Our Green and Pleasant Land

After lockdown anticipation and trepidation, that unforgettable holiday is likely to be anywhere in the UK. As Boris Johnson announces that the lifting of all restrictions will now be moved to the 19th July 2021 pending a further review, the UK continues to be a sought after holiday destination. But It is strange that as a result of the pandemic, the UK is fully booked where it was once the preferred destination for tourists rather than the British.

Yet, our country has always been undeniably beautiful with so much to offer that so many are only now discovering. Steeped in history, our cities have exceptional stories that unfold before us; the scenery to be seen across green and undulating hills or on the coast, is quite breathtaking, and now is the time to look inward to the UK. Our MD has been travelling across the UK and has provided us with a Top Ten List of super destinations.

1. Newcastle - Historically, the city dates back at least 2,000 years but the city itself has now been bought up to date with exceptional restaurants, a super nightlife and with great access to breath-taking North Tyneside and Northumberland coastlines.

2. York, Helmsley, Castle Howard showcases the beauty of Yorkshire. The drive from York through the countryside to the chocolate box town of Helmsley and then back down towards Castle Howard, is unforgettable. Like most of the UK, Yorkshire is stunning and that’s what Yorkshire follows have been telling everyone for years. Be sure to visit the Shambles and Minster in York.

3. Regent’s Park and the Outer Circle - the architecture is stunning as you make your way around the Outer Circle which can be done on foot, by car or on a bike. Visit Saint Katharine’s Precinct, at the north west corner of the Outer Circle, off Albany Street and the giraffe enclosure at London Zoo which can be seen from the main road.

4. Lake Windermere - Located in the idyllic Lake District National Park, Windermere is one of the most popular destinations in the Cumbria. It is surrounded by mountain peaks and villages, including Bowness-on-Windermere and Kendall.

5. Lulworth in Dorset - Home to the incredible Durdle Door. This limestone arch is over 400 feet tall and is privately owned; the views are exceptional and the beaches as beautiful as many that can be found in more exotic locations.

6. Loch Ness - Located near the town of Inverness, the freshwater loch is most famous for the mythical Loch Ness Monster. You can also visit the remains of Urquhart Castle that lies on the shores.

7. Rye in East Sussex is known for its cobbled lanes that are lined with medieval, half-timbered houses. You can visit the 14th-century Ypres Tower (now the Rye Castle Museum) and the Norman St. Mary’s Church to get stunning views of the town.

8. St Michaels Mount in Cornwall is one of the most photographed locations in the UK. This abbey is located in a small tidal island and was built by Benedictine monks during the 12th century.

9. Three Cliffs Bay in Wales is a spectacular shoreline of sand dunes, salt marshes and the bay's signature three limestone cliffs.

10. Staithes - North Yorkshire clings to a hillside, and features winding cobbled streets and cottages. Explore the local coastal trails along what’s otherwise known as the Dinosaur Coast.

11. Southwold in Suffolk with a beach-hut lined seafront, quaint pier and beautiful town, you might be hard-pressed to find a more British seaside town. It’s also home to the Adnams Brewery, where you can take a tour including a tasting.

12. The stunning city of Bath has the only natural thermal hot springs in Britain. The city is also known for its stunning honey-coloured architecture such as the Royal Crescent. This impressive landmark is arranged around a perfect lawn overlooking Royal Victoria Park and forms a sweeping crescent of 30 Grade I Listed terrace houses. It is without doubt one of the greatest examples of Georgian architecture anywhere in the UK.