This impossibly flat county doesn't see half the visitors its neighbours get, but it's equally worth exploring. Its seemingly endless fields spread across the landscape and right down to the coast, where ochre-red cliffs and sandy beaches are lapped by the cool North Sea. Come here for afternoons out in the market town of Beverley, where the Minster is an impressive feat of engineering, or a day in dynamic Hull, a former City of Culture. Don't miss RSPB nature reserve Bempton Cliffs, either. If you fancy a treat, book yourself into a lodge at North Star Sanctum where you'll have your own private hot tub.

Explore East Yorkshire with our guide

With 870 miles (1,400km) of coastline, Wales has seaside walks for all travellers. Whether you prefer dramatic, craggy cliffs or soft-sand beaches, there's a stretch of the Welsh coastline for you. Pembrokeshire has a good mix of the two, with pretty, secluded bays and beaches as well as striking rock formations in the water, and the Gower is known for its wide sandy swathes. Spend a few days walking the South Wales section of the coastal path and you'll fall in love with this country's truly beautiful seaside scenery.

Coventry was the UK City of Culture in 2021 and things are still on the up for the city. You'll find the UK's first permanent digital art gallery in the same building as the Telegraph Hotel, which opened in a remarkable post-war building that was once the Coventry Telegraph headquarters. Plus, the much-loved Godiva Festival returns in June 2023; look out for the statue of Lady Godiva, who is said to have ridden naked through the city.

Swap your vineyard-hopping holiday in France for a British wine adventure – the UK's vineyards are scooping up more awards each year and Surrey has a good crop of brilliant wineries to explore. Denbies is one of the most well-known, but don't miss Albury Organic and Chilworth Manor too. Stay at Denbies' own hotel, then strike out on bikes or by car each day to explore the surrounding vineyards. Who needs Burgundy?

How to go wine-tasting in Surrey

For Britain's smallest city, St Davids packs a punch, with its 12th-century cathedral the main attraction in town. Thanks to the city's compact size, everything is within walking distance so you can hop between the lovely pubs and restaurants on an evening, and wander back to the delightful Penrhiw Hotel at the end of the night. You can also use St Davids as a base for exploring Pembrokeshire's stunning coastline.

Discover more British landmarks here

Dedham Vale is a surprisingly lovely little spot for a slow weekend away. This is John Constable country, as the painter was born here on the Essex-Suffolk border and created one of his most famous works, The Hay Wain, in these parts. Today, afternoons out on the River Stour and steak dinners at Dedham Boathouse are the highlights. There's easy walking here too, as the counties are famously flat – take to the trails between Dedham and Flatford, and see if you can spot Willy Lott's Cottage (pictured), the building in that famous painting.

You've probably heard of the North Coast 500, but what about the Heart 200? This driving route takes in a host of towns and cities right in the heart of Scotland, including Stirling, Aberfeldy and Perth. Don't miss Blair Castle and pretty Pitlochry, and be sure to dine at Dunkeld Fish Bar, one of the finest places for a fish supper in all of Scotland.

All you need to know about the Heart 200 route

Cornwall's south coast is a remote region. Its tiny seaside fishing villages and coves are glorious hideaways, but they're not always easy to find. The roads here twist so tightly it's often impossible to drive more than 30 miles per hour (50km/h). But that's also part of the area's appeal. There's no rushing around here – instead it's all about spa breaks at the likes of Fowey Hall Hotel, or spectacular AA Rosette dinners at Talland Bay Hotel. Take a week and explore the south Cornish coast's highlights by car.

The UK's coolest city reopens the transformed Manchester Museum on 18 February 2023. Telling the story of Manchester from the past to today with a focus on its diverse communities, there will also be a brand-new exhibition hall dedicated to the Golden Mummies of Egypt, along with a dinosaur display, South Asia Gallery and Lee Kai Hung Chinese Culture Gallery. Afterwards, explore the burgeoning restaurant scene in Ancoats and go shopping in the Northern Quarter.

If you've always wanted to visit the Isle of Skye, go in autumn when the summer crowds have died down and the prices are more palatable. And be sure to pack your waterproofs and walking shoes. This gorgeous island has walks for all abilities, with some of the most dramatic scenery in Scotland. There's pretty exciting wildlife here too: white-tailed sea eagles and golden eagles soar in the skies, while seals, dolphins and minke whales swim in the seas beyond the land.

Love this? Follow our Facebook page for more travel inspiration

If a town that frequently pops up in 'best places to live' lists isn't a great staycation destination, we don't know what is. Stamford is a honey-hued market town in Lincolnshire, with a gorgeous stately home on its doorstep and the gorgeous River Welland running through its centre. Come here to wind down with great dinners at The Mad Turk, to shop at delightful independent stores, or simply to enjoy afternoon tea at The George hotel – a Stamford institution.

This archipelago on the edge of Britain does feel a little like it might be the end of the world. The Isles of Scilly are a good few hours by ferry from Penzance, the town at the tip of Cornwall, but the trek to get here is well worth it. Expect Caribbean-like white-sand beaches, wild heathland and exceptional walking territory. The island of Tresco has extensive botanical gardens, while St Agnes offers unrivalled seclusion. Come hungry, as the crab and lobster here are some of the best you'll ever taste.

Why you need to explore the Isles of Scilly

Raasay is small (there are just 170 residents), but truly spectacular, with mountain views, beaches and fragrant whisky awaiting. This gorgeous Scottish isle sits between the Isle of Skye and the mainland, and is often overlooked in favour of its popular neighbour. But the island's first legal distillery promises to grab your attention – and it’s open for tours. Come for a wee dram, and stay for their 10-botanical-strong gin which has juniper grown on Raasay itself. Truly beautiful beaches fringe the island's coast, and the views over to Skye's stunning mountains are spellbinding.

From Georgian townhouses to medieval alleyways, there's a lot of history to be found within Scotland's enchanting capital. Eat and drink your way around the city, then work it all off with a (literally) breathtaking hike up Arthur's Seat. 

Here’s how to enjoy a stay in Edinburgh

Perfectly paired with a visit to Edinburgh, Scotland's Tay Country – a region which takes in parts of Perthshire, Fife, Angus and the city of Dundee – lies just over the Firth of Forth. The area has varied appeal, with fishing villages like Crail on the coast and country estates like Scone Palace. Stop off at St Andrews for a round of golf, or head to Arbroath where you can try a famous Arbroath Smokie (a type of smoked haddock).

If whisky is your thing, then Islay is another great place to go for your 2023 staycation. Often heavy with peaty flavour, the whiskies here are famously distinctive, with smoky aromas and spicy tones. There's a real variety on offer too, with drams aged in sherry casks and bottles that are matured for as long as 16 years. Take a tour of the best distilleries, and don't forget to enjoy the scenery beyond the booze – Islay has some great sandy beaches and rolling hills ripe for walking off that hangover.

If you're after a Scottish adventure without the crowds, Aberdeenshire is the place. This quiet corner of the northeastern Scottish coast is a lovely little region to explore for a few days, and you're unlikely to see the hordes of visitors often found in Edinburgh or on Skye. This is where you'll find Balmoral Castle and the buzzing port city of Aberdeen. Find a luxurious base like The Fife Arms, and explore Crathes Castle, the Muir of Dinnet Nature Reserve and the myriad fishing villages that dot the coastline.

Plenty of people journey all the way to Cornwall's tip to visit the pretty town of St Ives, but fewer make a beeline for Penzance. Those that do, however, are richly rewarded. This arty seaside town has real character, and its streets are stuffed with independent shops and galleries. The outdoor Minack Theatre is a must, and nearby St Michael's Mount is just a stroll across the ocean floor (when the tide's out). Long Rock Beach, meanwhile, is the best stretch of sand nearby. Stay at the Artist Residence for excellent breakfasts and great décor.

What to see and do in Penzance

Bournemouth and Poole on the Dorset coast are great resorts to take the kids. When you're bored of Bournemouth's wide sandy bay you can do the pier-to-shore zip line or visit the Oceanarium. Base yourself in Poole, where there's a host of hotels, or stay at the Haven holiday park right on the estuary of the Rock Lea River. From Poole, hop on the ferry to visit Brownsea Island (reopens March 2023) or the beaches of Studland Bay.

You might not have heard of the Great West Way. A relatively new concept, this touring route from London to Bristol passes some of southern England's most exciting attractions, from ancient stone circles to natural hot springs. Traversable by car, rail, on foot or even by boat (the Kennet and Avon Canal runs along much of the route and the Thames will get you part of the way too), it's easy to navigate and offers some of the finest views across various Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Highlights include Devizes, the Chilterns, Bath and the attractive market town of Marlborough.

A fantastic family city break, York has appeal for all ages. Expect some educational fun in its various museums (we love the Jorvik Viking Centre and National Railway Museum), cobblestone streets with Harry Potter-style charm, and spectacular views from York Minster or Clifford's Tower. Local food includes Wensleydale cheese and Whitby crab and the StayCity Apartments make a brilliant self-catering base.

Here are more of the UK's most beautiful streets

The abbey ruins and adjacent parish churchyard were, in 1890, an inspiration to Bram Stoker as he was writing Dracula. The eerie ruins stand on the headland overlooking the town and can be reached by climbing the same 199 steps referenced in his novel. There are two weekend Goth festivals each year, a 'Dracula Experience' and more ghost walks than you could shake a spooky stick at. Oh, and in case Gothic just isn't your thing, Whitby also boasts a pretty harbour, sandy beaches and stupendous fish and chip shops.

The Kent coast has crowd-free beaches aplenty, so if you're seeking a seaside break for 2023's staycation, head east to the likes of Seasalter, Reculver and Botany Bay. Expect to find Blue Flag strands, dramatic white cliffs and seaside charm in the towns of Ramsgate and Margate, and don't miss a visit to the 36-square-mile (93sq km) Isle of Sheppey, where you can go fossil hunting or birdwatching among the marshes. Spend a week or so touring the Kent coast and you'll wonder why you ever wanted to go abroad in the first place.

Wakefield deserves your attention. The Yorkshire Sculpture Park (pictured) is just one of the unique arts attractions in and around the city, which also has the Hepworth Wakefield, Neon Workshops and the Art House. There are some lovely independent restaurants and cocktail bars in the city centre and some great farm shops in the surrounding countryside.

Spend a weekend in wonderful Wakefield

Arundel Castle is perhaps one of the most impressive medieval structures in the south of England. Built in the 11th century, it has been extended and rebuilt numerous times during the last millennium but its oldest part, the old Norman motte (mound) is still evident today. The castle is worth exploring past its history – between April-early May 2023 it hosts the Tulip Festival, where over 100,000 tulips create a stunning display of colour as they burst into bloom.

Most famous for its renowned university, Cambridge isn't just for academics. This honey-coloured city has ancient buildings and gorgeous gardens to explore, including the many colleges that make up its most famous institution. There's a quirky side to uncover in its museums, restaurants and real ale pubs while punting along the Cam or picnicking on the manicured meadows offer a taste of student life here.

The first thing you need to know about Frome is that it's pronounced 'froom'. The next thing you need to understand is that it's one of the prettiest, most sought-after places to live in the southwest of England, and you'll get why as soon as you arrive. Medieval streets and almost 400 listed buildings make this town a gorgeous place to stop for a few days. It's also a brilliant base for exploring some of the region's most intriguing historical sites, from Cley Hill, an Iron Age fort, and Farleigh Hungerford Castle. For families, Longleat Safari Park isn't too far away.

For an off-piste city break, Newcastle can't be beaten. The cultural highlight here is the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, a former flour mill on the river where changing exhibitions and great views of the city are enough to keep you entertained for hours. The Great North Museum's natural history collection and the Discovery Museum are both great spots for kids (and adults) of all ages too.  

Take an unforgettable trip to Newcastle

This dynamic northern city is most famous for its Beatles links and its immersive Beatles Story museum is a brilliant walk through the band's history. But there's more to love about Liverpool. The city's excellent museums are a great place to start – largely centred around the Royal Albert Docks, there's the northern branch of the Tate, where world-renowned artists fill its vast spaces with thought-provoking works, and the International Slavery Museum, which offers a fascinating perspective on the city's role in the trade. And as the host city for the Eurovision Song Contest in May 2023, you can expect more great things from Liverpool.

The UK's first national park, the Peak District touches five counties and has all manner of landscapes – not just peaks – to explore. Come here for charming spa towns and rural villages, walks among the hills and, of course, to enjoy traditional Bakewell tarts. Base yourself in Bakewell and strike out to explore the likes of Buxton, Chatsworth House and even a subterranean cave. If you're after a city stopoff too, head to nearby Stoke-on-Trent or Derby for a day or two.

The not-really-that-long and winding road to the Mull of Kintyre is Scotland's latest driving route to rival the North Coast 500. The Kintyre 66 (K66) is a 66-mile (106km) loop road that takes in the peninsula with Tarbert and its castle (pictured), sandy beaches, a Hebridean isle and a famous whisky town thrown in. And, of course, that famous headland, the Mull of Kintyre.

How to enjoy the Kintyre 66 (K66)

Much like its rival city, Cambridge, Oxford is so much more than the university that has made it famous. While its gorgeous, golden college buildings dominate the city centre, there are other highlights, such as the excellent Covered Market and the brilliant Ashmolean Museum. It would be easy to spend a week here, exploring the shops (don't miss a visit to Blackwell's, the bookshop where Lord of the Rings author Tolkien had meetings with his publisher) and beautiful buildings. For something a little different, go to the Pitt Rivers Museum to see an eclectic collection of artefacts from across the world.

No longer playing second fiddle to the Scottish capital, Glasgow is a great city break in its own right (though the two can be paired for a great week away). Come for the architecture and the art – the Glasgow School of Art and various galleries around town are exceptional – and stay for the brilliant atmosphere and excellent food. The Blythswood Square Hotel is an excellent base and don't miss a visit to the medieval cathedral, where the city's patron saint, St Mungo, is buried.

With a medieval castle at one end and an exciting waterfront development at the other, Cardiff has appeal for all. Spend a day exploring the castle grounds, Norman keep and the Victorian Gothic Revival mansion next door where ornate apartments will wow you with their level of artistic detail. This is a city for shoppers, as its attractive Edwardian and Victorian arcades hold independent boutiques and countless coffee shops that could easily take up an entire day's activities. For those seeking sea air, head out to Cardiff Bay where bars and restaurants overlook the water.

Known as the Garden of England for its plentiful produce, namely fruit and hops, Kent could take up an entire fortnight for your staycation. Beyond the beautiful coastline, where the likes of Whitstable and Margate draw beachgoers, there are some intriguing inland highlights. Leeds Castle, for example, is a beautiful spot to while away a few days (there's on-site accommodation) in the countryside and the city of Canterbury offers a fascinating journey into the past through its Roman Museum and, of course, the world-famous cathedral.

Stratford-upon-Avon is an exciting – and educational – family break. Home of Shakespeare, here you can learn all about the Bard's life at the house where he was born, and the property he bought after making his fortune in London. Anne Hathaway's Cottage (reopens 25 March 2023) is just outside the centre, and there's lots to do that doesn't involve the playwright at all. Walk along the river, shop on Henley Street, or head out to the Stratford Butterfly Farm.

5 Shakespearean hotspots to visit in Stratford-upon-Avon

Home to the oldest university in Scotland, where the Prince and Princess of Wales studied, and the poster boy for Scotland's golfing scene, St Andrews is a special place. Whether you're an old hat at the game, or a total beginner, this is the place to come for a round or three on its many courses – some of which overlook the blustery North Sea. For families there's an aquarium and sandy beach, and parents or grandparents will enjoy the Botanic Gardens and famous, ruined cathedral.

Regularly said to be the happiest town in Britain, there may be no more delightful place in the north of England for a staycation. With mineral-rich natural springs, Harrogate became a popular holiday spot for Georgians and Victorians. Today, it has retained its elegance and relaxing vibe, with the Victorian Turkish Baths still in operation. Valley Gardens and The Stray offer outdoor spaces for picnics and long walks, and the Royal Pump Room Museum has all the history you need to know.

Less than 20 minutes by train from London St Pancras, the city of St Albans sits on the site of the Roman city of Verulamium and there are numerous Roman sites to explore, including the Roman theatre and a 1,800-year-old hypocaust with its mosaic floor. Also unmissable are the medieval cathedral and clock tower and the streets around Market Place that have been here since the 11th century. And did we mention pubs? St Albans is the home of the Campaign for Real Ale.

How to spend 48 hours in St Albans

Ideally situated on the train line from London to Brighton, Lewes attracts city dwellers aplenty to its pretty high street and ruined castle. But the real appeal here is the easy access to the South Downs National Park. Surrounded by chalky hills, the town offers the perfect jumping-off point for long walks on the Downs, where wildflowers grow in summer and the trees turn fiery tones in autumn.

With beaches so fine the Thai tourist board accidentally used a photograph of one in their advertising campaigns, Harris is the sand-seeker's destination. Bright white beaches backed by grassy dunes and lapped by turquoise waters are the main event here, but there's lots more inland too. Spend some time here and seek out great Hebridean hospitality – try potted crab and local lamb – and don't forget to invest in some of your own Harris tweed.

At a good pace, it'll take you three days to walk the entire North Norfolk coast. But it's well worth slowing down in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) as there's lots to take in along its 45 miles (72km) of trails and beaches. Stop off for a couple of days for some birding at the Cley and Salthouse Marshes, where you might see black-tailed godwits and spotted redshanks in spring, or marsh harriers all year round. And make time to look up after dusk at the Dark Sky sites of Kelling Heath Holiday Park and Wiveton Downs – at the right time of year, you can even spot the Milky Way. Other highlights of the North Norfolk coast include boat trips to see seals on Blakeney Point, and crab dinners at the town of Cromer.

7 reasons to visit the North Norfolk coast

It's all about adventure in Fort William. In prime position for outdoor pursuits, this town is tucked between a loch and a valley, offering easy access to some spectacular Scottish countryside. Whether you want to climb Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis, or try a spot of mountain-biking in the steep slopes that surround the town, this is the perfect base. For more sedate adventures outdoors, try a cruise on the Caledonian Canal, or look out for the Hogwarts Express on the Glenfinnan viaduct, just 18 miles (29km) away.

Gateway to the glorious South Downs and the High Weald, plus all those award-winning Sussex wineries we keep hearing about, Eastbourne is the perfect seaside spot to base yourself for a few days. The town is shaking off its elderly 'waiting room for Heaven' reputation and a plethora of new boutique hotels, bars and restaurants are opening their doors. Don't miss the Towner Gallery, which celebrates its centenary in 2023 as well as hosting the renowned Turner Prize 2023, as well checking out the town's independent antique emporiums and bookshops.

Oh, what's occurin' in Barry, you ask? Since TV show Gavin & Stacey hit screens for the first time in 2007 this Welsh town has gone up in the world. Barry Island offers a classic British seaside break: there's a beach, a Pleasure Park complete with big wheel, and plenty of fish and chips to go around. While the famous Butlin's has closed down here, the town still holds much of the cheery charm the park brought, and a family holiday here is still just as fun. Plus, Gavin & Stacey fans can pay homage to their favourite scenes at various spots around town.

London remains one of the world's most captivating capital cities, with major sights – the British Museum, the Tower of London, the Natural History Museum – worth checking out. There’s a roster of fun (and mostly free) events coming up in 2023, including the London Games Festival, the coronation of King Charles III and Diwali celebrations in Trafalgar Square.

If a seaside break is what you're after, Salcombe is as wholesome as they come. This lovely little town has seafood and ocean adventures aplenty, with sea kayaking tours available to book and a curious little Maritime Museum in the Town Hall. Delve into delicious seafood at the likes of The Crab Shed and sleep at the 19th-century Fortescue Inn. 

Escape to the seaside in Salcombe

Famous for its football club, huge shopping centre and its cruise terminal, Southampton is rarely on a list of the top places for a weekend away in Britain. But there's so much more to this city than meets the eye. Its history, for starters, is fascinating and lengthy, and there are physical remnants of its old walls and gates still in place today. There's a great selection of pubs, restaurants and bars, and the Harbour Hotel & Spa is a serene waterside escape. Spend some time here and Southampton will surprise you.

Visitors have been flocking to Bath since 863 BC, when the mineral-rich hot springs were thought to be healing waters. Today, it's just as popular, typically attracting thousands of tourists every summer to the rooftop pool at the Thermae Bath Spa. There's lots to enjoy beyond the waters, too, with regal architecture, the Jane Austen Centre and some brilliant restaurants that champion the West Country's varied produce. Take at least two full days to explore this excellent city.

Characterised by the golden sandstone that its tiny cottages and townhouses are built with, the whole region of the Cotswolds often feels like a sepia photograph – especially when bathed in the evening light. While it's beautiful in summer, travel at off-peak times and you'll beat the crowds at famous towns such as Castle Combe (pictured), Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold. It's also worth seeking out some of the lesser-known things to see and do such as Cirencester's Corinium Museum.

An historic town with a distinctly young personality, Falmouth is a wonderful place to while away the weekend. Stay at St Michaels Resort, just above a lovely white-sand beach, and book in to use the thermal suite to help you wind down on arrival. For active types, kayaking or paddleboarding with Gylly Adventures is a highlight, while those after a more sedate experience can hike up to Pendennis Castle or visit the National Maritime Museum. Don't miss a lunch at the Pandora Inn, just a 15-minute drive out of town.

How to spend a weekend in Falmouth

This charming Scottish city doesn't draw the crowds that Edinburgh and Glasgow do, but the fact that the V&A decided to set up their second outpost here is a huge testament to Dundee's excellence. With a dreamy setting on the Firth of Tay, the museum is as beautiful as it is interesting, and celebrates its fifth anniversary in 2023. Check into the Malmaison and don't miss dinner at The Newport to taste dishes by MasterChef the Professionals winner, Jamie Scott.

A weekend in UNESCO World Heritage Saltaire, West Yorkshire, will undoubtedly involve exploring Salts Mill and discovering Hockney's artworks. You can also jump aboard the Shipley Glen Tramway (the oldest operating tramway in the UK) or on a canal boat on the Leeds and Liverpool canal. And in the evening? The Tap Room at internationally award-winning Saltaire Brewery.

Discover more of the UK's prettiest small towns and villages

No, it's not Italy, this is Wales. This odd little village on the estuary of the Afon Glaslyn river, just on the fringes of Snowdonia National Park, is quite the sight. Its multicoloured buildings and eclectic architecture are the creation of Clough Williams-Ellis, who took inspiration from Italy's Portofino for his private peninsula. Today, the village is a lovely place for a long weekend. Stay in the stylish Hotel Portmeirion, which has an outdoor pool for summer and roaring fires for winter breaks, and explore the village's quirky squares or play a game of giant chess on the lawns.

You could spend several weeks exploring Holy Island and still not have discovered all its charms, but a short staycation will still enthral. An island sitting just off another island, this remote region is the kind of place where Welsh is spoken as frequently as English, and the beautiful sandy beaches rarely get busy. Budding ornithologists will love South Stack Cliffs RSPB Reserve, where guillemots, puffins and peregrines can be seen, and golfers will be well looked after at the Holyhead Golf Club. If you fancy a small (720-foot/220m) challenge, climb Holyhead Mountain, or simply kayak around its craggy coastline to seek out secret bays.

The market town of Ely and its colossal cathedral have all the ingredients for a perfect weekend away. Potter around the Saturday market before enjoying cream teas or real ales down by the peaceful riverside. For history buffs there's the Ely Museum, tours of Ely Cathedral and the half-timbered house where Oliver Cromwell once lived (pictured). Love nature? Wicken Fen Nature Reserve and its walk and bike trails are as green as it gets.

Now see 8 British islands you'll want to visit

With the mountains of Snowdonia National Park looming behind the waterfront, Caernarfon is a perfect getaway for those seeking spectacular views with the odd history lesson. An enormous 13th-century castle sits on the riverside here, initially built by King Edward I as a display of Welsh military strength. It was more recently used as a filming location for Prince Charles' investiture in Netflix show The Crown, and is well worth an afternoon of exploration. Just beyond the castle is the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways' steam locomotives, transporting passengers through the stunning foothills of Mount Snowdon.

Is it technically a staycation if the Isle of Man isn't actually in Britain? As it's just a few hours by ferry from England, we'd argue the case. And frankly, to miss out on this island's quirks for the sake of a technicality would be remiss. It might be just 33 miles (53km) long and 13 miles (21km) wide, but the Isle of Man has a lot to intrigue visitors. It has its own currency (Manx), its own breed of domestic cat (also Manx) and an unusual three-legged symbol on its flag. Come here to ride on horse-drawn trams, see whales from the seat of your kayak in the ocean and spot seals on the nearby Calf of Man island.

Staycations don't have to mean staying on the mainland. Britain has a host of intriguing islands to explore, and Guernsey is one of its most interesting. The history is the most intriguing aspect of this isle, which is part of the Channel Islands reached by ferry or plane. For foodies, seafood is the main draw, while families will love days out on the beach. Delve into the island's history at the German Occupation Museum, and stroll around St Peter Port to browse its independent boutiques. Old Government House Hotel & Spa is a brilliant base from which to explore the island. 

How to spend a weekend in Guernsey

For something even more secluded in the Channel Islands, Alderney is a gorgeous escape. Braye Beach Hotel overlooks a glorious stretch of white sand, and from here you can explore the entire island on foot. Seek out more stunning coves and swimming spots, or take an island minibus tour to visit highlights like Fort Tourgis, one of 18 on the island. Spot unique species as you stroll across its landscapes, such as the blonde hedgehog, and look out for puffins and gannets on nearby Burhou. 

The UK's prettiest seaside towns you need to see to believe