This is summer: Travel

Your essential guide to help you make the most out of the British summer

Who cares about the strength of the euro against the pound when there are plenty of reasons to holiday in the UK this year Fantastic hotels and restaurants, inspiring cultural venues, fun day-trip attractions and exciting events can be found close to home, whichever part of the country you live in.

"The past few years have seen an explosion in the quality and variety of all things leisure. Add in our great cities, countryside and coast and you don't have to look too far to find a brilliant day out or weekend away," says The Independent on Sunday's Travel Editor, Kate Simon.

She's asked our travel experts to offer their top tips on what to do around the UK this summer. Andy Lynes reveals his favourite cities and recommends where to eat and stay over, while Adrian Mourby travels the coast to find beaches to suit all tastes, from kiss-me-quick Blackpool to the wilds of Rhossili Bay.

We know that many readers enjoy a good outdoor activity – so Stephen Goodwin has chosen eight brilliant walks from gentle strolls to something more challenging.

A 'hotel room' set on top of Grey's Monument in Newcastle city centre is one of the quirkier attractions in Simone Kane's selection of days out.

Meanwhile, Katy Holland fills the luxury gap with some enticing grown-up treats , including a ride on the Orient Express and a jaunt in a classic car. Plus we've selected the best UK travel books and websites to browse – whether you're planning a trip or daydreaming from the comfort of an armchair...

For those about to set off, don't forget to check out our shopping guide to the most essential and delightful travel kit .

Who says we're stay-at-homes? It's the only way to travel these days!