We know that it is particularly difficult to fly right now. But we want to continue inspiring you with new travel content alongside the latest COVID-19 travel tips and updates so that you’ll be ready when the world opens its doors again.

While this year’s Easter holidays are off the table, there’s a strong chance that late spring staycations will be back. Around mid-April, government ministers plan to reopen self-catering housing, as long as key stats stay low, such as new cases and hospital admissions. Families staying in the same house will be able to book a break in the UK if everything goes according to plan.

Oh, what a break that would be! The Great British countryside is a treasure chest of spectacular experiences, with rugged coastlines, dense forests, and soaring mountains. Our 10 picks are all perfect destinations for a spring break, so when travel opens up again, you can easily book.

Obviously, at the moment, nothing is certain. When you book your spring holiday, note that if cases start to rise again, it may be canceled. Take out a decent policy on insurance and look for flexible options for booking.

Top 10 UK Spring holiday ideas for 2021

1. St Ives, Cornwall

Some of the warmest, sunniest weather in the UK is in the South West of England, making it suitable for spring vacations. While there are plenty of beautiful villages to visit, St Ives is one of the best places to find yourself. Outstanding surfing beaches such as Porthmeor and a buzzing local art scene are open. There is an outdoor sculpture garden at the Tate St Ives, and along the harbourfront, there are a few pubs and cafés where you can enjoy an al fresco lunch. The accommodation ranges from luxury spa hotels to charming B&Bs.

2. Bowness-on-Windermere, Lake District

Blow away the cobwebs of the lockdown in the Lake District National Park, with something for every level of activity. You can tackle the 20 mile long Ullswater Way if you’re feeling energetic, or if you’d rather chill, you can hire a boat for a lake cruise.  In terms of accessibility, The Lake District has 48 ‘Miles Without Stiles’ paths which are suitable for people with limited mobility, including wheelchair users and families with pushchairs. The sprawling tourist town of Bowness-on-Windermere makes a buzzy base for exploring the region, with plenty of places to stay and eat.

3. Castle Combe, Cotswolds

During the spring holidays, the Cotswolds Area of Natural Beauty comes alive, with gardens bursting into colourful bloom. Base yourself near Castle Combe, one of England’s most beautiful villages, and enjoy a little bit of small town life. Wander past the fairytale cottages or get your hiking boots dirty in the surrounding hills. The town has two nearby bars, both with seating in the outdoor courtyard. For a traditional full English or Sunday roast, pop into the Castle Inn, a pub dating back to the 12th century.

4. The New Forest, Hampshire

Spring holidays in the New Forest are ideal for getting back to nature, with its woodland trails and wild ponies. Think wood lodges with outdoor hot tubs, bell tents built in wildflower meadows and yurts on the grounds of country pubs is a perfect place to go glamping. There is also the prospect of hiring luxury vehicles, as well as exploring the forest on horseback, bicycle and foot. Great on a sunny day for bringing the top down.

5. Tenby, Pembrokeshire

In Wales, the Pembrokeshire Coast is home to some of the best beaches in Britain, many of which could rival the Caribbean (weather aside). Tenby is one of the prettiest seaside cities in the country. There is a golden, sandy beach in the tiny and welcoming harbour, where fishing boats are moored during the day. You can spend your days lounging on Blue Flag-rated Castle Beach, broad and sandy North Beach and super-spacious South Beach if you are not back on boat trips to Caldey Island by spring. This is what spring vacations are made of.

6. Bristol, South-West England

If you miss the vibe of a city break in Europe, head to Bristol. This spring, this cool town in the sunny South West has plenty to offer. Stroll through the cobbled streets and see Banksy, Conor Harrington, and Pixel Pancho create outdoor art. Assuming all goes to plan, from 12 April, restaurants and pubs will be able to open outdoors. There are plenty of fabulous beer gardens in Bristol, but if you’d like to make King Street like a local head. It has lots of craft beer bars, also known as the ‘Beermuda Triangle,’ where you can catch a takeout and perch on the sea wall.

7. North Coast 500, Scottish Highlands

Hire a car and take on the North Coast 500, if you want to keep your social connections to a bare minimum during your spring holidays. What it says on the tin, the circular driving route does. It begins and ends in Inverness, following the northernmost shore of Scotland. You’ll encounter some of the most remote areas of the country throughout the trip. Expect desolate beaches, rising mountain ranges and picturesque fishing villages. Best of all, in Scotland, wild camping is perfectly legal. When you’re packed, pop a tent in the boot and pitch up.

8. Knaresborough, North Yorkshire

Cobblestone streets, winding stairways and hidden alleyways: Knaresborough’s spa town is packed with the atmosphere of the old world. There is a ruined castle where it is rumored that Richard II was held prisoner, and Mother Shipton’s Cave is just a short walk away. Known as the oldest tourist attraction in England, this is the birthplace of the 15th-century prophetess who predicted the death of Mary Queen of Scots. Hire a rowing boat and go for a paddle along the River Nidd once you’ve had your fill of medieval history. Or just enjoy an ice cream stroll along the sun-soaked promenade.

9. Porlock, Exmoor

Base yourself in the charming village of Porlock, and spend an active Exmoor spring holiday. You can enjoy quiet walks or climb on a mountain bike and take the hilly paths through the heather. Adrenaline seekers will try their hand at coasteering, paddle boarding and abseiling. You’ll find many independent shops in the village itself, including a typical butcher, cheesemonger and delicatessen, perfect if you’re self-catering. From 12 April, non-essential shops selling clothes, art and local crafts should be open.

10. Blackpool, Lancashire

Blackpool Pleasure Beach has announced that, in accordance with government guidance, of course, it plans to be ‘Nice to Go’ and ready to re-open from April 12. It could be the ideal place for a family spring holiday, with its bright lights, loud music and fun rides. It may not be permitted to open indoor attractions such as Madame Tussauds until 17 May, but theme parks should be allowed from 12 April. At the South Pier beer garden, enjoy the white knuckle rides, grab an outdoor drink or simply lounge on the golden sands.