The UK is celebrated as one of the most progressive countries in the world when it comes to LGBT rights, and the number of events celebrating openness and diversity goes to show we're a top destination for gay holidays. Whether you're looking for vibrant nightlife, sprawling countryside, or simply a relaxing weekend retreat with your partner, we have a range of LGBT holiday destinations just waiting to be explored.
Steeped in history and home to the breath-taking delights of the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Park, the North of England is also filled with bustling cities with thriving LGBT scenes. Leeds holds a range of bars and restaurants for any occasion - whether you want to grab a midday bite at Queen's Court or a relaxing chat at The New Penny. Newcastle's Northern Pride (one of the country's most friendly celebrations) is held across three days in July, with entertainment and sports for people of all ages.
Ready to see everything the North of England has to offer? Take to the water on majestic lakes, seek out quaint market towns tucked away in the countryside, and get ready to jump into history with a stay at our best holiday accommodation in the north.
The heart of the UK holds the glorious Peak District - a perfect chance to explore the countryside through wild bike trails and relaxing nature walks. A visit to Cheshire also puts you close to Manchester, a must-visit location on gay holidays thanks to the vibrant Canal Street and Manchester Pride event. Everything from tea rooms to bistros and theatre-style bars can be found there. Further south lies Oxford, mixing historical culture with luxury shopping experiences for a great day out whatever the weather. Oxford's country houses and gardens are not to be missed!
Brimming with nature reserves, quaint villages, and peaceful waterways, the heart of England has some of the most romantic scenery around. Find our top LGBT holiday destinations below to make sure you book the perfect stay for your next rural getaway.
Looking to tour the east coast? In Norwich, you'll find one of the most vibrant gay holiday destinations, with delightful café's and bars filling the streets and local societies celebrating LGBT art through independent stores. Further east lies the Norfolk Broads, filled with peaceful waterways to stroll by and welcoming pubs to relax in. With beautiful horizons and blissful starry nights, there's no end to the delights to be found.
Ideal for lovers of history, the east of England is home to country manors and historical sites dating back to the Tudors and even Ancient Rome. Take a trip back in time before relaxing with a spa break and seeing the local wildlife, all from the comfort of a luxury holiday lodge.
Our nation's capital is naturally home to some of the largest LGBT celebrations in the country, including the London LGBT Film Festival, while West End shows mean there's never a dull moment in Soho. Hampshire and Surrey make perfect retreats for couples to explore the country, and you'll find Brighton towards the coast. One of the UK's top resorts for gay holidays, Brighton's sea breeze and lively clubs create a bohemian atmosphere for an unforgettable escape.
With so much to see and do, you need to find a soothing retreat to rest those weary legs when the day is done. Complete with romantic private hot tubs and just minutes away from the beach, see our relaxing luxury lodges below and choose your dream holiday destination.
The beautiful city of Exeter comes alive for LGBT History Month throughout February, hosting a range of speakers and exciting events, while Plymouth and Torquay host some of the finest gay beaches in the UK. Nothing beats a morning stroll across the sandy shores of South West England and if you're looking to get more in touch with nature, Dartmoor National Park, Dorset's Jurassic Coast, and several areas of natural beauty await.
From cosy cottages in Bossiney Bay to the stretching beauty of Finlake Holiday Resort, we have a fantastic range of accommodation across the south west ready to complete your ideal getaway. Get ready to explore picturesque seaside towns and miles of breath-taking coastline from the tranquility of a private holiday lodge.
Explore North Wales to find friendly seaside towns, including Abersoch and Llandudno, sporting gay-friendly beaches and stretching promenades perfect for leisurely walks. To the south, Cardiff boasts a wealth of fine dining and late-night entertainment for all audiences. The Iris Prize Festival brings four days of LGBT filmmaking to Cardiff every October to celebrate international diversity, while Pride celebrations take place across Wales, from Bangor to Swansea.
Wales is a top destination for any type of getaway. Nature lovers have no shortage of hills to climb across, including Snowdonia National Park, while fans of rugby union can take in a game before enjoying a night out on the town. Browse our top gay holidays in Wales below.
Scotland is home to a growing LGBT community, with Pride Scotia taking place in June, bringing people together for a summer march through Edinburgh. Topped by live music and entertainment, there's no better way to experience the local character. In artistic Glasgow, you can also learn about the history of the suffragette movement and the every-growing sport of roller derby at Glasgow Women's Library. Be sure to enjoy a drink at The Waterloo, the city's longest-established gay bar, which has welcomed patrons for over 30 years.
Scotland is filled with areas to explore, such as the rolling hills of the Highlands and the historical sites of Edinburgh Castle and Glasgow Cathedral. To help you see more of the area and enjoy everything it has to offer, we've collected our finest luxury lodges so you can find your ideal Scottish getaway.
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