10 cheap places to holiday in the UK

A summer holiday doesn’t have to break the bank, especially if you stay in the UK.

With a little planning, you can save money without compromising on fun, adventure and relaxation.

From rugged coastal escapes to buzzing city breaks, there’s something for everyone in every corner of the country, even if you’re on a tight budget.

Here are just a few places where there are great deals and wonderful holidays to be found.

1. Peak District

If you want to soak up the great outdoors, you can’t go wrong in the Peak District - the UK’s first national park.

Packed with scenic walking trails, limestone valleys and beautiful villages, it’s perfect for those who want to reconnect with nature. 

The Peak District boasts plenty of affordable holiday cottages, and you might benefit from lower prices if you can travel outside the school holidays.

You could even cut costs further by going camping.

If you’re visiting, you should definitely:

• hike up Mam Tor, walk up Kinder Scout walk and explore the scenic Monsal Trail
• head underground at the legendary Blue John Cavern
• enjoy sweet treats in Bakewell

2. Liverpool

Liverpool is one of the country’s most vibrant and affordable cities, boasting stunning architecture, an iconic waterfront, world-class museums and a thriving nightlife.

And of course, it’s the birthplace of The Beatles, with the legacy of the Fab Four looming large everywhere you look.

It’s really easy to explore the city centre on foot, so it doesn’t cost a lot to take in all of Liverpool’s landmarks and attractions.

We recommend:

• visiting The Beatles Story - a museum that tells the story of the legendary band
• soaking up incredible views on the ferry across the Mersey  
• enjoying art and history at the Walker Art Gallery and Museum of Liverpool -they’re both free
• grabbing cheap global cuisine at Bold Street

3. Cardiff

The Welsh capital offers a great mix of entertainment, history and culture.

With its impressive castle, free museums and stunning outdoor spaces, it’s a great budget-friendly option for a city break.

And with its great transport links, it’s an excellent place to stay if you want to explore other parts of South Wales, such as Penarth and Barry Island.

If you’re visiting Cardiff, you should:

• explore the impressive Cardiff Castle, right in the heart of the city.
• take a cheap boat tour around Cardiff Bay
• visit iconic locations from Doctor Who, which is made in Cardiff
• relax, explore and enjoy nature trails at Bute Park

4. Norfolk

Norfolk is the perfect destination if you’re seeking peace, unspoiled beauty and some fresh sea air.

With its charming seaside towns, nature reserves and pretty villages, visiting this part of the country can feel taking a step back in time.

That makes it perfect for everyone from solo holidaymakers and couples on a romantic getaway to families who want to keep the kids entertained.

While you're there:

• enjoy the sand under your feet in places like Holkham Beach and Wells-next-the-Sea
• sample the traditional British seaside experience in Great Yarmouth or Cromer
• spot seals on a boat trip from Blakeney Point
• visit Norwich Cathedral and the nearby market

5. Brighton

A vibrant seaside city with free entertainment and quirky charm, Brighton makes for a great budget break.

From its famous pebble beach and historic pier to its buzzing nightlife and quirky boutiques, Brighton offers big-city excitement in a relaxed coastal setting.

If you’re planning a trip to Brighton:

• enjoy classic amusements on Brighton Pier
• soak up the sun on the iconic beach
• take in stunning views from the British Airways i360 - you might get great discounts if you book early

6. Cornwall

Cornwall can be an expensive place to visit during the peak summer months.

But it can be considerably cheaper if you’re able to visit at other times of the year - when you might still get lucky with the weather.

Whether you want to relax in a charming seaside town or gaze in awe at its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters, Cornwall offers a great mix of adventure and relaxation.

We suggest:

• going surfing at Newquay or soaking up the sun in Perranporth
• taking in the stunning St Ives coastline
• enjoy panoramic views on the South West Coast Path
• exploring Cornwall’s ancient tin mines

7. Belfast

The Northern Ireland capital is now firmly established as a vibrant cultural destination with top-rated museums, public art and a fantastic food scene. 

It’s also a brilliant base for exploring Northern Ireland’s coast and taking in all its natural wonders.

Don’t miss out on:

• a day trip to the Giant’s Causeway
• a tour of the Titanic Belfast museum
• cheap eats and local crafts at St George’s Market

8. Northumberland

With its rolling hills and sweeping beaches, Northumberland offers some of the most unspoiled landscapes in the country. 

Home to iconic landmarks that define British history, Northumberland offers world-class sights without the crowds or the big price tags.

Make sure you:

• walk sections of Hadrian’s Wall
• visit Bamburgh Castle
• cross the causeway to Holy Island (Lindisfarne).
• head to Alnwick Castle – you might recognise it from Harry Potter and Blackadder

9. Kent

Known as the “Garden of England”, Kent offers a little bit of everything, such as famous beaches, dramatic cliffs and iconic buildings.

There are also loads of great accommodation options, from budget hotels to affordable coastal cottages and caravan parks.

If you’re planning a trip to Kent, make sure you check out:

• the free Turner Contemporary gallery in Margate
• Whitstable’s legendary oysters
• the world-famous White Cliffs of Dover

10. Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire combines dramatic coastline, historic sites and plenty of outdoor adventure.

That makes it the perfect place for families and thrill-seekers who want to get up close to nature.

We recommend:

• hiking and wildlife spotting in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, the only coastal national park in the UK
• cliff jumping and wild swimming in St Davids
• heading to Pembroke and Carew castles
• discovering Barafundle Bay, a secluded beach with world-famous golden sands