The United Kingdom and Ireland are home to some beautiful regions, from the rugged Scottish Highlands to the sunny Cornish coast and the heather-clad Yorkshire Dales. For family or friends seeking a group getaway, there are many amazing places to explore here. To help you decide where to visit on your next group adventure, here are 5 of the best group getaway ideas that you can try out in the UK and Ireland.
The Highlands are a rugged region in the northernmost part of Scotland, home to various valleys, mountains and lochs. For those who love hiking, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to routes here.
Ben Nevis is one of the most popular and challenging mountains in the UK, boasting a 1350 m elevation gain and 10 miles of rough, rocky terrain. For groups who are seeking a challenge, this iconic mountain is a fantastic place to start.
For a gentler hike, consider exploring the Fairy Glen on the Isle of Skye. Hidden in the hills of Uig, this enchanting landscape is characterised by its rolling green hillocks and boulders, creating a place where myths and legends span thousands of years, a perfect place for families with children.
Northumberland is a region in the north east of England, home to charming market towns, ancient castles and stretches of white sandy shores. With its expansive protected parklands, Northumberland is the perfect spot for outdoor adventures.
Camping is one of the most popular things to do here for outdoorsy groups. Ranging from traditional family-friendly camp sites to luxurious glamping pods, the accommodation options here can suit any type of visitor.
Perhaps you’re seeking the perfect site for a girls’ weekend away, Northumberland offers lots of glamping sites where you can soak in a hot tub, sip wine and catch up. Or if you’re venturing on a family retreat, go back to basics with a green field, a BBQ and a family-sized tent for a classic British getaway.
Spend the day exploring the various villages dotted around Northumberland. Wander through the beautiful gardens of Alnwick Castle, stop by a tea room in Amble or explore the ancient castle in Bamburgh on the coast.
Cornwall is the southernmost county of England and is one of the most popular surfing destinations in the UK. There are some incredible beaches here that draw surfing enthusiasts from all over the globe. If you and your friends or family are seeking a wave-riding getaway, Cornwall could be the best choice.
Fistral Beach is one of the most popular spots to catch waves, with miles of choppy waters and stretches of sand to recover. Other popular beaches include Newquay, Polzeath and Gwithian. Beginners can try out surfing classes with guided instructors, or experienced surfers can carve their own path.
After a day in the water, head into a cosy pub or cafe. Be sure to try out the traditional Cornish treat of jam and cream scones with a cup of tea for a flavour of a British classic.
There is some fantastic group accommodation in the UK, with many properties on offer in Cornwall. From cosy cottages to modern beach houses, there are options to suit every group’s preferences.
Ireland, often called the Emerald Isle, is a stunning landscape where history meets natural beauty to create the perfect getaway destination. From Dublin’s magnificent castle to the windswept Cliffs of Moher, there are some incredible sites to visit that are packed with history and culture.
For groups looking to explore the Irish countryside on foot, choose private tours of Ireland for an immersive experience. The Wild Atlantic Way is the perfect route for adventurous groups, where dramatic coastal paths reveal hidden coves and breathtaking seascapes.
Or, perhaps, for a more historical approach, venture to western Ireland to walk the cobbled streets of Galway and soak up its lively atmosphere, catch live Irish music performances, and learn about traditional Irish culture.
The Yorkshire Dales National Park offers some of the most picturesque cycling routes in Britain. Its rolling hills and charming villages create a quintessentially English landscape. The network of quiet country roads and dedicated cycle paths makes this region particularly appealing for groups of cyclists.
The Swale Trail is perfect for mixed-ability groups, offering a relatively flat 12-mile route through stunning countryside. More experienced cyclists might challenge themselves with the famous climbs featured in the Tour de Yorkshire, tackling steep ascents that reward with panoramic views across the dales. Many villages along the routes boast bike-friendly cafes where your group can refuel with homemade cakes and, of course, Yorkshire tea.
Local bike hire shops can kit up your group with bikes and all necessary equipment, making this an accessible option even for those travelling without their own bikes. After a day exploring, retreat to one of the many cosy countryside pubs where you can rest weary legs by a roaring fire.
There are some fantastic destinations to explore in the UK and Ireland, with plenty of options for families and friends alike. Whether you choose a walking holiday in Galway, a camping trip to Scotland or a cycling retreat in the Yorkshire Dales, you can be sure to find something that suits all your group’s needs, whether that’s relaxation, adventure or a perfect blend of both!
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