Photo by Mike Cattell

This diversity is also reflected in the range of accommodation options that are available. As you might expect, there are hotels of all shapes and sizes across the country, from independently owned seaside palaces to international chains that are familiar to all. In addition to the hotels, there is an enormous number of self-catering properties to be found in all regions of this beautiful nation.

One of the more intriguing options, however, is one that most overseas visitors rarely consider, despite the fact that it has become something of an institution to UK-based travellers. The traditional British guest house offers travellers a comfortable room in a more homely location, and is generally far cheaper than a conventional hotel, a fact that comes as very welcome news to those who are on a tight budget.

Head to the seashore

Guest houses have been around for many years in the UK, and are especially common in seaside towns. Over the decades, a large number of British people have stayed in them, enjoying extremely affordable holidays in the process. Although the number of guest houses in Britain has dropped in recent times, there are still a great many to be found in places like Blackpool, Scarborough and Brighton.

One constant you’ll find in almost all of them is the opportunity to start the day with a traditional fried breakfast. Even if you wake up feeling as though you’re not hungry at all, the aroma of sizzling sausages and crispy bacon will soon have your taste buds tingling with anticipation. Not many guest houses offer an evening meal, but in the morning it’s a different story altogether.

Visitors to London have the widest choice of accommodation options of all, and although there aren’t many guest houses in the centre of the city there are some in the outlying suburbs. The extensive rail, tube and bus networks ensure tourists who stay away from the middle of the capital can still get to the major attractions and landmarks in no time at all.

Jamie Anderson works for http://www.anycarhire.co.uk/ and is a big fan of the British guest house.

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Gunners Pool Bridge in Castle Eden Dene / Photo by Les Hull

The Castle Eden Dene national nature reserve is a perfect location for a family day out. With twelve miles of rough paths and steep banks the wooded valley is a sure-fire hit for all the family. If twelve miles is only a short day out for you then the beautiful Hamsterly Forest is perfect. With two thousand hectares of horse riding tracks and cycling routes it’s another great family day out.

If it’s not the outdoors you’re after then try the National Railway Museum. With a variety of different locomotives on show, various special events throughout the year and guided tours it’s the perfect indoors activity. If this sounds a bit unexciting to your family then Diggerland will be right up your street. With over 15 rides, it gives adults and children the chance to drive real construction vehicles including the astounding JCB racing!

County Durham isn’t just a picturesque location; you’ll also find cinemas and theatres’ showing great shows all throughout the year. If it’s shopping that’s your kind of entertainment then you’ll certainly be spoilt for choice with small boutiques and large shopping centres in great supply, there’s something to satisfy every shopping desire.

When it comes to eating out in County Durham you may be pleasantly surprised by the diverse range of choices on offer. If you’re looking for a unique restaurant in County Durham then Blagraves House in Barnard Castle will definitely be on the ‘menu’. In a room with oaks beams and a crested ceiling you can eat where Cromwell once did…you can’t find much more unique than that!

Accommodation in County Durham is another area you won’t be short of choices in. No matter what your budget there’s something for everyone; with accommodation ranging from hostels right up to five star luxury hotels. If a hotel isn’t your style then there’s an extensive range of camping and caravanning sites which make them ideal locations for those looking for an ‘outdoors’ break.

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Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Alejandro Sánchez Marcos

S’Albufera des Grau Nature Park

Whilst Menorca is certainly the lesser visited of the Balearic Islands, during the summer months the number of visitors naturally increases. Escape the busy resort beaches for a day and relish in the natural beauty of the island’s only nature park. The network of wetlands, coastline and farmland welcomes a wide variety of both flora and fauna and a visit here will be sure to keep you at ease with the world. A lighthouse is found at the northern end of the park and a trip to the top will afford unbeatable views over hidden beaches and rocky coves.

Sant Lluis

One of the fastest growing yet traditional towns in Menorca, Sant Lluis, surrounded by picturesque countryside, makes for a great day trip. On your approach the huge traditional windmill will capture your attention so pull up and venture inside. The streets are chock a bloc with inviting pastry shops, the perfect stop for a tasty mid-morning snack, interspersed with small intriguing shops. The impressive church, Eglesia de Sant Lluis, is also deserving of a visit.

Ciutadella

The other main city of Menorca and the old capital, Ciutadella is located on the western coast of the island. A visit here will be particularly enthralling for anyone with an interest in history, as many buildings erected during the 17th century populate the old town. Be sure to stop by at the Castell Sant Nicolas, an old defence tower come exhibition gallery with the best views of the sunset, and the Cathedral; a stunning building that was originally a mosque before it was rebuilt in 1287. The picture perfect port area is the ideal setting for a long and relaxing lunch or dinner at one of the numerous fish restaurants.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Freebird

Somni Dancing Horses

Although not a full day trip, the Somni Dancing Horses are not to be missed. Menorca has long had associations with horses and is in fact famous for its own breed of black horses. Make your way to the stables on the road to Cala Galdana and you can enjoy an unmissable night that will show you the legends and traditions of Menorca whilst you enjoy a mix of equestrian arts and fantasy! After the show, you can often take a walk around the stables and paddocks and get up close to the horses and foals.

There is much to be enjoyed in Mahon itself and across the island of Menorca and this is just a selection of some of the best day trips you can enjoy during your holiday.

Bio: Kerri Ware is a travel blogger and writes for Economy Car Hire, a car hire broker offering great deals for car hire across Europe and beyond. Follow us on Twitter @economycarhire.

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