Travel Trends 2021: 10 inexpensive summer holidays in the U.K.

A university city with a strong sense of history, Durham features impressive, historic architecture, with an ornate cathedral and imposing castle that dates back to the Norman conquest. The medieval character of the welcoming city contrasts with the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside–explore both aspects with friends this summer. This popular weekend break destination features top attractions like the Botanic Garden, Finchale Priory and Durham Heritage Centre.

A classic, British seaside resort in Essex with a sense of fun, Southend-on-Sea boasts a seafront amusement park, seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and the longest pier in the world. Visit for traditional fish and chips, amusement arcades and rollercoasters as you explore a lively nightlife scene and family-friendly cafes.

The capital of Wales provides an exciting option for a cheap summer holiday city break. In Cardiff, you will find impressive cultural attractions including the National Museum of Wales, sophisticated boutique shops and independent bars.

Cardiff Castle, which dates back to Roman times, is a focal point of the city centre, surrounded by lively restaurants and cafes, as well as amazing luxury hotels.

A city defined by its naval heritage and a bustle port, Southampton has more than 90 buildings of historical significance to explore. A visit to the city brings access to modern retail developments like the Westquay Shopping Centre for some of the best retail locations in the south of England.

There are also urban parks to visit, medieval churches and the Mayflower Theatre. The SeaCity Museum includes exhibits linked to Southampton’s seafaring traditions, including its fascinating connection to the Titanic.

Scotland’s largest city has, normally, one of the most dynamic nightlife scenes in Europe. There are top nightclubs like Sub Club, world famous live concert venues including the Barrowland Ballroom and The Hydro, alongside whisky bars and an eclectic restaurant scene.

Visit Glasgow to delve into world-class cultural attractions like the Riverside Transport Museum and Kelvingrove Art Gallery. You’ll make new connections in one of the world’s friendliest cities.

Plan your next trip to Belfast for one of the cheapest summer holiday options this year. Street art, food and drink at the Cathedral Quarter, heritage tours and connections to Titanic and Game of Thrones have fueled the growth in visitors to the city. Top attractions include Belfast Castle, St. George’s Market with its independent traders and the Ulster Museum.

One of the most popular city break destinations in England also offers exceptional value for money. Among the cheapest summer holidays this year will be a weekend stay in Liverpool. Sport fans can learn about two of the biggest football teams in the world, Everton and Liverpool, alongside tours themed around the city’s musical heritage. Top attractions include Tate Liverpool, the modern art gallery in former dock warehouses, and the Royal Albert Dock Victorian leisure complex.

For a cheap weekend away in the sunny South West of England, Bristol represents some of the best value for money you can find. A top food destination with a variety of vegan cafes, Bristol has a strong cultural scene and is a regional centre for commerce. The immersive Brunel Museum chronicles the achievements of the Victorian engineer. A Banksy walking tour introduces the city through the street artist and his emergence in the 1980s.

The quintessential family seaside resort, Blackpool attracts millions of visitors each year with an attractive price for summer holiday breaks. Expect neon lights, traditional seaside piers, beach attractions, rollercoasters and ice cream shops. The Blackpool Tower, modelled after the Eiffel Tower, provides views across the Irish Sea. Blackpool Illuminations is a free light show that transforms the town from August to November.

Associations with Robin Hood have made Nottingham a favourite for folklore fans through the years. Today, you’ll find a buzzy student scene and historical attractions like Nottingham Castle. A leading tourist destination in the East Midlands of England, the city has a relaxed feel and is a UNESCO City of Literature with links to Lord Byron and D.H. Lawrence.