July 15th, 2011 
Tushar Mathur 
Although you might be tempted by the nightlife of Ibiza, the endless white sands of Cuba, or the cheap flights and warm weather of the Costa del Sol, there are actually plenty of perfect holiday destinations right under your nose, here in the British Isles. Whether you are looking for warm seas to swim in, tropical-esque beaches to laze on, or some of the best food and drink in the world, there’s a British holiday spot that has it. Here is a list of the top 10 UK holiday destinations:
1.Brighton
This south coast city is one of the top UK holiday destinations, not only because it has all the sun, sea and sand of a typical British seaside resort, but because it also has a bit more to offer. There is nightlife here to rival the best of the European resorts, there is shopping for everything from vintage trinkets to designer threads, and if you are a foodie then Brighton can make your holiday dreams come true, with everything from exquisite Persian food to good old fish and chips wrapped in newspaper.
2. The Isle of Wight
Although it’s really only a short trip from Portsmouth or Southampton, there is something about getting a ferry to the Isle of Wight that really makes you feel like you’re going on holiday. From the frantic fun of Cowes week, to the beautiful beaches of the Ryde side of the island, IOW has a lot to offer as a holiday spot.
3. The Cotswolds
If you fancy staying in a manor house and indulging in a bit of history for your holiday this year, then the Cotswolds are a great option. The area is also perfect for anyone who likes walking and there are some fabulous chic retreats, many with private pools, spas and other pampering facilities.
4. Cornwall
Probably as close as you will get to feeling like you are in another country, parts of Cornwall have quite a tropical air to them, particularly the beautiful beaches of the coast. Swim in the seawater pool near Bude, learn about Merlin and King Arthur at Tintagel and indulge in plenty of pasty eating and Cornish ice cream sampling.
5. Devon
Another part of the UK with some stunning coastlines, Devon is the perfect place for a UK holiday that really feels like a break. Whether you want to horse ride on the Moors, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the East Devon coastline, or simply spend a week reading on the beach and eating cream teas, you’ll find plenty of opportunity for all.
6. Norfolk
There’s nothing quite so peaceful as drifting down the river in a pretty old canal boat in the British summer sunshine. So relaxing is this pastime that boating on the Norfolk Broads has become an extremely popular option as a summer holiday. Hire a boat for a week to follow the old canal routes and feel the stresses and strains of modern life drift away.
7. Lake District
If The Lakes are good enough to inspire the likes of William Wordsworth then they’re certainly a holiday destination worth writing about. An area of mountains and lakes, this is perfect hiking territory and great for sailing too. Hire a cottage next to Lake Windermere for a week and see if you can spot the local version of the Loch Ness Monster.
8. Scilly Isles
Just off the southwestern tip of Cornwall, and with some seriously tropical looking beaches, the Scilly Isles make a great spot for a sunny UK holiday. Whether you want to sail, explore, or simply eat great food and drink great wine for a week, there is a Scilly Isle for you.
9. London
If you’re a non-Londoner then a trip to the capital is a great way to spend a city break. Take an open top bus ride around the city then have a picnic by the Serpentine in Hyde Park. In the evenings, head to the West End for dinner and a show, or explore the nightlife which is some of the best in Europe.
10. Blackpool
If you’re looking for a traditional British seaside holiday then you wont get better than Blackpool. Buy yourself a Kiss Me Quick hat, stock up on rock, roll up your trouser legs and sit back in your deckchair whilst you listen to the sounds of the pier.
This was a guest post by John for National Car Hire UK who offer low priced car hire London for your UK holiday transport.
