7 brilliant British breaks to make the most of the sun this summer – without the airport hassle

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7 brilliant British breaks to make the most of the sun this summer – without the airport hassle

NOW that the sun is finally shining over the UK, there’s no better time to get out and enjoy the very best of what our beautiful country has to offer.

From botanical breaks in blossoming gardens, to traditional steam trains along the coast, every corner of Great Britain has its own gems to explore.

These package deals bundle stylish stays with some delicious food and unforgettable experiences.

With sunshine and some serious savings in mind, we’ve collected some of the best finds below.

Cornwall Coastal Retreat

Ocean view breakfast setting with sandwiches and orange juice. — Lunch with a view – you’ll be tucked away in a charming Cornish coveCredit: Great Little Breaks

The Lugger Hotel and Restaurant overlooking a cove in Cornwall. — The Lugger Hotel is right on the harbour in PortloeCredit: Great Little Breaks

Cosy up on the Cornish coast with a retreat package that will leave you feeling purely pampered.

Tucked into the cobbled streets of Portloe, this harbour hotel is truly postcard-perfect.

In the heart of a traditional Cornish fishing village, the AA 5-star rated Lugger Hotel is rich in maritime history.

Once a 17th century smugglers’ hideout, the hotel now boasts 23 luxurious bedrooms.

Each room is complete with an en-suite and dreamy bathtub – perfect for a relaxing soak after a day of exploring the cliffs of the South West Coast Path.

A dog-friendly hotel, feel free to bring your pooch along for the adventure and admire the rugged coastline together.

This two-night package includes a traditional Full English breakfast to start your mornings off right, as well as a dinner allowance of £40 to spend in the hotel restaurant on your first night.

The Cornwall Coastal Retreat is the perfect package for those wanting some luxurious looking after as you embark upon countless coastal walks.

Iconic steam train Tornado delights crowds as it powers through Cornwall on rail tour

All-Inclusive Trip to Cumbria

Large house with fountain in front. — This country house hotel is the perfect base to explore the quieter parts of the Lake DistrictCredit: Great Little Breaks

Scenic view of a British countryside with rolling green hills and farmland. — Ennerdale is one of the most remote valleys in CumbriaCredit: Great Little Breaks

An all-inclusive break in Cumbria might sound like an absolute dream – but it can become your reality on this trip.

This two night stay at The Ennerdale Country House Hotel includes two nights’ bed, breakfast, lunches and two course dinner.

If that isn’t generous enough, the stay also includes unlimited tea, coffee and house beers, wine and soft drinks in the evenings (6-10pm).

Located in Cleator on the edge of the Lake District, you can spend your days exploring local wildlife parks and forests.

Venture out into the beautiful Ennerdale Valley to discover a stunning yet less touristy area of the Lake District – home to the wild river Liza and 30 miles of traffic-free paths.

Enjoy the all-inclusive experience without the hassle of the airport, and uncover the stunning scenes of the quiet corners of the Lakes at the same time!

Isle of Wight Seaside Stay

British coastline at sunset with lighthouse. — The Isle of Wight boasts some pretty spectacular viewsCredit: Great Little Breaks

Table for two set by a window overlooking the ocean. — Luccombe Manor country house hotel looks over the seaCredit: Great Little Breaks

It’s hard to say no to this five-night retreat overlooking the stretches of the Isle of Wight’s Sandown Bay.

Situated upon a clifftop with breathtaking coastal views, the award-winning Luccombe Manor Country House Hotel blends Victorian charm with modern luxury.

The views from Luccombe Manor showcase the best of the Isle of Wight’s sensational southeast seafront – think miles of soft golden sand complete with a traditional British seaside pier.

The manor is a short walk from Shanklin Old Village, a picturesque small town painted with pretty shopfronts and thatched roofs.

The package includes a five night stay complete with breakfast, a two-course dinner on your first night, and a return car ferry from Southampton to East Cowes for hassle-free travel.

Great Little Breaks’ Isle of Wight Seafront Break package can save you up to 28% on this stunning seaside escape.

Dorset Sea Train Adventure

Steam train traveling through the countryside. — Two tickets to hop onboard a traditional steam train are included with this packageCredit: Great Little Breaks

Hermitage Hotel in front of a bright blue sky. — The Hermitage Hotel overlooks stretches of Blue Flag beachesCredit: Great Little Breaks

Packaged with a welcome treat, three course dinner and seaside steam train, this two night stay at Bournemouth’s Hermitage Hotel is packed with plenty to do.

Starting with a scenic cruise from Poole to Swanage, complete with an onboard bar and live commentary, you’ll have time to discover the town’s coastal delights before heading to Swanage Railway.

Here you’ll step onboard a charming heritage steam train taking you to Norden, where you’ll visit Corfe Castle. Here you can admire the ruins of a Grade I protected 11th-century castle, first built by William the Conqueror.

This adventure break combines boat and steam train travel with extra special touches at your hotel, such as a three course meal on your welcoming night and a comforting coffee and cake on arrival.

Booking with Great Little Breaks can save you up to 21% on this deal – helping you discover Dorset with a discount!

Stay in England’s Oldest Town

The George Hotel in Colchester, England. — The George Hotel has been around for 500 yearsCredit: Great Little Breaks

Sun-drenched patio with seating and tables. — The courtyard is the perfect spot to sip on a delicious cocktail or twoCredit: Great Little Breaks

Step back in time and stay in England’s oldest recorded town with this heritage stay in the heart of Colchester.

Your base will be The George Hotel: a heritage hotel standing proudly on Colchester High Street, welcoming you with 500 years of rich British history. (They also serve some pretty delicious cocktails in their stylish bar and Moroccan-style courtyard!)

The historic Colchester was the first city colonised by the Romans, and was even the original capital of the UK.

Venture out to Colchester Castle to see a slice of fascinating Norman history, take your pick of museums and art galleries, or stroll through the meadows of nearby Highwood’s Country Park. Plus, you’re only a 15 minute drive from Colchester Zoo.

This plush two night break includes an á la carte dinner served with wine on your first night, as well as a hearty English breakfast in the mornings.

You can save a whopping 38% on this bargain city break by booking the Historic Colchester Town Stay package.

Shakespearean Stay with River Cruise

Brick house with landscaping and a driveway. — Stay the night in a former farmhouse – the Clarion Hotel Charlecote PheasantCredit: Great Little Breaks

Seven swans on a river near a boathouse and bridge. — Soak up the scenery on a river cruise through and admire the Tudor-style housesCredit: Great Little Breaks

Stay in Shakespeare’s home town with this overnight escape at the traditional Clarion Hotel Charlecote Pheasant in Statford-upon-Avon.

Start your historical getaway with a relaxing welcome drink upon arrival.

After an afternoon of exploring local delights like the Royal Shakespeare Theatre or the stunning Holy Trinity Church, you can look forward to a two course dinner in the evening.

This break also includes two tickets for a scenic Avon Boating River Cruise. Here you can admire historic buildings and pretty Tudor cottages from the water upon a traditional Edwardian boat.

Booking with Great Little Breaks can save you up to 31% on this charming night away – and for as little as £95 per person, the Stratford Stay and River Cruise is the perfect bargain break for a one-night stay.

Botanical Break at Harrogate Hilton Hotel

Aerial view of The Majestic Hotel with outdoor seating. — The breathtaking DoubleTree by Hilton Harrogate Majestic Hotel and SpaCredit: Great Little Breaks

Gravel path winding through a lush garden with a greenhouse. — Escape into a lush paradise at RHS Harlow CarrCredit: Great Little Breaks

This 4-star stay at the impressive DoubleTree by Hilton Harrogate Majestic Hotel and Spa is pure luxury.

This escape blends spa serenity with botanical bliss, as you’ll enjoy delightful teas, scones and a delicious from your Victorian mansion base.

You’ll enjoy an hour of pool and spa facilities each day, a traditional cream tea, and dinner on your first night at the Carter’s Champagne Bar and Grill (with an allowance of £35 per person).

This pampering package deal also includes two tickets to the famous RHS Harlow Carr, eight acres of famous public gardens full of fairy-tale woodland walks.

Browse blooming gardens and stunning water features before stopping to relax with a cup of tea and a freshly baked scone at the Harrogate Arms Café, a treat included with your stay.

You can save up to 32% on this horticultural Harrogate break with Great Little Breaks, so why not treat yourself to a weekend of elegance and luxury in the Yorkshire countryside.