Whether it is glamour, adventure or an epicurean odyssey, holidaymakers planning a UK getaway this summer can recreate some of the world’s most iconic road trips with Hilton. From sunshine on the south coast in Torquay and Brighton to foodie escapades in Yorkshire and the rugged coasts of Northumberland, look no further than British shores for the ultimate dose of exploration exhilaration.
Swap the Garden Route, South Africa for Chester and Snowdonia
Exploring Chester
Start your road trip in Chester. Climb the ancient city walls that encircle the Centre before exploring the ornate Roman Gardens. Sample a tipple or two alongside the River Dee which is lined with vibrant restaurants and cafes. Who needs the South African safari when you can visit the wilds of Chester Zoo? Then lay your head to rest at nearby DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Spa Chester. Surrounded by 12 acres of landscaped grounds, this hotel is situated in an 18th century manor house, just three miles from the heart of the city.
Hit the open road
The next day, it’s time to hit the road. The Garden Route famously straddles mountains and the sea — and you can enjoy the same kind of scenery en route to North Wales. Follow the coastal road from the mouth of the River Dee, cutting inland into the mountainous Snowdonia National Park. Break up the journey with a pit stop in hilltop Denbigh to check out its historic castle and refuel at one of its many tea rooms. Next stop, stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Snowdonia. Located within Adventure Parc Snowdonia and offering unobstructed views of the mountains of North Wales, this new opening is a must-visit for those seeking adventure and relaxation alike.
Swap the Côte D’Azur, France for the South Coast
Brunch in style
To recreate the opulent feel of the iconic Côte D’Azur, start at The Biltmore Mayfair, LXR Hotels & Resorts. One of the most prestigious addresses in London, it is minutes from Hyde Park and the most glamorous boutiques on New Bond Street. Set the mood by brunching outdoors at Jason Atherton’s Café Biltmore before setting off.
Scents of The South
You couldn’t possibly recreate Provence without lavender. Just 15 miles from the centre of London, stop by Mayfield Lavender Farm for natural fragrances that will transport you to Grasse. The rolling beds of purple provide the perfect backdrop for photographs – memories that will last a lifetime.
Room with a view
Arrive in Brighton and head straight for an apéritif with views of the beach at the Hilton Brighton Metropole. Set on the bustling Brighton seafront, this iconic Victorian property boasts a health club with indoor pool, sauna and steam room. It’s nestled between Brighton Palace Pier and the boutiques and bars of The Lanes where you can while away the evening. The next day, meander along the South Coast to Bournemouth. Stop off at the cathedral city of Chichester for lunch. Weather permitting, you could even take some time to bronze yourself at West Wittering beach.
Bournemouth and the Monaco of the South Coast
Next stop is Hilton Bournemouth. Located a stone’s throw from the city centre and sandy beaches, you can enjoy the sunset with views over both city and shore from the eighth-floor rooftop bar. Before heading out of town the following morning, ensure you stop by Sandbanks, also known as the Monaco of the South Coast. Forgo faster routes and head towards Weymouth, where you can wind your way west along the Dorset Jurassic Coast. One of the most scenic drives in the UK, it offers vertiginous views of coast and countryside.
English Riviera
Approximately 100 miles later, you’ll arrive at the heart of the English Riviera. Stay at the newly opened Hampton by Hilton Torquay, where you will be greeted by a 5-metre palm tree and rooms boasting glorious views of the sea. Just steps from Torquay Marina, as you take a stroll to view the super yachts, you’d be forgiven for mistaking the harbour for Monte Carlo’s own Port Hercule.
Swap the Great Ocean Road, Australia for the North East Coastline?
Ascending the North East Coast
Start your trip at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hull, where you can plot your route from the rooftop bar while surveying views of the centre of town. The next morning, follow the Humber east to join the coastal route. Marvel at Flamborough’s towering white cliffs and cruise along Scarborough’s Victorian seafront, stopping off for something sweet at the retro Harbour Bar ice-cream parlour. Continue heading north across moorland, taking in the unspoiled sights of Robin Hood’s Bay. As you enter county Durham be sure to take in the dramatic vistas at Nose’s Point.
Night out on The Toon
After a long day on the road, a restorative spa trip is the first port of call upon checking into the Hilton Newcastle Gateshead. Boasting views of the Tyne, take an evening stroll across the bridge to discover the buzzing nightlife of this northern metropolis or catch a gig at the neighbouring Sage Gateshead.
Castles and chippies
Drive across the Tyne Bridge in the morning and head to the wild Northumberland coastal road. Be sure to stop at the many picturesque villages that stud the endless expanses of soft sand; Alnwick, Seahouses and Bamburgh are all excellent places to stop for fish and chips with a view of the rolling tides. Owing to a turbulent history and a constant changing ownership of the land between England and Scotland, Northumberland has more castles than any other English county – over 700 – and fortunately some of the most glorious, such as Bamburgh Castle are en route.
Crossing the border
For your last stop, head for Scotland’s capital and check in to the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh - The Caledonian. Set in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, the iconic hotel is perfectly located for exploring both the winding streets and gothic architecture of the Old Town and the Georgian elegance of the New Town. Of course, all trips to Scotland should begin with a dram of whisky – fortunately, the Caley bar at The Caledonian has over 100 to choose from – the perfect time to reflect on the sheer beauty witnessed over the past couple of days.
Note to editors
Since the pandemic, Hilton has introduced CleanStay, an industry-defining standard of cleanliness and disinfection; extended its re-booking and cancellation policy, allowing guests greater travel flexibility; and introduced new discounted Dream Away rates.
We know that now more than ever, people are craving community and moments of reconnection. To reverse the travel memory deficit. With the assurances of our reliable and friendly hospitality, Hilton CleanStay program, contactless arrival experience and flexible booking policy, Hilton makes it easier for consumers to create new travel memories.