Embark on wallet-friendly escapades across the UK with our guide to cheap weekend breaks. Discover the best towns and cities nationwide for budget-friendly trips that won’t break the bank.
Whether you crave coastal retreats, activity-filled city breaks or historical tours, this guide reveals some of the most cost-effective destinations in Britain.
Perth is perfect for a cheap weekend getaway. It’s a hikers’ dream with fantastic walking trails nearby, alongside an array of low-cost activities and places to eat and drink.
Amazing walking routes surround Perth; one of the best is Kinnoull Hill. Wander through wonderful woodlands as you head to the summit, where you’ll find stunning views of the River Tay. There are three trails to choose from, each with varying difficulty, distance and terrain.
Would you prefer to stay in the city centre? No problem! A range of activities in Perth will entertain you during your weekend break. Explore the Jardine Gallery or Perth Art Gallery (both are free to enter) or visit local landmarks like Perth Bridge, Abernethy Village and the Kirk of St. John the Baptist.
You’ll find various cafés in Perth that won’t put too much strain on your wallet. They’re great for grabbing a quick bite and a cup of tea or coffee, with local dishes available, including haggis.
Some of our favourite cheap cafés in Perth include:
Choose Leonardo Boutique Hotel Huntingtower Perth for a comfortable stay in Perth. It’s a charming country house-style hotel surrounded by six acres of gorgeous gardens, a short drive or bus journey from the city centre.
All rooms have a modern design with a splash of tartan and contain a flat-screen HD TV, tea and coffee-making facilities and free Wi-Fi. Grab a bite at the on-site restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and uses locally sourced produce. Alternatively, relax at the hotel bar, with drinks ranging from coffee to cocktails.
Enjoy an action-packed cheap weekend getaway in Manchester. Whatever your budget, you’ll always find something to do in the northwestern city, including museums, shops and galleries.
Manchester is home to many unique museums which are well worth exploring. The free-to-enter Science and Industry Museum is fantastic for a cheap family weekend holiday, showcasing the city’s impact on science, technology and industry. Football fans should check out the National Football Museum, which includes exhibitions, memorabilia and activities dedicated to the beautiful game.
The Castlefield Viaduct ‘High Line’ gardens are another free activity in Manchester. This urban sky park, run by the National Trust, features an impressive collection of trees and plants. Art buffs will love the Manchester Art Gallery and Whitworth Art Gallery. At the same time, shopping lovers can head to the Arndale or Trafford Centre for retail therapy.
Manchester is packed with fantastic restaurants, many of which are reasonably priced. You’ll find everything from affordable Vietnamese food and pizzas from £7 to 25p chicken wings and curry and rice for under £10.
Our favourite Manchester cheap eats include:
Leonardo Hotel Manchester Piccadilly is ideal for a cheap weekend getaway in the UK. A ten-minute walk from Manchester Piccadilly Station, the hotel is easily accessible and close to many key attractions and restaurants in the city centre.
Guests can access the on-site bar and restaurant, while there’s also a free gym with high-spec equipment, cardio machines and weights. All rooms include a mini fridge, hairdryer and an en-suite bathroom with complimentary toiletries.
Leeds is the place to visit if you’re looking for a city full of history. There are fascinating museums and various local landmarks, making it perfect for history buffs. There’s also a fantastic zoo, ideal for a cheap family weekend break.
The Royal Armouries Museum is a must-visit during a budget weekend break in Leeds. It’s free to enter and has five floors of arms and armour throughout history, including Japanese samurai swords, Henry VIII’s armour and guns from James Bond films. The museum hosts daily shows and combats alongside an escape room experience perfect for families.
Sticking with the history theme, plenty of historic sites and landmarks are scattered around Leeds. Kirkstall Abbey, Temple Newsam and Abbey House Museum are all worth checking out. Wildlife lovers should head to Tropical World, a fantastic zoo with many exotic animals, including meerkats, crocodiles and snakes.
Plenty of dining options in Leeds won’t break the bank. Discover everything from value-for-money fish and chips to affordable Indian street food and two-course meals for £18.
The best cheap eats in Leeds include:
Leonardo Hotel Leeds is perfect for a cheap weekend break in West Yorkshire. Many key landmarks and attractions are on your doorstep, including Leeds Town Hall, Victoria Quarter, The Grand Theatre and Opera House. All rooms boast free Wi-Fi, an iron and ironing board and a Leonardo DREAM bed.
Southampton is a terrific destination for a budget break in the UK for fans of the great outdoors. Located on England’s south coast, discover various outdoor activities in the port city, from picturesque walks to river cruises.
Southampton has some gorgeous green spaces, perfect for walking and relaxing. Wander around the Southampton Common, 365 acres of woodland, rough grassland and lakes full of wildlife. Alternatively, head to Mayflower Park, where you can unwind with a picnic overlooking the River Test.
Southampton is also home to the UK’s only 5-star marina – Ocean Village. The bustling waterfront is filled with things to do, including boat trips, the National Oceanography Centre and various shops, bars and restaurants. And don’t forget to visit the SeaCity Museum. This interactive attraction tells the story of Southampton’s links with the Titanic.
There are many cheap eats in Southampton where you can enjoy wallet-friendly food. From traditional pub grub and fish and chips to great value gyros and delicious American desserts, there’s something for everyone.
Southampton’s most affordable restaurants include:
Leonardo Royal Hotel Southampton Grand Harbour is an ideal base if you want to stay in a central location. It’s on the doorstep of many local attractions, including Mayflower Park, a 7-minute walk away.
Guests can take advantage of the luxurious spa area or enjoy a dip in the indoor heated swimming pool. There’s also an on-site bar, restaurant and stylish rooms, some offering ocean views.
Nottingham is a beautiful city in the East Midlands, famous for its role in the Robin Hood story. It’s an ideal spot for a cheap UK weekend getaway, filled with things to do that won’t cost a fortune, including historic sites, parks and museums.
You’ll find many stunning landmarks when you visit Nottingham. Wollaton Hall and Park is a firm favourite among travellers. Marvel at the Grade I-listed Elizabethan mansion before entering (entry is free) and checking out various natural history collections.
Alternatively, head to Green’s Windmill and discover its inner workings before exploring the Science Centre, where you can experiment with light, electricity and magnetism. And don’t forget to see the Robin Hood Statue – a perfect spot for a photo!
Animal lovers should head to Stonebridge City Farm. It’s free entry (donations welcome) and perfect for a family day out. There are many animals to say hello to, including ponies, pigs and meerkats. The Arboretum is another brilliant place to spot wildlife and over 800 trees.
Nottingham has its fair share of low-cost restaurants and cafés, letting you dine without spending a fortune. Options include a jacket potato and hot or soft drink for a fiver, a beer and a burger for £10.95 and a curry and a soft drink for £12.
Find a handful of Nottingham’s best cheap eats below:
Book a room at Leonardo Hotel Nottingham for your cheap weekend away in Nottingham. It’s a perfect base if you’re sightseeing due to its city centre location, just five minutes from Nottingham train station.
You get everything you’d expect from a 4-star hotel, with all rooms boasting large, comfortable beds, tea and coffee-making facilities, complimentary toiletries and a flat-screen TV.
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