The Best UK Late Summer Holiday Destinations

Many of us have opted to go without a week away this summer as prices rise, but if seeing friends and colleagues set off on well-deserved leave has left you suffering holiday envy, you might be starting to rethink your summer holiday plans. The COVID-19 pandemic proved that there is real joy to be found hiding in the staycation, so don’t be disheartened if you haven’t been able to book anything abroad. Your late summer holiday destination might be just around the corner. 

A last-minute booking will require you to be flexible with your dates and work around the late summer bank holiday. However, the need to plan creatively tends to lead holidaymakers to destinations that differ from the norm and accommodation away from the beaten track. This could be perfect if you fancy yourself as a bit of an outdoor adventurer, so make sure you consider our best UK late summer holiday destinations as you step up your last-minute planning. 

Edinburgh, Scotland

With a historic Old Town and bustling and commercial New Town, Edinburgh is not the first place that comes to mind when you think of late summer holiday destinations for outdoor adventurers. However, there are all kinds of active pursuits you can get stuck into in Scotland’s capital city, from making your way over to Portobello for some open water swimming to hiking up Arthur’s Seat and enjoying far-reaching views. Visiting Edinburgh in August is no easy feat as the world-famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival takes place for pretty much the entire month, but if you can schedule some time off just after the August Bank Holiday then it really is the perfect late summer holiday destination for a fun-filled UK break.

Whitsand Bay, Cornwall

It’s no secret that Cornwall is one of the best places to holiday in the UK. Given its popularity, you may have written the county off when considering late summer holiday destinations in the UK, but there are plenty of breathtaking places you can stay if you look beyond tourist hotspots like Newquay and St Ives. The South East Coast of Cornwall is often overlooked but has everything you might want from an outdoor adventure holiday, with the South West Coast Path in easy reach and miles and miles of golden sands for swimming and watersports. Check out the Whitsand Bay area if you are not familiar with this part of Cornwall. Though we can’t pretend it will be totally deserted, particularly as locals flock here to enjoy great surfing conditions, you should be able to find somewhere to stay or camp late in summer.

Brecon Beacons, Wales

Most recall the mountains of Snowdonia National Park or the beaches of Pembrokeshire when it comes to holiday destinations in Wales, but these fantastic places only just scratch the surface of what the country can offer. Brecon Beacons is just one example of the many places you could stay for a great late summer holiday. The national park is home to some unique accommodation options, including converted shepherd’s huts perfect for couples and larger family-friendly campsites. There’s no end to the type of summer adventures you can have here either. Make sure you pay a visit to Waterfall Country and take on the challenge of reaching the summit of Pen Y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales.

Lyme Regis, Dorset

Next up on our list of the UK’s best late summer holiday destinations is Lyme Regis. Tucked away in Dorset, this charming coastal town offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Lyme Bay is an iconic beach and a great place to try out watersports including paddleboarding and kayaking. There are also ample opportunities for hiking with the South West Coast Path running through the town. You could even visit neighbouring Charmouth or Seaton to soak up all of the heritage of the Jurassic Coast and try your hand at fossil hunting, a perfect activity if you’ve got outdoorsy kids with you.

Norfolk Broads, Norfolk

For a slightly slower-paced late summer holiday, why not take a trip to the Norfolk Broads? This stunning network of rivers and lakes is popular with outdoor-loving visitors of all ages as they offer a huge variety of experiences. You could hire or stay on a boat and enjoy exploring the views and wildlife from the waterways, or potter through the countryside for some birdwatching and trail hiking. Plus, there are plenty of pubs and restaurants in the surrounding villages, allowing you to kick back and enjoy the evenings after a busy day out and about immersed in nature.

Prepare For Your Late Summer Holiday With Red Original

So you’ve found the perfect place late summer holiday destination, what next? Get your trip booked then make sure that you pack all of the gear you need to be able to enjoy it! 

At Red Original, we’re proud that our outdoor equipment is the first choice of many outdoor adventurers in the UK. From performance clothing perfect for hiking to multi-functional waterproof bags, our uncompromising outdoor kit is the perfect accompaniment to your later summer holiday.