Five UK Getaways To Tick Off The Bucket List In 2022

With the start of a new year upon us, it’s the perfect time to start planning your next trip across the water and banish those January blues.

Whether it’s for a big family break, romantic retreat, solo adventure or a getaway with friends, we are excited to welcome you on board. We’ve compiled a list of some our favourite British holiday destinations to help offer some travel inspiration for your next trip…

The Yorkshire Coast

If a British beach holiday sounds tempting, the beautiful Yorkshire coast with its 45 miles of sweeping coastline and stunning seaside scenery is a must.

Head to Whitby for a spot of wildlife watching with whales, dolphins and the occasional shark spotted in the wonderous waters. Don’t forget to look up as the Yorkshire Coast is also home to some of the best bird-watching spots in Britain. A stroll along the seafront tucking into some mouth-wateringly delicious fish and chips and an ice cream will round-off a perfect day.

This famous coast also boasts some of the best beaches in Britain with wide sweeping bays and swelling waters, making it the perfect spot for water sports such as surfing, kayaking and paddle boarding.

While in the area don’t miss out on a visit to Whitby Abbey, the ancient ruins of a 7th-century medieval church and the inspiration behind Dracula. You can learn all about its history while taking in the dramatic sights and sounds this historic site has to offer.

Woman climbing over turnstile, Cleveland Way, North Yorkshire, England. Views out to sea.
©VisitBritain/Mark Bulmer

Wonderful Wales

Wales is a wonderful holiday destination which is easy to get to from our English ports, especially when you bring the car. With its stunning coastline, famous valleys, historic castles and picturesque towns and villages, you’ll never want to leave!

Did you know that Conwy in North Wales is home to the smallest house in Great Britain? Thousands of people from around the world have travelled to Conwy to marvel at the two-storey house, which sits at just 72 inches wide by 122 inches high. Built in the 16th century, it was lived in until it was deemed unsuitable for dwelling in 1900.

The distinctive red house stands near the magnificent Conwy Castle, so you can enjoy a full day out in this historic Welsh town.

Adventure seekers can exhilarate their senses and take to the skies on the fastest zip line in the world in Penrhyn Quarry, North Wales. Less than two hours’ drive from Liverpool, those brave enough can defy gravity and fly high over a spectacular backdrop up to speeds of 100mph. Even better, on a clear day you can spot the Isle of Man’s coastline from this unique vantage point!

For a slightly slower paced afternoon at the historic site, you can enjoy a truck tour and learn about the rich history of Penrhyn Quarry while soaking up the panoramic views.

View from the top of the limestone headland ridge The Great Orme, to Llandudno historic seaside resort and waterfront in North Wales.
VisitBritain/Lee Beel

Beautiful Bath

For a city escape that offers the perfect blend of relaxation, culture and wellness, head to Bath. 

You can treat yourself to a luxurious afternoon in the award-winning Thermae Bath Spa and bathe in the naturally warm, mineral-rich waters – just as the Romans did! A two-hour session includes access to the open-air rooftop pool with spectacular, panoramic views across the city’s skyline.

Bath is the ideal destination for a spot of retail therapy too, with a fantastic range of independent shops, quirky stores and high street favourites. With no luggage fees when you travel by ferry, you can shop until you drop and as soon as you’re done, just pop it all in the boot!

A trip to Bath isn’t complete without a visit to The Circus, a striking masterpiece of Georgian architecture comprising a historic street of townhouses. Take a moment of your day to marvel at the outstanding architecture designed by John Wood, The Elder.

Rooftop Pool at the Thermae Bath Spa, Bath, England. Couple relaxing in the pool looking out to a pink sky.
©Phillip Edwards Thermae Bath Spa

The Lovely Lakes

The Lake District is synonymous with outdoor adventure with activities like climbing, hiking, kayaking and boating trips popular for visitors ready to enjoy the wide open spaces.

You can bring your bicycle (free to take on the ferry) and set off on one of the many great cycling routes, taking in the natural beauty and stunning backdrops of the Lakes. The challenging off-road mountain bike routes are great for the more hardy souls too.

Fancy getting up close with wildlife on your visit to the Lake District? There’s a variety of animal experiences on offer, including fell pony riding, alpaca walks, llama trekking and bird of prey spotting!

Just a short drive from Heysham, it’s no wonder The Lakes are a popular destination for Island residents looking for a relaxing getaway.

Ullswater Steamers, Lake District, Cumbria, England. Front of small boat visible with beautiful lake in view.
Credit: Dave Willis

Spectacular Scotland

How about a road trip taking in the sights, sounds and smells of Scotland? There are a number of iconic routes to choose from such as the North Coast 500 or Fife Coastal Route. Or, if you’re feeling spontaneous, just bring a map and see where you end up! You won’t be disappointed either way.

Be at one with the great outdoors by bringing your tents, sleeping bags and extra layers and enjoying a night under Scotland’s skies. You can bring everything you need for a perfect break – including those all-important home comforts – with no luggage fees to think about when you travel by ferry.

If you’re on the fence about camping, why not book into a luxury spa hotel and enjoy an indulgent pamper and tranquil night’s sleep? Or, even better, opt for a unique stay in one of Scotland’s unusual accommodation options, ranging from houseboats, campervans, shepherds’ huts and luxurious bothy’s to yurts, former churches and glamping pods!

Man lying in cosy campervan with blankets and fairly lights looking at Eilean Donan, Scotland.
©VisitBritain/James Relf Dyer

With such a diverse range of things to see, do and experience, the possibilities are almost endless on a holiday to the UK. To check out our Special Offers and book ferry travel for your next big 2022 adventure, head to www.steam-packet.com.

Please note that some locations may be affected by COVID-19 restrictions. It is recommended to check before travel.

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