For a quintessentially British getaway, you cannot beat the gorgeous countryside. From the chocolate-box villages of the Cotswolds and the shimmering waters of Loch Lomond to the natural beauty of the Yorkshire Dales, some of the most stunning scenery in the world can be found in the UK’s countryside.
Whether you’re after a cosy countryside retreat, complete with quaint villages and independent tea rooms, a country walk across rolling green hills and through hidden valleys, or just want to experience some of the most beautiful rural areas in the country, you’re sure to find a great-value getaway with our list of the best countryside breaks below!
Scarborough, Heartbeat Country & Historic York
With warmer weather on the horizon, longer daylight hours, and the first signs of spring approaching, the marvellous month of March is the perfect time to leave your home comforts behind and join us for a wonderful 5-day break to Scarborough, Heartbeat Country & Historic York.
From classic seaside Scarborough and historic York to the lovely moorland village of Goathland, hidden away in the stunning North York Moors National Park and made famous by the hit TV series Heartbeat, this break combines the very best of the coast, city and countryside in one spectacular getaway!
A Taste of Somerset, The Mendip Hills & Cider Tasting
Combining rolling hills, bubbling cider and charming country villages, indulge in a Taste of Somerset, the Mendip Hills & Cider Tasting on this fabulous 5-day break. Staying in the nostalgic resort of Weston-super-Mare, join us as we soak up the very best that the region has to offer with a magical journey through the Mendip Hills, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, stopping off en route in the picturesque villages of Wells, Street and Cheddar.
Enjoy the taste of cider? We also visit the family-run Sheppy’s Cider Farm, who have been lovingly crafting award-winning ciders for over 200 years! Go behind the scenes on a guided tour through the farm’s sun-dappled orchards and enjoy some delicious cider tasting - cheers to that!
Downton Abbey Behind the Scenes & Warwick
Step into the opulent world of Downton Abbey and relive all the drama of the Crawley family on an exclusive visit to Highclere Castle with our Downton Abbey Behind the Scenes & Warwick break. This rural estate in the heart of Hampshire is well known to millions as the backdrop of the much-loved TV series and films, and you’ll get the chance to roam this magnificent house and its wonderful gardens which will have its spring flowers in full bloom!
Highclere’s lavish and beautiful interiors are a sight to behold, and you’ll even be able to descend into the cellars to access the exclusive Egyptian Exhibition, which explores the achievements of the 5th Earl of Carnarvon who helped discover the tomb of Tutankhamen in 1922.
Balmoral Castle & Aberdeenshire
If you’re looking for a break that combines spectacular scenery and famous castles with royal connections, then this trip to Balmoral Castle & Aberdeenshire is for you. Set in the Grampian Highlands, enjoy the vibrant city of Aberdeen and its surroundings with its historical buildings, striking granite skyline and grandiose monuments.
Next, visit the picturesque village of Ballater and regal Balmoral Castle, both of which are located in the heart of Royal Deeside, an area that captivated Queen Victoria due to its stunning landscape of mountains and shimmering rivers. Finally, a trip to the delightful capital city of Scotland, Edinburgh, with its atmospheric cobbled streets and Georgian avenues, rounds off this wee Scottish adventure perfectly.
Stratford-upon-Avon & the Cotswold Villages
Soak up the peaceful ambience and country charm of the Cotswolds, with its gentle rolling hills, meandering river valleys and sleepy ancient limestone towns on our Stratford-upon-Avon & the Cotswold Villages break. Forever associated with William Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon is home to pretty riverside gardens and world-famous theatres including the Swan Theatre, home to the Royal Shakespeare Company.
With visits to pretty Stow-on-the-Wold, renowned for its traditional stone buildings and wonderful collection of artisan boutiques, and Bourton-on-the-Water, known for its 18th-century bridges and pretty river banks, this promises to be a lovely getaway with the countryside at its heart.
Beautiful Ayrshire Coast & Loch Lomond
Serene beauty and a unique atmosphere await on our fantastic 5-day break to the Beautiful Ayrshire Coast and Loch Lomond. Combining the popular seaside resorts of Ayr and Troon with a visit to the largest body of freshwater in mainland Britain, Loch Lomond, this tantalising part of Scotland is just waiting to be uncovered!
Shimmering Loch Lomond is situated amidst one of Scotland’s most idyllic and unspoilt areas in the Trossachs National Park and offers breathtaking scenery set against a dramatic mountainous backdrop. This treasure trove of delights is just a stone’s throw away from Glasgow, offering a peaceful and relaxing alternative to the hustle-and-bustle of the big city. With stops at both the charming village of Luss and Balloch included, get ready for an abundance of gorgeous views across Ben Lomond and a myriad of enchanting nooks to explore.
The most beautiful countryside breaks with National Holidays
Short breaks and weekend getaways in the UK are the perfect way to explore the beauty of Britain on a budget, and our extensive selection of Countryside Holidays offers something for everyone. Stunning scenery and inspirational sights await, so don’t forget your camera!