Beating the winter blues: Dreaming of an English Summer
Scilly Isles
Ah, January. The month where Christmas feels like a distant memory, the weather is grey, and the motivation to do anything productive is at an all-time low. But rather than wallowing in the post-festive slump, let’s look ahead to the good stuff—namely, the glorious English summer.
Picture this: long, golden evenings, sandy toes, countryside picnics, and that feeling of pure freedom as you explore some of England’s most beautiful spots. So, pop the kettle on (or pour yourself something a little stronger—it’s been a tough month), and let’s daydream about where we’ll be when the sun finally graces us with its presence.
1. Carbis Bay, Cornwall – The Turquoise Dream
If you didn’t know better, you’d think Carbis Bay had been plucked straight from the Mediterranean. The water here is so turquoise it puts tropical destinations to shame, and the soft golden sand makes it the perfect spot for a lazy beach day. Stay at Carbis Bay Resort if you’re feeling fancy—think beachfront luxury with views that will make your Instagram followers green with envy.
And when you’ve had enough sunbathing (unlikely), take the scenic coastal walk to St Ives for cute cafés, art galleries, and the best pasties you’ll ever taste.
2. Rye, East Sussex – A Step Back in Time (With a Side of Style)
Rye is what happens when you mix history with a hefty dose of charm. Perched on a hilltop, this medieval town is full of winding cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and hidden alleyways that feel like something out of a storybook.
Get lost in Mermaid Street (arguably one of England’s prettiest streets), browse quirky antique shops, and stop for tea and cake at The Fig or Knoops (which, by the way, serves next-level hot chocolate). When you’re done exploring, head to nearby Camber Sands for an afternoon of rolling dunes and beachy bliss.
3. Avebury, Wiltshire – Because Stonehenge Is Overrated
Yes, we said it—Avebury is better than Stonehenge. Why? Because you can actually walk amongst the stones, touch them, and soak up the mystical atmosphere without the crowds or the barriers.
This ancient Neolithic site is older than its more famous counterpart and far more immersive. Wander through the stone circle, explore the charming thatched-roof village, and pop into The Red Lion, a pub inside the stone circle, for a post-history pint.
4. Pedn Vounder, Cornwall – A Slice of Paradise
Regularly voted one of the best beaches in the world (yes, world!), Pedn Vounder is Cornwall at its most dramatic. With crystal-clear water and golden sand, it’s like stepping into a postcard. But be warned: getting there requires a bit of a scramble down the rocks—worth it for the view alone, but maybe not one for those who struggle with steep descents.
Once you’re down there, it’s all about sunbathing, swimming, and soaking up the wild, untouched beauty of this Cornish gem.
5. Scotney Castle, Kent – Like Something Out of a Fairytale
Kent is known as the “Garden of England,” and Scotney Castle is one of its most magical spots. A picture-perfect National Trust property, this moated medieval castle is surrounded by dreamy gardens that burst into life in summer.
Pack a picnic, wander around the lake, and pretend you’re in a period drama—because honestly, it would be rude not to.
6. Forest of Dean – More Than Just Trees
If you think the Forest of Dean is just a bunch of trees, think again. This ancient forest is packed with hidden surprises, from secret caves to Roman mines, wild boar sightings (yes, really), and some of the best outdoor adventures in England.
Hire a bike and cycle through the woodland trails, go kayaking on the River Wye, or try the Go Ape treetop adventure course if you’re feeling particularly brave. And for something really magical, visit Puzzlewood, a mystical forest so enchanting it’s been used as a filming location for Star Wars and Doctor Who.
7. Suffolk – England’s Most Underrated Staycation Spot
For some reason, Suffolk doesn’t get nearly as much attention as it deserves—but that just means fewer crowds and more space to soak up its charm. Expect rolling countryside, picture-perfect villages, and quirky seaside towns that feel like they belong in another era.
Explore the beautiful market town of Lavenham, visit the artsy coastal town of Southwold, or take a walk along the eerily beautiful shingle beach of Aldeburgh, where you can feast on fresh fish and chips straight from the paper.
8. Shaftesbury, Dorset – The Home of THAT Hill
If you’ve ever seen the iconic Hovis advert, then you’ve already had a glimpse of Gold Hill—one of the most famous (and steepest) streets in England. But Shaftesbury is more than just its famous hill. This ancient market town is full of charm, with cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and sweeping views across the Dorset countryside.
It’s the perfect place for a leisurely summer stroll, punctuated by plenty of tea and cake stops (because, priorities). And if you fancy extending your stay, there are some gorgeous countryside cottages nearby that make for the perfect base.
9. The Isles of Scilly – England’s Best-Kept Secret
If you want to experience a little slice of paradise without leaving the UK, then the Isles of Scilly should be top of your summer bucket list. Just off the coast of Cornwall, this dreamy archipelago feels like a different world, with white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a pace of life that’s gloriously slow.
Hop between islands by boat, cycle around St. Mary’s, visit the Tresco Abbey Gardens (home to exotic plants you wouldn’t expect to find in England), and spend your days beach-hopping, seal-spotting, and soaking up the island magic. It’s the kind of place where you can truly switch off, breathe in the fresh sea air, and forget about everything else—exactly what summer is all about.
Final Thoughts: Summer, We’re Waiting for You
So there you have it—eight dreamy destinations to look forward to when summer finally rolls around. Whether it’s Cornwall’s stunning beaches, the magical mystery of Avebury, or the old-world charm of Rye, there’s no need to hop on a plane when England has this much to offer.
For now, let’s survive the winter with warm cups of tea, plenty of holiday planning, and maybe a sneaky weekend getaway to make the wait for summer just a little bit easier.
Where’s top of your list for summer 2024?