Top UK Weekend Breaks Worth Booking in July

6/4/20264 min read

Introduction

July is one of the most promising months for a weekend getaway in the UK. With school holidays yet to kick in and the weather often cooperating, this period offers a delightful opportunity for exploration. Here are some of the top locations in the UK that are ideal for a weekend break in July.

Kynance Cove & St Ives, Cornwall

Kynance Cove is frequently hailed as one of the most breathtaking spots along the Cornish coast, and it certainly lives up to its reputation. The stunning turquoise waters and serpentine rock formations are a sight to behold, especially in July, before the throngs of tourists arrive in August. If you are driving, it is advisable to arrive early as the National Trust car park fills up quickly on sunny days. Alternatively, consider a more scenic approach by walking in from Lizard village, which takes about 20 minutes and enhances the overall experience.

If you're making a long weekend of it, St Ives is about 40 minutes north and earns the detour. The Tate is there if you want it, but the real point is Porthminster Beach, the narrow streets, and the fact that it has genuinely good restaurants for a small Cornish town. It gets busy, but July is more manageable than August. Base yourself there and do Kynance as a day trip south.

Where to stay: Our favourite pick in the area is Tregenna Castle Resort. We picked this for the cosy rooms, the outdoor pools and amenities. Priced starting at £291 per night in July - this is a great pick for exploring Kynance and St Ives and is just a 10 minute walk to the beach.

Christchurch, Hampshire

Aah - our home from home. We are fortunate to live about 1 hour drive from Barton on Sea so we spend a lot of time in Christchurch we have tried many different places to stay in this area. Under two hours from London and consistently underestimated. Christchurch has the Priory — one of the longest parish churches in England — the quay where the Stour and Avon meet, and Mudeford Spit just along the coast, where you can take the small ferry across to our favourite beach (Mudeford Spit) of brightly coloured beach huts and not much else. The New Forest is ten minutes north if you want it. It's a place that works for a slow two nights rather than a rushed one.

Where to stay: Bayview Cottage is the perfect rental accommodation for this area and it's large enough for a family of 8 and works out to £123pp for the 2 nights in July. It's in Southboure so easy access to the chain ferry over to our favourite beach Mudeford Spit and close to Bournemouth beaches and amenities too.

Bamburgh, Northumberland

Home to a majestic castle perched on a volcanic outcrop, Bamburgh's mile-long sandy beach is a sight straight out of a fairytale. Fortunately, this northern retreat sees fewer crowds compared to its southern counterparts, making July weekends feel remarkably serene—an experience that may not last.

Where to stay: For a true taste of Northumberland’s charm, consider The Bamburgh Castle Inn. This seaside gem is around £240 per night for a family room in July and is a short walk to the beach.

Elie, Fife

A visit to Elie, found in Scotland’s East Neuk of Fife, allows travelers to explore quaint fishing villages and enjoy the sandy beaches that are less traveled during July. The Ship Inn even hosts beach cricket on summer days, creating a vibrant atmosphere. A day trip walking between Anstruther, Pittenweem, and St. Monans is also recommended, with special mention for the acclaimed Anstruther Fish Bar—worth the queue for its irresistible seafood.

Where to stay: The Kinneuchar Inn, located in Kilconquhar, offers well-reviewed pub accommodations with an authentic local feel.

Portmeirion, Gwynedd

Portmeirion is an Italianate village on the Welsh estuary, renowned for its unique architecture crafted over 50 years. This intriguing destination typically attracts more visitors in August, so a July trip permits a more relaxing experience. When booking, consider selecting a room within the village to truly soak in its atmosphere.

Where to stay: The Sail Loft is beautiful inside and out and right on the water. The log fire has us packing a bag immediately! Priced at £330 per night in July.

Hotel deals shift fast in July, so if something catches your eye it's worth moving on it. I'll be updating this post with any good deals I find as the month gets closer — so check back or sign up below and I'll send them straight to your inbox.