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The UK is brimming with wonderful cities, each with their own distinct character. However, what often has us heading abroad rather than exploring our own isles is the cost. That needn’t be the case though—these city breaks all cost in at under £200 for a two-night weekend stay for two!
Sheffield – Leopold Hotel
The city: Sheffield has a laid-back, creative feel to it that makes a stay here feel incredibly relaxed. On the cusp of the Peak District, you’ll be able to combine long walks in the countryside with afternoons mooching around independent shops and cafes.
The hotel: This comfortable hotel has an incredibly central location. You’ll be just 250 metres away from the town hall and 350 metres from the city’s imposing cathedral. The hotel’s bar has a buzzing terrace which overlooks Leopold Square with its Victorian buildings and al fresco eateries.
Prices from: £160 for a two-night weekend stay.
Cardiff – Radisson Blu Hotel
The city: Wales’ capital city has something for everyone. There’s an impressively-preserved castle which will transport you back to a bygone era, shopping opportunities aplenty and a nightlife that’s wildly fun (and kind to your wallet to boot).
The Principality Stadium is an important centre for both Welsh rugby and football, and the atmosphere here is always electric. However, stays during match days come with a higher price tag.
The hotel: This is one of Cardiff’s tallest buildings and that means that many of the rooms here offer sweeping views out over the city. The location is pretty great too, with the castle just 900 metres away and the city’s main shopping area less than a 10-minute walk away.
Prices from: £196 for a two-night weekend stay.
Newcastle – Sandman Signature Newcastle Hotel
The city: The hilly city of Newcastle-upon-Tyne is incredibly picturesque, with signs of the its illustrious industrial past throughout. It’s also an incredibly popular destination for nightlife: Grey Street is packed with bars trying to outdo each other with drinks offers and pumping tunes.
Looking for a leisurely brunch followed by a slice of culture? You’ll want to head to The Biscuit Factory.
The hotel: Located in a building that used to house the brewery famous for making Newcastle Brown Ale, this hotel is brimming with history. That being said, modern amenities now rule supreme. The rooms are light and airy with free WiFi and a well-equipped gym that gives those staying here the chance to keep fit during their stay.
Prices from: £169 for a two-night weekend stay.
Ely – The Swan
The city: Ely in Cambridgeshire is the smallest of the cities in this round-up (in fact it’s England’s second-smallest city), but it is no less lovely for it. The cathedral is a medieval wonder dating all the way back to 1342. Inside, there are intricate stone carvings and a kaleidoscope of multi-coloured stained glass windows. Beyond that, it’s the natural beauty of the Fenland Waterways that you’ll be wanting to explore. Don’t forget to pack your wellies!
The hotel: The hotel has a prime location on the banks of the Great Ouse, and each room has river views. The interiors are all jewel tones and comfortable interiors, it feels like a cosy-but-elevated spot to stay in for a weekend when you’ll be largely exploring the great outdoors.
Prices from: £187 for a two-night weekend stay.
Birmingham – pentahotel
The city: England’s second-biggest city is brimming with things to do. There are shopping opportunities aplenty, the UK’s most visited theatre—the Hippodrome—is here, and it’s a real foodie hotspot. If there’s one dish that the city is known for, it’s the balti, which is believed to have been invented here. Head to the city’s Balti Triangle for a curry that will comfort without breaking the bank.
The hotel: This hip hotel has a prime location, just around the corner from the O2 Academy Birmingham. Inside the hotel, neon lights and leather furniture make the hotel bar an appealing place to hang out, while bedrooms are roomy and warm.
Prices from: £154 for a two-night weekend stay.
Bristol – DoubleTree by Hilton
The city: So many of our friends have either moved or are thinking of moving to Bristol, and we totally understand why. The city has a slightly hipster, artsy feel to it, except that’s also married with incredibly easy access to the great outdoors. Families will want to visit Bristol Zoo Project, while couples will want to spend Sundays enjoying a roast in one of Clifton’s many upscale pubs.
The hotel: The Doubletree by Hilton chain is reliably comfortable and the Bristol offshoot is no different. You’ll find beds you’ll want to dive into, a well-equipped gym onsite and a restaurant in a historic 17th-century former glass-blowing kiln.
Prices from: £195 for a two-night weekend stay.
