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Lockdown is lifting, restrictions are (nearly) gone and most of the population have had at least their first vaccination. Yet borders are still closed, or ever-changing and there is little to no warning of when a country on the amber list will go red, or vice versa. The price of COVID-19 tests are expensive if you want to get out of quarantine faster, and if you don’t want to pay then suddenly a week of annual leave can turn into much longer if you’re unable to work from home.
And so we turn to the majestic United Kingdom. With hidden harbours, green countryside, and fabulous hikes, the year of the staycation is upon us.
To get everyone excited about where to visit in our own country, we’ve put together a list of holiday options that could offer plenty of opportunities for whatever you’re looking for this summer.
Half the country is already planning to empty out into Cornwall this summer, and why wouldn’t you? With beautiful sandy beaches and cosy harbourside towns, ice-cream parlours, and the endless South West Coastal Path which stretches 630 miles from Minehead to the shores of Poole Harbour, Cornwall is calling your name this summer.
Get in the mood for a Cornish break with our 500-piece Port Isaac jigsaw. Port Isaac is a small and picturesque fishing village on the Atlantic Coast of north Cornwall and Terry Harrison captures the comings and goings that occur in Cornwall's prettiest harbours.
The Scottish Highlands
Everyone has heard of Loch Ness and its infamous mythical resident, but the Scottish Highlands have so much more to offer. Think big skies, mind-blowing landscapes, excellent food and warm people. Castles and crags, mountains and mysterious lochs, and miles and miles of stunning coastline.
Prepare for a Scottish holiday with our 1000-piece Highland Hike jigsaw by Czes Pachela. As one of the most iconic images of Scotland, Eilean Donan is recognised all around the world. Situated on an island at the point where three great sea lochs meet and surrounded by some majestic scenery, it is little wonder that the castle is now one of the most visited and important attractions in the Scottish Highlands. The perfect spot for the whole family to enjoy a highland hike.
Some say that London has it all. From iconic sight-seeing spots and fun-filled days out, top restaurants, the glorious West End, art galleries and museums, and famous shopping streets, London offers something for everyone. With restrictions lifting and social distancing and safety measures in place, a trip to London is looking good.
London Buildings is a gorgeous 500-piece circular puzzle featuring the buildings of London. The intricate illustration was created by artist Josie Shenoy and is beautifully detailed, and the circular design provides a historical kaleidoscope that celebrates some of London’s most iconic and magnificent buildings.
View the rest of our London puzzle collection here.
The Lake District is a region and national park in Cumbria, northwest England. It’s a popular holiday destination, well known for its glacial ribbon lakes, rugged mountains and historic literacy associations. You can walk or cycle the trails, hire a boat, or go for a swim in the lakes. The Lake District is also one of the darkest places in the UK so it’s fantastic for stargazing.
In our 1000-piece puzzle, Lake Windermere, Derek Roberts has recreated the huge lake in Cumbria’s Lake District National Park. It’s the perfect spot for kayaking, ice creams and a trip up a hot air balloon!
The Cotswolds are what dreams are made of. With rolling hills, thatched medieval villages, churches and stately homes, and the 102-mile Cotswold Way walking trail, the Cotswolds is perfect for a break. A long weekend or even an extended holiday in this stunning region will leave you wanting more and you’ll be booking your next Cotswolds holiday as soon as you return home.
Bourton-on-the-Water has been described as the 'Little Venice' of the Cotswolds and is one of the most popular tourist spots in the region. Elegant 18th century bridges cross the River Windrush as it flows through the centre of the village. Our 1000-piece puzzle of the town is beautifully illustrated by Terry Harrison.
A Caravan Break to the Countryside
Maybe you’re not looking for a particular destination. Maybe you just want a break somewhere away from everyone, maybe close to a beach or perhaps somewhere deep in the countryside. A caravan holiday suits everyone. Self-sufficient, cozy, and you’ll never have a cuppa too far away.
In our special 500-piece multi-box puzzle Caravan Outings, artist Kevin Walsh takes us back to the 60s, when families holidayed in the Highlands with their caravans. Can you spot Craigievar Castle in the background of one of the puzzles? The Scottish, seven-storey castle was built around 1576 and is said to have been an inspiration for Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle.
The United Kingdom offers so much, and whatever you fancy this summer, there will be something for you. Remember to pack your Gibsons puzzles and games, fun for the whole family.
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