The long wait for summer is over, June has arrived in all of its glory! The sun is shining (yes, even here in the UK), the birds are chirping, and everyone is in a better mood. We absolutely love taking a holiday in the UK in June, because you can beat the crowds of July and August while taking advantage of the incredible weather. Whether you’re looking for a short weekend away or a longer break to use up those holiday days, we’ve got you covered with the best places to visit in the UK in June.
1. Stratford-upon-Avon, England
If you’re looking for where to go on a family holiday in the UK in June, then look no further than Stratford-upon-Avon. This is a great destination for the little ones and adults alike, perfect for those who like to keep busy. Whether you’re thinking about a quick weekend getaway or longer time off, you’ll find enough to do in the home of the Bard.
Things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon:
-For a magical day out, head to the Stratford Butterfly Farm, a tropical greenhouse filled with butterflies. Aside from the fluttering beauties, you’ll get to see many creatures from South and Central America, numerous flora and fauna, and other creepy crawlies. The Leafcutter Ants are an unexpected marvel!
-While here, be sure to pay your respects to the greatest writer who ever lived, William Shakespeare. You can visit the Bard’s birthplace and Anne Hathaway’s Cottage. You can also catch a performance at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, which is a great way to get little ones interested in the arts.
-If you’re travelling in June, the weather will likely be in your favour, so spend some time exploring the many great parks of Stratford. From the Shakespearean Gardens to the Upper Queen’s Park, there are many incredible parks in Stratford.
2. Bannau Brycheiniog National Park
This is one of our favourite weekend road trips near Cardiff, and maybe even our favourite national park in the UK — it’s too difficult to choose! Previously known as the Brecon Beacons, we now recognise Bannau Brycheiniog National Park by its beautiful Welsh name. It’s named after the stunning mountain range at the centre, which includes Pen y Fan, the highest mountain in South Wales.
Aside from the stunning nature, Bannau Brycheiniog National Park is filled with charming market towns and picturesque villages. It’s also been awarded the rare Dark Sky Reserve status for its low light pollution and high nocturnal clarity, so you can expect incredible stargazing each evening.
Things to do in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park:
-Obviously, you’re going to do some hillwalking here, so let’s get onto the best routes. The Route of Romans is a challenging 28-mile trail that includes a section over original Roman cobblestones. The Pen y Fan Horseshoe Loop takes you to the summit over eight miles. Check out the other great walking trails in this national park.
-Little ones and adults with tired feet will appreciate the Brecon Mountain Railway. This tourist railway takes you down the south side of the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park for five miles, including sights like the Pentwyn Reservoir and Pontsticill Reservoir.
-Head to the charming town of Aberhonddu, which is filled with winding streets, Georgian and Jacobean shopfronts, and cosy cafes. You can also visit the Brecon Cathedral, the YGaer Museum, and the Royal Welsh Regimental Museum.
Check out more unmissable things to do in the Brecon Beacons while you’re here.
3. Manchester, England
As much as we love heading into nature, we recognise some people are reading this list to find great city trips for the summer. In particular, we think Manchester is a city that truly comes alive in the warmer months. There are so many amazing things to do in June in Manchester, most of which take place outside. This city expertly combines culture, a fantastic live music scene, great foodie trails, and various markets.
Things to do in Manchester:
-Head to a rooftop to get the full experience of Manchester’s skyline. Whether you opt to have a drink or a full meal, it’s thrilling to see a lively city like Manchester from above. Some great options include 20 Stories, El Gato Negro and BrickHouse Social.
-There are many great festivals in June in Manchester. Music lovers can score tickets for Parklife, foodies can head straight to GRUBstonbery, and everyone else can visit the Manchester Flower Show for flowers, al-fresco dining, and artistic displays.
-Part of the joy of urban spaces like Manchester is the greenery that gets sneaked in. Don’t be afraid to spend an afternoon soaking in the sunshine at one of Manchester’s best parks, including Heaton Park, Peel Park, and Chorlton Water Park.
4. Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
The Cairngorms National Park is often referred to as a haven for lovers of the outdoors. There is so much to do here, so it’s a great place to stretch those muscles that have gotten stiff sitting behind a desk all day. Most people recommend taking at least three days to explore the national park, but you could easily spend five days here as well. Since a lot of the best aspects of the park involve being outside, it’s ideal for a holiday in the UK in June, before the midges get to bad over summer.
Things to do in the Cairngorms National Park:
-The Cairngorms is home to numerous great walking trails. The Seven Bridges Trail is 3.5 miles and takes you through the beauty of Ballater, which is just a few miles from the royal residence of Balmoral Castle. Or to combine walking with art, head on Glen Feshie's Frank Bruce Sculpture Trail. This spectacular 3-mile walk takes you past some of Bruce’s incredible works of art, that challenge our thinking on power, privilege and poverty.
-Aside from exploring the Cairngorms on foot, you can also try horse riding or pony trekking here. With miles of paths and trails, dense woodlands, and open country roads, this is an ideal way to explore this gorgeous region. You’ll find plenty of great riding centres, many of which offer native Highland ponies, which are ideal for tackling such rugged terrain.
-Ballater is widely believed to be the most beautiful village in the Cairngorms. This charming Victorian village absolutely sparkles when the mist sweeps over the mountains. As mentioned, it’s close to the Balmoral Castle, so expect to see many proudly displayed ‘By Royal Appointment’ signs throughout the town.
5. Isles of Scilly, England
It might be tempting to jet off to Spain or Portugal this time of year, but you’ll likely find it to be uncomfortably warm and crowded. Instead, head to our own Caribbean islands: the Isles of Scilly. This is one of those places in the UK that will make you feel like you’re abroad, despite being a few miles off the coast of Cornwall. You can enjoy white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, with the true feeling of summer.
Things to do on the Isles of Scilly:
-You could explore the island on foot, but we’d recommend doing it on horseback instead. At St Mary’s Riding Centre, you can get kitted out to tour the island by horse. Just don’t get too distracted by the incredible views!
-Not only do you get a taste of the Caribbean here, but you can also get a sip of southern France or Italy, thanks to the amazing vineyards scattered throughout the Isles of Scilly. Treat yourself to a tour and wine tasting of one of these great wine estates.
-Part of visiting a gorgeous place like the Isles of Scilly is simply relaxing. Head to one of the many great beaches, like Appletree Bay, Porthmellon Beach or Rushy Bay, and let your worries soak away in the sunlight and salty water.
6. Derry, Northern Ireland
The second largest city in Northern Ireland is the perfect destination for a June getaway. It may not be a physically large city, but it is absolutely brimming with history, culture, and passion. You’ll find incredible art at every corner and a story waiting to be told. It’s one of the best walkable cities in the UK, so grab some comfy shoes and explore everything this bustling city has to offer. Some of the best things to do in June in the UK can be found right here in Derry, so don’t hesitate to take the adventure there.
Things to do in Derry:
-Did you know that Derry is officially the only walled city in Ireland? It’s also one of the best-walled cities in all of Europe. These walls were built in 1613-1618 and used as a defence against early 17th-century settlers. It earned the nickname “the Maiden City” as its walls were never breached. These walls are still intact, so we recommend taking the time to simply walk along the entire wall and see the city as a whole.
-There are many great walking tours in Derry, and that’s the perfect way to spend a sunny June day. You can take the Bloody Sunday and Bogside Murals tour to learn more about the violent past of Derry and how it has shaped the city today. You can also take the Derry Girls tour to see all the filming locations of this amazing Netflix show.
-There’s so much more to learn, so head to the Museum of Free Derry, which recounts the turbulent history of the city between 1968 and 1972. Afterwards, grab a drink at Peadar O’Donnell’s, which many believe to be one of the best pubs in Northern Ireland. There’s often live music, and they do a great pint of Guinness.
7. North York Moors National Park, England
We’re listing a lot of national parks on this list, and that’s simply because they’re some of the best places to visit in the UK in June. The nearby Lake District will be crowded this time of year, so instead head to the North York Moors National Park for your holiday in June. It’s just as stunning and far less appreciated, but we’re hoping to change that.
The North York Moors National Park is home to one of the largest expanses of heather moorland in the UK. It’s been a designated national park since 1952 and is known as a haven for ground-nesting birds. That’s not the only wildlife which calls this place home, as it also features the most northerly colony of the Duke of Burgundy butterfly in Britain and the southernmost place for the dwarf cornel.
In between all of this nature, you’ll find stone-built villages and bustling market towns, the perfect place to grab a bite to eat after a day spent outdoors.
Things to do in the North York Moors National Park:
-Head to Robin Hood Bay, a picturesque old fishing village filled with character. After strolling through town and perhaps getting some delicious fresh seafood for lunch, you can head on to the beach. It’s one of the most dog-friendly beaches in the UK and is filled with rock pools to explore.
-For a bit of history and architecture, head to Whitby Abbey, a 7th-century Christian monastery that was later converted into a Benedictine abbey. It overlooks the North Sea on the East Cliff above Whitby, which you can combine with a visit to this lovely town. Alternatively, head to Rieaulx Abbey near Helmsley. This Cistercian abbey was one of the greatest in England until it was seized in 1538 under Henry VIII during the Dissolution of the Monasteries.
-Now let’s get onto some hillwalking! For something short and sweet, perhaps with little ones, try the 3-mile White Horse Walk. It takes you from Sutton Bank National Park Centre to the famous turf-cut hillside landmark, the White Horse of Kilburn. Or, for a coastal walk, try the 5-mile Cloughton and Hayburn Wyke route along the clifftop Cleveland Way National Trail. Check out more great routes in the North York Moors National Park.
8. Edinburgh, Scotland
While some capital cities can get a bit unbearable in summer (not stating any names!), Edinburgh actually comes alive in the warmer months. As much as we love to visit Edinburgh in moody autumn weather and hide out in its many amazing bookshops, there is something to be said for experiencing the Scottish capital at its best in June. You can make the most of the good weather as you stroll along cobbled streets and enjoy the live music scene.
Things to do in Edinburgh:
-Exploring the city and revelling in the joy of your favourite children’s book series? Count us in! Embark on the Potter Trail, a free tour of several locations that inspired the famous magical book series. It departs daily and is completely free, although donations are appreciated. You’ll see the magic lurking around Edinburgh, which inspired the bestselling book series.
-What better way to enjoy the good weather than a hike to Arthur’s Seat? Most recently, you might have spotted it in Netflix’s hit series One Day. Climbing there and back takes about two hours in total, and shouldn’t be too challenging. This is one of our favourite things to do in June in the UK.
-In the UK, June can’t always assure great weather, so if grey clouds make an appearance, head indoors to the National Museum of Modern Art, which features works by both Picasso and Matisse. Or you can be transported to the haunting past of the city at The Edinburgh Dungeon.
9. Isle of Mull, Scotland
The Isle of Mull is the second-largest island of the Inner Hebrides, situated just off the west coast of Scotland. It was created by volcanic eruptions during the last Ice Age, and as a result, the Isle of Mull is home to incredible landscapes and unique geology. This craggy appearance makes it beloved by rock climbers, and its clear waters make it one of the best wild swimming spots in the UK.
The best time to visit the Isle of Mull is between April and October when the abundant wildlife is roaming the island. June falls perfectly in the middle of this, making it an excellent time to head there. Check out some of the best campsites on the Isle of Mull for your stay.
Things to do on the Isle of Mull:
-Avid hikers should take a day to tackle Ben More. It’s the highest peak in the Scottish Isles and the only Munro on Mull. Depending on your experience, the hike to the summit is challenging and will take between five and eight hours to complete. For the easiest trail, start at Dhiseig Car Park and follow the trodden path.
-Looking for something a little more passive? We’ve got you covered as well, head to some of Mull’s best beaches instead. Fionnphort Beach offers direct views over to neighbouring Iona. Laggan Sands is beloved by birdwatchers, and Knockvologan Beach is only accessible at low tide and is a wonderfully sandy beach that resembles a tropical lagoon.
-For a view across the island and surrounding sea, head to Rubha nan Gall Lighthouse. It’s about an hour’s walk from town, and will be well with the view. For a taste of some classic Scottish whisky, head to Tobermory Distillery. This historic Hebridean distillery was established in 1798 and has remained a successful brand to this day. You can take a tour, learn about the distilling process, and try tasting directly from the barrel.
10. Cardigan, Wales
This might just be one of our favourite seaside destinations in Wales, although the competition is fierce. Skip the crowds of Cornwall and instead head to the sandy beaches of Cardigan. You can try a bit of paddle-boarding or water sports, or settle for some good old-fashioned sunbathing — with SPF 50, of course! There is something for everyone in Cardigan, including cosy cottages, stunning views, great independent shops, and welcoming cafes.
Things to do in Cardigan:
-We mentioned the great stores in Cardigan, and an afternoon of shopping is definitely needed while here. You’ll find vintage and antique shops, as well as local crafts and produce. In particular, visit Cardigan Antiques Centre, which sells all sorts of jewellery, vintage toys, books and curiosities. Just make sure you have enough space to bring everything home with you.
-You’re in Wales, of course, you’re going to visit a castle. Head to the namesake, Cardigan Castle, a Norman fortress that was reborn through a £12 million restoration. You can have 900 years of history narrated by Welsh Emmy-winning actor Matthew Rhys — learning has never been this easy!
-Interacting with wildlife should always be done in a safe and ethical way, and that’s why we’re happy to recommend the Welsh Wildlife Centre. The Teifi Marshes are home to some of the most incredible flora and fauna in the UK, as well as kingfishers, otters and wading birds. You’ll get to spot these adorable creatures in their natural habitat.
There are so many amazing things to do in June in the UK, so why go anywhere else? Enjoy a classic staycation in one of these amazing destinations, and make the most of summer weather. You’ll get all the perks of a summer holiday without the chaos of school breaks in July and August.
It’s time to plan your holiday in the UK in June, so hire a motorhome with Goboony, and let the adventure begin.
