There can be fewer more refreshing things to do than escape for a day and go exploring, walking, or just relaxing somewhere away from home. And there are brilliant ‘daycation’ destinations waiting to be enjoyed all over the UK.
Spread your holidays
If the standard two-week holiday is looking a little harsh on
the bank balance for 2012, and you're worried about the strain that
holidays can put on the environment, spread your escapes over the
year by taking a few fabulous 'daycations' rather than having one
big holiday in the summer.
New research from the National Trust has shown that over the
last five years, 18% less of us in the UK are taking two-week
holidays, and 36% of us will take between 5 and 10 daycations this
year. Holidays are becoming a smaller, cheaper, easier, more
sustainable part of life, closer to home but every bit as
refreshing, memorable and valuable - perhaps much better for us
than saving up for one get-away in July.
Discover your surroundings
Wherever you are in the UK, the chances are you live within easy
reach of a stunning natural, cultural or historical hotspot. The
National Trust recommends a wide range of potential day trips. You
could explore any of the beautiful, intriguing old houses of
Greater London, perhaps Ham House near Richmond, experience the
natural beauty of Northern Ireland such as Rowallane Garden or
discover the coastal delights of Devon such as the Greenway garden
on the banks of the River Dart.
An adventure to the New Forest could be perfect for you and your
children. It' less than 70 miles from London, and you needn't go by
car. There are over 100 trains serving Brockenhurst Station (giving
easy access to the forest) every day from London Waterloo,
Basingstoke, Winchester, Southampton, Bournemouth, Poole and
Weymouth.
Any of these daytrips would provide a brilliantly simple,
affordable and environmentally friendly way to recharge your
batteries, bring the family together throughout the year, and
explore what our environment and heritage have to offer. For more
tips and daytrip ideas, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk and www.enjoyengland.com.