beat the brochure

With so much action going on in London over the next few weeks, one could easily forget that there’s more to the UK than just its capital city. From the sunny Cornish Coast and the verdant hills of Wales, to the glistening waters of the Lake District and the artistic culture of Edinburgh, there is so much more to experience in the UK than just the hustle and bustle of London.

If you are one of the millions who have flocked to the capital for the Olympics, why not consider taking a holiday from your holiday and seeing what the rest of the country has to offer. Whether you have just a few hours to escape the frenzied atmosphere of London, or a whole weekend to explore, you will love learning more about the history and culture of the UK.

Countryside Escape in the Lake District

From action and adventure, to rest and relaxation, the Lake District is the place to visit. The Lake District National Park boasts more than 2000 miles of walking and biking trails, some of the best produce in the country, and of course, the eponymous lakes, so you aren’t likely to bore very quickly on a weekend break here. If you’re looking for accommodation, there are lots of great Lake District Cottages to rent, giving you absolute freedom to explore the area how and when you like. Don’t miss visiting Mrs. Nelson’s famous Gingerbread Shop in Grasmere or taking a relaxing boat ride on the historic Ullswater’s Steamers.

Hunting History on a City Break in York

There are few cities in the country that can boast the historical credentials of York, The Capital of the North. Archaeological evidence shows that Mesolithic peoples settled in the region of York as long ago as 7000-8000BC, but the city itself wasn’t settled until around 71AD, when the Roman Ninth Legion conquered the native Brigantes and set up shop. Visitors today can learn all about this long and violent history at any number of the city’s historic attractions, including York Minster, Jorvik Viking Centre, Clifford’s Tower, and York Castle Museum. It isn’t all history in York though, the city has an illustrious Chocolate and sweet industry, which you can learn all about (and taste) at the city’s newest attraction, Chocolate: York’s Sweet Story.

Edinburgh: Scotland’s Capital of Culture

Things are just about to kick off big time in Edinburgh, the coolest capital in the UK. On August 3rd, 2012 two of the city’s biggest events are set to begin, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and the 66th Edinburgh Festival Fringe. While these massive events, which draw visitors from around the world every year, might not make Edinburgh any quieter than London, but the city will be buzzing with excitement, giving it the perfect atmosphere for your holiday. You’ll definitely want to make sure to book your accommodation in advance to avoid sleeping on a street corner, visit www.sykescottages.co.uk to find a last minute deal, but once that’s organized the city is your oyster! Take to the streets and just enjoy the musicians, entertainers, and down-right bonkers people who will make Edinburgh unlike any other city in the world for the month.

There is so much more to the UK than just London, so make sure you give yourself some time to get out of the capital and explore! Whether it’s just a day trip down to the beaches of Brighton, or a weekend up in Edinburgh, you are sure to not be disappointed. Just pack a bag, put on some comfortable shoes and see where the day takes you.