Upcoming UK Heatwave: Where to Enjoy a Memorable Weekend

As we transition into June, it’s surprising to anticipate a scorching summer, as predicted by the Met Office. Imagine beaches in the Hebrides resembling the Caribbean, without the struggle against powerful winds, where you can relax on a sun lounger after swimming in the warm waters.

In the UK, we pride ourselves on our ability to enjoy the outdoors, rain or shine, but this year, it would be delightful to enjoy more favorable weather during the peak summer months.

For those taking the Met Office’s forecast to heart, there’s good news: following two lackluster summers, ample hotel availability and competitive rates for July and August are currently on offer across the UK.

1. Swimming Adventures in the Isles of Scilly

If the anticipated heatwave hits at the end of June, those participating in Swimquest’s trip to the Isles of Scilly will be among the happiest. From June 27 to July 3, strong swimmers will navigate the waters between St Mary’s and nearby islands such as Tresco, Bryher, and St Agnes, all while staying at the Mincarlo hotel, accompanied by experienced guides and safety boats. Prices for six nights’ half-board start at £1,769 per person.

2. Fritton Lake, Somerleyton, Norfolk

Fritton Lake offers a unique blend of rewilding and upscale holiday camp experiences where visitors can share the area with free-roaming cattle and deer. With a variety of accommodation options, from hotel rooms to Scandinavian-style cabins, Fritton features a heated 22m swimming pool, as well as opportunities for swimming and water sports in the lake. The on-site restaurant focuses on local cuisine, and Great Yarmouth’s beaches are just a short drive away. Pricing for three nights of self-catering accommodation for six starts at £1,665.

3. Swinton, Masham, North Yorkshire

Sprawling across 20,000 acres in the Yorkshire Dales, Swinton is renowned for its elegant hotel, complemented by cottages and glamping options throughout the estate. The glamping accommodations are particularly cost-effective, accommodating four to seven guests in cabins, yurts, and lofts. All visitors enjoy complimentary access to Swinton Country Club, which features indoor and outdoor pools, raft-making courses, and fishing opportunities. Pricing for three nights’ self-catering for six (two adults and four children) begins at £440.

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4. Druidstone, Pembrokeshire

Returning guests at Druidstone find comfort in its unchanged character, preserving its 1970s charm with homemade meals and stunning sunsets. The hotel offers rooms without televisions and a cliffside path leading down to Druidstone beach, where visitors can explore rock pools and caves. Rates for double rooms with breakfast start at £180.

5. Cabü by the Sea, St Mary’s Bay, Kent

Just under two hours from central London, Cabü provides a quick escape for city dwellers. This destination features 20 stylish cabins equipped with heating, bathrooms, and kitchens. The communal outdoor kitchen with a pizza oven enhances the social experience, and there’s a heated outdoor swimming pool. The beach is directly accessible, offering a perfect family-friendly retreat. Rates for two nights of self-catering accommodation for two start at £544.

6. Soho House, White City, London

Despite the capital heating up, London offers a variety of outdoor swimming pools, many of which are managed by local councils. Options include the Hampstead Bathing Ponds and Olympic-sized lidos at Tooting Bec and London Fields. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, Soho House has brought rooftop pools to the city, with one of London’s largest located at White City. Room-only rates for double rooms start at £260.

7. Finn Lough, Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh

This serene, adults-only retreat situated along Lough Erne features woodland paths, spas, and jetties leading into the water. A short drive from Belfast, guests can choose from PVC bubbles or forest lodges. Besides a full spa, there are also saunas available for guest enjoyment. On sunny days, the Bay café serves light meals. Rates for double rooms with breakfast begin at £303.

8. Trelowarren, Helston, Cornwall

This historic estate, family-owned for 600 years, features a combination of quaint 16th-century cottages and modern eco-friendly lodgings. The estate boasts a large outdoor heating swimming pool, surrounded by grass and sun loungers. The property also features extensive woodland trails, a folly, and an Iron Age fort, along with a tennis court and a restaurant focused on estate-grown produce. Rates for seven nights of self-catering for six start at £2,250.

9. Watersmeet Hotel, Woolacombe, Devon

Offering a blend of Edwardian charm and modern family-friendly amenities, Watersmeet features 29 rooms, two restaurants, and the added benefit of an outdoor swimming pool. The hotel provides direct access to Combesgate Beach, a tranquil sandy cove perfect for child-friendly activities like rock pooling. Rates for double rooms with breakfast start at £360.

10. Glen Dye, Banchory, Aberdeenshire

This camp-style accommodation set in breathtaking Highland scenery offers a cool escape with cabins, B&B rooms, and a shop selling gourmet meals and snacks. Guests can enjoy wood-fired saunas, axe-throwing, bushcraft activities, and local hikes. During weekends, the Seed Store serves high-quality meals, including locally sourced trout and venison. Rates for double rooms with breakfast start at £200.

11. The Retreat, Elcot, Berkshire

The Retreat features outdoor swimming pools and comfortable sun terrace loungers, making it a surprisingly affordable choice for a country house experience. Located just 40 minutes from Paddington, visitors can enjoy a hot tub, cold plunge tubs, and outdoor yoga during summer months. Prices for double beds with breakfast start at £160.

12. Another Place, Ullswater, Cumbria

This hotel on the shores of Ullswater promotes a wealth of leisure activities, including kayaking and paddleboarding, directly from its private jetty. After a comprehensive renovation, it showcases its stunning location in the Lake District. Another Place even offers an open-water swimming guide who leads courses and excursions. Rates for double rooms with breakfast commence at £295.

13. The George, Hathersage, Derbyshire

This historic outdoor swimming pool has been a centerpiece of the town since 1936, maintaining a pleasant water temperature of around 27°C. Evening swimming sessions often feature live music. Staying here allows easy access to other water activities in the Peak District, including river paddling on the River Derwent. The George, a charming inn with 24 rooms, is only a short walk from the local swimming pool. Rates for double rooms with breakfast start at £120.