The Peak District town named best in the UK for a 48 hour break

A weekend away is a chance to escape the stresses of daily life and discover somewhere different, either on your door step or further afield. Staycations are particularly popular when it comes to shorter trips, and luckily for us the UK’s top destination for a 48 hour break is only a 90-minute drive from Greater Manchester.

Bakewell has been named the best location for a weekend away in the UK, according to staycation experts at holidaycottages.co.uk. Nestled in the Peak District, this picturesque town is known for its quaint buildings, independent shops and of course being home to The Original Bakewell Pudding Shop.

It offers scenic riverside walks along the River Wye, while the Monsal Trail lies nearby offering eight miles of traffic-free cycle routes. The iconic Chatsworth House and Garden lies just outside the town, where you can explore the stunning country house and its surrounding grounds.

READ MORE: The magical Peak District Christmas market inside a 900-year-old hall

But Bakewell isn’t the only destination within easy reach of Greater Manchester to be featured on the list. The Lake District town of Ambleside was named the second-best staycation destination.

Located at the top of Lake Windermere, the town is the perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts, whether it’s taking a scenic boat cruise along the lake or taking a hike up to the nearby Stock Ghyll Force, a beautiful 70-foot waterfall just a short walk from the town centre. The town is home to the 17th-century Bridge House, one of the Lake District’s most photographed spots.

History fans can explore the Roman fort of Galava, located just outside of the town. Or if you’re after a relaxed break, wander through the town’s quaint streets and duck into cosy