Skip to content

How to make the most of your short break

Discover how to plan for your short break so you can sit back, slow down and switch off.

Getting away for two or three nights is a wonderful way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, giving you the chance to relax, enjoy a slower pace of life and explore new places. With a little careful planning and the right mindset, a short break in the UK can feel every bit as refreshing as a week-long holiday abroad. 

If you're seeking somewhere to slow down, reconnect with nature and spot wonderful wildlife, our parks in Scotland and Northern England make a fantastic base for a short break. From coastal escapes to rural retreats, we have a range of different breaks to suit everyone. 

Why the UK works well for a short break?

It's becoming more and more popular to escape for several short breaks a year rather than one long holiday, and this is for many reasons.

Short UK breaks tend to be cheaper than jetting off abroad, and they require less annual leave than a week-long excursion. There's also the benefit of getting to travel more often rather than more expensively, and with no flights, airports or baggage drops to worry about, travelling in the UK can often be less stressful. A short break also means you have more freedom to control your own timings, especially if you're travelling by car. 

The best places to go on a short break

Where's best for your short break depends hugely on what kind of holiday you want and what you want out of it. From traditional seaside trips to woodland retreats, there are plenty of wonderful destinations across Scotland and Northern England to stay, with something to suit every type of break. 

For those wanting a fun-filled family holiday, Northumberland is the perfect destination, with centuries of history, beautiful beaches and plenty of family-friendly attractions to discover. East Lothian also makes a great base, with so much to explore that you'll be spoilt for choice. 

If you're seeking peace and serenity, Dumfriesshire is a fantastic choice, offering quiet, tranquil surroundings paired with a breathtaking coastline. Perthshire is also a great option, with all the peace and quiet you're after combined with fantastic opportunities for outdoor adventures too. 

For a blend of quiet surroundings and family fun, County Durham or Ayrshire are both ideal choices, whether you fancy strolls along sandy shores, admiring rushing waterfalls, or discovering more about the regions with a trip to one of the magnificent historical landmarks. 

Choosing the right accommodation for your short break

Accommodation can make or break your getaway, so it's important to choose the right fit for the type of holiday you're looking for. Caravans are great for a budget-friendly break, but lodges offer much more room for larger groups or those looking for something a little more luxurious. Adventurers may find touring the perfect choice, while Glamping Pods appeal to families or couples seeking something different. 

When to take your short break?

Deciding when to get away depends on the kind of break you're looking for.

If rest and relaxation are top of the agenda, be sure to avoid school holidays and peak seasons like Summer, but if you're looking to visit lots of local attractions and activities, peak times are best for opening times and availability. If you're planning a trip to enjoy outdoor activities such as cycling or water sports, it's best to stick to warmer months, but cosy nights in are ideal for Autumn and Winter.

How to properly plan a short break

Making the most of your time once you arrive

For a short break to succeed in helping you relax, it's important not to pack in too much and find yourself rushing to tick off everything on your itinerary. Instead, choose one main activity each day and leave the rest open, giving you plenty of time to wander and explore - you may even discover a hidden gem along the way. 

Be sure to build in genuine downtime to prevent the need to fill space. A long breakfast, an afternoon by the hot tub or an evening doing nothing in particular are all great ways to give your body and mind a break, helping you reset. You can also make the most of the natural surroundings, planning in a walk to admire nearby scenery, spot wildlife or find the local pub for a low-effort activity that gets you out in nature. 

One of the most important things is to put down your phone, step away from emails and leave the stresses of everyday life behind you. Focusing on your surroundings is the best way to come away from your break feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and ready for another adventure. 

Short breaks for every kind of getaway

Whether you're getting away with the whole family or looking for the perfect place to bring your pooch, we offer short breaks to suit everyone across our parks. Whatever kind of holiday you're looking for, our parks make a wonderful base to explore, relax and make unforgettable memories. 

Planning a short break with Verdant Parks

With fabulous locations shrouded in nature and vibrant wildlife, Verdant Parks are perfect for a short break, whether you're looking for adventure, family fun or a place to kick back and unwind.

Offering a range of cosy accommodation to suit every type of break, fantastic on-site facilities, excellent entertainment and great opportunities to explore beautiful scenery, you're sure to find the ideal spot for your short break. From family holidays to group getaways and romantic retreats, there's something for everyone. 

Explore our parks

You might be interested in

Coastal holidays

Stroll sandy shores, try a spot of water sports or simply relax to the relaxing roll of waves. 

Explore coastal parks

Countryside holidays

Surround yourself with rolling hills, thick woodland and fabulous tranquillity with a countryside retreat. 

Explore countryside parks
Couple with drinks on lodge decking

Last minute escapes

For escaping the everyday at the drop of a hat. 

Find your escape

Holiday offers

Discover great deals on your next escape from the everyday. 

Explore holiday offers
Binoculars icon
Loading...
Please wait whilst we search for results.