The Great British Summer Holiday

The Great British summer is a fickle affair – with rain sure to pour as soon as the BBQ is opened, and beaches packed with sun-worshippers convinced it’s impossible to burn in the UK. 

In reality, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Even on overcast days, UV rays can be surprisingly strong, so SPF is a must, and a hat is non-negotiable. Whether that’s a relaxed bucket hat, the iconic Trilby, or a classic baseball cap, it helps keep the sun off your face and lets you make the most of long days by the sea.

Rain or shine, the atmosphere is unmistakable: the hum of promenades, the smell of salty sea air, the bright colours of deckchairs and the easy rhythm of coastal life combine to create that uniquely British summer charm. But beyond the unpredictable weather and optimistic beachgoers, when did the tradition of long weekends by the sea and those much-anticipated annual adventures truly begin?

Wakes Week

Since the Middle Ages, Brits have observed Christian festivals, often taking time off to celebrate local parish saints. However, before the Victorian era, these holidays – or ‘holy-days’ – mostly fell in the summer months and were usually unpaid. Workers would take the time to attend church, perform religious rituals and join in community festivities.

As the Industrial Revolution unfolded, many factory workers continued these traditions. Mills and factories would close, giving workers and their families a rare chance to take a holiday without worrying about losing their jobs. Entire towns would empty as people travelled to seaside resorts like Southport, Morecambe, and Blackpool. For many, it was their first time seeing the sea. At the same time, this shutdown of production allowed factory owners to clean machinery and equipment. 

Over time, this period of time off became known as Wakes Week, an early form of a working-class holiday. It was celebrated in industrial towns across northern England, particularly in Lancashire and Cheshire.

The Paid Leave Revolution

Until the 1930s, the Act of going on a ‘Grand Tour’ through Europe or beyond – or even spending a week at a holiday resort in the UK – was a luxury reserved for the upper classes. Without obligatory paid leave, many ordinary working-class people did not earn enough to sustain themselves for a week – or even less – without a consistent wage.

That began to change with the Holidays with Pay Act of 1938, introduced after campaigning by trade unions and the Labour Party. The Act gave millions of workers the right to paid leave, allowing them to take advantage of the great British summer and enjoy an extended trip to the seaside. This helped fuel an industry that was still in its infancy at the time but has since become a staple of British seaside towns: the budget package holiday, combining accommodation, catering, and entertainment for an all-inclusive price.

Some industries, in particular the cotton industry based in Lancashire, faced a further uphill battle as textile factory owners refused to follow the new guidelines outlined in The Act, arguing that the cost was too high to bear at a time of industry decline. Workers marched in August 1938 to press for the policy to take effect in their factories the following year.

While British holiday-making was no longer a priority during WW2, from September 1939 to September 1945, the country began its recovery after the war’s climax. This period saw the development of a fairer workforce and the gradual return of leisure time, laying the groundwork for the seaside traditions and summer escapes that remain a beloved part of British culture today.

The Evolving UK Staycation

During the COVID-19 pandemic, staycations saw a huge resurgence as travel abroad was restricted, with many Brits discovering the joy of exploring their own towns, countryside and coasts. The convenience, charm, and familiarity of local escapes made them a favourite for families, couples, and solo travellers.

These days, staycations aren’t quite as common due to easier accessibility to international travel. That said, they’ve evolved into personalised escapes. Whether it’s a cosy cottage by the coast, a scenic countryside retreat, or a weekend in a historic city, the Great British holiday takes on a different form today. 

The slower pace and local charm let you fully soak in the atmosphere of each destination. So, if you’re planning a staycation this summer, here are some pointers:

Top UK Staycation Spots:

• Cornwall: Famous for its soft sandy beaches, charming surf towns and stunning cliff walks. It is also a dog-friendly destination; most beaches and coastal paths welcome four-legged companions. However, some areas do require keeping dogs on a lead, especially during the busy summer months.

• Lake District: Ideal if you prefer serene lakes and cosy village pubs.

• Yorkshire Dales: Popular for picturesque villages, scenic trails and quiet country charm.

• Brighton & Sussex Coast: Offers bustling promenades, colourful beach huts and lively cafés.

Key Considerations for a Memorable Staycation:

• Best Time to Visit: Aim for late spring and summer, when days are long and the weather is pleasant.

• Essentials to Pack: A hat and sunscreen for those sunny spells, a cosy picnic blanket, a good book or travel games for the drizzly days, layering options that definitely include a shawl for cool summer evenings, comfortable shoes and a refillable water bottle.

• How to Travel: Trains or scenic drives give flexibility, while local buses or walking help you explore hidden corners at a leisurely pace.