With today’s modern lifestyle taking its toll on us all, a relaxing holiday could be just what the doctor ordered. Here are some ideas for your next annual holiday. 

The Orkney Islands

These islands are great for those who want to get away from it all.  They sit off the coast of northern Scotland and total 70 islands, although only a small proportion of these are inhabited.  Those who choose to take holidays there will find that they are spending time in one of the most beautiful parts of the UK.  Activities that can really help to recharge the batteries include walking, cycling or simply cruising around the islands on a boat.  There are a number of ancient sites as well as plenty of places where visitors can just sit and enjoy the beauty of the area.

Dorset

Dorset has a number of great attractions including the Jurassic Coast, where there have been numerous important prehistoric fossils found over the years.  This is a beautiful coastline and there are plenty of opportunities for tranquil walks.  Dorset is also home to a number of small villages that have changed little over the centuries, and many people visit just to explore the countryside.  Cycling and hiking are popular pastimes and this is a great opportunity to forget about everyday life and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

The Lake District

The Lake District has long inspired artists and writers, and with good reason.  This is a beautiful part of the world and has a variety of landscapes for those looking for artistic inspiration.  There are numerous lakes and mountains and there are plenty of trails that are ideal for walkers.  Life in the Lake District villages is at a much slower pace than visitors might expect and no matter how far a person travels to get there, they will feel that they are a whole world away from their usual routine.

Wales

The northern part of the principality is home to the Snowdonia mountain range and national park.  The tranquillity of the region is ideal for those who want to get away from it all and those who want to reach the summit of Mount Snowdon can do so whilst relaxing in a carriage of the mountain railway – actually climbing the mountain is optional!  Another relaxing activity, which is a must, is a canal boat cruise in Llangollen.  Horses pull these boats for the tourists, as they did for commercial purposes many years ago.

Norfolk

Boating holidays are a popular pastime on the Norfolk Broads.  These are the remains of ancient peat diggings that filled with water creating a large network of waterways in the county. Visitors can hire a boat for a few hours and cruise along the waterways at leisure.  There are many quaint villages to be found in this part of Norfolk where travellers can enjoy a traditional pub lunch and get to know other boating holidaymakers.

The North Norfolk coast with its seaside resorts of Cromer and Sheringham is also very popular and can be very busy during the height of the season.  There is sailing available at Blakeney and Brancaster Staithe, and there are regular boat trips out to Blakeney Point seal colony.  Accommodation in the area is plentiful with North Norfolk holiday cottages to rent, several hotels and good B&B establishments.