Although life at home offers plenty of benefits, we all need a change of scenery every now and then. Living in Chelmsford means that you have easy access to a whole host of holiday hotspots within the UK, via the excellent transport links via road and rail. Whether you want to build sandcastles, or are interested in a city break, you can take your dream holiday without needing to hop on a plane.

We’ve pulled together our top five UK holiday destinations which are within easy reach of The Arbour, depending on what you’re after.

1. Best for building sandcastles…

Home to some of the UK’s most picturesque beaches and charming coastal towns, it’s no wonder that Suffolk is a popular holiday destination for many. Ideal for building sandcastles, long scenic walks and taking a dip in the sea, Suffolk is the perfect spot for a summer holiday with the whole family. If you’ve worked up an appetite from days spent swimming, why not head to The Aldeburgh Market for a delicious and fresh seafood dinner. Pack your beach towels, suncream, a bucket and spade and hit the road; via the A12 and A14, the charming seaside town of Aldeburgh can be reached from homes at The Arbour within a one hour and forty-five minutes’ drive.

2. For chasing some laughs…

If you’re in the mood for a city break, hop on the train to Edinburgh during the month of August and visit the iconic Fringe Festival. The world’s largest performance arts festival, the jam-packed programme offers a whole range of shows (some free!) to suit every taste, from comedy to theatre. When you’re not catching a show, head to one of the many restaurants lining the streets in the city centre to chat through the day’s highlights. From homes at The Arbour, make your way from Chelmsford Station to London King’s Cross, where trains to Edinburgh take four and a half hours. To make the journey one to remember, catch the overnight Caledonian Sleeper to travel in style from London Euston.

3. To soak up local history…

If you’re looking to soak up some culture, visit the historic city of Cambridge for a long weekend break. Ideal for making the most of the summer bank holidays, Cambridge has lots on offer for holidaymakers. Its cobbled streets are perfect for afternoon wandering, whilst sunny days call for time spent on an iconic river punt. Why not book an Alumni-guided tour of the prestigious Cambridge University – admire the impressive architecture and hear stories about famous students who once studied there, from Charles Darwin to Isaac Newton. Cambridge can be reached within just a one-hour drive from homes at The Arbour, making it a fantastic choice for a last minute get away, or even a day trip!

4. Ideal for relaxing…

If you’re in desperate need of some rest and relaxation, book yourself a stay in the rolling hills of the Cotswolds. Choose the quintessentially English town of Burford to take in its picturesque high street and breathtaking natural scenery. Enjoy the array of shops, pubs and cafes or visit the Tolsey Museum to learn about the town’s history. If you’re looking to pamper yourself, book in at the Cotswold House Hotel and Spa for the ultimate relaxing experience. Located in the heart of the Cotswolds, this hotel and spa boasts. landscaped gardens, an award-winning spa and a fine dining restaurant. Both Burford and Cotswold House Hotel and Spa can be reached from our homes at The Arbour via the M25 in under three hours. Pack your favourite book and enjoy switching off for a while.

5. For reconnecting with nature…

If long country walks are on your list, head to Kent, the Garden of England, to take in its array of ancient woodlands and seaside towns. Pack your walking boots and visit the Kent Downs National Landscape – a protected Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where you’ll find ancient bluebell woodlands and breathtaking chalk coastline, perfect for balmy summer walks. For something special, head to the Lavender farm at Castle Farm from late June through to late July. Breathe in the soothing scent of the flowers on a guided tour of the expansive farm, finished by a bring-your-own picnic within the grounds. Castle Farm can be reached from The Arbour in under an hour’s drive, making it ideal for family daytrips. For summer hikes, the Kent Downs can be reached in as little as an hour and a half drive.