UK Holidays: Cheap staycation packages, short breaks and weekend trips

How to find cheap staycation packages and weekend trips for an affordable holiday in the UK

Brighton Pier

The UK is a country full of fantastic experiences, and you don’t need to travel far to have a wonderful holiday. Whether you dream of a weekend in bustling London, a relaxing staycation in charming Manchester, or a cultural excursion to Birmingham, there are many ways to make your trip both memorable and affordable. Here is our comprehensive guide to booking cheap staycation packages and weekends within the UK:

Use comparison sites

Start your planning by using UK booking sites to compare prices on hotels, hostels, and apartments. Many of these sites also offer package deals that can include accommodation and activities at a favourable price.

Be flexible with your dates

Try to be flexible with your travel dates. Hotel prices in major cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham are often lower on weekdays compared to weekends. If possible, try booking your stay from Sunday to Thursday to find the best prices.

Travel during off-peak times

Avoid travelling during peak seasons and major events when prices often soar. In London, for example, you can find good deals in early spring or late autumn. In Manchester, it might be wise to avoid periods around major events like the Manchester International Festival.

Explore package deals and offers

Many hotels in UK cities offer packages that include accommodation and activities. Look for “stay and experience” deals in Manchester, cultural packages in Birmingham, or spa weekends in London. These packages can often give you more value for money compared to booking everything separately.

Look outside the city centre

Consider accommodation in nearby areas. In London, areas like Croydon or Stratford can offer lower prices while still having good transport links. In Manchester, look at areas like Salford or Didsbury. In Birmingham, places like Solihull or Edgbaston can be affordable alternatives.

Join loyalty programs

Many UK hotel chains have loyalty programs. By accumulating points, you can get discounts or free nights on future visits. It can be worth creating an account even if you don’t travel often, as members sometimes receive exclusive offers.

Book early – or last minute

For popular events and periods in the cities, book early to secure the best prices. But also keep an eye out for last-minute deals, especially during quieter periods. Hotels often want to fill their rooms and can offer good prices for spontaneous travellers.

Explore alternative accommodations

Try hostels, apartment hotels, or even private rentals in the cities. These can be affordable alternatives, especially for longer stays or if you’re travelling with a group. They often provide access to kitchens, which can help you save on food costs.

Combine accommodation with experiences

Look for packages that combine accommodation with local attractions. In Manchester, this could be entry to the Science and Industry Museum or a tour of Old Trafford, in London perhaps a Thames River cruise or a visit to the British Museum, and in Birmingham, it might include a visit to Cadbury World or a tour of the historic canals.

Use local transport and activity cards

Many cities offer cards that provide discounts on both transport and attractions. The London Pass, the Manchester Visitor Card, and the Birmingham City Card are excellent examples. These can save you a lot of money if you plan to see many attractions.

Look out for seasonal offers

Cities like Birmingham can have special winter packages, while London might entice with summer deals. Manchester often has attractive Christmas market packages. Pay attention to these seasonal offers when planning your trip.

Check social media and newsletters

Follow your favourite cities and hotels on social media. They often share exclusive offers there. Also, consider subscribing to newsletters from hotels and booking sites to get early offers and discount codes.

Be smart with food expenses

Food can be a significant expense when travelling. Look for accommodations with included breakfast or access to a kitchen. In London, try food trucks for affordable lunches. In Manchester, explore the local markets for delicious eats. In Birmingham, enjoy the diverse food scene with affordable international dishes.

Utilize free activities

All three cities offer many free activities. In London, you can walk through Hyde Park or visit the National Gallery for free. Manchester offers beautiful parks like Heaton Park, and in Birmingham, you can enjoy the Birmingham Botanical Gardens without cost.

Use public transport

Instead of renting a car or taking taxis, use public transport. All three cities have well-developed systems that are both affordable and efficient. In London, for example, you can explore the art-decorated tube stations as a free activity.

Book cancellable – but be careful

If you find a good deal well in advance, consider booking with free cancellation. This gives you the flexibility to continue looking for better offers. But be sure to keep track of the final cancellation date to avoid unexpected costs.

Browse incognito

When searching for deals online, try using your browser’s incognito mode. This can sometimes help you avoid dynamic pricing based on your previous searches.

UK landscape

With these tips, you can plan an exciting and affordable staycation or weekend in the UK’s largest cities. Remember that the experience is the most important – sometimes the best memories are made when you discover your own city or region in a new way. Whether you stroll along the Thames in London, enjoy a coffee in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, or explore Birmingham’s modern architecture, there are endless possibilities to experience the best the UK has to offer without breaking the bank. Happy travels!