5 One-of-a-Kind Ideas for a UK Break

Our friends from the Pegasus Marine Team are our guest bloggers this week and have shared their thoughts on some ideas of things to do. 

As the world of travel continues to evolve, it's becoming easier and easier to travel the globe in search of unique and exciting things to do - but this often means leaving the UK behind. However, thanks to our beautiful countryside, rich culture and diverse history, there are so many ways to guarantee a Great British break.

From exploring the canals (and pubs!) on a canal boat and taking part in a spy-themed treasure trail to spending a few nights under the stars, today’s post will give you a few ideas when it comes to alternative UK holiday options for summer 2016.

1) Float along the UK canals

The UK is famous for its many canals. From Oxford to York, there are a range of beautiful boating trips available for visitors looking to get out on the water - and cruising season is usually from March to October, making this the perfect family escape during the school holidays. Park up and explore the surrounding areas, such as Marlow or Henley - where you can stop at Rebellion Beer Co. (a local brewery serving delicious beers) for a first-hand tour.

The best thing about canal holidays is that you won’t have to rely on glorious weather to enjoy your trip. On rainy days, you can stay inside and experience authentic canal living - or if the sun’s out, you may prefer to bask in the fresh canal air. You can rent a boat in various locations across the UK, or even buy your own narrowboat on finance if you’re looking for something long-term.

2) Try out a Treasure Trail!

Fancy indulging in some espionage, or love solving murder mysteries? If you’ve got an appetite for adventure, self-guided treasure trails are an affordable way to get to know the rich history of the town or village you’re staying in - and they’re an ideal holiday activity for families. Treasure Trails are perfect for allowing locals and visitors to explore somewhere new, or learn new things about a place they love - and you can download themed booklets instantly to take your first step on a tour of rural Britain.

3) Enjoy a weekend under the stars

Home to some of the largest areas of Dark Sky in the whole of Europe, the UK offers some truly unmatched stargazing opportunities for nature lovers and amateur astronomers alike. 90% of the British population doesn’t have the chance to witness a truly dark sky - and with a number of International Dark Sky Places situated across the country, it’s easy to take advantage of this natural phenomenon. Galloway Forest Park, located in Scotland, boasts no less than 300 square miles of treeless fields - where you can gaze upon 50 times the number of stars you’d see in the average city.

4) Sail the Scottish isles

If you're looking for something a little more adventurous this summer, why not give sailing a go? Argyll and the Isles is absolutely stunning in the warmer months, and boasts some of the best sailing waters in Britain. The rugged Scottish scenery is guaranteed to take your breath away - with sandy beaches, rocky coastlines and undisturbed sea lochs in abundance.

Challenge yourself by taking a sailing course this summer at one of the many sailing schools in the Isles. Offering a great holiday idea for families that’s well worth the investment, you can take a full course and stay in a self-catering beach hut - looking across the Kyles to the Island of Bute, at Tighnabruaich Sailing School - for less than £400 for the week.

5) Sleep in the trees

Find zen by staying in a tranquil forest for the weekend - giving you an opportunity to embark on a rural adventure and live in the trees, with luxury cabins located all over Britain. From themed treehouses for children to accommodation options with hot tubs for groups of up to 10, these alternative holidays are ideal for a weekend break or longer escape. Many treehouse holidays also allow pets - so you can bring your dog along to explore the breathtaking surroundings and take some long, relaxing walks through the forest.

There you have it - 5 unique holidays in the UK, so you don't have to travel halfway across the world to experience something special this summer. Plus of course, you can pick up a Treasure Trail for over 1,200 locations in the UK.