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While many Brits head to the same staycation favourites each summer, some of the UK’s best weekend breaks rarely make the top of travel wish lists.

These overlooked destinations offer spectacular scenery, rich history and authentic local character, often without the crowds that flock to the UK’s better-known holiday hotspots.

Hazel Rickett, travel expert at tour operator Rabbie’s, has revealed the UK’s most underrated weekend break destinations for the perfect summer staycation. Topping her list is St Davids, a cathedral city in Pembrokeshire, Wales. Rickett said the city is “rich in history, character and spectacular scenery”.

St Davids is the UK’s smallest city by population and urban area. Located on the River Alun, it is the resting place of Wales’ patron saint who inspired the city’s name. The cathedral is “one of the country’s finest examples of medieval architecture”, being finished in the 13th century.

In addition to the cathedral and 210 other listed ancient buildings and structures, notable features of the city include the 14th-century Tower Gate, the Celtic Old Cross and a number of art galleries.

Rickett said: “Visitors can spend time exploring the city’s historic streets before venturing out to discover the dramatic coastline, making it an ideal weekend break for anyone looking to combine history, culture and some of Britain’s most beautiful coastal landscapes.”

In 2019, Which? members placed St Davids in the top three best value beach destinations in Britain. Nearby Whitesands Bay is a popular water sports resort. It has been described as one of the best surfing beaches in Wales and among the best tourist beaches in the world.

The city is within the breathtaking Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, which covers 260 miles of coastline. It is the only national park in the United Kingdom to consist largely of coastal landscapes.

Coming second on the list is Islay, in Scotland. Known as the ‘Queen of the Hebrides’, the island combines world-famous whisky distilleries with wild beaches, abundant wildlife and a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can spot seals along the coastline, enjoy spectacular sunsets and discover peaceful villages where life moves at a gentler pace.

In third place is Orkney, also in Scotland. Despite being home to some of Europe’s most remarkable prehistoric sites, the islands remain under the radar. Visitors can explore ancient stone circles, sea cliffs, and fishing villages, while enjoying beaches that are often quieter than the typical summer hotspots.

Rickett said: “When people think about weekend breaks, it’s often the same destinations that come to mind year after year. While those places are popular for good reason, some of the UK’s most memorable experiences can be found in the destinations that receive far less attention.

“Whether it’s a remote island, a historic coastal town or a peaceful national park, choosing somewhere a little less obvious often means fewer crowds, a slower pace of travel and a greater sense of discovery. These are the kinds of places that allow you to experience the UK’s incredible scenery, history and culture from a completely different perspective.”