Staycation of dreams! Rediscover the UK at one of these hidden gems

How to have the staycation of dreams! Rediscover the UK and reconnect to its people and places – here’s six hidden gems you’ll LOVE!

Ad Feature by Airbnb

  • Airbnb is launching its first-ever First Night On Us campaign starting this month 
  • Guests can get a night’s stay on Airbnb in six UK locations 
  • The first 180 people to log on on specific days will get a coupon covering the cost of the first night up to £150
  • The second and further nights will still need to be paid for 

There’s nothing quite like getting away from it all and discovering new places and people.  Especially when it’s in the UK and you haven’t had to travel to a far-flung location.

That’s because there are hidden gems in every corner of the UK where you can reconnect with the country’s stunning coast, magnificent mountains, or even its pretty, quaint villages.  Not to mention, the people that live in these fabulous unsung locations.

And what’s more, Airbnb is offering guests the opportunity to discover six of these amazing local communities, thanks to its First Night On Us campaign!

Airbnb is offering guests the opportunity to discover six hidden gems with the first night on them, thanks to its First Night On Us campaign. Pictured is Traeth Porthdinllaen in Pwllheli

First Night On Us will see Airbnb release a limited number of coupons for a first night’s stay on them in one of these selected destinations across the UK this autumn.

There’s a limited amount of coupons, so your best bet is being online and logged into your Airbnb account at Airbnb.com/firstnight at 10am every Thursday for four weeks, starting from 3rd October.

Each week, the coupons will be for a different destination, and if you’re quick enough to claim one, you’ll get your first night with a host in one of these stunning places on Airbnb – so long as you book a minimum two-night stay.

The coupon will cover the cost of the first night up to £150, so additional payments may be required for more expensive listings.  But most should be covered. 

All you have to do is enter the coupon code when you book a trip and check-in before 30 December 2019. What’s stopping you?

The destinations will be promoted weekly from 27 September, and the coupon drops start at 10am on 3 October, when coupons will be available for the coastal Devon village of Croyde.

It is followed by the Welsh market town of Pwllheli on 10 October at 10am, historic Pontefract in West Yorkshire and Appleby-in-Westmorland on 17 October at 10am, and finally Callander near Loch Lomond and the coastal village of Cushenden in Northern Ireland on 24 October at 10am.

Today, many of us in the UK sometimes feel we are disconnected from the richness and diversity of the country.

Airbnb believes there is no better way to make this re-connection than by staying in a home in a community that offers a fresh perspective on the country.

On Airbnb can you discover communities and unique hidden homes in destinations such as Appleby-in-Westmorland 

This could be as simple as experiencing a different rhythm of life in the sleepy heart of the Scottish Highlands, or having an unforgettable conversation with a stranger on the coast of Northern Ireland.

With the help of Airbnb you can discover these charming communities, and as well as their unique hidden homes that have been previously overlooked. 

And with First Night On Us, there’s now no excuse not to get out there and experience a whole new side to the country.

Whether that’s stepping back in time to visit a medieval village, breathing in the country air at one of the UK’s majestic national parks, or enjoying a pint in a traditional local pub.

So, where would YOU like to explore with Airbnb? 

Pontefract

Pontefract, pictured, is a town of hidden treasures, brimming with characterful pubs all built around a legendary Norman castle 

If castles and sweets are your thing, then Pontefract in West Yorkshire is the town for you. This market town is steeped in history, and is the birthplace of liquorice itself. 

Its local pubs and cobbled streets make a characterful backdrop for a short getaway. 

Once known as the Key to the North, it’s a town filled with hidden treasures, and an abundance of characterful pubs (we like the Robin Hood with its open fires and real ales). 

There’s loads of activities to keep the kids entertained, not to mention the legendary Norman castle. 

Pwllheli

Pwllhelli is a bustling coastal town with a marina and bustling shops and restaurants

Mountains or ocean? It’s a tough choice, but with Pwllheli it’s not one you’ll have to make as it’s all in touching distance. 

This bustling coastal town is located at the heart of the Llŷn Peninsula, which gives access to the stunning Wales Coast Path. It has its own world-class marina, sailing academy, and thriving watersports scene.

And as for mountains, the town is just a few miles west of Snowdonia National Park that boasts some of the most dramatic and stunning peaks the UK has to offer. On top of all this, the town is full of life and charm, with an array of independent shops, cafes (try the Taro Deg) and restaurants (push the boat out at Plas Bodegroes).

Appleby-in-Westmorland

High Cup Nick, a deep chasm in the Pennines, is a fabulous place to walk if you’re staying in Appleby-in-Westmorland. The town sits between the Pennines and the Lake District in some of the UK’s finest countryside 

Appleby-in-Westmorland is nestled conveniently between the Lake District, the North Pennines and the Yorkshire Dales. This makes it the ideal starting point for countless walks and day trips into some of the UK’s finest countryside.

The town feels like a medieval time-capsule, known for its magnificent castle and Norman keep that leads onto the famous Boroughgate.

Here you’ll find plenty of local charm, perfect for any devout wanderer!

Cushendun

The picturesque Cushendun in Northern Ireland has a breathtaking coastal path and a quaint fishing boat-filled harbour 

You’ll struggle to find a more picturesque place than Cushendun. 

Soak up the tranquil atmosphere in any of its idyllic pubs and cafes, or take a stroll over to the tiny fishing boat filled harbour.

There’s vast amounts of hiking options allowing you to explore the stunning surrounding nature. Don’t miss the breathtaking coastal path that will lead you to the famous Cushendun Caves, then settle into one of the local pubs. 

If you’re lucky, you’ll catch some of the local musicians too. 

Croyde

If you do love to be beside the seaside, Croyde, pictured, is a fine choice 

If it’s seaside action you’re after, then Croyde is a fine choice. Start your day surfing its legendary Atlantic waves. Then book into a coasteering session to explore the dramatic coastlines, or take a walk along the stunning Baggy Point.

When you’re done with the salt water, wash it down with a pint of famous local ale in one of the many iconic pubs. 

Callander

The historic Scottish town of Callander sits right next to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park 

Callander is a charming town situated on the edge of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park in Scotland. 

It’s here where the Highlands and the Lowlands meet, making it the perfect base to set off and explore the vast surroundings.

Venture out to the local lochs or follow the cycle tracks down the Oban railway to the summit of the Callander Crags. After an active day in the outdoors, sample some of the great local produce. 

Here you really are spoiled for choice. 

  • For more information visit www.airbnb.com/firstnight 

Source: Read Full Article