Whilst there’s no denying that the prospect of jetting off to warmer climes this summer is an appealing one, the staycation has come into its own over the past couple of years. A growing desire to make more sustainable travel decisions and enjoy the diverse bounty the UK has to offer has seen more of us than ever opting to stay at home.
While the weather here on British soil can never be guaranteed, one thing you can always rely on is plenty of choice when it comes to luxury accommodation and decadent dining, with five-star hotels and Michelin-starred eateries present in almost every city. But some, of course, have more to offer than others, and the perfect place to take a lavish summer break depends largely on what you want to get out of the experience.
So, whether you’re looking to combine a buzzy city atmosphere with a long, hot day on the beach (weather permitting, of course), book yourself into a lavish wellness retreat, or embrace the excitement of the high-rolling lifestyle by wagering your way around the best high-end casinos on offer, these destinations have got you covered – and each can be enjoyed in the ultimate lap of luxury.
St. Ives, Cornwall: Best for beach lovers
The coastal county of Cornwall is home to some of the UK’s very finest beaches. Think long, sandy shores, private hidden coves and pretty harbourside towns, with luxurious clifftop resorts offering panoramic sea views and a host of exclusive amenities.
The picturesque town of St. Ives is a highlight, with a trendy selection of stylish art galleries, charming boutiques and stand-out eateries, as well as the most spectacular beaches in the country. It attracts an affluent, well-heeled set during the summer months, with many of Britain’s wealthy owning holiday homes in the town, and has adapted to cater to the discerning visitor as a result. The best things to do here? Enjoy a long, sun-soaked day on the beach, enjoy an evening stroll around the harbour or unwind in a luxury spa retreat, where holistic wellness treatments rejuvenate the body, mind and soul.
London: Best for nightlife, casinos, and high rollers
It’s almost a given that London would appear somewhere in this line-up, and truth be told, it ticks all of the boxes for almost every type of luxury getaway – bar the beaches, of course. But one area in which it particularly excels is its nightlife, which, thanks to a string of lavish casinos, bars and nightclubs, makes it a must if you’re looking for an evening or two of sheer extravagance, all-out opulence, and all the games of Blackjack, Baccarat and other popular casino games you can manage.
London has long been seen as the epitome of sophistication and elegance, and offers up a vibrant scene comprising some of the most opulent high-stakes casinos anywhere in the world, attracting some seriously big spending, high wagering players. You might want to check out some of the best UK gambling sites beforehand to get a little practice in, though, because the calibre of the clientele you’ll find here, as well as their skill and experience, is exceedingly high.
Aside from the plush casinos, London is also home to plenty of exclusive private members’ clubs, Michelin-starred eateries and opulent hotels. The excitement of West End theatres, which offer captivating performances of some of the most iconic plays and shows in the world, is another major draw – and with iconic hotels like The Ritz or The Dorchester to choose from just a stone’s throw from the heart of the action, you can be certain of an incredible city break experience in London.
Bath, Somerset: A health and wellness haven
On that note, the elegant city of Bath is known for its Roman heritage and also happens to be the perfect place to visit this summer if getting a little bit of much-needed rest is your main priority. As well as being home to historic sights like the Roman Baths and the iconic Royal Crescent, you’ll also find the Thermae Bath Spa here, where you can immerse yourself in thermal waters and soak away the stresses and strains of modern life, or visit the rooftop pool and take in panoramic views over the city.
Pampering yourself with luxurious spa treatments inspired by ancient traditions is the order of the day here – and if you’re looking for a private and exclusive experience, then there are several opulent five-star hotels to be found in Bath, each offering up their own lavish spa facilities away from the masses. Add to that the fact that the city also happens to be a haven for foodies, and there are plenty of reasons to book yourself a summer stay.
Edinburgh, Scotland: A haven for foodies and culture vultures
There’s no denying that the UK is awash with exciting cities for foodies, but Edinburgh is truly a gastronomic paradise that is certain to delight even the most discerning diner. The Scottish capital boasts a flourishing culinary scene where Michelin-starred dining is a highlight, with sought-after spots like The Kitchin and Restaurant Martin Wishart both absolute musts.
Embark on a gastronomic journey through the city’s vibrant food markets, such as the iconic Royal Mile Market or Stockbridge Market, where you can sample local delicacies and artisanal products – then head off for a traditional and quintessentially British afternoon tea – with champagne, of course – at one of the city’s most historic venues, which include The Balmoral and Prestonfield House.
It would be almost rude to visit Scotland and not sample the national spirit, and the city’s whisky distilleries provide the perfect opportunity to learn all about how its rare single malts are produced and come away with a souvenir or two. Of course, you’ll likely also want to squeeze in some sightseeing, and iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyrood house won’t disappoint. There’s something truly majestic about Edinburgh, so if you’ve yet to visit and experience it for yourself, then this summer is the perfect time to do it.
Please gamble responsibly (18+ UK) – check age restrictions before participating
