UK holidays

A pretty town deserves a spot on your itinerary with its cobbled streets, Georgian architecture, antique shops and cosy pubs, and a park home to hundreds of free-roaming deer

A quintessential English town, with narrow cobbled lanes and surrounded by diverse landscapes, offers a glimpse into bygone eras.

The historic town of Petworth in Sussex is characterised by meandering cobbled lanes, 17th-century Georgian buildings and quaint, stone cottages. It’s conveniently positioned just over half an hour’s drive from Chichester and around 50 minutes from Portsmouth, offering a delightful day out among its unspoilt landscapes.

There are narrow streets that lead to hidden gems scattered around the town, with antique emporiums and independent boutiques, complemented by cafés, delicatessens, and inviting pubs. Thanks to its scenic setting, it was even crowned by Condé Nast Traveller as one of the UK’s most picturesque towns.

READ MORE: Small village named ‘loveliest town in England’ with best-rated food and drinkREAD MORE: Rural town dubbed ‘the new Notting Hill’ is brimming with independent shops and Michelin-star restaurants

The medieval town, with more than 400 listed buildings, is also renowned for its thriving art and antiques community, with a wide range of galleries and more than 30 antique stores where you can find ancient treasures. One of the most popular spots for vintage goodies is Petworth Antiques Market, featuring more than 40 dealers offering everything from exquisite furniture to ornaments and an extensive selection of homeware.

One guest enthused on TripAdvisor: “I absolutely love going to the Petworth Antique Market, the customer service is amazing with extremely friendly, helpful staff, and I always always find beautiful treasures there!!”

You certainly won’t go hungry during a trip to Petworth with The Hungry Guest on Middle Street, among its standout establishments, serving up seasonal, locally sourced cuisine that has elevated the town’s reputation. Additionally, there’s an array of inviting pubs, including The Welldiggers Arms, The Black Horse Inn and The Angel Inn.

But away from the town centre, Petworth is a haven for avid walkers, with diverse landscapes within easy reach of the pretty town, including the rugged chalk hills of the South Downs National Park and the ancient woodland of The Mens Nature Reserve. Yet, the Petworth House and Park is the town’s most notable attraction, with its sprawling 700-acre park surrounding the impressive 17th-century Petworth House.

Visitors can explore the historic stately residence and discover an exceptional collection of world-class art and sculptures. The property represents one of the finest remaining examples of an English landscape designed by the renowned Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown.

There are also hundreds of deer wandering freely across Petworth Park that can be easily admired, or you can soak up the spectacular views of the South Downs during a stroll around the grounds. The National Trust park has certainly put Petworth on the map, and even more so after appearing in major film productions, Napoleon, Rebecca, and Maleficent, as well as Netflix’s popular drama Bridgerton.

Following a visit, one traveller shared: “Another National Trust gem! Had a wonderful day there. So much to see and wonderful walks in the grounds and deer park. The art collection is outstanding, and as usual, the volunteers in the house were great. Had an interesting talk in the square dining room about the family’s history. Found the kitchens fascinating! Great cafe too. Highly recommend.”

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

Ensure our latest lifestyle and travel stories always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as your Preferred Source in your Google search settings.

A picturesque village just off the motorway boasts pretty cottages, a microbrewery and plenty of shops and restaurants as well as strong links to dinosaurs

When driving along the motorway, most people will have a go-to service station or stop on the way. However if you’re heading towards the likes of Cheshire and Warrington, there’s one picture-perfect village that’s well worth having on your radar.

With the busy roads, high-sided lorries and fast traffic, people could be forgiven for thinking any quiet villages of the North West must be miles away.

But the chocolate box village of Lymm in Cheshire is mere minutes away from the grey blocks of perpetually busy road on the M62 and M6, and it’s a historic gem of a place that has plenty to occupy and entertain visitors on a day trip or those wishing to stay a little bit longer.

A short walk from the village centre brings you out at the picturesque scenery of Lymm Dam – with woodlands and meadows teaming with wildlife – or, back in the village, you could choose to take a stroll along the towpath of the Bridgewater Canal which has an abundance of interesting boats moored up that add to the village’s unique atmosphere.

The area is not only famous for its water but also for a history that includes a dinosaur’s footprint that’s a staggering 240 million years old.

Best UK holiday cottage deals

This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more

From £27 per night

Sykes Cottages

https://go.skimresources.com?id=76202X1526515&xs=1&xcust=Mirror&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sykescottages.co.uk

Sykes Cottages offers a wide range of handpicked holiday homes across the UK and Ireland, from cosy countryside retreats to stunning coastal escapes. Prices start from £27 per night

At Lymm Heritage Centre, those interested can even meet the reimagined Chirotherium dinosaur, often referred to as a ‘hand beast’ – a Triassic creature which has feet roughly the same size as a human hand. The actual fossilised footprints are in a nearby town centre display.

Meanwhile Lymm Cross dates back to the 17th Century when it was likely used as a meeting point, and was restored in 1897 for Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. It’s now recorded in the National Heritage list of England as a designated Grade I listed building.

Away from history, the village has its own micro-brewery and also a huge choice of pubs, bars, coffee houses and restaurants from The Jolly Thresher described as the ‘best pub in Lymm’ to La Boheme which serves old school French fare and Mediterranean eatery, Ego at The Green Dragon.

OPINION

Amy Jones

The centre also has plenty of independent shops selling a range of items appealing to all kinds of visitors.

One reviewer said: “Lymm is lovely, the village centre is very quaint and Lymm Dam is beautiful. It has a magnificent amount of picturesque countryside.”

Another commented: “Lymm is a perfect day out – peaceful, pretty and full of charm. Lymm Dam is a beautiful, peaceful spot with just the right mixture of woodland walks, calm water and village charm. The cottages along the dam are like something out of a storybook with white walls, yellow doors and flowerboxes bursting with colour. The whole area is spotless and well-kept.”

With a palace, a castle and ancient volcano all within visiting distance of each other – it’s no wonder this Scottish city has been voted as the UK’s number for a break

The UK’s best city break has been revealed, and it’s famous for its beautiful buildings, historic castle, and even Harry Potter links.

From historic streets, to cultural spectacles, to iconic landmarks, scenic views or vibrant food scenes, the UK has a fantastic range of amazing cities for travellers to choose from but Sykes Cottages has revealed some of the highlights across the nation after a study revealed that 49 per cent of Brits choose cities for their top five breaks.

Edinburgh, which is also hailed as the UK’s most walkable city, took the top spot in the rankings. This bright and bustling city seamlessly combines the historic and the modern with Edinburgh Castle, one of the oldest fortified places in Europe, and Holyrood Palace, the official Scottish residence of the monarch originally built as an Abbey in 1128 connected by the Royal Mile, the historic spine of Edinburgh’s Old Town and the city’s world-famous Fringe Festival, one of the greatest celebrations of modern art and culture in the world.

As well as hosting the Fringe, Edinburgh is also the city where J.K Rowling lived when she was writing the Harry Potter books and people can visit The Elephant House café which is where the legendary wizard was first created.

There’s a wide array of accommodation too whether you’re looking for cosy holiday cottages or cheap hotels, although it’s worth noting that some popular seasons such as the Fringe can see prices surge in some areas.

Best UK holiday cottage deals

From £27 per night

Sykes Cottages

https://go.skimresources.com?id=76202X1526515&xs=1&xcust=Mirror&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sykescottages.co.uk

Sykes Cottages offers a wide range of handpicked holiday homes across the UK and Ireland, from cosy countryside retreats to stunning coastal escapes. Prices start from £27 per night

For major Harry Potter enthusiasts, the city also offers a Harry Potter Magical Guided Walking Tour which allows people to explore Edinburgh through the lens of Harry Potter.

With storytelling, the written word and art and culture playing such a prominent part in the city, its contributions were recognised in 2004 when it became the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature.

Visitors can wander through the city’s cobbled streets and take in its incredible architecture and street designs, or hike up to Arthur’s Seat and enjoy the amazing views from atop the ancient volcano.

Calton Hill is also a must visit and is included in the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. The panoramic skyline views from the hill are renowned and pictures taken from there are regularly used in photographs or paintings of the city. The hill features the neoclassical landmarks including the National Monument, Nelson’s Monument and the Dugald Stewart Monument.

One reviewer of the city said: “Absolutely love Edinburgh, amazing city! So many gorgeous restaurants and cafes, lots of different vibes but I love the laid-back café culture Edinburgh does so well. Arthur’s Seat is great to climb and has gorgeous views across the city.”

Another said: “Edinburgh is a fantastic place to visit – the Royal Mile and the Castle are definitely worth a visit and there are some spectacular bars and restaurants that we thoroughly enjoyed.”

Do you think Edinburgh is the UK’s best city break? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

Parkdean Resorts have revealed some of the UK’s best holiday destinations and the top spot goes to a resort that’s full of beautiful beaches, independent shops and more

As Brits search for something fun to look forward to amongst the damp and drizzly that has defined the start of this year, a recent study has revealed over two-fifths (44%) are planning a UK holiday this year.

With staycations proving increasingly popular with people, Parkdean Resorts has named the seaside resort of Porthcawl in Bridgend, Wales as the best holiday destination for 2026.

Known for its excellent water quality, range of activities – including the world’s largest Elvis festival – and variety of cafés, restaurants and independent shops, this nostalgic and friendly town offers the quintessential seaside stay.

Porthcawl has seven distinctive beaches ranging from popular sandy spots to rocky coves. Rest Bay and Trecco Bay are Blue Flag beaches and popular with surfers and water sport enthusiasts. Pink Bay has unique marbled pink rocks and for a more secluded, sandy option Sker beach is the one for you.

The town has something for everyone with adventure offerings at its new Watersports Centre and its renowned Royal Porthcawl Golf Club, typical seaside activities including funfair rides and ice cream on its seafront Esplande or quiet sunsets at its seafront cafes.

Best UK holiday cottage deals

From £27 per night

Sykes Cottages

https://go.skimresources.com?id=76202X1526515&xs=1&xcust=Mirror&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sykescottages.co.uk

Sykes Cottages offers a wide range of handpicked holiday homes across the UK and Ireland, from cosy countryside retreats to stunning coastal escapes. Prices start from £27 per night

On the harbour is the RNLI station and Wales’ oldest listed bonded warehouse, the Jennings Building, which is now a bustling waterside spot with cafes and restaurants.

And for those with a little more spring in their step and shake in their hips, Porthcawl also hosts the annual Porthcawl Elvis Festival which is widely recognised as the world’s largest Elvis festival and brings tens of thousands of fans of The King and hundreds of tribute acts to the town for a weekend of competitions, shows and celebrations.

One reviewer of the festival said: “Elvis Festival Porthcawl was exactly what it said on the tin – a glorious, chaotic, slightly aft, love-in for the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. The town went full Elvis, the fans bought the fire and the tributes acts delivered from start to finish.”

Andy Edge, Chief Marketing Officer at Parkdean Resorts, which has a holiday park in Porthcawl, said that nostalgia is playing a major part in the holiday decision making of families this year.

He said: “Nostalgia has been a key theme for 2026 already and our data suggests travel is reflecting this too. This year we’re seeing a real resurgence in some of Britain’s most loved coastal and countryside locations with travellers gravitating towards places like Porthcawl, Cayton Bay and Poole. These towns offer the perfect balance of traditional seaside charm, beautiful surroundings and easy accessibility – all key factors for people planning a staycation this year.”

He added: “For families, the best holidays are all about balance, somewhere with plenty of entertainment to keep everyone busy but relaxing enough for all to recharge. Popular seaside destinations such as Newquay, Torquay, and Porthcawl continue to be firm favourites thanks to their beaches, attractions and family-friendly activities. These locations are ideal for making memories together, whether that’s beach days, coastal walks or classic arcade fun.”

This picturesque coastal town sits in the Roseland Peninsula and is a favourite location of King Charles and Queen Camila – and was even enjoyed by the late Queen Elizabeth II

Sitting on the south coast of Cornwall within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a gorgeous, tucked away town with one of the mildest climates in Britain and temperatures comparable to Mediterranean resorts.

Set within the Roseland Peninsula district of Cornwall, which itself is an unspoilt landscape of cliffs, creeks, woods and beaches, this beautiful beach town is renowned as a premier sailing spot with a pretty harbour and countless independent shops.

St Mawes boasts a unique ‘subtropical’ climate meaning it can offer warmer temperatures, even in the winter, than the rest of the UK. Unsurprisingly, this makes it a very popular holiday location – even with the Royal Family – and its relaxed coastal atmosphere and quaint, narrow streets and stunning sea views encourage those visiting to stay even longer.

A favourite holiday haunt of King Charles, Queen Camilla and even the late Queen Elizabeth II, the area’s maritime climate one-of-a-kind in the UK.

Influenced by the Gulf Stream with the Atlantic acting as a thermal buffer, St Mawes regularly experiences warm, sunny summers and mild, wet winters with little to no frost or snow. Visitors can enjoy water sports, scenic walks, all-year round boat trips from Falmouth, high-quality dining and St Mawes Castle – a well-preserved coastal fortress built by Henry VIII.

Best UK holiday cottage deals

From £27 per night

Sykes Cottages

https://go.skimresources.com?id=76202X1526515&xs=1&xcust=Mirror&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sykescottages.co.uk

Sykes Cottages offers a wide range of handpicked holiday homes across the UK and Ireland, from cosy countryside retreats to stunning coastal escapes. Prices start from £27 per night

The infamous King built the Castle to guard the important anchorage of Carrick Roads – the estuary of the River Fal. The distinctive clover-leaf shaped castle provides breath-taking views of the sea and passing ships from its battlements and has a number of carved inscritions praising Henry VII and his son Edward VI.

Away from history, St Mawes’ charming town centre has a number of quaint galleries, local shops and a variety of waterfront pubs and restaurants.

The aesthetics of the area are outstanding – from thatched roofs, white-washed cottages to Marine Parade which offers lovely independent shops and Waterside Gallery which houses galleries and stylish boutiques filled with timeless coastal fashion.

St Mawes has several lovely beaches for visitors to choose from including Summers Beach and Tavern Beach ideal for swimming and rock-pooling and Harbour Beach which, although only accessible at ow-tide, is dog friendly all year round with calm water sheltered by the estuary.

For walkers, the coastal path to St Just also in the Roseland peninsula is unforgettable or, in summer, tourists can use the ferry to the small, tidal inlet of Place Creek to follow the scenic trail to St Anthony’s Lighthouse.

One reviewer of St Mawes said: “We walked up to the castle and back in the beautiful and picturesque village of St Mawes. We definitely want to revisit this beautiful and classy village.”

Another said: “St Mawes is beautiful in all weathers and is well worth a visit any time of the year.”

Want to check it out for yourself? You can find plenty of beautiful stays in St Mawes with the likes of Sykes Holiday Cottages and Cottages.com.