UK city ‘perfect for walking’ named best place for September getaway | UK | Travel

The summer holidays are officially over, and that usually means the end of jam-packed streets, sky-high hotel prices and screaming kids, and so for many of us September has shown itself as being one of the best times for a weekend away. The weather hasn’t yet turned cold, and the days aren’t yet going dark at 4pm. September holidays are becoming more and more popular.

But while a trip abroad can include costly flights and all the faff of sorting airport transfers, travel insurance and the like, what better time to book a staycation and explore what the UK has to offer? While many flock to the coast, one city further inland has been named as one of the best destinations for a September getaway, described as “perfect for exploring on foot” and filled with some fascinating Roman history. Nestled in the valley of the River Avon is  the historic city of Bath, which is known for its elegant limestone architecture.

Founded by the Romans as a thermal spa when they arrived in Britain in AD43, Bath is the only city in the UK designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

According to the travel experts at Restless, Bath has made a name for itself as a perfect place for a weekend staycation, with its magnificent Georgian architecture and beautiful abbey. A walk around the city can feel like you’ve been transported back in time.

The experts added: “It’s a small city that’s perfect for exploring on foot, which makes it a popular choice for a city break. And there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in Bath’s rich history beyond visiting the beautiful abbey and famous Roman Baths. 

“Exploring the city’s natural surroundings by cycling the riverside paths and hiking the National Trust walk that circles the city are great activities for September.”

One such property is Prior Park Landscape Garden, just on the edge of the city. Described as “truly a hidden gem”, the 18th-century gardens created by Ralph Allen weave across the hills to the south of Bath, and are home to one of the four Palladian bridges in the world, which makes a great backdrop for a photo or even a picnic.

September also gives visitors a chance to stroll around the Jane Austen festival, perhaps one of the most famous people to come out of Bath. This year, the 10-day festival marks the Author’s 250th anniversary and is filled with events starting on Friday, September 12.

The experts at Restless added: “If you’re a fan of her novels, the festival is a must-visit. This 10-day celebration transports you back to Austen’s era and shows what life was like for characters like Lizzie Bennet in rural England during the late Georgian period.”

Elsewhere on the list of the top destinations, the travel experts suggest a trip to the equally historic York and even a hop across the Irish Sea to Belfast.