Ella Hendrix
Some people can’t wait to finish university and start work, whereas others try to delay their entry into the world of employment for as long as possible. Whichever camp you fall into, the end of university is the end of an era, and after at least three years of hard study, you deserve a well-earned break before you start your new job.
It’s understandable that you might not have too much disposable income having finished years of studying, but there are plenty of quick trips you can take after your graduation that won’t cost the earth, and still let you get the break you need.
1. Theatre break in London
Are you a drama or performing arts grad? London has everything you can imagine – and more. And one thing London does spectacularly well, is theatre. The West End is famous the world over for its excellent theatre, so why not take a couple of days break, stay in a nice hotel, eat some great food, and catch a London play while you’re at it? A theatre trip to our capital would allow you to see award-winning musicals and plays, such as The Phantom of the Opera, Mamma Mia and The Mousetrap, with world-famous actors and breath-taking costumes and stage design.
2. Trip to Scotland
Whether you’re looking for some relaxation and chill out time, or a jam-packed few days with some great nights out, Scotland can give you these and much more. You can explore the breath-taking scenery, the highlands and the lochs, or some of Scotland’s blustery yet stunning beaches. If you are looking for a more urban experience, Edinburgh and Glasgow are both easy to reach on public transport.
The historic city of Edinburgh is overlooked by its majestic castle – you can climb Arthur’s Seat and enjoy its thriving culture and food scene.
Glasgow is full of art and culture, and brimming with trendy restaurants and bars around Argyle Street.
3. The Lake District
Most people have heard of the Lake District, but surprisingly few of us have spent much time there. With over 900 square miles of stunning scenery and British wilderness, it’s easy to get lost, but you will always stumble across a chocolate box village within a short amount of time. For anyone who loves to get out into nature and have a good ramble, the Lake District is for you.
You can climb Scafell Pike or Helvellyn if you are seasoned walkers, or take a steamer on Ullswater – all fuelled by the Lake District’s famous (and delicious) Kendal Mint Cake. You can visit the World of Beatrix Potter or the Grasmere Gingerbread Shop (selling gingerbread made from a 165 year old recipe), go cave diving, or hire bikes for an alternative way to get around.
4. Cornwall
For a few days of beach English-style, look no further than beautiful Cornwall. Here you can wander along rugged coastline, stopping every now and then for a cream tea to keep your energy up, or spend the day surfing off one of Cornwall’s coolest beaches. Padstow, Newquay, Bude, and St Ives are lovely towns and well worth a visit, as is the Eden Project and Bodmin Moor.
Cornwall is dotted with delightful market towns and historic seaside ports, which feel like they’ve come straight out of an Enid Blyton novel, and a visit to Land’s End & Lizard peninsulas is a must for anyone who loves their English geography.
There are, of course, plenty of inexpensive European cities that are easy and cheap to get to and stay in, which could also be great places to go to for your short break. But by staying in the UK, you not only support the local economy, you are also kinder to the environment. And with such a variety of holidays to choose from, there is something for everyone