be just what you’re looking for.
This year, Pullman Dining services celebrate 45 years of operation on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. Climb aboard any time between 8 and 25 August 2024, to enjoy a welcome drink on arrival followed by a special 45th-anniversary menu cooked and served onboard. You’ll also receive a limited-edition keepsake.
This picturesque 18-mile journey starts in the peaceful village of Grosmont and ends in Pickering, a vibrant market town full of independent shops and eateries. It’s the perfect base for exploring the Yorkshire Coast and stunning North York Moors.
6. Trek the South West Coast Path
If you’re staycationing in the UK, you have miles upon miles of stunning scenery to explore, wherever you choose as a base.
However, with Raynor Winn’s bestselling memoir, The Salt Path, making it to the big screen in 2024, and the coronation of King Charles III still a recent memory, it’s a great year to trek the South West Coast Path.
This beautiful 630-mile route forms part of the King Charles III England Coast Path, the UK’s longest coastal path. Starting in Minehead in Somerset, it runs along the coastline to Exmoor, continuing through Devon and into Cornwall.
If walking the full route feels a little intimidating, you could choose your favourite section for your staycation or plan multiple trips to complete the path over several visits.
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