When summer’s in full swing, there’s nowhere we’d rather be than the UK. Sunshine, sandy beaches, turquoise waters, we’ve got it all right here on our shores. There are plenty of great places to visit in the UK in August, from bustling cities to sleepy villages, and everything in between. Whether you’re looking for a weekend away, a longer trip with the whole family, or a final getaway for the August bank holiday, we’ve got some excellent options lined up. Here are the best things to do in the UK in August.
1. Liverpool, England
Brits don’t talk about Liverpool enough. This city is known for its Beatle-shaped history, and perhaps for hosting Eurovision last year. But there is so much more to say about Liverpool! A famous maritime city, this is where the River Mersey meets the Irish Sea. You can take a ferry cruise along the coastline to see the city in its best light and marvel at the incredible architecture. Food, music, shopping, and culture, you can expect all of this and more when you visit Liverpool this summer.
Things to do in Liverpool:
-Okay, so we mentioned there’s more to Liverpool than The Beatles, but the band is quite an important aspect of the city’s heritage. One of the best things to do in August in the UK is to visit International Beatle Week. Live music is central to this festival, with 70 bands from over 20 different countries. we’ll even let you in on a secret: you don’t have to be a massive Beatles fan to enjoy this festival!
-Head to the Maritime Museum to learn more about how the waterways shaped this city, followed by a stroll around the stunning Royal Albert Dock.
-Scouse isn’t just a fond name for the locals, it’s also the dish that Liverpool is known for! It’s a type of stew typically made from chunks of meat with potatoes, onion and carrots. This is where inhabitants of the city get the name “scousers.” You can find Scouse served all over the city, but we recommend Maggie May’s.
2. Llandudno, Wales
Since we’re in the west, let’s head over to Wales for our next recommendation of where to go in the UK in August. This time we’re heading to Llandudno, a seaside gem with a lot of history and personality. Known for its Victorian architecture, you can easily spend an afternoon strolling through the town and marvelling at the architectural details. You can also combine a trip to Llandudno with visiting Eryri National Park.
Things to do in Llandudno:
-It might not be as well-known as Brighton, but Llandudno Pier has plenty to offer. At 2,295 feet, it’s the fifth longest in England and Wales and was even voted “Pier of the Year” in 2005. This Victorian Promenade offers a wide range of attractions, food stalls, and concessions. There’s a fishing platform open daily, and you can buy a stick of Llandudno rock for loved ones back home.
-It’s August, so hopefully we’re not experiencing a drizzly British summer (fingers crossed!), so head to the many beaches of Llandudno. You’ve got beaches on both sides, the west of which features a great view of nearby Anglesey. Personally, we’d recommend heading to Llandudno Beach or West Shore Beach.
-Are you feeling restless just sitting on the beach all day? Lace up your hiking boots and head to the Great Orme, a hill packed with incredible hiking trails. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy here, including crazy golf, historic copper mines, and cable cars.
3. Lincolnshire Wolds, England
We’re going to let you in on one of the best-kept secrets of the UK: the Lincolnshire Wolds. We don’t know how this designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty isn’t swarming with tourists in the summer, but we’re certainly not complaining! Keep the Lake District or Peak District, we’ll head here. You can expect rolling hills, lush forests, historic market towns, sleepy villages, and the bustling city of Lincoln. It’s one of the best weekend getaways from Manchester.
Things to do in the Lincolnshire Wolds:
-The Lincolnshire Wolds are a walker’s paradise with plenty of routes to choose from. If you’re looking for something a little easier, perhaps pram-friendly, then enjoy the accessible Spa Trail. Silver Lincs Way is a 25-mile circular trail, or for a real challenge, try the 69-mile Lindsey Trail, which takes you from Market Rasen to Horncastle.
-Did you know the Lincolnshire Wolds are beloved by foodies? You’ll find incredible restaurants and farmers' markets across the region. For a classic pub meal, head to The Three Horseshoes. Or, for something fancier, head to The Old Bakery. This Victorian bakery has been transformed into a stylish yet informal restaurant, with a competitive European wine list.
-Spend an afternoon strolling along the cobblestone streets of Hull, the UK’s City of Culture. You’ll find free museums in the Museums Quarter, innovative art galleries throughout the city, and vintage boutiques at every corner.
4. Antrim Coast, Northern Ireland
Not only is the Antrim Coast one of the best places to visit in the UK in August, but it’s one of our favourite weekend road trips from Belfast. It’s closer than you think and easily combined with time in Northern Ireland’s capital city. This magnificent stretch of coastline was designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1988 and remains one of the best sights in Northern Ireland. The Antrim Coast is truly one of the places you have to see with your own eyes to believe.
Things to do on the Antrim Coast:
-Would you like to spend an afternoon with adorable puffins? The answer is obviously yes, so head to Rathlin Island, located forty minutes off the Antrim Coast. Only 141 people live on this island, along with Puffins, Guillemots, Kittiwakes, Razorbills, Fulmars and even Corncrakes.
-While visiting the Antrim Coast, spend an afternoon at the Giant’s Causeway. Consisting of about 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns, this is one of the most famous landmarks in Northern Ireland. You can decide for yourself whether it is the result of an ancient volcanic fissure eruption, witchcraft or giants. Admission is free, and you’ll find great camping spots nearby.
-If the weather is good, soak up the sunshine by tackling the Gobbins Coastal Walk. This 3-mile path can be challenging at times, but it’ll never get dull, thanks to tubular and suspension bridges, caves, steps and tunnels.
5. Edinburgh, Scotland
Before you immediately skip this option at the thought of visiting a capital city in the peak of summer, give us a moment to explain! Edinburgh isn’t like other bustling cities that become unbearable during the school holidays, it actually comes alive in the warmer months. And if you’re going to visit Edinburgh outside of quiet months, then let it be for the renowned Edinburgh Fringe Festival. If you enjoy theatre or comedy, treat yourself to a week in the Scottish capital this August.
Things to do in Edinburgh:
-As mentioned, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival is one of the best things to do in August in the UK. It’s the world’s largest performance art festival, featuring thousands of performances scattered across the city, giving you the chance to see different sides of Edinburgh as you fill up your creativity cup.
-Take advantage of the good weather and hike to the famous Arthur’s Seat. You might have spotted it in Netflix’s hit series One Day, among other things. Climbing there and back takes about two hours, shouldn’t be too challenging and the view of the city is definitely worth it.
-If you’d like to discover some lesser-known parts of Edinburgh, join the Potter Trail, a free tour of several locations that inspired the famous magical book series. This free tour will help you see the magic lurking around Edinburgh, which inspired the bestselling book series. Donations for the volunteer guides are appreciated!
6. Clwydian Range & Dee Valley, Wales
Heather-clad hills, historic towns and villages, dramatic summits, sprawling woodland and ancient forts; it’s time to explore the undiscovered beauty of the Clwydian Range & Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Eryri and Bannau Brycheiniog National Park can get very crowded during the peak of summer, so get your fill of hillwalking and natural beauty here instead.
Things to do in the Clwydian Range & Dee Valley:
-You’re in Wales, so visiting at least one castle is expected of you. This time, we’re recommending Denbigh Castle, which was built in the 13th century and is considered to be the most picturesque castle in all of Wales. Or head to Caer Drewyn in the southwest and Moel Hiraddug in the north to visit Iron Age forts.
-This gorgeous weather calls for some hiking. If you’re looking for a challenge, try your hand at Moel Fammau, which means ‘Mother Mountain’ in Welsh. At 1818 ft, it is the highest summit in the range.
-Do you prefer spending your time on a bike? Coed Llandegla is located at the southeast end of the Clwydian Range. This privately owned forest park attracts around 200,000 keen cyclists each year. You’ll find trails for riders of all abilities and a skills area to perfect your techniques on jumps, berms and timber bridges.
7. Tynemouth, England
Time to check out one of our favourite seaside towns in the UK! Tynemouth is beloved by wild swimmers, but it also features many more of the best things to do in August in the UK. This seaside town is steeped in history and features great cultural exhibits, as well as delicious food and drink. You can dive into the lively atmosphere of the town centre or find peace and quiet at King Edward’s Bay or Percy Park, there’s something for everyone in Tynemouth.
Things to do in Tynemouth:
-Catch some summer sun and big waves in Tynemouth, one of the most popular places to go surfing in the UK. You can take surfing and windsurfing lessons at Tynemouth Surf Co and Longsands Surf School. Or, for something a little more dry, try some stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and canoeing.
-For an interactive history lesson, visit the majestic remains of Tynemouth Priory and Castle. This Benedictine priory has over 2000 years of history, including the burial of three kings, making it a sacred place of pilgrimage. It overlooks both the North Sea and River Tyne and leads to some gorgeous coastal paths.
-Finally, for a bit of shopping, head to Tynemouth Markets, one of the most popular flea markets in the region. You’ll find plenty of food stalls selling local produce, as well as antiques, bric-a-brac, clothing, books, and more.
8. Carmarthen, Wales
Our final stop in Wales for this list of where to go on holiday in the UK in August, and we can’t think of anywhere better than Carmarthen. If you’re a history buff, fond of myths, or just enjoy watching House of the Dragon, head to Carmarthen. It’s one of our favourite weekend breaks from Cardiff and is best known as the birthplace of Merlin, the mystical wizard of Arthurian legend.
Things to do in Carmarthen:
-Carmarthen is the oldest town in Wales and has been a bustling market town since the Roman times. It remains an excellent place to do your shopping. You’ll find independent shops at every corner, as well as a large indoor market which offers food and drink, arts and crafts and plenty more.
-Take the historic Gwili Steam Railway from Carmarthen to Aberystwyth. This Welsh heritage railway is considered to be one of the UK’s best-preserved lines, and it offers an excellent way to explore this stunning region without tiring your feet.
-When in Wales… visit a castle! The majestic Carmarthen Castle dates back to the 1100s and has been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries. It’s best known as the place where Edmund Tudor died, the father of the first Tudor king of England, Henry VII.
9. North Pennines, England
The residents of this region have a lot to brag about, as the North Pennines is one of the few places that holds the double accolade of being a designated National Landscape and Britain’s first UNESCO European and Global Geopark. What do these fancy titles mean? The landscape is stunning and one of the best places to visit in the UK in August. The North Pennines are like nowhere else in the UK, a mixture of ancient hay meadows, vast heather moors and expansive peatlands.
Things to do in North Pennines:
-If you’re looking for a challenge, pull on your hiking boots and tackle the Pennine Way, or at least a part of it. This National Trail stretches 268 miles from Edale to Kirk Yetholm, passing through the Yorkshire Dales and Northumberland National Park.
-Don’t take those boots off just yet, and maybe grab a raincoat while you’re at it, as you’re heading to the spectacular Lacy’s Cave. It consists of a series of five chambers in the red sandstone cliff of the River Eden, just north of Little Salkeld. There’s a great walking route through this area of 6.4 miles.
-If you’re hoping to win brownie points with some little travellers, head to Hall Hill Farm, which is home to over 700 acres of family-friendly fun. You can feed lambs and donkeys, learn more about various farm animals, play crazy golf, and even ride sledges.
10. Inverness, Scotland
Too often, we think of Inverness as merely the starting point for some of the best road trips in Scotland. While the North Coast 500 and Argyll Coastal Route are both worth exploring, you might want to avoid the crowds of August for them. Instead, plan your trip to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. Inverness attracts visitors from across the globe, who come to see its medieval ruins, natural landscapes, quaint towns and prehistoric sites.
Things to do in Inverness:
-Before you embark into the Highlands, head to the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery to learn more about the fascinating life and heritage of this stunning region. If you’re peckish by the end of your visit, head to the museum cafe for a delicious selection of treats.
-The final castle on this list, we’re heading to Inverness Castle. It offers many interactive exhibits, as well as an impressive view of the sparkling River Ness.
-Head to the Victorian Market, where you’ll find food, drinks, antiques, and various knickknacks. You’ll find plenty of people hanging out there, under the famous clock hanging above it, which hasn’t stopped ticking since 1890.
You’ve got plenty of options for where to go on holiday in August in the UK, and now the hard part will be choosing between them all. Ideally, you’d combine several of these great destinations into a road trip in a motorhome, your very own home on wheels.
You can hire a motorhome from a private owner with Goboony, allowing your adventure to start right there in your driveway.
