The Checklist top 10 UK attractions you need to explore
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The pandemic may have prevented UK attractions from opening in recent months, but as lockdown restrictions ease travel and places to visit in the UK are unparalleled. The UK is full of beautiful places that are only waiting to be discovered. Enjoy what the UK has to offer now that day trips and overnight stays are permitted again.
Are you planning your next adventure? To get you started, here are 10 fun travel, days out, and attractions to visit.
1. Caledonian Sleeper
Discover the most civilised way to travel between central London and the heart of Scotland; relax or have a romantic drink as the moonlit world slides by. The Caledonian Sleeper is the most relaxed and welcoming transport operator in the UK. Whether it’s the majesty of the highlands or a city break in Edinburgh, Glasgow, or London; as lockdown restrictions ease across the UK, a staycation can be enjoyed even further with the Caledonian Sleeper experience. Enjoy a unique overnight journey, travelling while you sleep in serene isolation in your bedroom, with double rooms and en-suites also available.
Travel can be stressful during times of a pandemic; with enhanced health and safety measures enabling the continuation of a safe, relaxed, and comfortable experience on-board. Guest comfort and safety are the number one priority at Caledonian Sleeper. On-board hosts have received full training in social distancing and hygiene measures.
Find out more: sleeper.scot
2. City Cruises
Get ready to start sailing again; come on board and soak up London’s iconic landmarks. Captain your self-drive boat in York, or discover the Jurassic coast in Poole. City Cruises is a global leader in world-class experiences and transportation.
All services have the ‘good to go’ certificate issued by VisitBritain. Experience London again, sit back and rediscover London’s riverside sights and skyline from the open-top deck. Operating every 30 minutes between Westminster, Tower, and London Eye piers you can enjoy daytime sightseeing cruises whatever the reason.
Explore the river that brought Vikings to the city on self-drive boats in York, with plenty of room for aquatic adventures.
Discover the Jurassic coast in Poole while you sail past the beautiful brown sea island as the captain offers commentary on the surroundings.
Find out more: citycruises.com
3. Fantasy Island
Looking for things to do in Skegness with the entire family? You have come to the right place! Located in Ingoldmells on the sunny East Coast of Lincolnshire just a stone’s throw from the beach, Fantasy Island Theme Park is the ultimate destination for the whole family.
There are so many things to do at Fantasy Island. Exhilarating rides and rollercoasters will test even the bravest thrill-seekers’ nerves, while those looking for something more family-friendly will have plenty to choose from. What’s more, Fantasy Island is home to Europe’s largest seven-day market, where there is something for everyone. Indulge in one of the many restaurants, cafes, and bars across the park as you take a well-earned break. Not to mention entry to the market and food outlets is free. Don’t forget that the ride-all-day wristbands offer great value for money you just can’t find anywhere else.
Find out more: fantasyisland.co.uk
4. Go Ape
If you’re looking for something different to do this summer, how about heading out into the great outdoors for an adventure that will push you to your limits?
At their many locations across the UK, all in beautiful natural settings, there are experiences for all levels of ability. Experience a thrilling, nerve-testing, high-octane adventure that takes you from canopy-high tree-to-tree crossings to free-fall Tarzan swings and super-fast, very long zip wires.
You’ll push yourself physically – it takes two-three hours – and mentally (say goodbye to any fear of heights). There are a few “can I do this?” moments, but the sheer exhilaration of taking the leap off the platform, or letting yourself fly down the zip wire, makes for an incredible, unforgettable experience. Go Ape offers families the chance to monkey around in the forest canopy on a Treetop Adventure or bounce 30 feet above the forest floor with nets and inflatable balls.
Find out more: goape.co.uk
5. Hever Castle
Experience centuries of history at the romantic double-moated castle that was once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. The splendid rooms of Hever castle contain fine furniture, an important collection of Tudor paintings, and two prayer books inscribed by Anne Boleyn herself. You’ll also discover magnificent award-winning gardens set in 125 acres of glorious grounds. Marvel at the classical statuary; admire the topiary or take time out at the loggia, overlooking the 38-acre lake.
Surrounded by glorious Kent countryside and less than an hour from London, the historic wings of this romantic castle have been transformed into a unique bed and breakfast accommodation, with a collection of 28 luxury bedrooms for those wanting to stay. All bedrooms are en-suite and individually styled, with some offering four-poster beds, roll-top baths, or walk-in showers. Blending traditional features with modern-day luxuries, each bedroom offers its unique charm and character.
Find out more: hevercastle.co.uk
6. Marwell
Marwell Zoo features up to 40 models of curious real-life creatures, from sneaky predators to fearsome creatures that have been magnified to an eye-popping size. Discover an incredible range of exotic and endangered species. Plus, visit for the larger-than-life brick adventure called supersized.
With 140 acres of beautiful parkland, Marwell Zoo is owned and operated by Marwell wildlife, an action-oriented charity dedicated to the conservation of biodiversity. Just by visiting you are contributing to help support their work. Marwell Zoo is a great place to visit for days out with the kids in Hampshire. Let the children run like cheetahs, swing like monkeys, and slide like penguins in one of five adventure playgrounds, while you take a well-deserved rest.
Situated in the Winchester countryside, just three miles from the M3, Marwell Zoo is the perfect place to visit when looking for things to do with kids in Hampshire.
Find out more: marwell.org.uk
7. Great Yarmouth’s Pleasure Beach
Looking for a day of adventure by the British seaside? Look no further!
Great Yarmouth’s pleasure beach is back and better than ever before. The famous wooden rollercoaster, built in 1932, is accompanied by a host of exhilarating attractions. Expect eight weeks of non-stop entertainment for thrill-seekers looking for some much-needed post lockdown excitement. The park has been awarded the industry-standard charter mark for Covid safety and has put numerous measures in place to make sure customers are safe whilst they’re visiting.
It’s great value for money and there’s fun for all the family. Splash around on the log flume, taste the fluffiest candy floss on the east coast, and enjoy the beautiful view from the top of the rollercoaster all in one place. Pre-purchase your tickets online.
Find out more: pleasure-beach.co.uk
8. Ruthin Castle Hotel and Spa
A beautiful retreat; steeped in history and nestled in stunning north wales landscape. A staycation here is a unique experience; you can immerse yourself in a castle dating back to the 13th century, wander around acres of stunning gardens, and enjoy exquisite dining, before sinking into a luxurious bed for a sleep worthy of a king.
The next day, stroll around the charming small town of Ruthin or head out and explore the huge range of paths and trails of the adjacent Clwydian range. There’s no better place to do it, the area is deemed an area of outstanding natural beauty. Treatment at the fully refurbished and highly unique bazaar spa will melt away any stresses and strains before returning to normal life.
Find out more: ruthincastle.co.uk
9. Snozone UK
Enjoy the thrill of snow sports this summer. Snozone in Milton Keynes and Castleford are outstanding venues for skiing, snowboarding, and sledging on real snow indoors.
Starting your snow sports journey? Get private and group lessons for everyone from three years upwards. The expert coaches provide fun lessons with no-fail results guaranteed. Experience the exhilaration of snow sports during sledging sessions, it’s great fun for all ages in a safe family environment.
Snozone is open 364 days a year and fresh snow is made three times per week. Snozone has taught over three million guests of all ages to ski or snowboard. Perfect if you want to learn, improve or advance your technique, or spend quality family time sledging together. They pride themselves on providing first-class indoor snow facilities for skiing and snowboarding, sledging and family snow play sessions. An experienced and enthusiastic team are here to make your indoor snow time fun, safe and memorable.
Find out more: snozoneuk.com
10. St Giles London
St Giles London hotel is perfectly placed at the centre of London, near many West End theatres, including the Dominion, Shaftesbury, Palace, and Lyceum. St Giles knows your way is the right way. That’s why they offer three distinct levels of accommodation so that you can find the hotel that best suits your needs and your style.
Make your stay a full cultural experience with a side of shopping and a sprinkle of nightlife by exploring the British Museum, Covent Garden, Oxford Street, and Soho, all within a few minutes walking distance. St Giles London offers 675 guest rooms, with executive options featuring skyline views. Enjoy a bar, three restaurants, a casino, free Wi-Fi plus more.
St Giles’s well-appointed hotels are the hidden gems of the cities they serve, creating unique experiences that turn ordinary trips into memorable journeys. Categorised by three levels of excellence (Signature, Red, and Blue), the hotels offer true value but not at the expense of personality or service.
Find out more: stgileshotels.com
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