Everyone needs a break from the office and their job. Even workaholics need a holiday from their busy schedules. Whether it’s hiking in the Lake District or exploring new parts of London, there is always something fun to do in the UK.

It can be tempting to spend your annual leave in bed, sneaking the odd bit of work in here and there. However, venturing to a new place for the day can do wonders for your mental and physical health. Get some fresh air, drink a coffee and enjoy some different surroundings.

When to take your annual leave

You can turn 23 days of annual leave into 53 days if you are smart about it. Use the bank holidays in April, May and August to make the most out of your annual leave this year. For example, if you take eight days off on March 29th, 30th, 31st and April 1st, 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th, you can actually have sixteen days out in total. Amazing!

Make the most out of national holidays to get the most bang for your buck! Christmas and New Year is a goldmine for this.

Take a train somewhere

You have a whole host of destinations right on your doorstep. Take a train to a new city and be a tourist in your own country. From Liverpool to Edinburgh, we are lucky enough to have some fantastic cities dotted nationwide.

Make sure to check the train times before setting off on your journey. You don’t want to get stuck somewhere!

Explore your local area

If travelling isn’t for you, why not explore a new coffee shop or a local park instead? Meet up with a friend and spend some time in your local area. When we are busy at work, we don’t experience new restaurants and local attractions as often. Make the most of your home and discover a new favourite spot.

Get outside

Hiking is a great way to explore nature and get some fresh air. Jog around a majestic lake, hike a mountain or take a leisurely walk at your local National Trust site. After a stressful stint at work, this may be the thing you need to calm your nerves and destress. Finish the day with a bubble bath and glass of wine for the ultimate relaxation experience!

Do something you love

Annual leave is the perfect time to take a new class, try out a craft, sit down, and read a book. Sometimes it’s the simple things that bring us the greatest joy.