Make 2012 The Year You Visit The UK

After a difficult couple of years, the British holiday industry is gearing up for what they hope will be a busy year. The first signs of economic recovery are finally starting to appear in the UK, and hotel owners, restaurateurs and owners of tourist attractions are ready and waiting to welcome visitors from all over the world.

One of the most beautiful areas of the country is the Lake District. Located in the north-west of England, the proliferation of stunning hills and picturesque bodies of water has to be seen to be believed. Popular with walkers, anyone who plans to visit the area should make sure they have a camera packed, because the photo opportunities are too good to miss.

Although not as well-known with holiday-makers, the north-east coast of England is home to some of the most spectacular beaches and rock formations in the country. And with the heritage-rich cities of Newcastle and Sunderland close by, there is always plenty to see and do for tourists of all ages.

North of the border, the multitude of lochs and mountains provides the backdrop for the perfect holiday. Even in the winter months, Scotland continues to attract visitors. When the skiing season comes around, thousands of people head to the slopes to indulge their favourite hobby, and of course to enjoy some après-ski in the evenings.

To the south, London remains one of the most iconic cities in the world. With more than a thousand years of history seeped into its streets and buildings, it would take another year to see every one of the famous sights and landmarks. No wonder so many people take several trips to this bustling metropolis in a lifetime.

Anyone who visits London will no doubt have a list of things they want to see and do, and of course we all have different ideas about what makes the ideal trip. However, one thing that should be on everyone’s to-do list is a boat journey on the River Thames. The plethora of superb bridges and historic buildings that can be seen from the water is simply amazing, so a guided tour is highly recommended.

The south-west of England is perhaps the best-known holiday region in the UK. The counties of Dorset, Devon and Cornwall play host to thousands of visitors every week, attracted by the long golden beaches and the generally favourable weather. Resorts such as Torquay, Bude and Weymouth offer all the amenities you would expect to find on a modern vacation.

Driving in the UK is easy, which explains why so many people are happy to hire cars on their British holiday. The motorways are fast and simple to negotiate, and all towns and cities are well sign-posted. Getting from one end of the country to the other will take several hours, of course, but it will at least be a pleasant drive.

One of the features of a British holiday is the cuisine, and no visit to the UK is complete without sampling one of the local delicacies. If you’ve never tried Lincolnshire sausages before, then you’re in for a treat!

David Rice is a UK writer who feels that with affordable car hire England is the best option for a holiday. He recommends the drive from Newcastle to the north-east of Scotland, because in England car hire is easy and inexpensive.