Bank Holiday Inspiration

There are few things more satisfying than knowing there is a Bank Holiday on the horizon, but deciding where to go and what to do isn’t all that easy.



This year, though, LateRooms.com has made the lives of the indecisive much easier and pulled together a list of where’s hot to head to. Whether it’s a beach break or an urban retreat you’re after, just throw all caution to the wind and get yourself booked in to one of these locations. Like, now.

London
With the infamous Notting Hill Carnival taking place on the Bank Holiday weekend, it’s no surprise that London has come out top on in the popularity contest. The carnival weekend kicks off on Saturday with three days of open-air concerts, dance, steel bands and costumes galore. Bring the clan along for the Sunday family day for a bank holiday full of culture and an experience the kids will never forget. From the colourful parade to family workshops and costumes awards, your weekend will be far from boring.


Blackpool
It’s a classic beach break and no bank holiday round up would be complete without it, yes it’s the one and only Blackpool.  The infamous attractions are as exciting as ever, from Pleasure Beach to the Winter Gardens and of course, the iconic Blackpool Tower. This bank holiday treat the kids and extend your trip and book in to the many shows and activities from the Hot Ice Show to Cats the Musical. Also, be sure to take a trip Madame Tussauds to see The Beatles, The Queen and Olly Murs’ wax figures.


Manchester
Capital of the North, Manchester is a new entry in the bank holiday mix but not one to underestimate. With an array of museums with exhibitions and activities geared up specifically for kids, quirky cafes and a bustling city centre, Manchester is guaranteed to deliver an action packed weekend. And this bank holiday the city is hosting one of its biggest celebrations of the year; Pride. If you’re visiting the city of Northern soul this bank holiday make sure to park yourself along the Pride Parade route and marvel at the flamboyant carnival along with thousands of spectators from all walks of life.


Dublin
If you’re heading to Dublin this bank holiday, there are plenty of activities to give you a true Irish experience. Quaint cobbled streets and traditional Irish pubs are on every corner and guaranteed to enchant you with Ireland’s infectiously merry culture. If you want to immerse yourself in the city’s fierce national pride, then get yourself to the Ireland vs. Wales Rugby World Cup warm up match taking place this Saturday, you’ll be chanting the national anthem before you know it. And no trip to Dublin is complete without a visit to the infamous St James’s Gate, home to the Guinness factory.


Bournemouth
One of the most popular beach towns in the south, Bournemouth is a big bank holiday hit with families. The busy coastal hotspot is always bustling with plenty of things do, from relaxing on the beach, exploring the infamous pier to going wild with water activities. Start your big weekend off with a bang by watching a mesmerizing fireworks display, which takes place on Friday at 10pm. And if you’re up for soaking up some live music then you’ll love what Sunday has in store… Only One Direction (tribute band before you get too carried away!) will be performing the boy band’s classics at Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre  - perfect if you’re currently consoling a weepy teenager daughter. However you fill your time, there’s something for all the family.


Devon
Tucked away in the south-westerly corner of the UK sits the hugely popular coastal destination that is Devon. If you take the trip you won’t regret it; with a plethora of beautiful beaches, reams of rolling hills, and Exeter’s bars and restaurants, the county in the ‘English Riviera’ won’t disappoint. This weekend, be sure to check out the Pirates and Mermaids event at Powderham Castle – with a trail for the kids to explore as well as a host of other attractions, this is definitely one for the little ones.
Beer and public transport lovers should head down to the Rails and Ales Gala at the scenic South Devon Railway. Now in its 21st year, the event will see around 65 ales and ciders from local and national brewers as well as a mix of classic trains – what’s not to love?!

Where do you recommend?