With heatwaves expected to hit the UK in late July and August, many Brits will be looking to make the most of the summer heat. As temperatures will rival that of Spain, Greece and even Australia, finding the perfect place to enjoy the summer sun will be on the radar for many.
According to research from Verdant Leisure, more than four in five (84%) holidaymakers say they are likely to go on a staycation this year but staying on UK shores doesn’t mean holidaygoers have to sacrifice the exotic scenes found abroad.
To help those wanting to get the excitement of overseas from the comfort of the UK, Francesca Houldsworth, travel expert at Verdant Leisure, has uncovered the stunning local scenery that most closely resembles popular and notable holiday destinations around the world.
1) Lavender Fields, Kinross
Looks like: Lavender Fields, Provence
Francesca commented: “Every year, the Lavender fields in Provence, France blossom brightly, attracting hundreds of visitors from around the world, to capture the Instagrammable and breathtaking flowers. Yet in the small town of Kinross, Scotland the same blooms of lavender can be spotted every summer. Open for only six weeks of the year, Scotland’s lavender farms are a summer bucket list destination.”
Kinross vs Provence
2) Woolacombe Beach, Devon
Looks like: Bondi Beach, Australia
“On the stunning coastline of Devon, you might mistake yourself for being on Australia’s infamous Bondi Beach, should you visit Woolacombe. The 3-mile sandy beach, surrounded by rugged cliffs and sand dunes, is a popular spot amongst holiday-goers and surfers alike. While the UK can’t promise warm sea water all year round, it can promise unrivalled areas of natural beauty such as Woolacombe beach.”
Woolacombe Bay vs Bondi Beach
3) Tunnels Beach, Devon
Looks like: Ulluwatu, Bali
“A popular destination for young travellers, Bali is famous for its tropical climate and fantastic surfs. Fortunately for UK holidaymakers, you can replicate the magic of Ulluwatu in Bali, without the steep price tag, when visiting Tunnels Beach in Ilfracombe. The beach is nestled amongst a rock face, with hidden coves and tunnels, perfect for little ones to explore during your visit.”
Tunnels Beaches vs Ulluwatu
4) Little Switzerland, Devon
Looks like: Switzerland
“Distinctive architecture and breathtaking landscapes make Switzerland a sought-after holiday destination for people across the world. Little Switzerland, however, is situated much closer to home. The Devon towns of Lynmouth and Lynton have been named as such by locals, with buildings and scenery that closely resembles that of Switzerland.”
Little Switzerland vs Switzerland
5) River Tay, Perthshire
Looks like: Te Urewera, New Zealand
“Instead of enduring the 24-hour flight to New Zealand this summer, take a closer look at the river Tay in Perthshire. Best known for its quality salmon fishing, it rivals that of Te Urewera in New Zealand, and is the longest river in Scotland. The river attracts anglers from all over the world, so whether you are a pro with a fishing rod or a newbie on the scene, don’t skip out on visiting the river Tay during your staycation.”
River Tay vs Te Urewera
