Budget Friendly Staycation Ideas in the UK This Year

Lots of us may be looking to spend less and be more aware of our carbon footprint with traveling by plane. This means that a staycation ticks the boxes for so many reasons. The UK offers us so much and it's right here on our doorstep. There are so many ways to not only explore this wonderful Isle but to do it without breaking the bank. From attractions that are perfect for that IG moment, to historic sites throughout the country, outdoor experiences to die for, and amazing hotels to stay in, UK staycations is the one for now!

Let's find out the best budget-friendly staycation ideas when exploring the UK:

Staycations in Somerset

Somerset is one of the largest UK counties and there loads to see and do. It has various areas of natural beauty and is home the wonders of Exmoor National Park.

Somerset is also offering budget-friendly last minute staycation offers and experiences. From the likes of Cheddar Gorge which is one of the UK's deepest canyons. Within the gorge itself is Gough's Cave where humans used to live. Enjoy amazing countryside views from the Lookout Tower and Jacob's Ladder.

If you are looking to find out about the history of Somerset during your UK staycation then head to Dunster Castle and Bailey Castle that has over 1000 years of history. As well as being within beautiful grounds to explore, visitors can find out about this medieval attraction by exploring the interior.

Another historical must-see attraction for a staycation is by visiting the Montacute House. This mansion from the Victorian era has over 60 Tudor portraits. It has a tearoom to relax in after walking around the well-kept gardens.

As mentioned, Exmoor National Park is the treasure of Somerset and is a must experience outdoor attraction when on a staycation in the UK. With woodlands to explore, unrivaled coastal views and moorland to get lost in - this is the place to enjoy and experience with family and friends. It has activities such as walking, cycling, watersports as well as venturing to the villages roundabout. The Valley of the Rocks in the National Park is a great experience too.

These are some of the best budget-friendly attractions to visit on staycations in Somerset. Somerset also has a variety of great accommodation options that don't cost the earth. With tons of market towns and small villages, there are comfortable B and B's that can be really cost-effective for those on a staycation budget.

Staycations in the Lake District

Staycations in the UK don't come much better than a visit to the wonders of the Lake District in the North of England at Cumbria. It has some of the most jaw-dropping landscapes and scenery in the UK. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site which isn't a surprise to anyone.

Outdoor action is the plan of the day when on a Lake District staycation. Hiking is the perfect budget-friendly activity when in the Lake District. It's for everyone as well no matter what level.

If you want the perfect views of Lakeland Fells then the beginner-friendly hike of Tarn Hows is the one to go for. For those looking for something a little more challenging then the Helvellyn climb should be considered. It takes around 5 hours so visitors will definitely get some exercise during their UK staycation here.

For those looking for something even wilder then plan and get ready for Scafell Pike - England's highest mountain. It's all worth it with the fantastic views on offer here.

Out with hiking, there are plenty of budget-friendly attractions to explore that aren't as taxing on the ole' body. For example, The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway is a vintage train experience that takes the lush hills of the Lakes from Ravenglass to Dalegarth Station - about 7 miles in total.

Beatrix Potter is a well-known writer who spent most of her time and called the Lake District her home. Explore the World of Beatrix Potter and the Gallery as well as the notable attraction of Hill Top. William Wordsworth is another famous writer from the Lakes and we suggest taking in his former homes and where was put to rest.

We can't talk about Lake district staycations without mentioning Windermere. It's the biggest lake area in the whole of the Lakes and the popular visitor hub is at the picturesque banks at Bowness-on-Windermere. Here visitors can enjoy other budget-friendly staycation ideas such as sailing, watersports, and kayaking.

The Lake District is another place similar to Somerset that has quaint villages and towns that offer budget-friendly accommodation during a staycation in the UK.

Other UK Staycation Ideas

The Lake District and Somerset are fantastic UK destinations when looking for a staycation. Other places to visit include:

Glasgow - a top budget-friendly destination with lots of culture, friendly people and immense history. Scotland's second city is the perfect place to come for a city break staycation due to its diverse experiences on offer. From free entry to galleries and museums, it has many parks to enjoy and the wonders of the Botanic Gardens in the West End.

The Scottish Highlands - Those looking for another memorable staycation then head to the Highlands. With many outdoor experiences to enjoy, you can do it on a staycation budget. With the wildlife, the amazing landscapes that are perfect for hikes and exploration as well as the wonders of Inverness - the Highland Capital. You can't come here without visiting Loch Ness and Nessie too!

These are just some of the places to enjoy on budget UK staycation. The island here so be discovered so get outside and do it.