Tommy has over 15 years experience within the insurance industry, and his primary focus is helping travellers find the right cover for their medical conditions.
The August Bank Holiday is the perfect time of year to explore and adventure with the ones you love most. Whether you’re looking to travel with family or friends, the UK is a location full of mystery, magic and an abundance of breathtaking experiences just waiting to be explored.
In this guide, we delve a little deeper into some of the best places to visit in the August Bank Holiday, from bustling cities to dramatic, open parkland; there really is a destination to suit every type of holidaymaker.
When is the August Bank Holiday in 2025?
The August Bank Holiday falls on Monday, 25th August 2025 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, offering people a three-day weekend. The date of the Bank Holiday changes yearly, but it always falls on the last Monday of August. However, the Bank Holiday falls in Scotland on the first Monday of the month.
Top August Bank Holiday breaks in the UK for 2025:
- Edinburgh, Scotland
- Cornwall, England
- Lake District, Cumbria
- Bath, Somerset
- Brighton, East Sussex
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is a location steeped in history, breathtaking architecture and a colourful culture that runs year-round. From the ancient streets that meander up and down the rugged landscape, to vast open spaces where the panoramic views are spectacular, Edinburgh has it all as an August bank holiday destination.
For those looking to visit Edinburgh in August and into the August Bank Holiday, they will be encapsulated by the laughter and theatrics of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Running from August 1st to August 25th, the festival is a platform for creative freedom, where like-minded energy from across the globe comes together for three weeks of expression. Spanning many genres, artists, and performers come together to present comedy, dance, cabaret, live music and much more.
The weather in August tends to be mild yet pleasant, making it the ideal conditions for explorers looking to summit nearby Calton Hill and Arthur's Seat or explore historic Edinburgh Castle.
Cornwall, England
Cornwall is a breathtaking destination to visit all year round, known for its world-class beaches and quaint fishing villages, you’d be hard pushed to beat it for an August getaway. Being located on the south coast, the summer months tend to be warm and calm, which are ideal conditions for lovers of hiking and exploration.
The Southwest Coast Path runs around the north and south coastlines of the county and is the location of some of the best views in the United Kingdom. You’re really spoilt for choice when it comes to coastal villages and towns in Cornwall, but you can’t beat the close-knit communities of St Ives, Padstow, and Newquay over the bank holiday.
Phil and Garth speak about Cornwall in August on their blog, explaining why it is such a great option: “Cornwall has long been Britain’s favourite county for a summer staycation. Famous for its historic fishing villages, unspoilt rugged coastline, 300+ fabulous beaches, rolling moorland, cream teas and Cornish pasties! The county has the longest stretch of coastline in Britain, surrounded by water on three sides, so it feels more like you’re on an island. Cornwall attracts lots of families and couples because it offers some of the best weather you’ll find in England.”
READ MORE: Clear Signs You Need a Holiday
Lake District, Cumbria
The Lake District needs no introduction; the views alone are enough to convince anyone that it is the perfect location for an August getaway. It is the ideal option for those who love activity and adventure, with conditions perfect for hiking, watersports, and wildlife-spotting.
Ideal for families, couples and friends, there is a whole host of locations to choose from, with maybe the most notable being Windemere. Windermere is the name of the largest lake in the area and falls within a few miles of Bowness-on-Windermere and Ambleside. The location is a hub of activity and makes the perfect base for a bank holiday of walking and exploring.
Similarly, the towns of Keswick, Ullswater and Wasdale are also beautiful options with their own charm and character.
READ MORE: Adventure Holiday Tips for Older Travellers
Bath, Somerset
If you find historic destinations fascinating and Georgian architecture is up your street, then you should head to Bath this August Bank Holiday. A perfect blend of Georgian opulence and a curious culture, there is so much to see and do in the city, it’s often hard to know where to start.
If history is what you’re looking for, then make sure you uncover the magnificence of Bath Abbey, the fascinating past of the Roman Baths, and the Royal Crescent's grandeur.
With films and movies often set in the city, you can wander the streets and follow the lives of your favourite fictional characters from the likes of Bridgerton, The Duchess and Les Misérables, truly immersing yourself into your very own film. The city is always playing host to events, comedy nights, gigs and festivals, so wherever you turn, fun is just around the corner.
Brighton, East Sussex
If you want to combine a city break with a beach getaway, then look no further than Brighton. Situated in East Sussex on the south coast, Brighton is a bustling hub of activity and excitement, where creativity and colour flourish all around, whether you’re enjoying a tour of the food spots in The Lanes or sitting on the pebble beach with classic fish and chips.
Brighton is known for its celebratory flair; festivals and events happen almost every weekend. Get competitive on Brighton Palace Pier before enjoying an ice cream or take a trip into Hove for quieter streets and independent cafes. The weather in August is perfect for those looking to enjoy the sights, sounds and delectable smells of the Brighton streets.
If you’ve been inspired to travel to any of these UK destinations over the August Bank Holiday weekend, then hopefully this guide has given you some insights into some of the best locations you can choose from in the UK.
If you suffer from a medical condition that makes travelling a little harder for you, then make sure you explore our selection of travel insurance for existing conditions and UK travel insurance policies, offering you peace of mind whilst you’re away.
For more articles and guides like this, make sure you explore our blog.
Frequently Asked Questions
As mentioned above, the August Bank Holiday falls on Monday, 25th August 2025 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and is on Monday, 4th August 2025 in Scotland.
The August Bank Holiday tends to be a busier time of year to travel around the UK. This is due to the nicer weather, schools being on summer break, and people travelling for the long weekend. It is worth bearing this in mind when you are planning to travel, whether that is by car, train or bus.
As we have mentioned in this article, people travel all over the United Kingdom during the August Bank Holiday, but it is common for people to flock to beautiful destinations like coastal towns, national parks, rural lakes and beautiful, bustling cities.