Half term is one of the busiest times of year, and no one likes dealing with bustling crowds – but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of beautiful destinations across the UK that you can escape to.

Read all about our top five recommendations below…

Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire

There are many stunning sights in the Forest of Dean, with much less people to wrestle with than some of the other tourist traps dotted around the Wye Valley. Head to Coleford for the best hikes, and don’t miss out on the breathtaking Puzzlewood – a fairy-tale forest filled with vibrant green moss and otherworldly ancient trees.

Bamburgh, Northumberland

The little village of Bamburgh is well-known as a stunning seaside destination, while still remaining peaceful and quiet even during busy periods. Take a day trip and admire the immaculate beach, cosy cafes, and spectacular views of Bamburgh Castle at every turn. Visit the castle itself, and you may recognise the grounds and courtyard from some scenes in Harry Potter…

Moreton-in-Marsh, The Cotswolds

There’s plenty of stunning places to check out in the Cotswolds – the key is to avoid the ones that are sure to get crowded at this time of year. With over 1,000 years of history to offer, Moreton-in-Marsh is a quaint and fascinating option for a staycation. After admiring the charm of the chocolate box houses, you can relax in one of the many cute tea shops that the thriving market town has to offer.