England

While the UK is renowned for being a green and pleasant land, thanks to its glorious countryside, it is also the proud owner of some of the most stunning coastlines imaginable.  So, discover the beauty on your doorstep by swapping a short-haul getaway for a memorable stay cay at one of these UK paradises on Airbnb this summer.

Best for long walks: Portscatho, Cornwall

When was the last time you took a road trip out of the city? The calming coastal destinations of Portscatho in Cornwall could make the ideal retreat for reconnecting with the outdoors this summer.

There are those who go to Cheltenham for its superb festivals, the Regency architecture or its racecourse.  But there are many others for whom the main appeal of the spa town is its steam railway, the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway (GWR) which is a great way to start your weekend, exploring the area.  The 12 miles (19km) line stretches from Cheltenham Racecourse to Laverton Halt, a 17th-century hamlet in the Cotswolds.  The journey takes you through some of the most glorious Cotswolds countryside, where on a good day, you can see the Black Mountains in

Sitting between Somerset and Devon, is Exmoor national park.  With steep-sided valleys and russet-hued moorland dotted by solitary trees that have been twisted and contorted by the wind.  A red deer, sporting a crown of antlers, may emerge from the mist; a brooding Raven May flap moodily by.  Above all Exmoor feels like a real country escape.  The landscape is shaped by thousands of years of farming and inhabited by people who have lived and worked here all their lives.

With just a 20-minute train journey north of London you can be in St Albans.  This buzzy Hertfordshire city has long been a favourite for those wanting to move out of London.  But apart from being on most commuter’s wish list, there’s a host of things to explore for those wanting wanting a weekend break from the city, like its huge cathedral and crumbling Roman walls. There is a great selection of indie restaurants, brunch spots and a foodie lovers market.

Nestled in the lush Hampshire countryside is the peaceful town of Stockbridge, an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.  Stockbridge has fresh air, scenic walks and some of the UK’s best sparkling wine.  You can shelve any idea of being on a diet, as local, seasonal produce is big on the menu here, so the food is incredible.

Pack your walking boots for a country ramble.  Stroll around Stockbridge Marsh next to the River Test to spot water voles scampering along the riverbanks, or wander vast and hilly Stockbridge Down for sweeping rural views.

Hailed the UK's friendliest city, Newcastle has pristine pavements, shiny buildings, pricey drinks and lost of regeneration funding, which has seen it attracting cultural recognition.  Whether it's the Angel of the North, the Blue (but it's grey) Carpet or Sir Norman Foster's Sage Music Centre, Newcastle has developed an identity beyond football and short-skirted ladies. But don't despair - the city is still as much about having a good time as ever.

A trip to Brighton's pebbly beach and famous pier can be whatever you make it. Goggle at the bizarrely Taj Mahalesque Pavilion or have a debauched night out in one of the many bars and clubs. Brighton attracts different tribes: there's a thriving gay scene, it's a hub for stag and hen parties and a strong 'alternative' element makes its presence felt through amazing health food and hippy shops.

In 2002, Whitby's historic harbour thronged with excited Aussies eager to snatch a glimpse of the Endeavour as it sailed into Captain Cook's hometown.  When I visited, though, there was just the odd flip-flop-wearing pilgrim lounging outside the Captain Cook museum; the town's cobbles swarmed instead with black-haired twentysomethings dressed in petticoats and top hats.

The Elizabethan manor of Longleat, with its grand dimensions and adornments has a radical element - the West Wing. Here, numerous doors camouflaged by a sweeping mural punctuate a grand corridor. I'm overcome with giddy suspense each time our guide clicks over the key, knowing that no single room has been spared the creative stroke of its owner's paintbrush.

Her Majesty’s official residence may be London’s Buckenham Palace, but Queen Elizabeth II has long called Windsor home, less than an hour from London is one of England’s great Royal castles.  So, in addition to seeing Buckenham Palace why not spend the day poking around Windsor and the neighbouring town of Eton.